Trade cold mornings for tropical warmth this winter in the Dominican Republic, one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant and diverse destinations. From pristine beaches to jungle trails and historic towns, the island invites you to explore at your own pace.
Hiring a car is one of the best ways to see the country beyond the resorts. The main highways are modern and well-signposted, and scenic routes link most major destinations.
With a Green Motion rental car, you’ll have the freedom to uncover its hidden corners, from sunrise drives along the coast to spontaneous stops for fresh coconuts by the roadside.
Between December and April, the Dominican Republic enjoys its dry season, long days of sunshine, calm seas, and temperatures around 28–30°C. It’s perfect for road trips, swimming, and exploring without the humidity of summer.
With a Green Motion Punta Cana car, your Dominican journey starts immediately: golden beaches, turquoise water, and easy access to the open road. Take the Coral Highway (Autopista del Coral) west toward Bayahibe (1 hour 15 mins) for a scenic drive past sugarcane fields and small local markets.
Top Tip: Visit Macao Beach early in the morning for surfing or breakfast with sea views at the local shacks, with plenty of parking right off the sand road.
Drive your car hire from Green Motion Punta Cana to Bayahibe and park near the harbour (secure paid parking available). From there, take a boat or catamaran to Isla Saona, famous for its crystal blue seas, pristine white sand, and palm trees.
Top Tip: Combine it with a short drive to Dominicus Beach, just 5 minutes away, for sunset drinks before heading back.
Just 30 minutes from the Green Motion Las Americas International Airport location, you can drive into the oldest European city in the Americas. Drive directly into the Zona Colonial, where public parking is available near Calle El Conde and Parque Colón.
Top Tip: Visit the Cathedral of Santa María la Mayor, the Fortaleza Ozama, and enjoy a coffee in the cobbled plazas. Then drive your Green Motion rental car along the Malecón coast, a scenic urban seafront route, perfect for a relaxed evening cruise.
Pick up your car from Green Motion in Santo Domingo, take the Autopista Juan Pablo II north (around 2.5 hours) — one of the country’s most scenic highways, passing through tropical hills and small villages. In Samaná, drive to El Limón Waterfall, where secure parking and guided horseback rides are available.
Top Tip: Between January and March, you can spot humpback whales breaching just off the coast, a must-see for winter visitors.
Just 45 minutes from Punta Cana, Altos de Chavón is a stunning replica Mediterranean village overlooking the Chavón River.
Top Tip: Follow signs to Casa de Campo Resort — the roads are clearly marked, and visitor parking is available near the main plaza.
For the truly adventurous, take a road trip southwest (6–7 hours from Santo Domingo) toward Pedernales. The reward is Bahía de las Águilas, a remote beach of pure white sand.
Top Tip: A 4x4 car from Green Motion is best for this journey, as the final stretch is unpaved and passes through protected parkland. Bring water and fuel — services are limited once you leave the main highway.
Drive on the right-hand side.
Toll roads connect Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, and Santiago — keep a few hundred pesos in cash for booths.
Expect relaxed but assertive local driving; take your time and stay alert.
Parking: Most beach towns and tourist areas offer free or low-cost parking near the main roads.
Pick up your Green Motion rental at Punta Cana International Airport or Santo Domingo, and your adventure begins the moment you land.
This winter, escape the cold and discover the warmth, colour, and culture of the Dominican Republic, your ultimate Caribbean road trip destination.
Book today with Green Motion Dominican Republic and start your journey your way.