Santo Domingo is a fantastic city for those who enjoy exploring local culture through drinks. Its combination of historic charm, lively nightlife, and proximity to stunning islands makes it a prime spot for memorable beverage-focused adventures. We especially like the Small Group Walking Tour: Beer and Specialty Coffee for its blend of cultural sights and tasty local brews, as well as the Night tour to Coco Bongo from Santo Domingo for a high-energy night out. The variety of options means there’s something for all—whether you want a laid-back daytime stroll with tastings or a lively evening dance party.
Quick Overview
Our list covers three top-rated drinking experiences in Santo Domingo: a historic walking tour with craft beers and coffee, an evening extravaganza at Coco Bongo with an open bar, and a luxurious day trip to Saona Island featuring an open bar and premium lunch. Each offers a different way to enjoy local flavors, nightlife, or tropical paradise, ensuring you find the perfect match for your style and schedule.
1. Santo Domingo Small Group Walking Tour: Beer and Specialty Coffee
This walking tour is a fantastic way to combine Santo Domingo’s historic sites with tasting some of the best local drinks. For around $59 per person, you’ll spend about two hours strolling through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed streets, exploring landmarks like Catedral Primada de América and Parque Colón. What’s special here is the focus on craft beer and specialty coffee, both integral to Dominican culture. Your guide provides insights into the city’s colonial past while you sample local brews and fresh coffee at carefully selected spots.
What sets this tour apart is its intimate, small-group atmosphere with highly positive reviews. Visitors praise the knowledgeable guide, Jean Carlos, who shares captivating stories and makes the experience feel more like a friendly walk than a tour. The inclusion of tastings and local treats adds a flavorful dimension. The highlight for many is ending the tour in a cozy café with good coffee and friendly conversation.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culture and drink enthusiasts who want an authentic, relaxed experience that covers history, local flavors, and a bit of Santo Domingo’s lively street life.
2. Night tour to Coco Bongo Punta Cana from Santo Domingo with Open Bar
For an entirely different vibe, this night tour offers a lively experience at the world-famous Coco Bongo in Punta Cana. While it’s a longer trip—about 6 to 8 hours—it’s worth considering if you’re looking for a night of high-energy entertainment combined with an open bar. Starting with comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, you arrive ready for a show packed with acrobatics, impersonations, and dance performances from a cast of around 40 performers.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of entertainment and unlimited drinks. The ticket includes access to Coco Bongo’s spectacular show and a full open bar, making it a true island party experience. Although it’s pricier at $295, many rave about the vibrant atmosphere and the variety of drinks available. It’s best suited for travelers who want to dance, sing along, and experience a world-renowned nightlife scene. The reviews confirm the fun vibe, with one saying, “The shows and music are unlike anything else, the open bar makes it even better.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for nightlife lovers and those eager to experience one of Dominican Republic’s most iconic party spots with all the drinks included.
3. Punta Cana: Saona Island Exclusive Private Beach, Open Bar & Premium Lunch
If you’re after a luxurious tropical escape, this all-day tour to Saona Island offers plenty of drinks and relaxation. Priced at a premium, it’s designed for those who want to enjoy the Caribbean without the crowds. Highlights include exclusive access to a private beach, a scenic catamaran ride with music and open bar, and stops at the Natural Pool with crystal-clear waters. The tour lasts around 9 hours and includes a premium lunch and multiple water activities.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on comfort and exclusivity. The boat rides, featuring music and unlimited drinks, create a festive atmosphere, while free time on the island allows you to unwind in tranquility. The reviews note the tour’s smooth organization and the quality of the service, even if the overall rating is more modest at 3.6/5. It’s best for travelers seeking a private, scenic day with cocktails, swimming, and sunbathing. The tour’s limited groups and elegant setting justify the price for many.
Bottom Line: This is the perfect choice for couples or families looking for a luxurious day in the Caribbean with plenty of drinks, scenic beauty, and comfort.
How to Choose
Picking the right drinking tour in Santo Domingo depends on your interests and schedule. If you want a deep dive into the city’s history combined with local drinks, the Small Group Walking Tour offers a relaxed, educational experience. For those seeking nightlife and entertainment, the Coco Bongo tour is unbeatable for its lively shows and unlimited drinks. Meanwhile, travelers craving a luxurious tropical day should consider the Saona Island trip, especially if they enjoy scenic boat rides and private beaches.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and what kind of experience you prefer—relaxing, cultural, or party-focused. Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like Coco Bongo, which can sell out quickly. Also, check weather conditions; some tours are more enjoyable during dry seasons.
In summary, Santo Domingo offers a variety of drinking experiences that cater to different tastes. For a relaxed cultural stroll with tastings, the small group tour is a top choice. For night owls, the Coco Bongo trip promises a night of dazzling performances and unlimited drinks. If you prefer a luxurious daytime escape, the Saona Island tour provides exclusive access, scenic rides, and plenty of tropical drinks. Whichever you choose, Santo Domingo’s drink tours add a memorable flavor to your visit.