Playa Grande Beach Club

The Playa Grande Beach Club is a resort retreat located on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic sitting on a one-mile long expanse of wild, virgin beach on the Atlantic Ocean against a backdrop of lush low mountain forests.

The Beach Club is a collection of buildings and bungalows nestled on the beach, informed by traditional Dominican colonial architecture and filled with Palm Beach and vintage elements. The Beach Club is comprised of a Great Room with a dining area, lounge, and bar.

There is also a library and adjoining upstairs evening bar as well as a lap pool at the edge of the beach with adjacent cabanas. The guest rooms, or bungalows, are nine separate buildings: six one-bedroom bungalows and three three-bedroom bungalows, available for rent.

We serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily with a menu that showcases Caribbean cuisine and takes advantage of the abundance of local and organic ingredients grown by farmers in the area. Meats and poultry are carefully selected and fish is brought in daily by local fisherman.

Our Chef is happy to prepare dishes catering to special needs and requests. We also accept reservations for non-guests for meals and events. Playa Grande Beach Club was created by a group of friends and collaborators.

We invite you to come share the Beach Club with us and enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, the spectacular scenery of the North Coast, and the charm and grace of the Dominican culture, people and our local area.

DESIGN
The common structures and bungalows at the Playa Grande Beach Club have been created to reflect the distinctive vernacular architecture of the Dominican Republic. The plans are based on century-old structures discovered and documented through years of investigation across the country.

Though the outside paintwork on the bungalows is uniform and white, each bungalow has varying elements of vintage furniture and the colors and details on shutters, fretwork, and floor tiling is distinct.

Decorative features have been fashioned by local artisans. The forms of the smaller bungalows have been inspired by similar hip-roofed houses with dormers or monitor roofs and broad verandas.

The larger bungalows, triple-gabled two-story structures, also display Dominican details such as tragaluz (patterned woodwork) transoms over the doors, bargeboards at the eaves and scroolwork ballustrades.  On both bungalows the siding is riven, hand-planed tabla de palma (palm wood) and the roofs are corrugated zinc.

The verdigris copper and unlacquered brass hardware, lighting, tile and floated pigment concrete floors are other features are adopted from traditional Dominican forms and have been selected for their ability to age and patina.

Decorative elements, appliances and furnishings were selected to layer spots of bright color over neutrally toned natural elements (honey colored cane, bone, horn, seed glass, seagrass throw rugs, chalky cream coralina, greyed teak, weathered zinc, and painted and warn wicker).

The larger pieces of upholstery are slipcovered and were selected for durability and simplicity. Throw pillows, accessories, and craft-based art do just the opposite.

The interior design of each house is irregular due to thoughtful curation of unique vintage elements but the intention is to keep each house consistent in an overriding attitude of open-air-ness, character, and casual fun.

Even the small bungalow is set for casual entertaining. A stay in the bungalows evokes a feeling of a beloved family beach home worn by gentle use through the years.

In keeping with period Dominican houses, the walls of both bungalows are clad in horizontal centerbead pine siding. Particular attention has been given to classic fixtures for the kitchens and baths.

These comfortable bungalows are provided with air-conditioning, but given the moderate North Coast climate, in most cases ceiling fans and tragaluz provide sufficient ventilation.

In addition, the broad french doors and windows are equipped with shutters and blinds to allow an easy flow between the high ceiling interiors and the shady, expansive porches that girdle them. Although the bungalows are grouped as a community adjacent to the beach and the Beach Club, landscaping has been a priority.

Most of the existing vegetation has been preserved and newly augmented with a sympathetic compliment of native trees and flowering plants to provide a tropical backdrop and maximize privacy as much as possible. In this first year, it is still growing in.

ONE BEDROOM BUNGALOW
Our bungalows are open and airy; designed to take advantage of the prevailing winds and light in typical Dominican fashion. There are filled with antiques, original art, vintage pieces & custom-made furniture.

We have designed each one differently with charm and comfort as our primary goals. Our bungalows are open and airy; designed to take advantage of the prevailing winds and light in typical Dominican fashion.

There are filled with antiques, original art, vintage pieces & custom-made furniture. We have designed each one differently with charm and comfort as our primary goals.

One main room opens into a separate shuttered porch; blurring the line between outside and in. Spacious bathrooms and closets adjoin the main room.One main room opens into a separate shuttered porch; blurring the line between outside and in. Spacious bathrooms and closets adjoin the main room.

All of our bungalows have full kitchens (ovens, fridge, freezer, coffee makers and toasters), A/C, high-speed internet and telephones.All of our bungalows have full kitchens (ovens, fridge, freezer, coffee makers and toasters), A/C, high-speed internet and telephones.

Traditional Dominican tiled floors, distinct colors, and architectural details in the Traguluz and tracery are unique to each bungalow. Traditional Dominican tiled floors, distinct colors, and architectural details in the Traguluz and tracery are unique to each bungalow.

THREE BEDROOM BUNGALOW
Our three-bedroom bungalows have a master bedroom, master bathroom, living room, dining room, and large kitchen on the first floor. Upstairs there are two baths and two bedrooms (one room twin beds and the other a queen bed) and an upstairs living room/ play room.

Our three-bedroom bungalows have a master bedroom, master bathroom, living room, dining room, and large kitchen on the first floor. Upstairs there are two baths and two bedrooms (one room twin beds and the other a queen bed) and an upstairs living room/ play room.

Each bedroom has a unique character. Custom-made creeping vine trellis beds and extra soft Bellino linens and Frette Towels. Our default is 100% down but if you prefer synthetic pillows and duvets we are happy to substitute. Each bedroom has a unique character.

Custom-made creeping vine trellis beds and extra soft Bellino linens and Frette Towels. Our default is 100% down but if you prefer synthetic pillows and duvets we are happy to substitute.

We have enormous custom copper tubs for soaking and showers clad in unique Dominican hand made tile with large copper rain shower. We have enormous custom copper tubs for soaking and showers clad in unique Dominican hand made tile with large copper rain shower.

Our wrap around balconies and porch living rooms are a perfect place to nap, get a massage, or entertain – whether you cook on your own or order in from the club kitchen. Each bungalow has its own hammock.

Our wrap around balconies and porch living rooms are a perfect place to nap, get a massage, or entertain – whether you cook on your own or order in from the club kitchen. Each bungalow has its own hammock.

SURFING, BODY BOARDING & PADDLE BOARDING
Surfing and body-boarding are the best suited for Playa Grande, a mecca for experienced surfers who like to a catch a session of big waves. The country’s highest ranked surfers are from the nearby towns and own and operate the Playa Grande Surf Shack that offers daily lessons for all experience levels.

NATURE HIKE
In the hills above Playa Grande is an expansive national nature preserve. Cristian will take you on a hike through the hills and show you local plants, flowers, and lore. This 45-minute hike requires a medium level of agility.

PERSONAL TRAINING SESSIONS
Enjoy the natural setting as trainer, Irma, (a licensed massage therapist and personal trainer) takes advantage of beach trees, paths, and the natural surroundings for unique, dynamic workouts. Sessions are 1-on-1 or larger, as per your request and will be tailored to individual levels and goals. (Advance notice required.)

SPA & MASSAGE SERVICES
Susana Day Spa provides in-house services. Massages are offered privately in your bungalow or near the beach.

TENNIS
Play a match on our har-tru court nestled in the woods along the landscaped paths and trails of Playa Grande. Schedule a court time or lesson. Let us know if you would like us to connect you with other guests looking for a game. (To play with an instructor, advance notice is required.)

BASEBALL OR SOFTBALL
Baseball is the Dominican pastime. Attend a local game…and they might even let you play!

YOGA
Enjoy yoga in the open air with Jess as she leads individual or group practice yoga sessions.

DANCE LESSONS
Learn merengue, salsa, and bachata with Yulissa and Ferlon.

HORSEBACK RIDING
Ride through the surrounding area, though the hills, caves, rivers, and beaches. Please let us know your experience level first.
10 minute drive from Playa Grande

LAGUNA GRI GRI BOAT TOURS
Located in the nearby town of Rio San Juan. Explore the lagoon in small-captained wooden boats to take in this Dominican national while enjoying a spectacular sunset.

Daytime rides can be complemented with snorkeling exploring caves and swimming through schools of fishes. We will send snacks and cocktails to enjoy!
5 minute drive from Playa Grande

LAGO DUDU & BLUE LAKE
Experience a traditional cenote (a deep water sinkhole). Soar across the turquoise waters and explore nearby caves, swimming or on foot.
20 minute drive from Playa Grande

FISHING TRIPS
A truly local fishing boat experience! Leave from the Laguna Gri Gri in Rio San Juan with a local fisherman. You will fish with a nylon string in typical Dominican fashion. We’ll send sandwiches, as the trip lasts from about 7:30a–1:30p. 10 minute drive from Playa Grande

LOCAL SHORE FISHING
Try it Dominican style. Walk right up to the ocean’s edge with a length of fishing string wrapped around a soda bottle and try your luck. Kids’ favorite!

WATERFALL
Tucked into the hill in Cabrera, just 20 km from Playa Grande is a beautiful waterfall. Feel free to bathe down below or for more fun, you can pay locals to jump off the waterfall into the pool below. 15 minute drive from Playa Grande

SNORKELING
You will leave from the Laguna Gri Gri in Rio San Juan and travel through El Caleton beach and hidden caves and arrive in a natural pool. We will send fruit to feed the fish!

KAYAKING
You will leave from a local ranch in Rio San Juan and cruise over 1.5 kilometers of beach where you will arrive at a mangrove in a lagoon and a variety of local fish, birds, and crustacean life.

PADDLE BOARDING
You will leave from a local ranch in Rio San Juan and cruise over 1.5 kilometers of beach where. For the more adventurous, you can arrive to the Laguna Gri Gri.

WINDSURFING & KITEBOARDING
Water sports are a way of life in the town of Cabarete, one hour west of Playa Grande. World-renowned for its trade winds that make it ideal for kite or windsurfing, afternoon winds allow for a late morning start. 1 hour drive from Playa Grande

MONKEY JUNGLE & ZIPLINE
Monkey Jungle is a monkey rescue and sanctuary where all proceeds go directly to a local free hospital. Walk through trails where squirrel and capuchin monkeys will jump right on your shoulder (or head!) and eat fruit from your hand.

This is a great activity for your last day on your way to Puerto Plata (POP) airport just before your flight. 1.5 hr. drive from Playa Grande; 35 min. from POP

HUMPBACK WHALE WATCHING (SEASONAL)
Humpback whales spend there winters just off of the Samana Peninsula here in the Dominican Republic. Between the beginning of January and the end of February you can enjoy this marine spectacular. 1.5 hour drive from Playa Grande, Jan. & Feb. only.

27 WATERFALLS
Located the Northern Corridor mountain range of the DR are 27 pools, etched out of limestone. Do just a few or try the full 27 for a much more adventurous challenge. 2.25 hour drive from Playa Grande

THE COLONIAL ZONE, SANTO DOMINGO
The Zona Colonial (Spanish for “Colonial Zone”) is the historic central neighborhood of Santo Domingo and the oldest permanent European settlement of the New World. It has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

It is an important section of the city due to the high number of landmarks. On the north end of Calle Las Damas, the restored and expanded Plaza de España is bordered by Las Atarazanas (former naval yard, now a museum) and a number of small shops and restaurants.

The Alcázar de Colón, having once been the colonial palace of the Columbus (Colon) family—beginning with his son Diego—is now a museum displaying period furniture and decorations.

The building was originally built in 1510. See link for local happenings: www.zonacolonial.com. While there, stay at the Sofitel Nicolas Ovando or Casas del Siglo XVI. 2.25 hour drive from Playa Grande

LOCAL AREA
Cabrera and Rio San Juan are the two towns closest to Playa Grande. Both are located in the province of Maria Trinidad Sanchez.

CABRERA
Cabrera, fifteen kilometers east of Playa Grande, was originally named Tres Amarras, the name it used to be called since its foundation day on July 1, 1891. The city was renamed Cabrera in honor of the hero of the Capotillo Battle, General José Cabrera.

Today Cabrera has a territorial area of 276 km². With a population of over 39,000, Cabrera unlike most towns located on the coasts does not depend so much on tourism though there is a small enclave of villas that provide employment.

Cabrera’s main source of income is cattle, meat, and milk. In the agricultural aspect, production of coconuts and rice are noticeable sources as well.

Cabrera’s prevalent religion is Christian Evangelic; this is not true for most towns in the island since Catholicism (95% of the population) is the official religion in the Dominican Republic.

However, Cabrera does have a prominent Catholic church located in the town square. Every year, the Playa Grande Foundation, our philanthropic entity, sponsors fireworks in the town square on New Year’s Eve.

RIO SAN JUAN
Rio San Juan is nine kilometers west of Playa Grande and made up of many of the same families from Cabrera. This town’s fishermen provide the majority of this region’s fish supply.

You can see the boats leaving from the end of Calle Sanchez and purchase some of their daily catch from the pescaderos (fishermen) along this same street. The town has three charming beaches, one of them home to a turn-of-the-century cemetery, giving it its name, Playa de los Muertos (Beach of the Dead).

The most remarkable scenery in town is the Gri Gri Lagoon. You can take boat tours through this lagoon’s clear waters and see unusual rock formations entirely surrounded by magnificent mangrove trees to hidden caves and beaches.

The town is currently undergoing a beautification project with ceramic murals adorning municipal buildings and other important town areas.

THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Before Christopher Columbus arrived, the indigenous Taínos (meaning ‘Friendly People’) lived on the island now known as Hispaniola. The eastern part of the island of Hispaniola was originally known as Quisqueya, meaning “mother of all lands.”

Taínos gave the world sweet potatoes, peanuts, guava, pineapple and tobacco—even the word ‘tobacco’ is Taíno in origin! Two colonies grew on Hispaniola, one Spanish and the other French.

Both brought African slaves to work the land. In 1804, after a 70-year struggle, the French colony gained independence. Haiti, the Taíno name for the entire island, was the first majority-black republic in the New World.

In 1821 colonists in Santo Domingo declared independence from Spain. Haiti, which had long aspired to unify the island, promptly invaded its neighbor and occupied it for over two decades.

Dominicans never accepted Haitian rule and on February 27, 1844, Juan Pablo Duarte—considered the father of the country—led a bloodless coup and reclaimed Dominican autonomy.

Fearing an invasion and feeling threatened by Haiti in 1861, the Dominican Republic once again submitted to Spanish rule. However, ordinary Dominicans did not support the move and, after four years of resistance, succeeded in expelling Spanish troops in what is known as the War of Restoration.

On March 3, 1865, the Queen of Spain signed a decree annulling the annexation and withdrew her soldiers from the island. February 27 is Dominican Independence Day.

Rafael Leonidas Trujillo, a former security guard and chief of the Dominican police, muscled his way into the presidency in February 1930 and dominated the country until his assassination in 1961.

The Feast of the Goat, a novel by the Peruvian Nobel Prize in Literature laureate Mario Vargas Llosa, recounts Trujillo’s assassination by his own bodyguards and advisors.

TODAY
The most recent constitution was adopted in 1966 after the civil war following Trujillo’s rule. It stresses civil rights and gives Dominicans liberties they had never before been granted. The military were given civic duties such as building roads, medical and educational facilities, houses, and replanting forests.

The judicial branch is appointed every four years. Since the 1960s the court has become more independent, even if it is not an equal branch of government. One of the most influential political parties is the Dominican Revolutionary Party (PRD) with a liberal philosophy.

A spinoff is the Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), considered even more liberal. Danilo Medina, the current Dominican president (PLD), began his tenure in 2012. He is popular among Dominicans of both political parties.

CULTURE
Dominicans love music and dancing. Merengue, with its African tom-tom beat and Spanish salsa spirit, is the most popular. Other influences are the sound of reggae from Jamaica and the Spanish guitar.

Music can be heard on every street corner and there are large outdoor festivals. Bachata is another uniquely Dominican rhythm with strong ballads and rich poetry.

A typical Dominican lunch, the largest meal of the day, consists of rice, beans, and usually either chicken or pork. Dinner is mostly root vegetables (taro, sweet potato, yucca, potatoes), fried or boiled with local cheese. Spicy food is not widely eaten. Coffee is a social activity, served black and strong with spoonfuls of sugar!

PHILANTHROPY
We invest in and collaborate with the local communities of Rio San Juan and Cabrera via our social responsibility entity, The Playa Grande Foundation (PGF).

The foundation centers its activities and contributions on public education, cultural initiatives, public health, the environment and sports. Three of our favorite initiatives include:

DREAM SCHOOL – ABREU, CABRERA
For the past five years, PGF has sponsored a free Montessori pre-kindergarten program serving more than 35 children annually within the local public primary school in Abreu (5 km from the Beach Club).

This program helps to provide local children with an equal opportunity to learn and realize their full potential through transformative educational programs that combat the effects of poverty. This is the only free pre-kindergarten program in our area and the only pre-kindergarten program in Abreu.

Two years ago, PGF broadened its commitment to the community and installed a free public library within the same primary school in conjunction with the DREAM Project.

This is the only fully operational library in our area. It runs literacy programs for the entire school as well as youth leadership initiatives, reading groups, special help, reading assessments, and in-class library and reading sessions. Visit the Dream School online: dominicandream.org

CARNAVAL – RIO SAN JUAN
Every February Rio San Juan hosts Carnavarengue (where Carnaval meets merengue). The country’s only marine-themed Carnaval has tremendous potential to bolster tourism in the area while deepening and celebrating cultural traditions.

As the primary sponsor of Carnaval, The Playa Grande Foundation takes great pride in supporting the poster, mask, and bands of revelers contests, which give rise to brilliant works of local folk art. Many of the masks can be seen around the Beach Club.

With a depressed economy and an ever-shifting cultural landscape, this is a unique opportunity to partner with Rio San Juan in promoting sustainable, locally driven tourism that highlights and archives the beauty and craftsmanship of the Dominican Republic.

GRUPO PADRE BILLINI SURGERY CLINIC – RIO SAN JUAN
Each Spring, non-profit medical teams come to Rio San Juan to perform free surgeries in the local community. These include eye, gall bladder, skin, bladder, ovarian, and other minor surgeries.

They also perform routine primary health care evaluations, gynecological examinations, well-child appointments, and diabetes clinics. They serve over 1,500 local residents in their two-week operation.

The Playa Grande Foundation provides all costs related to running their generators in order to ensure constancy of electric service. We also provide meals and lodging for the visiting resident doctors and local volunteers.

Website: www.playagrandebeachclub.com

Rooms: 9

Price: from 886 EUR per night