Located 20 miles (30 kms) east of Santo Domingo and 2 miles (a bit over 3 kms) east of Las Americas International Airport, Boca Chica has reserved the right of being the capital’s “city beach”. As with any city beach, expect large crowds on weekends and many vendors selling everything from massages to seafood to necklaces. The beach is quiet during the week as well as in the late afternoon after the crowds head back to the city.

Boca Chica Beach is famous for its powdery white sand and some of the Dominican Republic’s calmest waters, thanks to a coral reef that protects the beach from big breakers, creating a large natural lagoon that is perfect for wading and making it safe for children and non swimmers. People are also drawn to the beach for its famous fried fish (see article). But there are also many sea-front restaurants that promise delicious seafood served with a touch of sea salt spray and views that make for excellent photo souvenirs.

Guayacanes Beach
About 8 miles (13 kms) east of Boca Chica is the small town of Guayacanes. The town’s beach can also get pretty crowded on the weekends with a mix mainly of locals and some tourists, but its calm inviting waters and the absence of large resorts only adds to its small village appeal. Much like Boca Chica, the beach is less crowded on weekdays. A spattering of good restaurants is also a big draw, bringing in capital city dwellers for a day outing.

Juan Dolio Beach
About 2 miles (3 kms) east of Guayacanes, Juan Dolio Beach is much more laid back and hassle-free compared to Boca Chica as the large crowds and vendors are not as present. The beach is also more spacious, thanks in part to a government beach regeneration project completed in 2007. In relation to Boca Chica though, Juan Dolio’s waters are rougher and the underwater sand less smooth due to some seaweed and dead coral scattered about in some parts. Nevertheless, its large expanse of shoreline allows for a relaxing day at the beach with plenty of space to stretch out under the sun. Juan Dolio is undergoing a major real estate boom, with luxury high-rise buildings under construction, as promoters seek to sell the wonderful views to snowbirds and locals who want their own place on the beach. Its many good restaurants keep visitors coming back to the area.