Many people like to enjoy the beach at night, but the only part that's safe is the strip east of Don Juan Beach Resort. Here revelers sip rum punches and listen to merengue until around midnight. Muggings elsewhere on the beach are commonplace, especially to those who go for moonlit strolls.
Much of the beach at night is a hot cruising ground, with young men bargaining with older men over the cost of their "services." Hooker bars are plentiful along Avenida Duarte, as men pursue for-sale chicas. In fact, one local paper referred to the street at night as a "gringo brothel."
Many of the after-dark diversions center around "The Disco" at Oasis Hamaca Beach Hotel, Calle Duarte, corner of Corales (tel. 809/523-4611). The dance club here is the most formal -- and the safest -- at the resort. Sometimes the music is live, at other times recorded, but expect a lot of merengue and salsa, enjoyed by patrons from 18 to their early 30s. The dance club is open to guests of this all-inclusive hotel. But for a nonguest to gain entrance, he or she must purchase a night pass for RD$700. The pass is a good deal in that it entitles you to a lavish dinner, plus all the liquor or beer you want for the evening.
The Oasis Hamaca is also the site of the major casino in the area, which is open daily 5pm to 4am. Guests pay no cover to enter. The usual games of chance include poker, blackjack, roulette, and other games. You're provided with a welcome drink. Patrons must be 18 years of age to enter.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
