Things To Do
in La Romana

La Romana is a vibrant coastal city located on the southeastern shore of the Dominican Republic. Known for its beautiful beaches, lush golf courses, and rich cultural heritage, the city attracts both tourists and locals alike. It serves as a gateway to the famous resort town of Casa de Campo and offers a range of activities from water sports to historical tours.

La Romana is also renowned for its cigar production, making it a unique destination for those interested in local craftsmanship.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring La Romana
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Altos de Chavón, a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village with stunning views. Enjoy breakfast at one of the local cafés.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Playa Caleta for some sunbathing or swimming. You can also explore the nearby Casa de Campo resort for shopping and dining.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant along the coast, enjoying fresh catch while watching the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Cueva de las Maravillas, an impressive cave system with stunning limestone formations, followed by a traditional Dominican lunch.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of a local cigar factory to learn about the art of cigar-making, or explore the local markets.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at a local bar or club, enjoying live music and dancing until late.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15-25
🛒Groceries for a week$40-60
🏨Hotel night (3-star)$70-150
🚕Taxi ride (within the city)$5-10
🍺Local beer$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and natural scenery
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Wide range of outdoor activities and excursions
  • Hurricane season can disrupt travel plans
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Some areas may be touristy and crowded
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in La Romana

Visit one of these nice places.

Altos de Chavón

This picturesque village offers stunning views of the Chavón River and is filled with beautiful architecture.

Playa Caleta

A serene beach with clear waters and vibrant sunsets, perfect for capturing stunning seascapes.

Cueva de las Maravillas

The cave features spectacular rock formations and ancient petroglyphs, providing unique photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in La Romana

La Romana offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Dominican flavors with fresh seafood and international influences.

La Romana Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sancocho

A hearty stew made with various meats and root vegetables, often served on special occasions.

Must-Try!

Mangu

Mashed green plantains, typically served with fried eggs, cheese, and salami for breakfast.

Pescado frito

Fried fish, usually served with tostones (fried plantain slices) and salad, showcasing the local catch.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and traditional snacks.

Street Vendors

Look for vendors selling empanadas, arepas, and fresh coconuts throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

La Romana has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 75°F (24°C) and 90°F (32°C). The rainy season occurs from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall typically in September and October. Humidity is consistently high, making it feel warmer, especially in the summer months. Trade winds provide some relief, particularly near the coast.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a hug among acquaintances is common; addressing people by title and last name is respectful.

Dress Code

Casual and relaxed clothing is acceptable, but beach attire should be reserved for the beach.

Personal Space

Dominicans are generally warm and friendly; expect close physical proximity during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

La Romana is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and be cautious of your belongings in crowded places. Always use reputable transportation services and keep emergency contacts handy.

Tipping in La Romana

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants; rounding up is appreciated for taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Cooler temperatures and lower humidity make this the peak tourist season, ideal for beach activities.

Spring (March - May)

Warm weather continues, with occasional rain; perfect for outdoor adventures and sightseeing.

Summer (June - August)

Hot and humid with occasional tropical storms; great for water activities but be prepared for rain.

Fall (September - November)

Hurricane season peaks; while storms can occur, the weather can also be pleasantly warm and less crowded.

Nightlife Guide

La Romana at Night

La Romana boasts a lively nightlife scene centered around music, dance, and socializing. Local clubs and bars come alive after sunset, offering a mix of Dominican merengue, bachata, and contemporary music. Popular venues often include outdoor terraces where visitors can enjoy cocktails and local beer while mingling with locals and fellow travelers. Weekly events and live music performances create an energetic atmosphere that lasts until the early hours of the morning.

Hiking in La Romana

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Sal

A moderate hike offering stunning views of the coastal landscape and the surrounding area.

Parque Nacional del Este

This national park features various trails through lush forests and along the coastline, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach La Romana by plane.

La Romana International Airport (LRM)

Located just 10 minutes from the city center, it serves both domestic and international flights and is the primary gateway for tourists visiting La Romana.

Getting Around

Walkability

La Romana is fairly walkable, particularly in the downtown area where shops, restaurants, and attractions are located close together. However, some areas may require transportation due to longer distances or less pedestrian-friendly roads. Sidewalks are generally available, but be cautious of uneven surfaces and traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dominican Nationals

The majority of La Romana's population consists of Dominican nationals, who are known for their hospitality and cultural pride.

Tourists

A significant number of tourists, particularly from the United States and Europe, visit La Romana, especially during the winter months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a national passion in the Dominican Republic, with many locals aspiring to play professionally.

Basketball

Basketball is also popular, especially among the youth, with many local courts available for play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in La Romana can be congested during peak hours, especially near tourist attractions and markets. Public transportation consists mainly of 'carros publicos' (shared taxis) and motoconchos (motorcycle taxis), which are affordable and widely used. Renting a car is also an option, but be prepared for local driving habits.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting La Romana.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to inquire about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, many dishes based on rice and beans are naturally gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in La Romana are adequate, with several clinics and hospitals available. However, for serious medical conditions, patients may need to travel to larger cities like Santo Domingo. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Dominican Republic

Read more in our Dominican Republic 2025 Travel Guide.

Dominican Republic Travel Guide