3 Best Hotels in Sosua, North Coast

This enclave of private homes, each with large front- and backyards and private pool, is an elite bastion set within a vast country club–like setting near Cabarete. This tropical resort community has some exquisite homes with many walking paths; certain homes are available as rentals with either weekly or nightly rates. The equestrian center, with dozens of horses grazing on wide expanses, is a stellar feature. There are five groomed clay tennis courts as well (ball boys are included with a paid lesson). Though all homes include a Dominican housekeeper who cooks breakfast (you supply the groceries) and a gardener, you can also request a chef. Sea Horse Ranch will stock your villa for you for a modest charge, and the complex can also provide a nanny. The Beach Club, the enclave's restaurant overlooking a dramatic cove, delivers to the villas from its international menu.

This small, hacienda-style adobe hotel also has a decent restaurant and is a standout in this quiet neighborhood. Wrought-iron gates open to a courtyard that's candlelit by night, and most of the rooms face the pool in the rear garden. The simple rooms include studios with kitchenettes, and are furnished with comfortable mattresses, minibars, cable TV, and a safe; some have hand-painted tropical murals. The proud owners are an accommodating Dutch couple. Most rooms have been completely renovated; poolside rooms are the quietest and have patios. This inn may be cheap, but it is a good value.

Italian fashion designer Piergorgio has passed away, but his Victorian-style hotel/restaurant continues to operate, though its glory is now faded. The white hotel with its wraparound verandah and gingerbread fretwork is an atmospheric landmark whose rooms need to be updated, though some of the newer, waterfront rooms (in the 500s), which have knockout ocean vistas, are still acceptable. The convenient location with its monumental view is the draw—at sunset the gazebo has breathtaking bay views, as does the outdoor Italian restaurant. Piergorgio’s fine reputation as a wedding venue continues, and honeymooners love its romantic feel.