Dominican Republic Attractions

It is said that in 1976 Altos de Chavón was built as a gift for the daughter of the late Charles Bludorn. He was a wealthy Gulf & Western President who wanted this Mediterranean Village erected as a monumentally extravagant birthday present. It is now one of Dominican Republic's best... (more)

It is said that in 1976 Altos de Chavón was built as a gift for the daughter of the late Charles Bludorn. He was a wealthy Gulf & Western President who wanted this Mediterranean Village erected as a monumentally extravagant birthday present. It is now one of Dominican Republic's best known tourist attractions. Perched high on a bluff, above the La Romana Resort overlooking the Chavón River, this impressive hillside village looks a bit out of place in the Dominican Republic. Visitors are transported back in time to 1500's old Europe. Dominican stonecutters, woodworkers, and iron-smiths combined their crafts to create the rich architectural landscape. Plan to spend a day or so browsing through the Altos de Chavon archaelogy museum, walking gobble-stone paths to the shops and the art galleries. Stop at one of the many restaurants and relax while taking in the incredible view. In the evening you can hit the dance floor at one of the discos, or watch as world-class performers take the stage in the amphitheatre. (close)

Aqua Center is the scuba diving specialist and water sports & snorkel cruises expert for your Caribbean holiday in the Sosua Puerto Plata Cabarete area on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. PADI Star Instructor Development Center, scuba diving adventures, Scuba Diving Holiday Adventure, Adventure Travel, Scuba vacation,... (more)

Aqua Center is the scuba diving specialist and water sports & snorkel cruises expert for your Caribbean holiday in the Sosua Puerto Plata Cabarete area on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. PADI Star Instructor Development Center, scuba diving adventures, Scuba Diving Holiday Adventure, Adventure Travel, Scuba vacation, Caribbean diving vacations, Snorkeling Adventures, excursions. Main Office: Hotel Casa Marina Beach and Reef Sosua, Puerto Plata (close)

For those interested in beaches, the Dominican Republic is one of the prime destinations in the Caribbean. This tropical island has long stretches of pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and beautiful resort areas. Below are descriptions of some of the more popular beach destinations... (more)

For those interested in beaches, the Dominican Republic is one of the prime destinations in the Caribbean. This tropical island has long stretches of pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and beautiful resort areas. Below are descriptions of some of the more popular beach destinations in the Dominican Republic. Puerto Plata Puerto Plata is one of the prime beach destinations in the Dominican Republic. The town itself is small but has a nice colonial feel to it. The main draw of this area is the stunning beach area. The sands are bright white and the waters are turquoise blue. Just offshore are corral reefs teeming with life which make them perfect for diving and snorkeling. In terms of accommodations Puerto Plata has a range of hotels ranging from very high end to budget. For those looking for something a little quieter and more popular with the locals, then head over to Guarapito. This beach offers a tropical beach setting: lots of sun and very relaxing! The town of Puerto Plata is small but does offer some colonial charm. Its main feature is the central park where locals gather and many weekends you can listen to an outdoor concert. If you have time take a trip to the top of Isabel de Torres and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area. Other sites of interest in town include the Amber Museum and the old fort called San Felipe. Sosúa As you travel east from Puerto Plata you come across a small fishing town called Sosúa. The town does not offer to much in terms of things to see, but of course that is not why people come here. The reason people come to Sosúa is to enjoy the beach, which locals claim is the nicest in the Dominican Republic. Besides just relaxing on the beach one can also snorkel, water ski, or go wind surfing. Cabarete Windsurfing Central The northern region of the Dominican Republic has great beaches and a steady wind. This means that many places along the northern coastline of the Dominican Republic are ideal for windsurfing. One of the best places to go windsurfing has to be Cabarete. Cabarete is just 25 minutes from Puerto Plata, so getting there is no problem. The beach itself is about 2 miles long and just offshore lie some beautiful corral reefs. Samaná Another extremely popluar beach destination is the Samaná region of the Dominican Repbulic. The area is famous for long stretches of white sand beaches and cystal clear waters. Throughout the region are numerous small towns and sleeply little fishing villages. Getting to Samaná is relatively easy, the trip from Puerto Plata is only 1 hour. Punta Cana Punta Cana is probably the prime beach destination in the Dominican Republic. This area has great beaches, and as such is home to some of the nicest resorts on the island. In the resorts and the surrounding areas are numerous bars, restaurants, night clubs, shops and more. That means you can spend the day in the sun and dance the night away if you like. Barahona The area has been called by many the "Pearl of the South". This region is home to the following beaches, Los Patos, Paraiso, Bahoruco, and Saladilla. These beaches are beautiful and the water is even nicer. What makes this region special is the fact that the area is still relatively undeveloped. It is great for those people who want a beach experience, but not necessarily the "resort" experience. Santo Domingo & The Surrounding Area You don't have to travel far from Santo Domingo to get to the beach. Two of the more popular nearby beaches are Juan Dolia and Boca Chica. Boca Chilca is surrounded by a corral reef that has created a calm area of water that is exceedingly shallow. Due to this, it is very popular with familes due to the safety of the water. Further out from Santo Domingo is Juan Dolio. Just 50 minutes from the city, the beach is a great destination. Many come to just soak up the sun. However the beach offers a variety of water activities including sailing, diving and snorkeling, windsurfing and more! (close)

Caribbean Nexus Tours opened in 1996 in Puerto Plata and expanded the last years with offices in Puerto Plata, Juan Dolio (Santo Domingo), Punta Cana, and Samana, (Dominican Republic). They offer extensive adventure excursion programs throughout the Dominican Republic. Offices in Bavaro/Punta Cana, Plaza Brizas de Bavaro... (more)

Caribbean Nexus Tours opened in 1996 in Puerto Plata and expanded the last years with offices in Puerto Plata, Juan Dolio (Santo Domingo), Punta Cana, and Samana, (Dominican Republic). They offer extensive adventure excursion programs throughout the Dominican Republic. Offices in Bavaro/Punta Cana, Plaza Brizas de Bavaro and Puerto Plata, Playa Dorada Plaza, 2nd floor. (close)

Near the Sol Melia Caribe and Sol Melia Tropical resorts in Punta Cana, the 18-hole course offers interesting play designed by Spanish champion Jose Pepe Gancedo. Set on a former coconut plantation, the course makes the most of natural terrain, lakes and palm trees to create a unique environment.... (more)

Near the Sol Melia Caribe and Sol Melia Tropical resorts in Punta Cana, the 18-hole course offers interesting play designed by Spanish champion Jose Pepe Gancedo. Set on a former coconut plantation, the course makes the most of natural terrain, lakes and palm trees to create a unique environment. Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana. (close)

Cocotours is one of the leading tour operators in the Dominican Republic, catering to clients from all around the world. Discover the true beauty of the Dominican Republic with their extensive selection of excursions and coach tours of this fascinating island. Headquartered in Puerto Plata with branch... (more)

Cocotours is one of the leading tour operators in the Dominican Republic, catering to clients from all around the world. Discover the true beauty of the Dominican Republic with their extensive selection of excursions and coach tours of this fascinating island. Headquartered in Puerto Plata with branch offices also in Puerto Plata and Punta Cana. With Cocotours' experience you are assured of the best service, attention and value! (close)

The Colonial Zone (also known as Zona Colonial or by the locals as "The Zone") in Santo Domingo de Guzmán, the capital of Dominican Republic, has so many things to see. Here are some of the oldest buildings in all "The Americas". Walk the same streets as Christopher Columbus. You... (more)

The Colonial Zone (also known as Zona Colonial or by the locals as "The Zone") in Santo Domingo de Guzmán, the capital of Dominican Republic, has so many things to see. Here are some of the oldest buildings in all "The Americas". Walk the same streets as Christopher Columbus. You will find so many hidden treasures here in the Colonial Zone, the oldest city in all the Americas including the first cathedral in all the Americas, the first University, many museums with items dating back to when Columbus and his son were first here. There are parks for relaxing and restaurants to enjoy. All within walking distance. (close)

This waterslide park is located 2 km west of Sosua and is the largest waterslide park in the Caribbean. The park has many different types (levels) of slides, as well as swimming pools, restaurants and shops. The park is generally open from 10 am until 5 pm daily and occasionally... (more)

This waterslide park is located 2 km west of Sosua and is the largest waterslide park in the Caribbean. The park has many different types (levels) of slides, as well as swimming pools, restaurants and shops. The park is generally open from 10 am until 5 pm daily and occasionally hosts live musical performances on weekends. (close)

A series of 27 cascading water falls. On the North Coast, recently regulated and protected by the Secretary of Environment and and Natural Resources.

An American-style casino offering an assortment of games, three restaurant options and Vegas-style shows. The casino is open daily from 4 pm to 4 am with complimentary shuttles serving all major La Romana resorts. Opened December 2007. Local #5 Higuay, Prov. Altagracia, Dominican Republic.

DR Jazz Festival: 6-9 November The DR Jazz Festival will be held again this November, with stages in Cabarete Beach in Puerto Plata, as well as in Santiago. Since its first year, the festival has featured a number of world famous jazz musicians including Chuck Mangione, David Sanchez, Ray... (more)

DR Jazz Festival: 6-9 November The DR Jazz Festival will be held again this November, with stages in Cabarete Beach in Puerto Plata, as well as in Santiago. Since its first year, the festival has featured a number of world famous jazz musicians including Chuck Mangione, David Sanchez, Ray Baretto, Nestor Torres, Chucho Valdes and Arturo Sandoval. "What makes this event even more special is that it moves to a different city every day, giving the public an opportunity to experience jazz at different venues and with a variety of performers," said the festival organizers. Now in its seventh year, the Jazz Festival is the most highly anticipated cultural event on the north coast and is the only festival that is directed at both tourists and local residents. As part of the five-day festival, performers will lead educational workshops for local youngsters, aimed at encouraging them to get involved in the arts. (close)

On the east Coast at the Casa de Campo luxury resort is the golf course designed by Pete Dye. Set against the backdrop of a 300 foot deep river gorge is the dramatically beautiful 18-hole course that measures 7,770 feet, with 200-foot wide fairways.

This lush and diverse protected area was named a national monument in 1992 . The park is comprised of pasture land, a lagoon, and jungle area that contains lush tropical plants, exotic birds, fresh water springs and solution caves (caves dissolved out of solid rock by acidic waters - usually... (more)

This lush and diverse protected area was named a national monument in 1992 . The park is comprised of pasture land, a lagoon, and jungle area that contains lush tropical plants, exotic birds, fresh water springs and solution caves (caves dissolved out of solid rock by acidic waters - usually due to their time under the water table). The park's entrance is located 2 km from Cabarete, on the North Coast, and can be visited for an hour or two, or for the entire day. Due to the maze of unmarked paths and lush vegetation, its recommended you visit the park with a Tour Operator or Park guide who can not only guide you through but also provide you with information about the area. (close)

This go-kart racing park is located 15 km east of Puerto Plata. The park offers 4 racing tracks with go-kart, sprint, midget, grand prix and bumper cars. There is a restaurant/snack bar on site. The park is generally open between 10 am and 8 pm every day.

Throughout the island, there are many day trips available. You may chose a relaxing sightseeing tour, a eye opening jeep safari, an adventure tour, a night tour or even an overnight tour. All Go Dominican Tours include your entrance fees when applicable, lunch on full day tours, a professional multilingual... (more)

Throughout the island, there are many day trips available. You may chose a relaxing sightseeing tour, a eye opening jeep safari, an adventure tour, a night tour or even an overnight tour. All Go Dominican Tours include your entrance fees when applicable, lunch on full day tours, a professional multilingual guide, and a promise to deliver excellent service for an excellent price. Open From 7 am To 7 pm daily. Plaza Turisol Suite #16, Puerto Plata (close)

Casa de Campo is a golfers dream! This award-winning course was developed by Pete Dye, who is considered the world's most renowned golf course architect. Play the Teeth of the Dog, the Links or the new Dye Fore. Ranked in the world's top 30 for more than 25 years, it's... (more)

Casa de Campo is a golfers dream! This award-winning course was developed by Pete Dye, who is considered the world's most renowned golf course architect. Play the Teeth of the Dog, the Links or the new Dye Fore. Ranked in the world's top 30 for more than 25 years, it's no wonder the courses at Casa de Campo have gained international recognition. In April 2008, Golf Magazine ranked Casa de Campo as havingTHE BEST GOLF in the Caribbean! Other activities at Casa de Camp Resort include: tennis, private beach, water sports, pools, horseback riding, spa treatments, shooting, boating and excursions. Outstanding dining, entertainment, year-round programs for kids and teens, new marina & yacht club, shopping and the wondrous Altos de Chavon artists' village! (close)

Islabon is located 5 km east of Cabarete. This tour allows kids to explore the river area by boat and also walk through jungle trails to a mini zoo that includes iguanas, snakes, turtles, ravens and North American crocodiles. Discover the Dominican Republic through its vegetation and... (more)

Islabon is located 5 km east of Cabarete. This tour allows kids to explore the river area by boat and also walk through jungle trails to a mini zoo that includes iguanas, snakes, turtles, ravens and North American crocodiles. Discover the Dominican Republic through its vegetation and wild life. The tour starts with a visit of a mini-zoo where you will be able to learn, touch and take pictures of exotic animals like parrots and snakes. During the visit, a guide will explain the origins and use of different kind of trees, plants and fruits. This ecotourism tour continues by boat thru a lagoon and the river. Along the way you will see many techniques used to catch fish, crabs and shrimp. Also, your guide will take you for a 10 minute walk into the Islabon jungle trail, to check the catch of the day by local fishermen in their camps. The tour ends at the ocean inlet, where you can swim in fresh water. The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Bring hats and swimwear ... and don't forget the camera ! Tour every day, boat departure every hour. Fully insured and licensed. Operated by Islabon River Tour SA. (close)

Dominican Republic's north coast offers the perfect mix of water, waves and wind making this the kiteboarding capital of the world. Using a board and the power of a large controllable kite, the surfer relies on wind and heavy gusts to propel him over the water and waves. This is... (more)

Dominican Republic's north coast offers the perfect mix of water, waves and wind making this the kiteboarding capital of the world. Using a board and the power of a large controllable kite, the surfer relies on wind and heavy gusts to propel him over the water and waves. This is one of the fastest growing water sports. If you're a beginner, you won't have any trouble finding experienced kitesurfers offering instruction. Die-hard kitesurfers from around the world meet annually at Cabarete Beach to compete in the World Cup Windsurfing Championship, the largest kitesurfing event in the world. (close)

This championship course has been carved strategically to take advantage of breathtaking natural vistas.

At 23 miles long and 11 miles wide, Lake Enriquillo is the largest lake in the Caribbean. Located in the southwestern region of Dominican Republic, this is one of only a few saltwater lakes in the world inhabited by crocodiles. You'll also find iguana, flamingo and other migratory birds.... (more)

At 23 miles long and 11 miles wide, Lake Enriquillo is the largest lake in the Caribbean. Located in the southwestern region of Dominican Republic, this is one of only a few saltwater lakes in the world inhabited by crocodiles. You'll also find iguana, flamingo and other migratory birds. Lake Enriquillo is the lowest point in the Caribbean falling 144 feet (44 meters) below sea level. This 102 square-mile lake contains 3 islands: Isla Barbarita, Islita and Isla Cabritos. (close)

Cueva de las Maravillas (Cave of the Miracles) offers a subterranean peek at centuries of stalagmite and stalactite formations.

Aquarium park. East of the Río Ozama Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Located 5 km west of Puerto Plata, in the resort area of Cofresi. It has the world's largest dolphin lagoon, the only sea lion encounter of its kind, the world's first shark interaction pool, along with tigers, exotic birds, reptiles and tropical fish. Ocean World allows guests... (more)

Located 5 km west of Puerto Plata, in the resort area of Cofresi. It has the world's largest dolphin lagoon, the only sea lion encounter of its kind, the world's first shark interaction pool, along with tigers, exotic birds, reptiles and tropical fish. Ocean World allows guests to interact with a variety of animals, including dolphins, sea lion, stingrays, bottlenose dolphins and nurse sharks, as well as Bengal tigers and tanks filled with tropical fish, to name a few. Animal lovers are sure to come close to their favorites and fully enjoy this moment through the countless shows and activities onsite. They can come close to exotic tropical birds, hand-feed the tigers in the much-talked-about Tiger Grotto, snorkel with tropical fish, or swim with the sting rays. For those who seek different experiences, Ocean World offers a private beach, restaurants, lockers, as well as photo labs and video services. (close)

Referred to as "The Pebble Beach of the Caribbean" with 10 holes interacting with the Atlantic Ocean. Located on the North Coast near Cabarete. Playa Grande is an unusually beautiful parcel of about 2,000 acres on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic , straddling... (more)

Referred to as "The Pebble Beach of the Caribbean" with 10 holes interacting with the Atlantic Ocean. Located on the North Coast near Cabarete. Playa Grande is an unusually beautiful parcel of about 2,000 acres on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic , straddling the towns of Rio San Juan and Cabrera. The property has great topography, with hills and cliffs and 5 miles of exposure to the Atlantic Ocean, including a wide, mile-long beach. It is lush and undeveloped, with old trees and Royal Palms. On the western coast, Robert Trent Jones built his final golf course, cut into the cliffs over the sea. Underground springs supply abundant fresh water, and the neighboring land is small farms and forest. (close)

Set on the less-developed north coast of the Samana peninsula, here is one of those jewels that will be more difficult to find on foot. Past thick palm forests and curvy mountain roads, the best way to get to this secluded beach is to hire a boat or taxi. Usually... (more)

Set on the less-developed north coast of the Samana peninsula, here is one of those jewels that will be more difficult to find on foot. Past thick palm forests and curvy mountain roads, the best way to get to this secluded beach is to hire a boat or taxi. Usually deserted and with no hotels in sight, it's the ideal location for solitude and sleep! (close)

Hello my name is Jose E. Diaz owner of (Rancho Veragua) we are a fully service horseback riding excursion company located centrally in the region of Puerto Plata (and serving Cabarete, Sosua, Puerto Plata, Rio San Juan). We are a fully licensed and insured company by the... (more)

Hello my name is Jose E. Diaz owner of (Rancho Veragua) we are a fully service horseback riding excursion company located centrally in the region of Puerto Plata (and serving Cabarete, Sosua, Puerto Plata, Rio San Juan). We are a fully licensed and insured company by the Dominican Department of tourism, that offers transportation from the resorts to our ranch. We provide safe full day and half day horseback riding tours. You can also look us up on the web at www. ranchoveragua.com. If you have any further questions please feel free to contact me personally at (203) 228-3156. We also have the most competitive rates on the market, for the service we provide. So please come on down to the Dominican Republic, and enjoy paradise through horseback riding. Our family and staff and trilingual wranglers, can't wait to take you out for a horse ride. (close)

The Saona is a tropical island located a short distance from the mainland on the south-east tip of the Dominican Republic, near La Romana Province. It is a government protected nature reserve and a popular destination for tourists from all over the Dominican Republic, thousands of people arrive in fleets... (more)

The Saona is a tropical island located a short distance from the mainland on the south-east tip of the Dominican Republic, near La Romana Province. It is a government protected nature reserve and a popular destination for tourists from all over the Dominican Republic, thousands of people arrive in fleets of catamarans and small motorboats every day. The island is famous for the natural beauty of its beaches, and has been used on many occasions by film-makers and advertisers looking for a stereotypical 'desert island' setting. (close)

Glass bottom boat tours are available from Sosua, on the North Coast, and are a fun excursion for the whole family. These boats travel the clear waters of Sosua Bay, allowing you to peak at the magnificence and beauty of the underwater world. Scubacaribe specializes in providing... (more)

Glass bottom boat tours are available from Sosua, on the North Coast, and are a fun excursion for the whole family. These boats travel the clear waters of Sosua Bay, allowing you to peak at the magnificence and beauty of the underwater world. Scubacaribe specializes in providing a complete range of water sports and activities for hotels and resorts. The company was formed in 1991 when it began operating and providing services for the Riu Hotels in Punta Cana , Dominican Republic. Since then they've grown continuously, providing service to the most prestigious hotels in the largest Caribbean vacation destinations. The fast growth is based on a philosophy of always implementing the latest and best technology available. Their mission is to satisfy clients by providing a wide range of water sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurf, sailing, rowing, parasailing and a variety of aquatic excursions. Everything we do is executed with the highest regard for personal safety standards. Carretera Arena Gorda, Plaza Progreso, Punta Cana. (close)

Regularly ranked among the top 50 courses in the world. The course, designed by Pete Dye, located at Casa de Campo in La Romana, features several signature Dye formations as well as seven oceanfront holes. Sea breezes as well as the effects of a nearby airstrip help to... (more)

Regularly ranked among the top 50 courses in the world. The course, designed by Pete Dye, located at Casa de Campo in La Romana, features several signature Dye formations as well as seven oceanfront holes. Sea breezes as well as the effects of a nearby airstrip help to increase the challenges of playing here. (close)

Located at Casa de Campo luxury resort, a championship course designed by Pete Dye. Its lagoons, lakes and sand traps create a beautiful setting as well as interesting challenges. "The Links" has a moderately hilly track with tall bahia and guinea grass roughs as well as... (more)

Located at Casa de Campo luxury resort, a championship course designed by Pete Dye. Its lagoons, lakes and sand traps create a beautiful setting as well as interesting challenges. "The Links" has a moderately hilly track with tall bahia and guinea grass roughs as well as plenty of sand traps to keep you on your toes. Thought by some to be reminiscent of traditional British and Scottish courses, there are several lagoons and even lakes with wading birds. There are five holes where water comes into play on this course making it a challenge unto itself. (close)

Popular privately guided ATV tours go through sugar cane fields and stop in small Dominican hamlets; full-day catamaran tours provide festive outings to nearby Saona Island where guests have a picnic barbecue before jetting back to their starting point via motorboat; snorkeling and scuba diving excursions offer close-up looks at... (more)

Popular privately guided ATV tours go through sugar cane fields and stop in small Dominican hamlets; full-day catamaran tours provide festive outings to nearby Saona Island where guests have a picnic barbecue before jetting back to their starting point via motorboat; snorkeling and scuba diving excursions offer close-up looks at the more than 120 species of tropical fish. (close)

Hike through Dominican Republic's lush, tropical jungles to one of its many waterfall oasis. Swim in the crystal-clear lagoon pools and bathe in the cascading water falling overhead. The highest waterfall in the Caribbean is the Salto Aqua Blanca at 492 feet. Tours and hikes to this stunning site are... (more)

Hike through Dominican Republic's lush, tropical jungles to one of its many waterfall oasis. Swim in the crystal-clear lagoon pools and bathe in the cascading water falling overhead. The highest waterfall in the Caribbean is the Salto Aqua Blanca at 492 feet. Tours and hikes to this stunning site are offered in the city of Constanza. The Salto de Jimenoa, located in Jarabacoa National Park, is 131-foot. To get there you'll take a hiking trail through the jungle and over a narrow suspension bridge. There is a snack bar that's open on the weekends. El Limon is picturesque waterfall accessible only by horseback. Rides are around $15 and take 2 ½ hours round-trip. Bring a little extra cash for lunch. Near Puerto Plata, Damajagua Falls, also known as Cascades of Imbert and Seven Fallas, is a series of 27 waterfalls. Visitors climb up limestone boulders then jump or slide into the grottoes. The water can be swift so this excursion isn't for weak or young swimmers and water shoes are recommended. (close)

The Dominican Republic is one of the best places in the world to whale-watch. Thousands of humpbacks migrate here during mating season, which runs mid-January through mid-March. Catch a boat to Samana Bay and you may see as many as 300 whales frolicking just a few yards away. Whales race... (more)

The Dominican Republic is one of the best places in the world to whale-watch. Thousands of humpbacks migrate here during mating season, which runs mid-January through mid-March. Catch a boat to Samana Bay and you may see as many as 300 whales frolicking just a few yards away. Whales race underwater, then launch into the air, and crash back into the water. It's a site you'll never forget. Cheering for more you may also see whales roll onto their backs and sides raising their tail and flippers high into the air and then slapping down on the water. Bring your camera. It's fun for the whole family! (close)

Taking its name from the Taino word for beautiful, the Yarari Spa at the Agua Resort and Spa in Uvero Alto proves that small is beautiful. Conde Nast Traveler Hot Spas 2008 includes Yarari Spa. "The thatched-roof main spa building, smelling of cinnamon and orange oil, houses a... (more)

Taking its name from the Taino word for beautiful, the Yarari Spa at the Agua Resort and Spa in Uvero Alto proves that small is beautiful. Conde Nast Traveler Hot Spas 2008 includes Yarari Spa. "The thatched-roof main spa building, smelling of cinnamon and orange oil, houses a hydro-therapy tub, pulsating water chaises, a sauna, and an ice fountain. Five treatment rooms include one for couples and one with a Vichy shower. The Caribbean Cooler regimen ($135) is a scrub of aloe, shredded cucumber, and yogurt, after which you're wrapped in towels and a plastic sheet to intensify the cooling properties. Meanwhile, the therapist rubs eucalyptus oil on her hands and cups them over your nose as you breathe deeply." Massages $85 - $115. (close)