Beach Weekend in Monte Cristi

Beach Weekend in Monte Cristi

This weekend we had a chance to take our foot off the gas pedal a bit have some fun in the sun! After our Camp Closure on Friday we embarked on a 3.5 hour drive to the gorgeous coastal town of Monte Cristi, Dominican Republic. 

Hiking the Sendero

The first stop on our adventure was this gorgeous coastal hiking trail. It was a little uphill, but the views were so worth it! Students enjoyed the ocean breeze and spent time admiring the surrounding cliffs, white sand beaches, and crystalline waters. They also had a chance to take some instagram-worthy photos on the giant swings overlooking the sea. 

Boat Tour to Isla Cabra

The next morning we got up bright and early for a hotel breakfast on the patio with ocean views, and loaded up on our favorite guagua "Vicky" for our boat tour of Isla Cabra. We got to explore the mangroves, take breaks to jump in the water and swim, and boat over to the idyllic Goat Island to enjoy a delicious typical Dominican lunch on the beach and swim in the crystal turqoise water. 

Beach Bonfire

On Saturday evening, students enjoyed a BBQ dinner and bonfire on the beach just down the road from our hotel. They waded in the water, had hot dogs, chuletas de cerdo (pork chops), and chicken kabobs with casabe, (a kind of flat bread/cracker made of yucca). As a special surprise, my co-leader Laura and I also brought supplies to make s'mores, which students enjoyed as they chatted, laughed, and stargazed. 

Playa La Ensenada

On our way out of Monte Cristi on Sunday morning we took a north-bound detour to the stunning Playa la Ensenada (Cove Beach). These are the beaches one pictures when thinking of an ideal Carribean beach! The sand was white and fine, the water was shallow, calm, crystal-clear and sparkling, and lunch was served right there on the beach. Students spent the morning hanging out in the water, enjoying one last swim before heading back to Santiago for our last week on program.  We can't believe how fast the time is going! Don't forget to check back soon for our last few blog updates before students head back to the States!