Located in the tourist zone of Boca Chica and directly on the water, Boca Marina (Calle Duarte 12A, tel. 809/523-6702 or 809/688-6810 reservations, bocamarina [at] hotmail [dot] com/, 11 a.m.–midnight daily, US$9–24) allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of Boca Chica while dining amid the seashell decor. It’s definitely a hot spot that requires reservations during peak season.

The 130-option menu features seafood. The food is prepared fresh with a distinctively Mediterranean influence. If you can swing it, try the grilled lobster for about US$24 per pound. One of the most popular dishes is shrimp in Thai sauce.

During the day, Boca Marina poses as a beach club where people can swim, sunbathe, order food and drinks, and rack Boca Marina is good for families as well since it has a special kids’ swimming area and a special children’s menu. At night the atmosphere is soaked in romance, and if you’re fortunate enough to be in Boca Chica for a full moon, Boca Marina is a must for a late dinner. Secure and free parking is available.