16 Best Things to do in Las Terrenas
Planning on going to Las Terrenas? We’ve got you covered will the best things to do during your travels in Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic.
Las Terrenas is a beautiful coastal town in the Dominican Republic, and it’s overflowing with fun activities to keep you entertained! From relaxing beach days to thrilling excursions, this small village offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, here are some of the best things to do in Las Terrenas.
Las Terrenas, located on the beautiful Samaná Peninsula in the Dominican Republic, is an idyllic beach town filled with tourists, ex-pats, and Dominicans.
After living in Las Terrenas for more than two years here are our top recommendations for things to do while visiting this popular beach town.
1. Eat at a Restaurant Behind the Cemetery
Eating at one of the countless authentic Dominican restaurants in Las Terrenas is a must-do experience when exploring the town. Behind the cemetery, you’ll find an array of restaurants that offer delicious food and unbeatable views. Here, you can enjoy traditional cuisine with your feet in the sand while admiring the picturesque views of the beach. Whether it’s a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, this is one experience that you won’t want to miss!
To get to this area you can walk along the beach from Punta Popy or Las Ballenas beach or take the small path next to Gelateria Italiana Artesanal NOI (Near the bottom of the figure eight, Liberty Street on Google Maps).
2. Walk & Relax on One of the Beaches
There is nothing like a day spent at the beach, and Las Terrenas has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic or perhaps the entire Caribbean.
Whether you’re looking to soak up some sun or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, Las Terrenas’ beaches take a walk along one of the stunning beaches in Las Terrenas.
Whether you choose to wander down Playa Punta Popy, Playa las Ballenas, Playa Portillo, Playa Bonita, or Playa Coson, you’ll be mesmerized by the beautiful shores and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a peaceful sunset stroll or take a dip in the refreshing Caribbean Sea.
It’s a great way to unwind and relax after an action-packed day of exploring the area.
3. Take a Surfing Lesson in Playa Bonita
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, why not take a surfing lesson or rent a surfboard in Playa Bonita? Surfing is the perfect way to get your heart racing and experience the beauty of Las Terrenas.
You don’t have to be an experienced surfer – there are plenty of instructors that can show you the ropes. Rent a board or take a surfing lesson at Pirata Surf School or Carolina Surf School in Playa Bonita. If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss out on this exciting activity!
4. Eating lunch at Luis’ in Playa Coson
If you’re looking for a delicious seafood lunch, head over to Luis’ in Playa Coson. Here, you can pick out your own freshly-caught fish and other seafood from the coolers near the kitchen – it doesn’t get any fresher than that!
Enjoy your meal with a spectacular view of the beach. It’s the perfect spot to sit back, relax and take in the beauty of Las Terrenas.
It does get busy on weekends, but there is ample parking next to the restaurant. If going with kids, go during low tide to avoid the large waves at Playa Coson.
5. Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard
If you’re looking to explore the waters of Las Terrenas, why not rent a kayak or paddleboard at the Las Terrenas Sailing Club? This is a great way to see the stunning coastline from an entirely different perspective. You can take a leisurely paddle around Playa Las Ballenas.
The Las Terrenas Sailing Club is at the very end of the street in Las Ballenas before the small bridge. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!
6. Take a Bachata, Merengue, or Salsa Lesson
Learning to dance is a great way to experience the culture and vibrancy of the Dominican Republic while visiting Las Terrenas.
At Academy LT Dance Classes or Geovanny De Los Santos Escuela de Baile, you can take classes in Bachata, Merengue, and Salsa dancing. Led by experienced instructors, these classes will teach you the basics of each dance style, as well as give you an insight into the Dominican Republic’s unique culture.
So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, don’t miss out on this great opportunity to add a little Latin flair to your vacation!
7. Spend an afternoon in Playa Bonita at El Mosquito
If you’re looking for an idyllic spot to relax and take in the beauty of Las Terrenas, then look no further than El Mosquito Boutique Hotel. Situated right next to Playa Bonita, this boutique hotel offers guests a tranquil and luxurious experience.
Enjoy a delicious lunch or passion fruit (chinola) mojito while lounging by the beach or take a dip in the refreshing ocean.
The best part? El Mosquito Boutique Hotel offers free parking, so you can come and go as you, please! It also has a large open area for kids to run around and play in while you relax in one of their beach chairs.
It’s the perfect spot for an unforgettable afternoon in Las Terrenas.
8. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at La Paneria
If you’re looking for the perfect start to your day, head over to La Paneria in Puerto Plaza (the large boat-shaped buildings).
Here, you can enjoy a delicious Italian-style breakfast, chocolate-filled croissants, elephant ears, or omelets with some of the freshest ingredients.
From freshly-baked pastries and croissants to homemade pastries, focaccia, and even sandwiches, there’s something for everyone at La Paneria.
Be sure to visit early as the tables often fill up on weekends and holidays. You can also get food to go- if you are in a hurry or want to enjoy breakfast at your villa.
Enjoy your meal with a beautiful view of the ocean in the background – it’s the perfect way to start your day!
9. Drink from a Coconut & Take a Picture in front of the Las Terrenas Sign
When it comes to experiencing the beauty and culture of Las Terrenas, there’s no better way than by drinking from a coconut at Playa Popy. Take in the stunning views of the ocean as you sip on your delicious, refreshing coconut water – it’ll be an experience you won’t forget!
After you’re done, why not take a picture in front of the iconic Las Terrenas sign?
This vibrant, colorful sign is the perfect backdrop for your vacation snaps. Be careful while you do it; as one of you will likely have to cross the street to get the entire sign in the picture. So be sure to add it to your must-do list when visiting Las Terrenas!
10. Take an Exercise Class on the Beach or on top of a Mountain
Start your day off right with an early morning yoga or exercise class on the beach in Las Ballenas or Playa Bonita.
Not only will you get to enjoy a stunning ocean view, but you’ll also be able to stretch and relax before beginning your day of exploration. Whether it’s Pilates, yoga, core exercises, or just a gentle stretching class, you’re sure to find something to help you re-energize and feel rejuvenated while vacationing in Las Terrenas. Check out this Las Terrenas Health & Wellness group on Facebook for more class offerings and information.
Enjoy a class with a spectacular 360 view of Las Terrenas at Yoga Life Villa. They offer a variety of restorative yoga, aerial yoga, and other wellness classes and retreats.
Enjoy a mindful practice surrounded by the beauty of Las Terrenas – it’s an experience you won’t forget!
11. Renting an ATV and Explore the Area
For those looking for an exciting and unique way to explore Las Terrenas, why not rent an ATV? These all-terrain vehicles are perfect for navigating the diverse terrain of Las Terrenas – from winding dirt roads to rocky mountainous areas.
You can even take a tour with a local guide who will give you an insight into the area’s culture and history and off-road or adventure alone around town visiting the different beaches and the overlook on the boulevard Atlantico.
You could also take a ride to some of the beaches (playas) a bit out of the town Las Terrenas like playa Moron or Playa El Anclón.
Renting an ATV or buggy is a great way to explore Las Terrenas in style – so don’t miss out on this thrilling opportunity!
12. Go Dancing and Enjoy the Nightlife
When night falls in Las Terrenas, it’s time to go dancing and enjoy the vibrant nightlife! Head on over to Mosquito Art Bar for a lively evening of Latin music, or head to ETNO Beach Club for a unique blend of salsa and reggae right next to the ocean.
If you’re looking for something more laid-back, Babylon Disco offers a great selection of lounge music and cocktails. No matter what type of nightlife experience you’re looking for, Las Terrenas has something to offer everyone – so get ready to hit the dance floor!
Almost all of these nightlife options are within walking distance of each other so you can go bar hopping and see which one is your favorite.
Looking to add a bit more adventure while visiting Las Terrenas?
These are great excursions or day trips to do while visiting the Samana Peninsula. They aren’t necessarily in Las Terrenas, but they are close and could be done within a few hours and would add some extra adventure to your vacation in the Dominican Republic.
13. Go hiking to the El Limon Waterfall
Take a hike up to the stunning El Limon Waterfall.
The waterfall is located in El Limon, about a 25-minute drive from Las Terrenas.
You’ll be mesmerized by the beauty of your surroundings as you ascend toward the falls.
Be sure to take lots of pictures – you won’t want to miss out on capturing the unforgettable sights! Don’t forget to bring water to drink, a swimsuit and insect repellent.
You can go to El Limon Waterfall with a guide or on your own. It is also accessible by taking public transportation in one of the ‘gua-gua’s from in front of Las Terrenas Cemetary.
14. Los Haitises National Park
Visit Los Haitises National Park to experience the beauty and diversity of the natural environment.
This stunning park is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including mammals and birds. It’s a great way to get up close and personal with the stunning landscapes and explore the area on foot or by boat.
Discover the hidden beauty of Los Haitises National Park with a guided boat tour where you can go through some mangroves and see pictograms and petroglyphs from the Taino Indians in different caverns or caves.
15. Go on a Whale-Watching in Samaná
Don’t miss the opportunity to take a day trip to Samaná during whale-watching season (late January through March).
It’s an unforgettable experience, being able to observe the majestic humpback whales as they migrate and make their way along the coastline.
There are several tour companies that offer boat excursions – just be sure to bring your sunscreen and take lots of photos!
16. Visiting remote beaches like Playa Ermitaño or Playa Jackson
If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Las Terrenas, why not take a boat trip to a remote and non-commercialized beach like Playa Ermitaño or Playa Jackson?
These stunning, untouched beaches are located just off the coast of Las Terrenas but remain relatively unknown due to their inaccessibility.
You’ll be enchanted by the stunning beauty of these untouched shores, with white sand and crystal-clear waters that seem too good to be real. Take a stroll along the shoreline and soak in the peaceful atmosphere as you take in the breathtaking views.
The journey to Playa Ermitaño and Playa Jackson is an unforgettable adventure, as you take in the stunning views from the boat – ranging from lush green mountains to secluded beaches. Make sure to bring your phone along to take pictures – you won’t want to miss out on capturing these epic views!
Wrap Up: Best Things to do in Las Terrenas
Las Terrenas is an amazing destination for anyone looking to explore the diverse culture and stunning landscapes of the Dominican Republic.
Whether you’re looking for a day of adventure or a night on the town, Las Terrenas has something to offer everyone. From whale-watching excursions to ATV rides to relaxing on beautiful beaches, there are plenty of things to do in Las Terrenas that will make your visit one to remember!
So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to this beautiful Caribbean paradise. Las Terrenas has something for everyone. So why not start planning your trip today? You won’t regret it!