Laguna Gri-Gri

Located in the fishing village of Río San Juan, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) east of Puerto Plata, Laguna Gri-Gri is one of the country’s major bird sanctuaries, set along a peaceful lagoon flanked by thick mangroves. Boat rides take you along this mystical lagoon at any time of day, though sunset is the best time to see egrets, and vultures soaring and chirping loudly above the mangroves as you pass through the narrow channels, eventually leading up to the sea. Daily guided boat tours of the lagoon includes a stop at Cueva de Las Golondrinas (Cave of the Swallows), facing a turquoise, shallow cove where you can take a swim, and end at the magical Playa Caletón to enjoy one of Río San Juan’s blissful beaches.