The less-visited north shore of the Dominican Republic is home to some of the country’s few boutique hotels and resorts.
Discover the Hidden Gem of Rio San Juan: North Shore
Nestled in the Dominican Republic, Rio San Juan is a quiet paradise that remains largely untouched, even compared to rapidly developing areas like Samaná or Miches. Unlike the crowded resorts of Punta Cana, this region offers pristine beaches and lush tropical jungle – a true escape into nature’s beauty.
On Google Maps, you’ll spot white sandy beaches meeting dense greenery, creating a breathtaking contrast. The calm, unspoiled atmosphere here provides a refreshing alternative to the bustling tourist destinations.
While other coastal regions boast grand developments, the properties around Rio San Juan are much more intimate. Exclusive retreats like Amanera and ÀNI Dominican Republic offer a peaceful, luxurious experience, far removed from the typical over-the-top resorts.
One standout is the Playa Grande Beach Club. With only nine bungalows on a vast stretch of beachfront, this boutique property offers a rare combination of privacy and down-to-earth luxury, making it a true hidden gem.
If you’re looking for a serene getaway in the Dominican Republic, MWR LIFE: Now on the North Shore invites you to book your vacation and experience the best of exclusive luxury and nature’s tranquility.
Inside Playa Grande Beach Club
Playa Grande Beach Club is a serene escape, blending golden beaches with lush, manicured grounds. The property immediately impresses with its attention to detail, from fringed umbrellas over beach chairs to vintage furniture and vibrant handmade tiles. Colorful drinking glasses by the pool add a playful, dollhouse-like charm.
The design of Playa Grande Beach Club is the work of Celerie Kemble, a renowned designer who infused her style into every aspect. Her island-inspired, Palm Beach-influenced aesthetic is evident in every corner. Each bungalow has its own unique charm, with pastel hues, special textiles, and art collected from Kemble’s global travels. The Dominican influence shines through in the property’s colonial-era architectural elements.
Each bungalow at Playa Grande Beach Club is unique, with handpicked furniture, art, and decor.
Stepping inside feels like entering a gingerbread house with a tropical twist. My bungalow, featuring a rose and lime green color scheme, had textiles on the pillows and tiles on the bathroom floor that echoed this theme. It included a kitchen with a vintage fridge stocked with Dominican beer, local mangoes, and freshly ground coffee for early mornings on the beach.
The bathroom was a sanctuary with a massive copper soaking tub as the centerpiece. Its size made me wonder if the house was built around it. It was one of many special details that made the property unforgettable.
Bungalows each come with kitchens, making it an ideal destination for a longer-term stay.
Home Away From Home
Every design detail at Playa Grande Beach Club reflects Kemble’s love for the property, creating a cozy, well-loved atmosphere. The small size, catering to fewer than thirty guests, adds to its homey feel. The property’s family-first foundation likely contributes even more to its welcoming vibe.
Kemble, the creative force behind the design, was part of a close-knit group of owners who originally intended the property to be a private retreat for friends and family. Now, guests can book bungalows for their own home-away-from-home experience.
The resort features nine bungalows, a main house with a restaurant and bar, a two-story library, a beachfront pool with a lounge area, and a small gym.
Rio San Juan and Beyond
Though secluded, there’s plenty to explore beyond the resort. One morning, I ventured with a guide up a mountainside between the coast and the island’s interior. We cracked open fresh coconuts, identified tropical fruit trees, and marveled at the lush vegetation.
At the summit, we enjoyed a stunning viewpoint overlooking the island’s north coast. The guide pointed out nearby beaches and popular excursions like horseback riding, forest tours to swim in ancient sinkholes, and boat rides through the mangroves.
I thought, «Why would anyone want to leave?» But then I realized I’d have to plan a return trip to fully experience everything this untouched region has to offer.
Playa Grande Beach Club: A Hidden Paradise
Playa Grande Beach Club offers a serene escape without the typical laundry list of amenities. Instead, luxury here is found in the open space, quiet solitude, and a stretch of sand that feels like your own private beach. The highlight is the peaceful dining experience in the grand main house, where guests enjoy farm-fresh, island-inspired dishes while bonding with loved ones.
«The best part of staying at Playa Grande is feeling like part of a family,» says Alexandra Jeronimo, General Manager.
With its timeless charm, the property often sees guests return year after year. Some bungalows are even booked a year in advance, with guests eager to return for another season. The atmosphere is perfect for sharing with friends and family, though some visitors keep it a secret to preserve the peace.
Originally a private retreat for close friends and family, Playa Grande has maintained its tranquil, welcoming spirit, making it a truly unique getaway.
