Hotels in San Carlos

San Carlos: Where History Embraces the Shoreline

San Carlos, nestled in Santo Domingo's Distrito Nacional, is a vibrant blend of culture and history. This charming neighborhood invites travelers to explore its stunning beaches and significant landmarks, including the historic gate arch and captivating art museums. Stroll through its lively streets to experience local life, savor delicious Dominican cuisine, and admire the colorful murals that adorn buildings. With a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration, San Carlos offers a unique glimpse into the soul of the Dominican Republic, making it an ideal spot for culture seekers and beach lovers alike. For the best hotel rates in San Carlos, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in San Carlos

San Carlos in Santo Domingo offers vibrant attractions for travelers. The Blue Mall is perfect for shopping and dining, while Calle El Conde is a lively pedestrian street filled with local culture and history. The Assembly Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses provides a unique glimpse into the local community. For first-time visitors, Calle El Conde is the best choice due to its accessibility and lively atmosphere. Hotel accommodations are generally comfortable and varied near all these locations, catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in San Carlos:

1. Near Blue MallOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for travelers looking for a blend of business and family-friendly amenities in a vibrant urban setting. It boasts a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it a convenient base for exploring Santo Domingo. For accommodations, consider JW Marriott Hotel Santo DomingoOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel that caters to business travelers with amenities such as a business center and conference space. Alternatively, Homewood Suites by Hilton Santo Domingo, Dominican RepublicOpens in a new window is a 3-star option that's great for families, featuring free cribs and children's amenities, along with a business center and meeting rooms. For a romantic getaway, Intercontinental Real Santo Domingo, an IHG hotelOpens in a new window offers a 5-star experience complete with spa services and romance packages, ensuring a relaxing escape while still being close to all the action.
2. Near Calle El CondeOpens in a new window: Known for its lively atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, Calle El Conde is a fantastic destination for those wanting to immerse themselves in the local scene. This area features shops, cafes, and historic sites, ideal for leisurely exploration. For lodging, Playa Esmeralda ResortOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel with direct beach access, perfect for beach lovers. Casa del LagoOpens in a new window also offers beach access along with adventure activities like snorkeling and kayaking, making it suitable for thrill-seekers. For pet owners, Hotel Ecológico Loma Pan de AzúcarOpens in a new window is a pet-friendly 2.5-star hotel that allows certain pets, making it a convenient choice for those traveling with furry companions.
3. Near Assembly Hall of Jehovah's WitnessesOpens in a new window: This area is rich in culture and offers a serene environment, making it ideal for visitors looking to explore local traditions. It's also conveniently located near beaches for those wanting to relax by the sea. Consider Aparta Hotel Caribe ParaisoOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel with beach access, perfect for a laid-back getaway. For business needs, Hodelpa Garden Suites Golf & Convention CenterOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to corporate travelers with multiple meeting rooms and a business center. Similarly, Metro Juan DolioOpens in a new window offers a comfortable stay with dining options and entertainment, making it a great choice for both leisure and business travelers.

Things to do in San Carlos for first time

Three days in San Carlos offers a delightful mix of beautiful beaches, scenic mountains, and lush parks. Visitors can enjoy activities like boating, hiking, and diving, while also exploring local arts and entertainment venues, shopping centers, and recreational areas, making it a perfect getaway for nature and culture lovers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to San Carlos:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the vibrant Malecon, the waterfront promenade where you can soak in the picturesque views of the Caribbean Sea. Stroll along the coastline, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and the lively atmosphere. Next, make your way to the Palace of Fine Arts, an architectural gem that showcases the cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic through art exhibitions and performances. After immersing yourself in the art scene, visit the Basilica Catedral Nuestra Senora de la Altagracia, a stunning cathedral known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance, providing a serene space for reflection and appreciation of local history.
• Day 2: Kick off your exploration on Calle El Conde, a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and local vendors. Here, you can enjoy some shopping and grab a bite at one of the charming eateries. Continue your journey to Calle Las Damas, the oldest street in the New World, where you can stroll along cobblestone paths that echo the history of the Dominican Republic. Conclude your day at Plaza de España, a lively square that offers a great ambiance for people-watching, surrounded by historic buildings and vibrant nightlife.
• Day 3: Start with a visit to the Assembly Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, where you can learn about their community activities and outreach. Then, head to the Colon Lighthouse and Museum, a striking monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus, featuring impressive exhibits that narrate the history of the island. Wrap up your day at Columbus Park, a lovely green space ideal for relaxation, where you can enjoy the local culture, perhaps catching a live performance or simply unwinding amidst the lush surroundings.

5 tips to find a great San Carlos hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit San Carlos is between September and November, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For those looking to explore the main attractions, a stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended. San Carlos offers great value for money with its beautiful beaches, historical monuments, and fascinating museums. This makes it an excellent choice for travelers on a budget who want to experience the rich culture and history of the area.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to San Carlos, Hotels.com can be a great resource. To explore options, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on their site, where you could find reduced rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, ensuring you're more likely to catch any savings opportunities.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in San Carlos.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. To find more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in San Carlos and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in San Carlos

Here are a few popular dishes in San Carlos, Santo Domingo, Distrito Nacional, Dominican Republic:

• Sancocho: This hearty stew is a beloved symbol of Dominican cuisine, often enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions. Made with a variety of meats, including chicken, beef, and pork, sancocho is simmered with root vegetables like yucca, plantains, and potatoes, creating a rich, flavorful broth. Each family often has its own secret recipe, making it a unique experience wherever you try it. It's typically served with rice and avocados, emphasizing the communal aspect of dining.
• Mangu: A staple breakfast dish, mangu consists of mashed green plantains, often served with onions, eggs, and cheese. This dish showcases the Dominican knack for transforming simple ingredients into comforting meals. Traditionally, it's enjoyed in the morning, bringing families together for a hearty start to the day, often accompanied by a side of salami or fried cheese for added flavor and texture.

Best time to go to San Carlos

San Carlos experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 74.7°F (23.7°C), while August and September are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 80.4°F (26.9°C). August is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in San Carlos, February, September, and October are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, April, May, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.