So you are wondering which Santo Domingo beaches to visit? This guide to the best beaches near Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic will lay out all of the options. Let’s dive into which Santo Domingo beach you should visit!
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Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone is lovely, to say the least.
It is the city of “Firsts” for the Americas. The first city of the New World (founded by Christopher Columbus’ brother Bartholomew), is also home of the first university, first cathedral, first monastery, and more. It offers visitors and amazing walk through history.
But if you are anything like me, after your brain has soaked up all it can handle in historical beauty, you may need a break. Cue, some relaxation in nature.
You undoubtedly know that the Dominican Republic is famous for its aqua blue ocean and white sand beaches. And, even when visiting Santo Domingo, beaches are never too far. But, with limited time here, which Santo Domingo beach should you visit first?
A Santo Domingo Beach Guide
Here are my three favorite Santo Domingo beach options to choose from: Juan Dolio, Boca Chica, or Saona Island. Here I will break down the pros and cons of each to help you choose the perfect one for you!
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1. Boca Chica Beach
Your first Santo Domingo beach option is Boca Chica. Boca Chica is fairly close to the Colonial Zone, at roughly 30 minutes away. The waters are clear and stunning, and you’ll find long stretches of sand for relaxing and lounging.
Boca Chica seemed to be the most well known beach in the area. But, I wouldn’t necessarily say that it is the prettiest. When compared to Juan Dolio below, Boca Chica is a bit more crowded, with more of a party atmosphere.
The upside to Boca Chica is that there are many hotels and resorts nearby, so you can easily turn your day trip into an overnight here. It is beautiful! It just really depends what you are looking for.
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2. Juan Dolio Beach
From Santo Domingo, it takes under one hour to reach Juan Dolio Beach by car. if you are not planning on renting a car (I get the best prices here) then Uber is a pretty reasonable option. From the Colonial Zone, it should cost around $20USD for the 45-minute drive, depending on traffic, of course.
Juan Dolio is a small six-mile stretch of stark white sand, lush green palm trees, and clear blue water. I mean, do you see the picture above?!
While I was there, most beach-goers were locals, so I was able to chat with them and get a feel for the area. The east side of Juan Doilio seemed more lively, with lots of loud music and bars and food vendors. The farther west I walked, it was more quiet and peaceful.
I was visiting the Dominican Republic solo, and Juan Dolio felt safe. I walked many miles on the street as well as on the beach alone, both in the morning as well as at sundown. Nobody hassled me in the slightest, other than a few random catcalls.
There are two reasons I chose to stay overnight at Juan Dolio over other Santo Domingo beach options. First, the area is populated by locals, with a few small hotels and guesthouses rather than large resorts.
And second, Juan Dolio has far fewer beach touts selling items up and down the beach then elsewhere. If you are looking to relax, then this trip to the beach from Santo Domingo might be the one for you.
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3. Saona Island
Saona Island is a beautiful island paradise off of the mainland. It is closer to the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic, near Punta Cana.
If you thought Juan Dolio waters were clear, these Caribbean blues will leave you absolutely stunned. They are so crystal clear that you can see everything while you walk or swim.
And, side note – I visited in February, during the off season. The waters will still warm enough to swim quite comfortably.
Saona Island is easy to explore by foot. There are plenty of palm trees with hammocks hanging as well as beach chairs for lounging. Massages and jewelry are all available (and will be offered over and over again if you use the main row of beach chairs.) Or, walk a short way down the beach to find solitude.
Today, only about 300 people live on Saona Island, and I have to say, that sounds like a dream! As a visitor, you will get a taste of the simple, tropical island life.
Pro Tip: To reach Saona Island, you need to book a day tour. It will include round trip transportation from your hotel, boat rides to the island and back, and a tasty lunch buffet! Saona was one of the most beautiful spots I saw. Book your tour here!
Here are your best tour options for booking a trip to Saona Island in the Dominican Republic:
Note that these tours depart from various areas, like the Colonial Zone or Juan Dolio / Boca Chica. Be sure to read the fine print before booking!
Which Santo Domingo Beach Trip Should You Choose?
Here is my best recommendation, if you are staying in the Colonial Zone.
If you have only one day to spare at the beach:
- Choose between either one day at Juan Dolio or Boca Chica. These are the easiest options, since ou are limited on time. The adventurous could choose a day trip to Saona Island.
If you have three days to spare at the beach:
- Stay two or three nights at Juan Dolio, and take a day-trip to Saona Island from there. That way, you get to experience two completely different beaches near Santo Domingo.
Whatever you choose, I am sure you will have a wonderful time!
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Santo Domingo beaches?
The best time to visit Santo Domingo and its nearby beaches is between November and March. The city will be experiencing its best weather. In February, the crowds will start to thin, in my experience.
Does Santo Domingo have good beaches?
While you won’t find any beaches directly within the city, stunning beaches with sparkling blue waters are just a short drive from Santo Domingo. Both Boca Chica (30 minutes by car) and Juan Dolio (45 minutes) make great day trips.
Is Santo Domingo cheaper than Punta Cana?
Yes! Since Punta Cana is more famous, Santo Domingo is easier for budgeting. In fact, a recent study showed that the cost of living is roughly 10% cheaper in Santo Domingo than in Punta Cana.
What is the prettiest beach in Dominican Republic?
In my opinion, that award goes to the beaches on Saona Island. Saona Island is such a tropical paradise, and is difficult to top.
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And there you have it! The three best beaches near Santo Domingo, all accessible on an easy day trip. So tell me below – which one will you choose?
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