Luxury holidays in Playa Grande
You’d be forgiven for thinking Playa Grande’s miles of soft sand were the preserve of slothful sunbathers – but you’d be wrong, as the world-renowned golf course makes the beach a putter’s heaven. The Dominican Republic’s northern coast is populated with super-swish resorts nestled in pristine Caribbean jungle. The wide, white-sand shores may be busy, but you’ll never feel crowded under the swaying palms, as attentive beach-boys dash to your side with cocktails, towels and cushions. Brave the surf for a swim, and when the waves get too wild, retreat to the beach restaurant for a fresher-than-fresh seafood lunch. For a change of scene, head to nearby Puerto Plata to admire the 16th-century Fortaleza San Felipe, a Spanish fortress that’s now a treasure trove of historic and military relics.
When to go
Playa Grande’s climate is mostly tropical. To take advantage of the beaches, visit between December and April to avoid the rainy season, which could put a dampener on sunbathing.