Welcome to the St. Barts of Dominican Republic. 

On the southern tip of Dominican Republic is a little gem where stars flock to for fun in the sun, lavish condos and leisurely excursions. This ravishing destination is La Romana, where travelers can hike to view the Chavón River, wander through Altos de Chavón Mediterranean village. Or golf, shop, eat, and swim for days. If Santo Domingo is the capital while Punta Cana is popular among mainstream tourists, then La Romana is probably the St. Barts of DR. Enjoy!

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There’s no visiting La Romana without staying a few nights at the magnificent Casa de Campo. The Ponderosa-style estate is a 7,000-acres residential paradise which encompasses: a resort, condos, private villas, 70 restaurants/shops/bars/cafes, a marina full of boutiques and a grocery store. Not to mention, there are also three golf courses, a movie theater…and so much more. If you’re not yet sold, just know that it often welcomes celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, A-Rod, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and several U.S. presidents.

Saona Island is full of dreamy white sand beaches, adorned with grandiose palm trees and peaceful crystalline waters. With 110 square-meter in size, it is one of the biggest islands in Dominican Republic where travelers can gaze at starfishes and dip in natural pools. Due to its “desert island” appearance, Saona has been the location for filming blockbusters including: Pirates of the Caribbean and The Blue Lagoon.

Inside Casa de Campo resides Altos de Chavón which is a recreated 16th century Mediterranean village originally designed by architect, Jose Antonio Caro, and Italian cinematographer, Roberto Coppa. Celebrating an artistic spirit, much of Altos de Chavón is decorated by local artisans that host various lessons like silk screening and pottery. The Art Gallery is a venue where designs and art pieces are sold, with different artistic events that assemble creatives from around the world.

Ranked as the top golf course in the Caribbean, Teeth of the Dog is hand carved from the rugged coastline of La Romana. The entire course is accompanied by stunning natural scenery of the seaside landscape. For hardcore golfers, to play a round of golf at Teeth of the Dog is a must-do.

A former fishing village, Bayahibe is a gorgeous spot also known for white sandy beaches and dazzling blue waters. There are numerous seafood restaurants, local craft boutiques. Don’t miss Cotubanama Park where you can find a cave that Taino Indians used to live and settle in.

An activity completely opposite of beaches and boats would be Cueva De Las Maravillas, or “the cave of wonders.” The 100,000-year-old natural attraction was first discovered in 1926, the mystic yet powerful rock formations occurred from mineral accumulation and constant humidity in an iguana habitat underground. Along the cave walls, there remains approximately 500 ancient artwork and engravings painted by the Taino people. There’s also an artificial lake – The Water Mirror Gallery – which showcases a mirror-like reflection from the top of the cave.

For cigar collectors, a trip to Tabacalera de Garcia has to be included in the itinerary. One of the world’s largest hand-rolled cigar factories presents the way cigars are made in a country known for cigar production. There’s also a plethora of cigar varieties to choose from, don’t forget to walk through a humidor which impressively holds approximately 7,000,000 cigars.

Small yet crowded is Playa Caleta’s vibe, but the epitome of #beachlife in La Romana. Swim, eat, and indulge in the sun. Make sure to bring snorkeling gear to catch glimpses of fishes and sea life in the water. At beachside restaurants, order some fried fish, plantains, or yaniqueque (crispy fritters.)