Things To Do
in Paraíso
Paraíso is a laid-back beach town on the Dominican Republic's southeastern coast. It offers warm turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and friendly locals who welcome visitors. The town blends simple coastal life with easy access to nearby nature, markets, and inexpensive seafood.
With a year-round tropical climate and affordable prices, Paraíso makes a relaxed base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Las Américas International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in Paraíso. Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink while you settle in and take in the stunning coastal views. Stroll along the beach to unwind after your journey.
Have lunch at a local eatery where you can sample fresh seafood and traditional Dominican dishes. Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun, or taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters. Consider booking a guided tour to learn about the area's natural beauty and history.
Savor a delicious dinner at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh catches of the day while listening to the sounds of the ocean. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the beach and watch the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. Wind down with a drink at a local bar, mingling with other travelers or enjoying live music.
Start your day with an early breakfast at your hotel, then head out to explore the nearby Playa de Paraíso, known for its pristine sands and tranquil waters. Engage in some beach activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding, experiencing the local marine life up close. Relax on the beach with a good book or simply soak up the Caribbean sun.
Have lunch at a beachside shack, where you can enjoy fried fish and tropical fruits. Take a guided boat trip to explore nearby secluded beaches and hidden coves, discovering the local flora and fauna along the way. Make sure to have your camera ready for stunning photo opportunities.
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant renowned for its traditional Dominican cuisine, perhaps trying the sancocho or mofongo. Attend a local cultural event or festival if available, immersing yourself in Dominican music and dance. End your evening with a stroll by the shore, feeling the gentle waves lap at your feet.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-3 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-50 |
| 🏨One night in a modest hotel | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and friendly locals
- affordable prices and good value for money
- relaxed pace with easy access to nature
- Limited upscale nightlife and nightlife options
- transport between towns can be slower and less frequent
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Soy vegetariano/a" - I am vegetarian
- "¿Hay comida vegetariana?" - Is there vegetarian food?
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Paraíso
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over calm Caribbean waters with silhouettes of palm trees and lone fishing boats.
Colorful boats, nets, and reflections on the water create vibrant, working-harbor imagery.
Panoramic views of the coast, lush hills, and distant coastline best photographed during the late afternoon.
Food in Paraíso
Paraíso Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried fish served with lime, onions, and fried plantains or yuca; a beachside favorite.
Must-Try!
Plantain mash with pork cracklings or shrimp, typically served with a savory sauce.
Hearty Dominican stew of root vegetables, corn, and meat or chicken, best enjoyed with rice and avocado on the side.
Rice and beans cooked together with spices, often accompanied by stewed meats or seafood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open-air market stalls offering fresh fruit, fritters, empanadas, roasted sweet potatoes, and daily seafood specials.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake or cheek kiss among friends; use polite greetings like buenos días or buenas tardes when entering shops.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; be respectful in public spaces and avoid loud displays of affection in formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Paraíso
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10–15% tip is appreciated if service is not included. Small tips for hotel staff and tour guides are common; cash in local currency is preferred for small vendors.
Cash (Dominican peso) and US dollars are widely accepted in many spots. Credit/debit cards are common in hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist-oriented shops; ATMs are available in towns but may be scarce in smaller villages.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent sunshine and short, intense tropical showers. Early mornings are ideal for outdoor activity; afternoons can be very warm, so seek shade and stay hydrated.
Pleasant beach weather with fewer rain showers. Clear skies, comfortable days, and cooler evenings make it ideal for exploring and outdoor adventures.
Higher humidity and frequent afternoon downpours. Trails can be slippery; carry rain gear and insect repellent, and plan flexible activities.
Watch for tropical storm activity. Stay informed with forecasts and have a plan for weather-related changes to plans.
Paraíso at Night
Hiking in Paraíso
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hike along coastal cliffs with sweeping sea views and the chance to spot seabirds.
Waterfall and gorge trek with opportunities for a refreshing swim and spring-fed pools.
Airports
How to reach Paraíso by plane.
Major gateway to Santo Domingo; many international and domestic flights; about a 1.5–2.5 hour drive from Paraíso depending on routes and traffic.
Large international airport on the eastern coast; convenient for travelers combining beach breaks with inland trips; typically a 2.5–4 hour drive to Paraíso.
Smaller airport near La Romana; serves some international flights and regional connections; closer to eastern beaches.
Smaller gateway serving the Samaná region; useful for certain itineraries along the northeast coast and nearby attractions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Dominican families with strong community ties and a warm, welcoming culture.
A small but growing presence, drawn by beaches, affordability, and natural beauty.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A national passion with local leagues, street games, and community enthusiasm.
Widely played in schools, parks, and beaches across the region.
Common in community centers and youth leagues; pickup games are frequent.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paraíso.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most vegetarian options include rice and beans, plantains, cassava, salads, soups, and roasted vegetables. When ordering, ask for sin carne or sin pollo, and be prepared to customize dishes with plant-based sides.