Picolo recommends · Hotel in Barahona, Dominican Republic
Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge
Cabins hidden in the trees on a slope above the south west coast, with a pool that looks straight out over the Caribbean.
The road along the Barahona coast twists between green mountains and the sea, far from the all-inclusive strips in the east. Casa Bonita sits high on the slope near Baoruco, with rooms and cabins tucked into the trees and a pool facing the water.
The lodge is a base for exploring a region few visitors see. It arranges trips to rivers, waterfalls and Lake Enriquillo, the large salt lake inland that lies below sea level, and there is a spa for the days in between.
Picolo’s verdict
Why we chose Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge
Casa Bonita shows you a wilder, greener side of the Dominican Republic than the resort coast. The view from the pool and the trips into the hills make it the most distinctive stay in our selection.
It is a long drive from Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, so it suits a road trip better than a short break. The beach below is pebbly rather than white sand, which disappoints anyone expecting a postcard strand.
What you get
- Pool with a view of the sea
- Rooms and cabins among the trees
- Spa
- Organised trips to rivers and Lake Enriquillo
- Sea views from the hillside
A day at Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge
- Morning
- Breakfast on the slope with the coast below.
- Midday
- A trip inland to a river or waterfall for a cool swim.
- Afternoon
- A treatment in the spa after the drive back.
- Evening
- A drink by the pool as the sea turns dark.
Location
Baoruco, Barahona, Dominican Republic
Open in MapsQuestions about Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge
Where is Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge?
It is on a hillside above the coast near Baoruco, south of Barahona town in the south west of the Dominican Republic.
Does Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge have a sandy beach?
The beach below the lodge is pebbles rather than white sand. Most guests spend their time by the pool or on trips inland.
Do I need a car for Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge?
It is far from the main airports, so a hire car or a planned road trip works best, though the lodge organises its own excursions.
Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles
How Picolo chooses
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