La Altagracia Province trip planner

La Altagracia Province Holiday Planning Guide

La Altagracia Province is in the Dominican Republic. Tourists flock to this tropical destination in search of white-sand beaches, blue waters, and lush surroundings, and they find it all at this exotic getaway. Developed cities also provide quality restaurants and entertainment like theaters and nightclubs. From rainforests to coral reefs, this Dominican Republic province offers plenty of La Altagracia vacation ideas for everyone.

Places to Visit in La Altagracia Province

Destinations in La Altagracia Province

Punta Cana: Wildly popular with honeymooners as well as vacationing families, Punta Cana boasts white-sand beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and a slew of marine activities.

Parque Nacional del Este: As one of the Dominican Republic's most visited destinations, this national park offers rainforest and dry forest environments teeming with exotic flora and fauna.

Bayahibe: Divers especially include Bayahibe in their La Altagracia itinerary for the ideal scuba sites along the coast as well as a developed beach scene.

Higuey: Also known as the Capital of Dominican Tourism, this thriving city offers numerous hotels, shopping complexes, and tour agencies.

Popular La Altagracia Province Tourist Attractions

Isla Saona: Among the most popular La Altagracia things to do, Isla Saona offers a beachfront just a short boat ride from the mainland with white sands and water teeming with marine life.

Bavaro Beach: This wide beach offers lots of space for sunbathing, swimming in the clear waters, or getting pampered by the surrounding hotels.

Macao Beach: For a more secluded beach experience, this La Altagracia attraction features stunning coastline views and lots of solitude, however, it features little in the way of amenities (including restrooms).

Isla Catalina: Sunbathing, snorkeling, banana boat rides, and massages await at this gem of an island just off the mainland.

Hoyo Azul: A turquoise cenote pool sits at the bottom of this cavern, which is reachable by wooden walkways and surrounded by orchid gardens.

Hard Rock Casino Punta Cana: The second-largest casino in the Caribbean hosts a variety of table games, slots, and sports-betting games accompanied by a nightclub, spa, and golf opportunities.

Manati Park Bavaro: Feed and pet the stingrays that congregate at these shallow sandbars, where visitors snorkel with the graceful creatures.

Palma Real Shopping Village: Stores, restaurants, banks, a supermarket, and a theater fill this open-air mall, popular with both locals and tourists.

Casa Daniel: This tour operator treats visitors to amazing underwater adventures ranging from deep sea explorations to dives through shallow shipwrecks, plus other activities like horseback riding and fishing.

Public beach of Dominicus at Bayahibe: Beachside shops and cafes line this beach, which features white sand, clear waters, and shady palm trees.

Planning a La Altagracia Province Vacation with Kids

Places to Visit in La Altagracia Province with Kids

Planning your La Altagracia trip with children comes easy with so many beaches and activities available.

Punta Cana offers endless recreational opportunities for the whole family. If your young travelers prefer spotting wildlife and exotic plants, head to Parque Nacional del Este for educational rainforest adventures.

When you need a break from the heat, head to Bayahibe for indoor entertainment like shopping and theater attractions.

Things to Do in La Altagracia Province with Kids

Expect no shortage of kid-friendly activities during your La Altagracia holiday. Explore the lush Dominican Republic land and seascape with operators like Bavaro Adventure Park and Outback Adventures - Outback Safari. Meet quirky squirrel monkeys in their natural environment with Monkey Land by Runners Adventures, or get the ultimate panoramic view as you float through the sky with Dominican Balloons.

Complete with waterslides and pools, Sirenis Aquagames Punta Cana offers respite from the sand and saltwater. Or, for a true marine adventure, hunt for treasure with the pirates at Ocean Adventures - Caribbean Pirates.

Tips for a Family Vacation in La Altagracia Province

La Altagracia is a hot travel destination for families, but you will find the area very accommodating for children. Many resorts offer babysitting services, and hotels and tour operators commonly provide free stays and discounts for kids. If you plan to travel between La Altagracia tourist attractions often, consider renting your own car for comfortable commutes. Ask the rental company about car seats ahead of time if you require one. Also, do not forget to take plenty of sunscreen with high SPF for the whole family in this sunny climate.

Dining and Shopping on Holiday in La Altagracia Province

Cuisine of La Altagracia Province

During your La Altagracia sightseeing adventures, you’ll likely taste a delectable blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino cuisine because the food resembles that of surrounding Latin American countries.

Lunch is the most important meal of the day for these islanders and typically consists of rice, beans, and some type of meat. Ask about sofrito, their mix of herbs and spices used in most dishes, or try fried plantains for a sweet treat. If you prefer traditional restaurants, look for them in Bayahibe.

Shopping in La Altagracia Province

Whether you need a souvenir to commemorate your La Altagracia trip or just need beach supplies, the province has you covered.

Pick up beachwear and recreational equipment like snorkel gear from Coast Riders Surf Shop & Surf Lessons, a large shop that also arranges surf lessons.

Don Lucas Cigars sells quality cigars and offers a tour of the factory, where visitors observe workers hand making the Dominican Republic icons. If smoking does not interest you, pick out a piece of jewelry from Harrison's Fine Caribbean Jewelers, the largest jewelry chain in the country.

Know Before You Go on a Trip to La Altagracia Province

Interesting Facts About La Altagracia Province

● Punta Cana is the Dominican Republic's most important tourism region.

● There are 10 different beaches in Punta Cana; some are ranked the world’s best by the European Blue Flag Organization and UNESCO.

● The name "La Altagracia" originates from a portrait called "Our Lady of La Altagracia" brought to the Dominican Republic by Spaniard colonists in the 1500s.

Holidays & Festivals in La Altagracia Province

If you are lucky enough to plan your La Altagracia vacation during a local holiday, be prepared for lively and colorful celebrations. The largest festival in the region and most important religious celebration in the country occurs in Higuey. Each January, locals faithfully visit the city's temple for the Day of the Lady of Altagracia to worship the Virgin Mary.

Carnival, another colorful and energetic holiday renowned for its parties, takes place across the Dominican Republic every February, but expect celebrations to be smaller in La Altagracia.

Useful La Altagracia Province Travel Tips

Climate of La Altagracia Province

The tropical climate remains pleasant nearly year-round in La Altagracia, making it ideal for picturesque beach vacations. Temperatures average 30 C (86 F), with the warmest season falling between December and February. Consider visiting between March and May to avoid the crowds and to score special deals on accommodations.

Avoid visiting from June to November, when the hurricane season reaches its height. While accommodation and vacation packages offer great prices, rain just might put a damper on your La Altagracia itinerary.

Transportation in La Altagracia Province

With the region's small size and great public transportation opportunities, getting around to all the La Altagracia places to see is a breeze. For ease and independence, rent your own car from the numerous rental agencies or even your hotel. Taxis provide reliable transportation and accept various currencies including dollars, pesos, and euros. More adventurous travelers may consider the public bus system, but keep in mind the schedules are irregular and the buses are generally very crowded.