You may know Puerto Plata as Dominican Republic’s original destination for beautiful beaches. But there’s truly so much more to this amber-sand haven then sea and surf. This “silver port” also offers stunning mountainous terrain, lush green valleys, and fresh, flowing rivers, making it a haven for Beach Worshippers, Thrill Seekers, and Experiential Travelers alike! From kite surfing to snorkeling, hiking to horseback riding, zip lining to lounging on the beach, the activities in Puerto Plata are as varied as the many travelers who visit!
Read on to discover three unique ways to experience everything Puerto Plata has to offer.
Made for Beach Worshippers
As the sun and sand experts, Apple Vacations knows a thing or two about a healthy beach obsession. True sun-and-surf-lovers can enjoy day after day of golden sand on one of Puerto Plata’s perfect playas (beaches). If your idea of a holiday is a beach blanket, your swimsuit, a pair of sunglasses, and a good book (and don’t forget that slathering of sunscreen), then congrats, Beach Worshipper—you’re bound to find a picture-postcard, sandy scene in Puerto Plata! Here are a few favorite sunny spots:
PLAYA DORADA & COSTA DORADA
Courtesy of the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism
These beaches draw visitors year-round. Located ten minutes outside of downtown Puerto Plata, these stretches of sand are reef-protected, and face the main resort areas. Not only that, but Playa and Costa Dorada have earned elite Blue Flag certification, meeting the highest standards for water quality, safety, and public environmental education. There’s plenty to do, including water sports, beachside cafes and restaurants, and of course, lounging in the sun is always a favorite here! As a bonus, it’s an excellent spot for stargazing at night.
BAHÍA DE LUPERÓN
Courtesy of the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism.
This sandy stretch in western Puerto Plata offers soft sand, dramatic rocks, and a swimmable area. It’s a great way to team up beach time with a bit of culture, as visitors often come here before or after a stop at the historic La Isabela site, the first European settlement in the New World!
PLAYA SOSÚA
Courtesy of the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism.
A gorgeous crescent bay, Sosúa is an unbeatable stretch of amber sands and deep, clear-blue waters. A chosen spot for divers and snorkelers, you can head out into the waves, or just watch the action from the beautiful beach. This is a family friendly beach with something for everyone!
The Ultimate Spot for Thrill Seekers
For some, more action on vacation means more memories! Sound like anyone you know? If your idea of a good time involves hiking, jumping, diving, exploring, animal encounters, or cultural immersion, you may just be a Thrill Seeker! Puerto Plata offers an array of options for the traveler who likes their beautiful beaches with a side of adrenaline. Check out one of these high-octane opportunities in the “Silver Port,” or see this list as just the tip of the thrilling iceberg!
LAGUNA DUDÚ
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A series of clear, freshwater lagoons surrounded with caves and lush forest, Laguna Dudú will keep you active all day long. Choose your own adventure, here, by discovering the caves on foot, paddling a kayak through the waters, or (gasp!) braving a makeshift zipline (at your own risk).
PLAYA CABARETE
Courtesy of the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism
Practically synonymous with “kitesurfing,” Playa Cabarete (known as “Kite Beach”) is the Caribbean’s premier destination for high-thrill water sports: windsurfing, kiteboarding, and laser sailing. Located on the west side of Puerto Plata, this thrill-seeker hotspot offers year-round opportunities to learn and play in the waves!
DAMAJAGUA WATERFALLS
Courtesy of the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism.
Waterfalls aren’t meant to simply be admired from afar. You’re looking to get up close and personal (and probably a bit wet) as you dive into this excursion to the stunning 27 Damajagua Waterfalls, offered through Amstar! Journey into the lush, tropical forest of the North Corridor Mountains, then refresh yourself at 12 stunning cascades, some of which feature natural water slides made of smooth rock. Slide into the pools or use them be a jump-off point—one will test your bravery with its 25-foot drop! Safety gear (and lunch to help you refuel) is included in this all-day dive into adventure.
Endless Opportunities for Exploration
Though what to explore may differ from traveler to traveler, a true Explorer approaches travel with an open mind, a deep curiosity, and a tendency to say “yes” to the pulse of a place. Perhaps for you that means experiencing a new cuisine in an off-the-beaten-path mom-and-pop gem, or it could be a cultural daytrip with newfound friends. Whatever you get up to, Explorer, it’s bound to be exciting, eye-opening, and a bit unexpected. Trust us, Puerto Plata’s vibe is right up your alley!
CAYO ARENA
Courtesy of the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism
Interested in marine life? Cayo Arena is a unique sandbar that boasts a healthy habitat where schools of tropical fish, corals, and sponges that can be easily spotted in the shallow blue waters, making this a haven for snorkelers! Bonus? Amstar can get you there!
MOUNT ISABEL DE TORRES
Take in the sights from the top of the mount.
Courtesy of the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism
Hike your way up the mountain that earned Puerto Plata its name (the story goes that Christopher Columbus saw the clouds shimmering over the peak and named the spot “Silver Port”). There’s no better way to explore a place than on foot, so enjoy the journey into native flora as you head to the top. If you’re in a hurry for spectacular views, you can hop on the only cable car in the Caribbean, instead and make your way to the giant statue—Christ the Redeemer—an iconic landmark in the region.
GUANANICO CACAO TRAIL
Getty Images.
Hike through fields of cacao and encounter the history of chocolate! Then, you can head over to the chocolate hut (yum!) and take part in tastings of chocolate in its various forms and flavors.
source https://carryonblog.com/puerto-plata-the-vibe-is-different-here/
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