Welcome to Boca Chica, a vibrant coastal town in the Dominican Republic that has become a haven for expats and digital nomads seeking sun, sea, and a laid-back lifestyle. While the town is known for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife, it also boasts a variety of markets that cater to all tastes and needs. From bustling food markets to quaint craft stalls, Boca Chica offers a shopping experience that combines local flavor with international flair. Here are some of the best markets in Boca Chica that you should not miss.
Mercado Batey
Location: Central Boca Chica, near Calle Duarte
Type of Market: Local Food and Goods Market
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 6 PM
Mercado Batey is the heart of Boca Chica’s local commerce, where you can find a wide array of fresh produce, meats, and seafood. It’s a bustling spot where locals and expats mingle, haggling over prices and discovering the freshest ingredients for their next meal. The market also offers a selection of local crafts and souvenirs, perfect for those looking to take a piece of the Dominican Republic back home.
We Recommend: Try the fresh coconut water and the locally grown tropical fruits like mangoes and pineapples, which are incredibly juicy and flavorful.
Plaza Artesanal Boca Chica
Location: Close to Boca Chica Beach
Type of Market: Artisan and Craft Market
Open: Daily, 9 AM – 7 PM
Plaza Artesanal Boca Chica is a charming market where local artisans showcase their handcrafted goods. Here, you can find unique jewelry, pottery, textiles, and woodwork. It’s an excellent place for expats and digital nomads to find one-of-a-kind gifts and home decor that reflect the island’s culture and craftsmanship.
We Recommend: Look for the hand-painted larimar jewelry, a beautiful blue stone that is native to the Dominican Republic and a must-have souvenir.
La Cadena Supermarket
Location: Avenida Francisco Pena Gomez
Type of Market: Supermarket
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM
La Cadena Supermarket is a modern grocery store that caters to both local and international tastes. It’s a convenient one-stop-shop for expats and digital nomads who are looking for familiar brands alongside local products. The supermarket also features a bakery and deli section, offering fresh bread and ready-to-eat meals.
We Recommend: Don’t miss the Dominican sweets section, where you can indulge in local treats like dulce de leche and coconut-based candies.
Colmado Los Tocones
Location: Near the intersection of Calle Duarte and Calle Caracol
Type of Market: Convenience Market
Open: Daily, 7 AM – 11 PM
Colmado Los Tocones is a traditional Dominican colmado, a combination of a convenience store and a social gathering spot. It’s where you can pick up basic groceries, snacks, and drinks, but also where you can experience the local way of life, often accompanied by lively music and friendly banter.
We Recommend: Grab a cold Presidente beer, a favorite among locals, and enjoy the casual atmosphere of this neighborhood staple.
Feria de Boca Chica
Location: Along the main beachfront area
Type of Market: Street Market
Open: Weekends, 10 AM – 5 PM
The Feria de Boca Chica is a weekend street market that springs to life along the beachfront. Vendors set up their stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to homemade food and drinks. It’s a lively scene where you can soak up the local culture and enjoy the ocean breeze while you shop.
We Recommend: Try the freshly made empanadas and wash them down with a tangy tamarind juice, a refreshing treat on a hot day.
Tienda de Artesania y Souvenir
Location: Close to Boca Chica Beach, near Calle Duarte
Type of Market: Souvenir and Craft Shop
Open: Daily, 9 AM – 8 PM
This quaint shop is a treasure trove of Dominican souvenirs and handcrafted items. It’s an ideal place for expats and digital nomads to find gifts that are both meaningful and authentic. The shop features a wide range of products, from vibrant paintings to hand-woven baskets.
We Recommend: Look for the Dominican faceless dolls, a unique and traditional craft that represents the diverse culture of the island.
Agromercado Boca Chica
Location: On the outskirts of Boca Chica
Type of Market: Farmers Market
Open: Saturdays, 7 AM – 1 PM
Agromercado Boca Chica is where you’ll find the freshest local produce straight from the farms. This farmers market is a weekly event that attracts a crowd looking for organic fruits, vegetables, herbs, and other natural products. It’s a great way to support local farmers and enjoy the bounty of the Dominican Republic’s fertile land.
We Recommend: Sample the artisanal cheeses and homemade jams, which are perfect for a picnic on the beach or a snack in your home away from home.
