Cap Cana Through the Eyes of an Almost Local – Part 1
Between sunsets, coffee, and family plans, I begin to share my most personal version of Cap Cana: that of an almost local who experiences it with intention.
The Beginning of My Story Here
I don’t live in Cap Cana, but I spend so much time here that most people assume I do. And honestly, I get it. My weekends, my favorite places to eat, and many of my calmest moments happen within this city. The truth is, I wouldn’t rule out living here in the future.
Cap Cana is an exclusive destination city, and to enter you must live inside, stay at one of its hotels, or have a reservation at one of its restaurants.
My relationship with Cap Cana began out of proximity, but what started as occasional visits slowly became a weekend routine, and now, part of my work as well.
I’ve gotten to know its corners little by little. Each one, from the most casual to the most luxurious, has taught me a different way to enjoy this place. I delight myself in sitting down in restaurants and cafés. Now more than ever, I cherish simple walks; those you take without catching a glimpse of your watch.
Everything Starts at the Fishing Lodge
The Fishing Lodge is an area that has it all: great food, boutiques, views, tranquility, and plenty of space for kids to enjoy. It’s home to restaurants like Noah, Casa Costa, Bohemian, and even the Time Out Spa.
Noah has, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful views of the marina. Watching the sunset from there feels like therapy. and when there’s a full moon, the scene turns cinematic. Its terrace is a must, as is its sushi bar.
Right at the entrance of the Fishing Lodge is Casa Costa, my newest discovery and already one of my favorite restaurants in the area. I love their shrimp tacos, the newly added pizzas for kids, and their French onion soup with croissant (they have a bakery right next door) that instantly transported me back to Paris. I had one just like it during my trip earlier this year.
As you continue your journey across the Fishing Lodge boardwalk, you’ll encounter Bohemian. It’s perfect for when we want something more casual. Their empanadas and charcuterie boards are among the best, and the atmosphere is relaxed… the kind where conversations naturally stretch on.
The Fishing Lodge: More Than Just Food
Between one meal and another, there’s the small but effective Time Out Spa. Its hydrotherapy circuit has just what you need to disconnect and leave feeling renewed. It’s one of the best-kept secrets inside the destination city.
Fishing Lodge is also perfect for spending the day with kids: there’s space to walk, bike, or skate. Sometimes we rent a golf cart and ride around Cap Cana, or visit friends who reside here.
Weekends in Family Mode
Sundays are usually for the beach or the lake. Afterwards, we almost always end up at Cash & Carry Bistro, which, in my opinion, makes the best sandwiches in the area (try the Cuban or the Wellington, you’ll thank me later). It’s become part of our routine. It’s a very local spot with a small market next door, and their bread is top-tier.
We also like to do the birdwatching route right across from Cash & Carry. It’s an activity organized by the Cap Cana Foundation to protect the local flora and fauna. The kids absolutely love it.
A Coffee Before the Week Begins
During the week, when I want something more relaxed, I stop by Marie Bakery. Their almond latte is one of the best in the east, and their birthday cakes are always a hit. It’s a local favorite: warm, unpretentious, and cozy.
Restaurant Nina: Pure Luxury
When it comes to luxury, Nina knows best. This signature restaurant at the St. Regis Cap Cana, led by Chef Diego Muñoz, is at the top of my list. Everything about it: the experience, the presentation, the atmosphere… is flawless.
Cap Cana reminds me of the kind of life I want to build: calmer, brighter, more intentional.
For now, I enjoy it as an almost local… but who knows, maybe someday I’ll drop the “almost.”
And although there are still so many places left to share, I prefer to take it slow, because Cap Cana has too much to fit into a single post.
This is only the first part.
WRITER: Airam Toribio
