San Rafael Beach

If you come to the Dominican Republic in search of crystal clear water beaches where you can lay your towel and enjoy the weather, San Rafael beach is ideal. A natural paradise that combines the freshness of fresh water with the beauty of the sea, creating a unique and captivating environment.

This beach is one of the most famous destinations in the Barahona area, very visited by both Dominicans and foreign tourists, offering a wide variety of activities for family leisure with children, as well as groups of friends who want to experience the magic of the waves.

Join us to learn more about the charms of this fabulous corner of the Caribbean, which you can not miss when you come to spend a few days in Punta Cana.

San Rafael beach is located in the province of Barahona, in the south of the Dominican Republic. It is the living image of paradise, with crystal clear turquoise waters and a shore of small white stones that make it a unique place. In addition, the beach combines the fresh water of the river with that of the sea, creating two connected dream environments for those who come to enjoy.

This area is very popular and has a wide range of services such as restaurants, beach bars, sun loungers and umbrellas for those who want to enjoy the weather in the shade. In addition, tourists can practice water sports, as well as swim in more or less calm waters depending on where they are placed.

If you want to enjoy sun and tranquility, the atmosphere of this beach is relaxing and cozy, perfect for the whole family. The public area has easy and safe access, with waters suitable for swimming and an average temperature of 30 degrees.

Besides having an extraordinary natural beach landscape, San Rafael is connected to a river and a waterfall that have been converted into a spa. If you want to enjoy cooler waters, this is an ideal place.

The combination of fresh and salt water and the waterfall make you feel like an explorer, walking through the mountain between trees and vegetation. An idyllic image from there to the shore.

The Barahona region is known for its delicious Creole food and dishes based on fresh seafood and fish, caught in the same waters where you can enjoy swimming, although at a slightly greater distance, as is evident. Visiting San Rafael beach offers the perfect opportunity to taste some of the best dishes of Caribbean gastronomy.

Some of the most popular dishes are fried fish with tostones, rice with seafood, grilled lobster or ceviche. In addition, the beach bars and restaurants in the area near the beach offer other typical specialties, such as sancocho, mondongo, chivo al coco (goat with coconut) or seafood asopao. If you want to try something lighter, you can try Dominican fast food, with dishes such as fried plantain, yucca empanadas or fish and seafood cooked in different presentations.

As you can see, there are local gastronomic options for all tastes.

For surf lovers, San Rafael beach is also perfect for surfing. The waves that form on the coast are ideal for surfing, especially in the winter season when larger waves can be found. Surfers can enjoy a calm environment, and enough space to throw the board and feel the adrenaline generated by riding the waves.

In addition, if you have not practiced this sport, or you are considering improving your technique, in the area you can find a surf school, where you can receive classes and rent the necessary equipment to enjoy. Wetsuits, boards and other items may be available, although it is important to make sure you go in season, as the school is not always open.

If you want to make the most of your visit to San Rafael beach, here are some useful tips when approaching this paradise of nature:

• Be careful with the sun. The climate in southern Barahona is tropical and sunny, so it is very important to use sunscreen with a high UV filter. It is also necessary to wear a cap or hat to prevent skin burns.
• Bring a towel. Although you can find sun loungers and umbrellas on the beach, it is advisable to bring a towel for each member of the family, so you can lie down wherever you prefer.
• Taste the local gastronomy. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy one of the nearby beach bars or restaurants, with fresh seafood and fish cooked in the traditional style.
• Enjoy the water. Both the river and the beach are ideal for swimming and cooling off, although it is important to remember that the beach can be quite deep, so take care not to stray far from the shore, especially if you come with children. Many families prefer to stay in the river area, where the water is calmer and shallower.
• Visit the natural spa. The waterfall converted into a spa is one of the most impressive points of this beach, which will allow you to enjoy nature in a spectacular setting.
• Don't forget your camera. San Rafael beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in this area, with landscapes that you will want to keep in your memory.
• Bring a camera to capture the most special moments and return home with unforgettable memories.

San Rafael beach is between Barahona and Enriquillo. On this map you can find the exact location, and when you drive along the road as you approach you can see the location of the beach, the spa and the viewpoint. Book our private transportation service and get ready to enjoy a magnificent day.