2 Best Restaurants in Boca Chica, Southeast Coast

This remarkable Italian-Dominican seafood restaurant continues to be the "in" spot for the young, fun, and moneyed locals as well as in-the-know visitors. The best all-over experience of the Boca beach restaurants, it extends onto a pier with palapas and lots of white draping. Guests go for a swim off the expanded deck, although there is no beach. (A consolation: free Wi-Fi.) You may be greeted by the effusive host and owner; the veteran waiters are professionals. The menu is vast, with lots of creative and classic preparations of delectable mariscos (shellfish), including octopus and lobster. Most of the seafood is 100% fresh and local, some imported. Top-shelf margaritas are fantástico, and there's also an admirable wine list. Breakfast is served here.

Pelicano has an enviable deck with chaise longues and even Balinese sun beds both right in the clear water and on the beach. The least expensive of the Boca Chica trio of waterfront restaurants, and the only one with a beach, the fairly simple menu features good bets like lobster bisque and any fresh fish on the plancha (grill). Las Américas Airport is just 15 minutes away, making this an ideal place for a long layover, so grab a piña colada and have a swim.