Ugh, I’ve been obsessed with the Dominican Republic ever since I visited a few years ago. The beaches, the food, the people—ah, everything is just better there!
And while so many people go on family vacays, or honeymoons to all the resorts in the DR, I knew there had to be a side I was missing out on. So as an avid traveler, I went to my go-to source for all things fun and CHEAP: hostels.
The Dominican Republic isn’t the most popular backpacking destination, but I was still able to find some epic hostels and budget-friendly stays.
Staying in hostels over hotels gave me a more authentic experience on the island. It showed a little glimmer into the backpacking future of the Dominican Republic.
From the white sands of Punta Cana to the more secluded and secret island of Las Terrenas, here are 10 of the best hostels in the Dominican Republic that you need to book ASAP.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in the Dominican Republic
- Best Overall Hostel in the Dominican Republic – Island Life Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in the Dominican Republic – La Choza
- Best Party Hostel in the Dominican Republic – Hostel 23
Photo: Chris Lininger
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The 3 Best Hostels in the Dominican Republic
In this guide, I’ll take you through all the top Dominican Republic hostels, and by the end of it you’ll be questioning why the backpacking scene isn’t bigger here.
I know I was! Get ready for an island full of life, spice, and everything in between, because we’re about to dive into some of the best hostels in the Dominican Republic.
Do I need to tell you why The Dominican Republic is one of the best islands to visit in the Caribbean, or does that go without saying!? Yeah, I’ll get on to the hostels then.
1. Island Life Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in the Dominican Republic
- Dorm (mixed): From $20/night
- Private Room: From $45/night
- Address: C. Isabel La Católica 356, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
There’s no doubt that Island Life is the top hostel in the Dominican Republic! Located in the island’s capital city, Santo Domingo, whether you’re travelling around the island or just staying for a long weekend, it’s the perfect place to stay.
The hostel is a newly renovated colonial-style house and it’s an absolutely gorgeous place to stay in the Dominican Republic. With big archways on the second floor overlooking the garden, the English influence in the city can easily be seen and felt during your stay.
The vibes are off the chart at Island Life Hostel, with a huge garden, sun-soaked pool, games room, and a fully stocked bar you’ll be meeting people left and right. On occasion, I found it hard to leave the hostel to go explore because of how much fun I was having with everyone!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Outdoor Pool & Garden
- Bar on-site
- Pool Table
For those days when you do decide to leave the hostel and go enjoy the city, the location can’t be beaten! It’s just 200 meters from the centre of colonial Santo Domingo so you’ll have easy access to all the best sights, yummiest restaurants, and lively bars. If you didn’t like reggaeton before your trip, you’ll definitely come back with a new appreciation after experiencing the nightlife in Santo Domingo.
But let’s be real, as a budget backpacker, I was more than excited about the free breakfast and shared kitchen. With a variety of options for brekkie including traditional Dominican dishes, you’ll be ready to start your day exploring the city. And with access to a shared kitchen, you can save money by cooking some meals instead of eating out every night.
It gets better! With a tour desk on-site the locals running the hostel will give you all the tips and tricks you need for booking the best trips and activities. From exploring local markets to taking a boat tour to nearby islands, you’ll have endless options for fun adventures during your stay at Island Life Hostel.
2. La Choza – Best Cheap Hostel in the Dominican Republic
- Dorm (mixed): From $19/night
- Private Room: From $30/night
- Address: C. Sánchez 165, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
La Choza is Island Life’s little sister, not quite up to the same level of partying, but still with a great atmosphere and plenty to do. Located just minutes away from Island Life Hostel, this budget-friendly option offers basic dorm accommodation and private rooms in a great area.
The hostel has more of an eco vibe with standard amenities like a shared kitchen and an outdoor patio. The down-to-earth atmosphere and friendly staff make La Choza a great option for budget travellers wanting to get the most out of their stay in Santo Domingo. It’s one of the best places in Central America where I stayed in terms of hostels for sure.
Each room has an outdoor terrace overlooking the pool, which really helped in bringing in natural light to keep the rooms feeling fresh. Whilst I was there loads of guests would grab some beers at the corner shop and hang out by the pool during the heat of the day, making it easy to make friends and feel welcome.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Outdoor Pool
- Multiple Terraces
- Right in the center of Zona Colonial
Step out the door and you’re right in the center of all the action of Zona Colonial. With its infectious atmosphere and colourful streets, there’s always something to see and do. You’ll also be within walking distance of all the major attractions like the Alcázar de Colón (the first colonial palace in the Americas) and the famous Plaza de España which is lined with bars and restaurants.
If you need any help planning your stay or finding things to do, just ask the friendly staff at La Choza’s. The tour desk is well, just a person! But they are happy to help with recommendations, bookings, or just a chat. They have insider knowledge of the best activities and can even book them for you right at the hostel.
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View on Osprey View on REI3. Hostel 23 – Best Party Hostel in the Dominican Republic
- Dorm (mixed): From $20/night
- Address: Las Terrenas 32000, Dominican Republic
When I imagine an island hostel with all of its quirks and charm, I think of Hostel 23. It’s not about the stay itself but about the people you meet and the memories you make, and that’s exactly what you get at this hostel in the Dominican Republic.
With a large common space that’s connected to an even bigger kitchen (I’m talking two ovens, uh hello!) it’s easy to make new friends while cooking up a meal together or just chatting around the table. After 10 minutes here, you’ll find mates to hit the beach or up to explore the town with. It’s such a social hostel; you’ll be lucky if you end up with any time to yourself!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- 10 Min Walk to the Beaches
- Privacy Curtains
- Daily Activities
Located in Las Terrenas, known for its island vibes, Hostel 23 is right in the heart of it all. With daily activities like quad biking around the island and BBQ nights, you’ll never be bored at this hostel. I mean, it seems like everyone finds themselves extending their stay here!
The rooms are your standard dorms, with big wooden bunk beds with colourful sheets, and just enough space for all your stuff. But the little touches are what make this hostel feel like home. Each bed has its own privacy curtain so you can have a little me time when you need it. Plus, free coffee in the morning is always a bonus!
You’ll feel like a local living here. Morning market runs, and sunset beach bonfires, Hostel 23 will make you feel like a true resident of Las Terrenas. And with its prime location, all the best beaches and views are just a short walk away.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Dominican Republic Hostels
Well, if that wasn’t enough you lucky lucky people just unlocked the bonus round of extra hostels in The Dominican Republic. Enjoy!
4. Hostal Gato – Best Hostel with Private Rooms in the Dominican Republic
- Private Room: From $23/night
- Address: C. Juan Isidro Perez 8, Santo Domingo 10211, Dominican Republic
If you’ve outgrown the dorm rooms (trust me, it’s not hard to do, ha!) then you’ll love Hostel Gato in Santo Domingo. It’s the best of both worlds, with a shared lounge that is very welcoming and a kitchen if you want to cook some of your own meals. You’ll still be able to meet other guests while having your privacy in your own room.
The rooftop terrace is absolutely mint with its awesome views over Zona Colonial. You can sit up there with a beer and watch the sunset, or even do some yoga in the mornings. The staff are so friendly and helpful, they really make you feel at home here.
It’s definitely a more chill vibe than the other hostels in Zona Colonial, the rooms are clean and spacious, but keep in mind they don’t have air conditioning. When the summer heat rolls around, I don’t care if you have a private room or not, no amount of fans will keep you cool.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Rooftop Terrace
- En Suite Bathrooms
- Free Open Air concert every Sunday
The hostel is located just about 500 meters from the centre, but I highly recommend renting a bike up at the reception desk and exploring the city on two wheels. You can make your way to the beach, and the parks, or just cruise around and admire the colourful street art.
What sets this hostel apart from others in Zona Colonial is the free open-air concert that takes place every Sunday across the street from the hostel. You’ll get to see local musicians perform live while sipping on a cold drink and enjoying the warm Dominican night.
Another major plus about getting a private room in this hostel versus one of the other ones is the en-suites. You don’t have to worry about sharing bathrooms with a bunch of strangers, which is always a plus in my book. Spread your stuff out, leave your razor and toothbrush in the bathroom, and don’t worry about someone accidentally taking it, ew!
5. Hostel Eco Punta Cana – Best Female-Only Dorm Room in the Dominican Republic
- Dorm (mixed): From $60/night
- Address: Cortecito Beach, Plaza Artistica Piso 4, Bavaro, 23000 Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Punta Cana is one of the most popular places to visit in the Dominican Republic, and thankfully with Hostel Eco, you don’t have to book an overpriced resort to enjoy it. This hostel is located just a quick walk from one of the most beautiful beaches and offers a variety of room types, including an all-female dorm room.
Now, to be honest, the dorms are very basic, with your traditional bunk beds, lockers, and shared bathrooms. But trust me, you won’t be spending a lot of time in there! Travellers are constantly gathered on the rooftop terrace, relaxing in hammocks, eating fresh fruit, and taking in the stunning views.
Meeting people is so easy, and because of the fair-priced excursions the hostel offers you can easily join a group heading out for a day of exploring. From walking tours, snorkelling, and even trips to the local markets, there’s always something going on.
Just because there is a female dorm, don’t worry, the Dominican Republic is safe and fun to explore.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Sea View Terrace
- Daily Excursion at a price
- Pub Crawls
Days in Punta Cana are elite! Your typical island paradise, with early morning beach trips, afternoon drinks on the terrace with new friends, and some yummy Caribbean BBQs. But where you’ll really start to love this hostel is their epic pub crawls. They take you to all of the best bars and clubs in the area, so you can dance the night away like a local.
Trust me, after a late night in the DR, you will be so thankful to come home to your girls-only dorm room. You won’t have to worry about being woken up by loud snoring or awkward encounters with male roommates.
With its prime location, fun atmosphere, and budget-friendly prices, it’s the perfect choice for any solo female traveller looking to backpack her way through paradise.
6. La Hacienda Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $41/night
- Private Room: From $70/night
- Address: Camino al Faro, 39000 Las Galeras, Dominican Republic
For a unique stay in the Dominican Republic, La Hacienda Hostel is an excellent option! The hostel is small with just a few double rooms and one four-person dorm, making it the perfect choice for those seeking a more intimate experience.
Located in Las Galeras, this hostel is situated on the quieter side of the island, away from the busy tourist areas. It’s also close to some of the best beaches in the country, such as Playa Rincon and Playa Fronton. You’ll have a bit of a walk or a 5-minute scooter ride to get to them, but It’s totally worth it for the natural beauty and peace and quiet.
The owners also take care of different animals on the property, you’ll see dogs and horses roaming around. The atmosphere is very relaxed and peaceful, with an outdoor lounge and seating area for guests to unwind and enjoy the beautiful views.
7. Dominican Dream Apartments
- Private Room: From $93/night
- Address: Calle los Guineos, 23000 Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
The Dominican Dream Apartments is the perfect spot for any digital nomad staying in Punta Cana. This modern and stylish apartment complex is ideal for those who want a little more privacy and comfort during their stay but yet can’t quite afford their own Dominican villa!
The apartments are located in the heart of Punta Cana, surrounded by numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. If you need to get some work done, there’s a designated workspace in each unit along with high-speed Wi-Fi access. Plus, each unit comes with a fully equipped kitchen, making it easy to prepare your own meals and save money on dining out.
You can also enjoy the shared rooftop area, there is a little lounge set and an above-ground pool to cool off in on those hot Caribbean days. The rooftop also offers stunning views of the surrounding area, making it a great spot to relax and unwind after a day of work!
8. Private Rooms-Art Punta Cana
- Private Room: From $100/night
- Address: Av.Alemania Plaza Artistica 3#1, Bavaro, 23000 Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
If you’re thinking this stay looks familiar, it’s because it is! It’s attached to Hostel Eco in Punta Cana, giving you the best of both worlds. You can enjoy the privacy and comfort of a double room while still having access to the hostel’s social events and activities.
Don’t even get me started on the biggest perk—the air con. Bloody hell is Punta Cana freaking hot, so having AC in your room is a game changer! Say goodbye to waking up in a pool of your own sweat and hello to snuggly sleeps at Art Hostel Punta Cana.
Private rooms here start from $45 a night, with shared bathrooms and super speedy Wi-Fi access. So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly and comfortable option in Punta Cana, Art Hostel Punta Cana is definitely worth considering.
9. HOSTAL BOUTIQUE 53
- Private Room: From $106/night
- Address: Avenida Doctor Delgado 53, 10105 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
I love this boutique hostel in Santo Domingo, and I’m sure you will too! Located in the heart of the colonial zone, Hostal Boutique 53 offers private rooms with private bathrooms starting at $50 a night. The chic and modern design of this hostel will make you feel like you’re staying in a fancy hotel, but without breaking the bank. (And breakfast is included!!)
The rooms are pristine with white linens and pops of colour, giving it a fresh and inviting atmosphere. There are a few common areas for you to hang out if your room becomes too cramped, including a rooftop terrace. Big points for the terrace being covered, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal or just chill without having the sun beating down on you.
With all of the rooms being private in this hostel, the vibe is a little bit more upscale and people tend to be a bit quieter. If you’re looking to mix and mingle I would pass on this one. But if you’re looking for a cute little getaway at a low cost, this is it.
10. JM GUESTHOUSE
- Private Room: From $35/night
- Address: 257 Calle Sánchez, Colonial Zone, 10210 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
JM Guesthouse is an excellent choice for a few days in Santo Domingo. The location is unbeatable, you step outside and you’re immediately exploring the city and all it has to offer. And with air conditioning, you’ll have a cool place to come back to after a day of sightseeing in the hot and humid weather.
One of the perks of choosing a guesthouse over a hostel is the tidiness. Regardless of how clean a hostel is, you still have to worry about your bunkmate’s shit being all over the room! At JM Guesthouse, you’ll have your private room and bathroom, giving you the option to be as clean or messy as you want without affecting others.
The rooms are quite basic, nothing fancy or flashy, but they offer a comfortable bed and all the necessary amenities. Plus, the super clean environment adds an extra level of comfort and relaxation.
11. Kite House Cabarete across Kite Beach
- Private Room: From $49/night
- Address: Calle 5 Kite Beach, 57000 Cabarete, Dominican Republic
I don’t know what it is about the design of this property, but I’m obsessed! Kite House has a natural yet modern aesthetic with concrete floors, wooden furniture, and ocean-inspired accents that create a beachy vibe. One of the highlights of this property is its location, situated between Kite Beach and Cabarete Beach. This means you have easy access to both spots for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and all other water activities.
After a long day at the beach, you can relax on the rooftop terrace with a cold drink while taking in the breathtaking views. (Only the two-bedroom apartment has access to the rooftop terrace). If you’re staying in the studio, you can pop next door to the Kite Bar to enjoy a bevy with some locals and watch the sunset.
The apartment complex has everything you need for a comfortable stay, including fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and clean bathrooms. Plus, there’s an outdoor shower and a little garden area at the bottom of the stairs to rinse off any sand from the beach.
12. Gava Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $30/night
- Address: Los Corales, C. Aruba, Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic
For a chill stay in Punta Cana, look no further than Gava Hostel. Located just a 5-minute walk from the beach, this hostel is a small oasis away from the hustle of the resorts and tourist areas. The rooms are simple but clean, with comfortable beds and daily housekeeping to keep everything tidy.
The owners live in the hostel and are a lovely European couple who will make you feel right at home. They are always willing to give recommendations on things to do and see in the area, as well as help with any bookings or arrangements.
Gava Hostel is an ideal spot for a laid-back beach getaway, but just a heads-up—it has only one small dorm room. So, if you’re looking to meet fellow travelers, you might want to mix and mingle on the beach or join some fun tours. For those seeking a more traditional backpacker vibe with late-night card games and beer-pong tournaments, I recommend checking out some of the larger hostels nearby.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting the Dominican Republic
You just never know what mishaps might happen once you start sipping Pina Coladas on the beach, so it’s best to get yourself some good travel insurance just in case it all gets a bit much!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Hostels in the Dominican Republic
So, you have a few burning questions, well then you’re in luck, cus I’m here to answer them all!
What To Pack For The Dominican Republic
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much do hostels in the Dominican Republic cost?
Hostels cost around $20 a night on average in the Dominican Republic, but prices may vary depending on location.
What are the best hostels in the Dominican Republic for couples?
Couples will love staying at Hostal Gato in the Dominican Republic, their budget-friendly double rooms offer privacy and the hostel allows you to meet other travellers if you wish.
What is the best hostel in the Dominican Republic near the airport?
This really depends on where you’re flying into. If you’re arriving at Punta Cana International Airport, the best hostel nearby is Hostel Eco. If you’re flying into Santo Domingo’s Las Americas International Airport, look for Island Life Hostel.
Photo: @sebagvivas
Final Thoughts on the Dominican Republic’s Hostels
Although the Dominican Republic is still flying fast under the backpacker radar, the hostels are not lacking in all things fun, comfy, and doing their best to keep you extending your stay. With its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and affordable stays, the Dominican Republic is the perfect place to get a taste of the Caribbean without breaking the bank.
You’ll see shades of blue you didn’t even know existed if you stay at Eco Hostel in Punta Cana, and buildings that will have you questioning if you’re in Europe or the Caribbean at Island Life in Santo Domingo.
But if it were up to me, I’d be booking my bed at Island Life and swimming in that pool with a Coco Loco waiting for me at the bar!
Enjoy!
- Check out the best places to stay Dominican Republic before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Central America backpacking guide.
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