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Plaza and Playa Guibia

Plaza and Playa Guibia

Plaza and Playa Güibia is the only beach available for swimming (if you dare) in the city of Santo Domingo. Guibia is a nice place to bring the family for a little fun, exercise or just for some relaxation.

Playa Guibia and the exercise area, on the Caribbean Sea and the Malecon of Santo Domingo
Playa Guibia and the exercise area, on the Caribbean Sea and the Malecon of Santo Domingo

Guibia used to be the place to be during the Trujillo era. There was a casino located next to the beach and it brought in all the rich and famous for some beach time and some fun. Later, for many years, this small beach and plaza were abandoned and forgotten. It was only used by surfers, daring local children looking to cool off and a dog or two.

Playa Guibia on the Caribbean Sea and the Malecon of Santo Domingo
Playa Guibia on the Caribbean Sea and the Malecon of Santo Domingo

President Leonel Fernández inaugurated the “New Guibia”, an area measuring 13,479 square meters, on November 20, 2011. The plaza includes sand volleyball courts, a free gym area, bike path, kiosks that sell foods and beverages, kids play area, Wi-Fi internet connection and stage for concerts and other activities. There is even a gazebo extending out on the Caribbean with a boardwalk leading to it. There is lots of security around to keep it safe for all who visit. They are now working on cleaning up the water so it is safe to swim here again.

Playa Guibia exercise and volleyball area.
Playa Guibia exercise and volleyball area.

*Note that on the weekends and holidays the plaza is usually very crowded and the beach area is full to overflowing. Dogs are permitted when there are no special events happening.

Location

The Malecon, Avenida George Washington, Gazcue, Santo Domingo, República Dominicana.