Destination Suggestions???

Hi there,

A friend and I have some unexpected time off work and would like to try
and plan a last minute trip to the caribbean, we're trying to decide where we
should go.

We'll be flying from new york, have exactly one week, including flying time.

Ideally we'd find a place with nice beaches and active night within proximity
of a town/city with things going on, where we could do a bit of exploring, etc. We're
late 20's single guys, fairly adventurous, trying to stay away from the all inclusive,
interested in a more authentic cultural experience, etc. ..maybe rent a cabana or the
like.

First thoughts are Dominican Republic...although we are still open at this point.
Given the brief rundown, if anyone has anyopinions about where specifically would
be good to go, a town with a nice string of beaches, a place to stay, etc. That would be
really helpful. Or if there might be another destination suggestions from new york.

Thanks.