The lagoon
Clear shallows.
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The closest fine beach to the capital, about half an hour east and near Las Américas airport: a long white-sand beach facing a broad, shallow, calm lagoon sheltered by a coral reef from the Caribbean swell, so people wade far from the sand in water no deeper than their waist. Two small mangrove islets sit in the lagoon, La Matica and Los Pinos, which some reach by wading through the shallows or by small boat, with small colourful fish around them. Capital residents flock here at weekends, when it becomes crowded and lively with music and food sellers, while weekdays are far quieter. Stalls along the beach serve fried fish with fried green plantain, tostones. The best time is early morning on a weekday. Beaches are public by law, and currents can be strong, so swim where others swim and heed the flags. Pork is common in local dishes, so ask about ingredients. The sun is strong all year, so carry water, a hat and sunscreen.
Clear shallows.
Mangrove islet.
With tostones.
Boca Chica, about 30 km east of Santo Domingo
Yes, its water is shallow and calm behind the reef, and weekdays are quieter than weekends.