The Best Airbnb in the Dominican Republic
Affiliate Links may be used on this website, at no additional cost to you. This means I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase. There is no charge to you. Thanks for supporting this website!
Our Search for the Perfect Family Stay in the Dominican Republic
When we planned our family adventure in the Dominican Republic, we knew our accommodations had to check all the right boxes. With kids in tow, comfort and space were non-negotiable. We wanted something spacious enough for multiple families, comfortable enough to feel like home, and—since we were in the Caribbean—breathtaking ocean views were an absolute must.
After searching through what felt like a million listings, we finally found Villa Costa Norte, a modern villa with daily maid service that was everything we had hoped for and more. Tucked away in the beautiful coastal town of Cabrera, this spacious beach villa sits on its own private, gated property, offering uninterrupted ocean views and the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Located about 1.5 hours from Puerto Plata, Cabrera isn’t as touristy as Punta Cana or Cap Cana, but that’s exactly what makes it special. We looked at lots of options of where to stay in Dominican Republic! Instead of crowded resorts, you’ll find pristine beaches, lush palm trees, and a more authentic Dominican experience. With its prime location, this villa gave us easy access to some of the best beaches, adventure spots, and local attractions, while also being far enough away to enjoy a peaceful, private retreat.
For us, the timing was perfect because our kids were attending The Hive Adventure, an incredible program that lets them explore nature, learn new skills, and immerse themselves in the local culture. While they were off having their own adventures, we had plenty of time to enjoy the private terrace, infinity pool, and serene surroundings of our villa.
If you're looking for a peaceful place to relax while still being close to some of the best attractions in the Dominican Republic, we can confidently say that Villa Costa Norte is the best Airbnb for adventurous families—a place where parents can unwind, kids can explore, and you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable caribbean experience.
This is an ideal spot for remote work, with a solid internet connection, backup generators for the daily power outages, and backup Starlink Wi-Fi. It really has everything you need! I also had my HolaFly eSIM for getting around so I was always connected!
Making Luxury Affordable: Sharing Villa Costa Norte with A Group of Families
One of the biggest perks of Villa Costa Norte—beyond its breathtaking ocean view, tropical climate, and prime location—is that it’s perfect for group travel. We stayed here with five other families, turning what could have been an expensive getaway into a surprisingly affordable adventure.
Since the villa has multiple bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom, it felt like renting our own boutique hotel, but with all the comforts of home and luxury of a resort. Each family had their own space to retreat to at the end of the day, but we all got to enjoy the swimming pool, outdoor terrace, and shared living spaces together.
What really set this experience apart from a traditional hotel stay was the option to hire a private chef. Instead of trying to coordinate meals for a large group at different restaurants (a nightmare with kids, let’s be honest!), we had delicious, home-cooked meals prepared for us right at the villa. It made life so much easier—no reservations, no waiting for food, and no figuring out where to eat each night. Just amazing meals served family-style while we soaked in the Atlantic Ocean views from our own private dining area.
If you're traveling with extended family or a group of friends, Villa Costa Norte is hands-down the best Airbnb in the Dominican Republic for an adventurous family vacation. You get all the perks of a luxury beachfront villa, split the cost to make it budget-friendly, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind group travel experience that just isn’t possible at a typical resort.
Why Villa Costa Norte is the Ideal Place for Families
When it comes to finding the perfect place for a family vacation, Villa Costa Norte checks all the right boxes—privacy, space, stunning ocean views, and easy access to adventure. Nestled on a gated property (but not shared with anyone else), this luxurious beachfront villa offers a level of exclusivity and comfort that’s hard to find, making it the ideal place for families looking to experience the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic while still enjoying modern amenities. There is a fully equipped kitchen, two of them actually! One full kitchen on the second floor, and one next to the outdoor pool. The Villa is located a short walk from a few good restaurants, but the road doe not have sidewalks and is not safe to walk with kids so I would highly recommend renting a car!
Spectacular Atlantic Ocean Views & Complete Privacy
The moment we arrived, we were blown away by the spectacular ocean views. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the villa provides uninterrupted panoramic views of the turquoise waters below. Whether you're sipping your morning coffee from the private terrace, lounging by the infinity pool, or enjoying an evening meal in the outdoor dining area, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.
While the villa itself does not have direct beach access due to its hillside location, some of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic are just a short drive away. The property itself is well-designed and safe—we didn’t come across any dangerous drops—so kids can still explore and play outside without worry.
The master bedroom is one of the best features of this house, so if you have the choice, take this room! The bathroom, shower and closet and fully outside! There is a roof which protects it from the rain, but you get to shower with incredible ocean views.
The Best Beaches Near Villa Costa Norte
While Villa Costa Norte itself is perched on a stunning hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, some of the most breathtaking beaches in the Dominican Republic are just a short drive away. Whether you're looking for gentle waves for young kids, boogie boarding fun, or a unique freshwater adventure, this area has something for every family.
Here are the must-visit beaches near Cabrera:
Playa Grande – A Stunning, Expansive Beach with Rolling Waves
Just a 15-minute drive from Villa Costa Norte, Playa Grande is one of the most famous beaches on the north coast. Known for its golden sands, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters, this beach offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. The waves here are great for boogie boarding and body surfing, and there are plenty of beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood, including the locally famous grilled lobster.
For families who love the classic beach experience, Playa Grande is an absolute must. Bring a boogie board, enjoy the warm Atlantic waters, and soak up the sun in this picture-perfect paradise.
Playa Diamante – A Calm, Kid-Friendly Lagoon Beach
If you're traveling with younger kids, Playa Diamante is the ideal place for them to splash and play. This shallow, calm lagoon-like beach is completely protected from waves, making it one of the safest beaches for little ones. The clear, waist-deep water extends far from shore, allowing even the most cautious swimmers to feel comfortable.
It’s also a great spot to float, kayak, or paddleboard, and locals often gather here to relax under the shade of palm trees. It’s a peaceful place, perfect for a low-key beach day with the family.
Playa Arroyo Salada (Playa Entrada) – Where the River Meets the Ocean
For a unique beach experience, head to Playa Arroyo Salada, also known as Playa Entrada. This vibrant local spot is where a freshwater river flows directly into the Atlantic Ocean, creating a spectacular mash-up of cool river currents and warm ocean waves.
The river section is calm and refreshing, ideal for a lazy float or a quick cool-down. Just steps away, the ocean side of the beach offers soft sand and rolling waves where families can swim or body surf. Locals love this spot, so it’s a great place to experience authentic Dominican beach culture, complete with food vendors, music, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
For families looking to mix fresh and saltwater fun, Playa Arroyo Salada is a must-visit. Bring some inflatable tubes for the river and enjoy the best of both worlds!
Laguna Dudu – Cliff Jumping, Ziplining, and a Hidden Cave Pool
If your family is up for an adventure beyond the beach, Laguna Dudu is the place to go. Located just a short 15-minute drive from Villa Costa Norte, this freshwater lagoon offers a totally different kind of swimming experience.
At Laguna Dudu, you can:
✅ Swim in the stunning blue lagoon, which feels like a natural infinity pool in the jungle.
✅ Try the zipline jump, where you fly over the water and drop into the lagoon.
✅ Cliff jump from different heights into the crystal-clear water.
✅ Explore the hidden cave pool, a separate underground swimming spot with a magical atmosphere.
Even if you’re not into jumping off cliffs, the serene, jungle-covered surroundings make this a fantastic place to visit. The cool freshwater is a welcome break from the warm ocean beaches, and there’s even a restaurant on-site where you can grab a drink or lunch after swimming.
Why These Beaches Make Villa Costa Norte the Perfect Family Base
Staying at Villa Costa Norte means you’re just minutes away from some of the best beaches and adventure spots on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. Whether you want a peaceful lagoon, an authentic local beach, or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, there’s something for every age and interest nearby.
From gentle, kid-friendly Playa Diamante to the thrilling cliff jumps at Laguna Dudu, these beaches and natural attractions make Cabrera one of the best beach towns for a family vacation.
With a rental car, these beaches are just a few minutes’ drive away, making it easy to explore the best of the north coast without the crowds of tourist-heavy destinations.
Spacious & Family-Friendly Layout
Unlike cramped hotel rooms, Villa Costa Norte was built with families in mind. Each spacious bedroom has its own private bathroom, making it perfect for multi-family vacations. Whether you're traveling with kids, grandparents, or a group of friends, there’s plenty of room for everyone to spread out.
The common areas are where this villa truly shines. Families can gather in the open-concept living space, cook meals together in the fully equipped modern kitchen, or enjoy a movie night with the Smart TV and Starlink WiFi. The outdoor terrace, infinity pool, and hot tub provide endless opportunities for family bonding, whether it's an early morning swim, a BBQ by the pool, or a sunset cocktail while the kids play.
Private Chef & Stress-Free Meals
One of the biggest game-changers of our stay was the option to hire a private chef. Instead of juggling multiple families' meal preferences and spending time cooking, we were able to relax and enjoy gourmet meals without lifting a finger. The chef prepared fresh local seafood, Dominican specialties, and kid-friendly meals, all served family-style so that everyone could dig in and enjoy.
For families who love to cook, the fully-equipped kitchen has everything you need to prepare meals together. But honestly? Let the chef take care of it—it’s one of those luxury touches that makes this villa truly special.
Easy Access to Family-Friendly Adventures
Cabrera is one of the best beach towns for adventurous families, with plenty of outdoor activities to keep kids and adults entertained. Within a short drive, you can find:
Horseback riding along the beach or through jungle trails.
Cave exploration and freshwater swimming at Laguna Dudu.
Surfing and boogie boarding at Playa Grande.
Hiking and waterfall excursions in nearby nature reserves.
The villa is located about 1.5 hours from Puerto Plata (POP Airport), making it convenient yet secluded enough to feel like a hidden paradise. While there is public transportation and taxis, we recommend renting a car for easy access to nearby grocery stores, restaurants, and activities.
Why We’d Stay Here Again
After experiencing Villa Costa Norte, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best Airbnbs in the Dominican Republic for families. The unmatched privacy, incredible ocean views, spacious design, and thoughtful amenities make it the perfect place for a family vacation. Whether you're relaxing by the infinity pool, exploring nearby beaches, or enjoying a private chef-prepared meal, this villa makes it easy to enjoy quality time together without the stress of a traditional resort stay. I am definitely come back again!
Essential Details for Booking
Here are a few things to keep in mind when booking Villa Costa Norte:
The villa is located in Cabrera, 1.5 hours from Puerto Plata (POP Airport).
A car is necessary to get around, but taxis and local buses are available.
Private beach access and a gated property (but not shared with anyone).
Free parking on-site.
Check-out times are flexible—confirm when booking.
Starlink WiFi is available for remote work or streaming.
For an unforgettable family trip that combines adventure, relaxation, and affordability, Villa Costa Norte is the ideal place to call home in the Dominican Republic.
📍 Book your stay here: Villa Costa Norte
Would you stay here on your next trip? Let us know in the comments!
Don’t Forget Insurance!
When we’re traveling as a family, the last thing we want to think about is medical emergencies or unexpected expenses—but let’s be real, things happen. Whether it’s a twisted ankle on a hike, a last-minute doctor visit, or even a delayed flight that throws off our plans, having reliable travel insurance gives us peace of mind. That’s why we use Safety Wing.
Safety Wing is designed for families and adventurers, making it a great option for anyone who wants flexible, affordable travel medical insurance without the headache. What we love most? The global coverage, flexible monthly plans, and the fact that kids under 10 are covered for free when traveling with an insured parent. That means we can focus on making memories instead of stressing over the "what-ifs."
