Visit the province of Santo Domingo for family-friendly beaches and watersports along a wondrous Caribbean Sea shoreline. Tour a lake-filled limestone cave and explore shipwrecks at an underwater national park. Discover a memorial to Christopher Columbus and play at world-class golf courses.
Busy Santo Domingo East sits across the Ozama River from the historical Colonial Zone of the island’s capital. Start your day at the cross-shaped Columbus Lighthouse, a monument to the voyages of Christopher Columbus and supposed home of the explorer’s remains. Adjacent Parque Mirador del Este features grassy lawns, footpaths and sports courts. Marvel at a dramatic limestone cave system and freshwater cenotes at The Three Eyes National Park (Los Tres Ojos).
Walk through a shark tunnel, pet starfish and see exotic fish species and reptiles at the National Aquarium. Outside, lush gardens afford views over the Caribbean. Have fun splashing around in pools and riding waterslides at Aqua Splash Caribe Aquatic Park. For varied shopping options and fast-food dining, make your way to the Mega Centro mall.
Just a 30-minute drive along the coastline, Boca Chica presents a splendid introduction into the island’s fame as a beach-lover’s destination. Swim in shallow turquoise waters at Boca Chica Beach and ride rolling waves at La Boya. Off shore, La Matica is a mangrove-clad island and natural habitat for herons. Find bars, cantinas, seafood restaurants and souvenir shops on Duarte Avenue.
Don’t miss a daytrip to the spellbinding La Caleta Underwater National Park for kayaking and scuba diving. Beneath the park’s mild waters, colorful marine life swim around shipwrecks, submerged caves and tunnels. Challenge the fairways and greens at the island’s first golf course, Santo Domingo Country Club.
Travel to Santo Domingo by flying to Las Americas International Airport and onboard cruise ships that stop at Sans Souci Terminal. February is a lively time, when the Santo Domingo East Carnival fills the streets with the sounds and rhythms of salsa music.
