Golden sun-kissed beaches, tranquil swaying palms, colourful coral reefs, lush green forests, scenic waterfalls; Dominican Republic holidays hold innumerable charms for the leisure-seeking traveller. While Punta Cana and Puerto Plata are recognised as the most popular Dominican Republic resorts, we take a look at a few lesser-known favourites for your luxury Caribbean Island holidays...

SAMANA PENINSULA & BAY

Tourists descend on Samaná for the mating season of gigantic North Atlantic humpback whales from January to March, but there's much more to the resort than its marvellous marine life. Las Galeras is a laidback town with secluded palm-fringed beaches. For party lovers, there is the buzzing resort town of Las Terranas nearby with lively clubs and bars. This peninsular is also home to the incredible National Park, full of thick mangrove forests, exotic rock formations and awe-inspiring caves. The Salto El Limón waterfall and Playa Rincon beach are also well worth a visit - so don't forget your camera. 

Where to stay: Gran Bahia Principe Cayo Lavantado is a luxury 5* star property in a serene island just off the Samana peninsula, or Grand Paradise Samana Hotel is a lovely 4* property located in the scenic Playa Las Galeras.

PUNTA CANA

Punta Cana, located on the eastern peninsula of the Dominican Republic, is undoubtedly the most popular resort. Full of thriving beach-front resorts, opulent hotels and pretty seaside villas, this town is most famous for its gorgeous beaches which stretch along a 32km shoreline. Watersports lovers will be in their element with kayaking, sailing, windsurfing and sailing activities on offer all day long - or if you're feeling extra adventurous, why not brave zip-lining or exhilerating 4x4 sand buggy tours? Check out our Punta Cana blog and find out all you need to know about Punta Cana resorts.

Where to stay: If you fancy 5* beachfront luxury, Grand Oasis Punta Cana is the all-inclusive resort for you. Four Points by Sheraton Puntacana Village is also a fine 4* resort close to Bavaro beach and fabulous golf courses.

PUERTO PLATA

On the North Coast of the island lies the fabulous tourist resort of Puerto Plata. You'll find the expansive, palm-fringed stretch of Playa Dorada beach here, boasting plenty of deck chairs and sunloungers to laze on. Puerto Plata is brimming with posh all-inclusive resorts, so you're sure to experience ultimate R&R here. Aside from the balmy beaches and plush seafront resorts, there's plenty of entertainment nearby with a shopping centre, delicious restaurants, upbeat bars and a gorgeous green golf course - all within walking distance. Don't forget to get involved in the awesome watersports available too, with windsurfing, snorkeling and fishing all popular pastimes!

Where to stay: Hotel Barcelo Puerto Plata is a fantastic choice for its luxurious all-inclusive stay options, its proximity to Playa Dorada beach and the 18-hole Robert Trent Jones golf course. Blue Bay Villas Doradas is an adults-only 4*hotel that offers amazing sports facilities, too.

SANTO DOMINGO

Santo Domingo is the capital of the island and is full of history and culture. The Colonial City has been crowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts a handful of quaint cobblestone streets and Spanish architectural monuments. Popular attractions including the Museum of Modern Art, Fine Arts, National Palace, Columbus Palace, Ozma fort, the botanical gardens and pretty promenade of Malecón, which skirts the golden beach. The lively cafes, restaurants and nightclubs buzz with energy, making this vibrant seaside town a sure stop.

Where to stay: Centrally located to the city's major attractions, Radisson Santo Domingo is a 4*property that offers a comfortable stay. Barcelo Santo Domingo is also a stylish 9-storey hotel with a garden that offers excellent amenities to its guests.

LA ROMANA

La Romana is located on the southeast coast and is a gateway to many tourist destinations nearby. Altos de Chavón is a replica of a 16th century artisans’ village and is the best place to shop for crafts and souvenirs while you're here. Explore the secluded beaches and coves of Catalina island or visit the wreck of a ship of pirate William Kidd. 

Where to stay: For a luxurious stay check out the 7,000 acre estate at Casa De Campo Resort is a fantastic choice. While on Bayahibe beach, Be Live Collection Canoa is a lively all-inclusive 4* star resort with lots of facilities. 

BOCA CHICA

This idyllic resorts combines a fabulous beach and a concentration of buzzing cafes, restaurants and nightclubs to create a dreamy Dominican Republic escape. Boca Chica is a stunning village great for both lazing on a beach hammock while reading a good book and heading into the lively capital for a dose of traditional town life.

Where to stay: Don Juan beach resort is a modern all-inclusive beach resort that's close to all the action, or if you're looking for ultimate R&R, Be Live Hamaca Garden is a 4* garden hotel equipped with a pamper-perfect spa and pools for a tranquil stay.

SOSUA

Sosua is a popular beach resort with close proximity to the international airport and stunning beaches of Cabaret. This peaceful cove is blessed with an offshore coral reef and plenty of colourful fishes, marine life and plants. The best place to hang around on Playa Sosua is the Tony' Bar. It's known for its amazing seafood and cocolocos. Most tourists choose Sosua as the base for scuba-diving and exploring the north coast.  

Where to stay: Stay in the heart of the town at the 5* star Sosua By The Sea Boutique Beach Resort or head for 3* haven, Amhsa Casa Marina Beach & Reef.