San Juan Holidays

San Juan offers many attractions to holidaymakers, be they honeymooners, couples, families, backpackers or tourist groups. It is situated between Cabrera and Cabarete and within easy access of the island's main transport system.

Still known as a fishing village, for today's tourists San Juan's primary attractions are its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters but there are also secluded lagoons for that extra privacy and truly memorable swimming, snorkelling or diving experience. These are a short hire boat or ferry boat ride away. Not only are the waters of the purest blue, they are teeming with natural marine life for you to discover amongst the unusual rock formations. On the shore of the Gri Gri Lagoon you are surrounded by dramatic scenery of mangrove swamps and lush vegetation. For a more haunting experience you can explore the many hidden caves. Just don't expect too many tourist style amenities around the lagoons: they would simply spoil the effect.

For those of you who enjoy a more comprehensive range of activities there is surfing available on the main beach to suit all ranges of experience from beginners through to the experts amongst you. For time away from the beach there is a lovely local golf course of world class standard at the Playa Grande. Your round of golf will not only be at one of the Caribbean's most renowned courses it will also treat you to the most beautiful scenery on every fairway. And with the added potential of meeting a world class professional here, this offers an excellent memory to take home with you.

The resort of San Juan itself offers a huge range of restaurants and bars to round off your day whether you choose sightseeing, enjoying the blue waters or the golf course. You can find international foods to suit most tastes or try the Dominican specialities in authentic surroundings with the island's music pumping out at you in its very own distinctive, energetic and foot tapping rhythms. And don't forget that this is a fishing village, so if you are partial to freshly caught fish there is plenty to choose from at very reasonable prices.

If the romance and seclusion of San Juan becomes too much for you, you can always take advantage of the excellent transport system that features in the town, or if you prefer to hire a car you can drive straight on to the main island through road from here and explore the rest of the island at your leisure. Not too far from San Juan, on the southern coast is San Cristobel. Here you will discover mush of the island's rich and turbulent history. The first draft of the nation's first constitution was signed here way back in 1844 and so the history begins.

There is much religious history as well as political and you will find the pretty church of Santa Maria, which attracts many visitors annually. Whilst you are here you might wish to spend some time exploring the many caves and if you are lucky you might visit on one of the many festival days that litter the Dominican calendar. On your return journey make sure you include a drive along La Romana's magnificent cliffs. Truly worth the visit.