Dining
A reputation for excellent cuisine has taken hold in Juan Dolio and Guayacanes. So, if you prefer not to prepare your own meals then sophisticated palates can choose from a variety of fine restaurants ranging from informal to casually elegant, even a few with noteworthy wine cellars. Italian restaurants and steak and seafood abound here. Since most restaurants cater to domestic vacationers coming in from Santo Domingo, prices in Juan Dolio are attractive all year round.
Attractions & Excursions
Guided tours are an excellent way to experience this region, since there are relatively few attractions within walking or busing distance. Some of the excursions available are: Jeep Safaris, Santo Domingo City Tour and Half Day Tour, Santo Domingo Night Tour, Altos De Chavon artists village/River boat ride, Cueva Fun (and its seven-kilometer long underground river), Los Haitises and the mangroves park, Saona and Catalina Island.
The Cueva de las Maravillas should be included in every visit. Down under, browse at the very good collection of pre-Columbian art amidst spectacular stenography created with lighting against stalagmites and stalactites.
Tropical Plantation is on the Hato Mayor-Sabana de la Mar road due north of Juan Dolio. This working flower farm has a fairy-tale botanical garden and a natural green jungle with a labyrinth of paths where the fun is in getting lost and finding your way out again.
Shopping
For souvenirs, many small shops line the beach front road for a leisurely shopping trip on foot. Friendly vendors ply the beaches, selling jewelry, t-shirts and crafts priced with haggling in mind. For serious shopping, take the Santo Domingo city tour. San Pedro is closer than Santo Domingo but most people prefer shopping amid the culture and history of Santo Domingo’s colonial zone to the chaos of San Pedro.
Golf
The best golf in the area is Los Marlins Golf and Country Club, on the coastal highway and very close to the unit. 18-holes, club house, restaurant, bar, carts and equipment rentals.