If you need more time near (though not in) the water, visit Three Eyes National Park.
Set within the city limits, this small urban park was created to protect a pristine underground river, divided by three main caves (hence the name). Although the Taíno people were well aware of its existence, this magical place remained a secret to the western world until 1912.
The park is marked by a giant collapsed cave ceiling, which creates an entrance into the river and the smaller caves. With the sun, the azure water sparkles and becomes see-through. In the Dominican heat, the allure of the water becomes almost impossible to resist.
Sadly (OK, thankfully), bathing and swimming were banned in the 1970s, so you’re forced to stand there and fantasize about splashing into the cool, still river.
In one of the caves, you can board a small boat, pulled by hand. At the risk of giving away the surprise, I’ll tell you that this is the best part of the visit. As you float to the belly of the cave, you think you’ll meet a wall. But when you get off on the other side, ready to enjoy its cool darkness, you’re flooded by unexpected light.
You climb a few steps to inspect where it’s coming from and are greeted by a secret cave, a hidden paradise. A large round hole replaces the ceiling, letting light in. Plants grow around the water and extend their hands up to the skies. Birds fly into the cave, filling it with the echo of their sweet songs.
It’s a sight so mesmerizing, that it’s worth visiting the park just for it.
(A note: This was probably the only place I went to that had many tourists. Get there early to beat the rush — and the heat.)
