Puerto Plata affords wonderful issues to do and see. This gem of the Dominican Republic will shortly steal your coronary heart, and it would simply change into your favourite place to go to.
You possibly can discover the stunning countryside, go on a zip-line tour within the mountains, go whale watching off the coast, or bask within the solar at one of many many white sand seashores.
Should you’re on the lookout for some cultural sights, there may be lots to discover too. Go to historic websites reminiscent of Fortaleza San Felipe and colonial buildings just like the Amber Museum and San Felipe Church. Or take a cable automotive as much as Mount Isabel de Torres for unbelievable views.
With a lot to do in Puerto Plata, it’s straightforward to see why it’s turning into probably the most well-liked cruise ports within the Caribbean.
The cruise ports of Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata is an excellent port metropolis that sits alongside the north coast of the Dominican Republic. This shoreline can be known as “The Amber Coast“, which we are going to discuss slightly in a while on this journey information.
Now probably the most highly-rated cruise ports within the Caribbean, Puerto Plata is making a comeback. You see, the port was left unused by cruise ships for a few years till 2015 when Carnival Corp. opened Amber Cove for Carnival cruise ships.
Right now, there’s a second cruise port at Taino Bay which was opened in 2021. Taino Bay will probably be utilized by cruise traces like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Virgin Voyages.
What was as soon as a cargo pier is now in a position to accommodate as much as two Royal Caribbean Oasis-class cruise ships along with a smaller vessel.
The Taino Bay cruise port in Puerto Plata affords a welcome space, buying middle with boutique retailers, restaurant choices, a seaside membership, and a free trolley service to the downtown colonial middle. Though the journey to town middle is free it is strongly recommended you tip the driving force.
Greatest Issues to do in Puerto Plata
So let’s get into our record of one of the best issues to do in Puerto Plata, whether or not you’re on a cruise or staying in a single day on this fantastic metropolis. Many of those will be accomplished as a shore tour or by yourself.
Go to the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua
The 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua are positioned within the Northern Hall mountain vary in Imbert. Solely a 30-minute drive from the cruise port, they’re one of many nation’s hottest sights.
The waterfalls cascade down a collection of rocky outcroppings and include 9 bigger falls, with a complete drop of over 100 toes. Guests to the realm can climb and swim by means of the cascades, and there are additionally a number of smaller swimming pools and pure slides alongside the way in which.
A information is required for guests to ensure everybody stays protected, and excursions sometimes embrace all obligatory tools reminiscent of helmets, life jackets, and climbing harnesses. This gem of Puerto Plata is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go to on the record. You may get extra details about the waterfalls right here.
Take a tour of the Ocean World Journey Park
The Ocean World Journey Park is a family-friendly marine theme park positioned on the Dominican Republic’s northern coast. There are a ton of sights there, together with aquariums, dolphin reveals, animal encounters, and water slides. Should you’re on the lookout for one thing the entire household can take pleasure in this is perhaps a superb cease for you. And it’s simply 3 miles from Puerto Plata.
Sponsored Hyperlinks
You may as well discover the tropical rainforest, feed the ocean lions, and swim with dolphins. The park hosts quite a lot of academic packages to show guests about ocean conservation and sustainability. It additionally affords meals providers and memento retailers for these trying to take house a particular reminiscence.
Take a look at the official Ocean World web site right here.
Go snorkeling or scuba diving at Sosúa Bay
Sosúa Bay is a well-liked spot for snorkeling and scuba diving within the Dominican Republic. It options crystal clear waters, loads of fish, and even shipwrecks which can be enjoyable to discover.
There are a number of dive retailers within the space that may present tools and information you thru the dive websites. There’s a stunning seaside there as effectively, however it could get slightly crowded at sure occasions. The seaside city of Sosúa is solely a 20 minute drive east of the cruise port.
Chill out on the sandy seashores of Playa Dorada
Playa Dorada is a stupendous seaside positioned proper in Puerto Plata. It’s identified for its white sand and turquiose blue waters. In Playa Dorada you possibly can calm down on the seaside and participate in quite a lot of actions reminiscent of swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, boating, and windsurfing.
There are additionally loads of eating places close to the seaside providing scrumptious native delicacies. By the way in which, the hospitality of individuals within the Dominican Republic is tough to beat. The realm additionally has some nice buying alternatives together with memento retailers, artwork galleries, and outfitters.
Discover the historic city of San Felipe de Puerto Plata
San Felipe de Puerto Plata is simply the official title of Puerto Plata. The historic down city space is an actual deal with to go to with all of the colourful buildings and clear, open areas. It was based within the 1500s and is thought for its Spanish colonial structure, cobblestone streets, and colourful plazas.
The town is a well-liked vacationer vacation spot because of its picturesque seashores and close by sights such because the Fortaleza San Felipe, which was inbuilt 1564 to guard town from pirates. The town can be house to all types of cultural websites, together with museums, galleries, and theaters. Don’t overlook to take a look at Pink Avenue and Umbrella Avenue as simply two examples of the enjoyable, colourful vibe the middle of city affords.
Take a cable automotive journey to the highest of Mount Isabel de Torres
A $10 journey up the mountain affords breathtaking views of the encompassing space, however there’s extra to do on the prime of the mountain as effectively. You’ll really discover a nationwide park on the prime. As you stroll round you will note indicators for a lagoon, caves, and a statue of Christ the Redeemer, which is harking back to the statue at Rio de Janeiro.
Sponsored Hyperlinks
The lagoon is man-made and never too spectacular, however the vegetation and exquisite pathways that weave by means of the woods as you stroll beneath vine archways can be a fantastic expertise for nature lovers. You virtually get a chook’s eye view of town under and might get some nice panoramic footage from up there. It’s half a mile above the valley in any case. There’s a restaurant on the prime and restrooms as effectively.
Drive the Malecón
The Malecón of Puerto Plata is a boardwalk positioned on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. It is without doubt one of the hottest vacationer sights within the space, drawing guests from all around the world to its gorgeous views and vibrant environment.
This stunning stretch of shoreline and lengthy seashores stretches for almost 4 miles, offering loads of alternatives to discover and take within the sights. Alongside the way in which, vacationers can discover quite a lot of eating places, retailers, lodges, and different sights.
The Malecón additionally has an adjoining seaside the place guests can take pleasure in swimming, sunbathing and different actions. With its picturesque surroundings and vigorous environment, it’s no surprise why so many vacationers come to expertise this charming attraction.
By the way in which, the time period “malecón” is especially related to the Caribbean and Latin American nations, the place it’s typically used to explain a large waterfront promenade or walkway that’s constructed alongside the sting of the ocean or a big physique of water.
Go horseback using by means of the countryside or alongside the seaside
Sure, horseback using is obtainable in Puerto Plata. There are a selection of tour corporations that supply guided rides by means of the countryside or alongside the seaside. Many of those excursions embrace stops at native sights and scenic lookouts, giving guests an up-close view of the gorgeous Dominican Republic panorama.
Go to the Amber Museum
The Amber Museum of Puerto Plata is a must-see for anybody fascinated with studying concerning the Dominican Republic’s wealthy historical past and tradition. . The museum is house to greater than 200 items of amber. You possibly can observe an array of various colours and shapes of amber, in addition to the fossils which can be encased inside it.
The Amber Museum, Puerto Plata.https://t.co/hBe7DC60dv#Amber #ExploreThePast #PrehistoricFun#TheAmberMuseum#ThingsToDoInPuertoPlata #DominicanSoul pic.twitter.com/o994g0YMtb
— Paola Garcia (@DRgotsoul) September 20, 2019
The museum additionally affords guided excursions for guests who want to study extra about this amber. Moreover, there’s a reward store the place guests can buy genuine Dominican Republic amber jewellery, which is just about a should as a memento for visiting The Amber Coast anyway.
Play a spherical of golf at one of many many championship golf programs
Puerto Plata is a well-liked vacation spot for golfers, with a number of championship-level programs to select from. Some of the extremely rated programs within the space is the Playa Dorada Golf Course, which is an 18-hole par 71 course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. Different notable programs embrace The Hyperlinks at Cocotal, Los Mangos Golf & Nation Membership and Costa Dorada Golf Membership.
Take a ship tour to see the gorgeous shoreline of Puerto Plata
There are numerous boat tour operators in Puerto Plata that supply quite a lot of boat excursions to discover the shoreline. Whether or not you wish to do a half-day or full-day tour, you’ll find one that matches your schedule and finances.
Most boat excursions will take you alongside the coast, exhibiting off the gorgeous views of cliffs, seashores, lagoons, and different pure wonders. You may additionally spot some marine life reminiscent of dolphins and sea turtles alongside the way in which. For whale fanatics now we have one thing on this record for you too.
Go kiteboarding or windsurfing
Sandcastle festivals, kite boarding gatherings, and squirrel monkeys can all be present in Puerto Plata. There are such a lot of distinctive experiences within the Dominican Republic! #RediscoverPuertoPlata pic.twitter.com/GbsbEOzyfW
— Trip Couple (@Vacation_Couple) September 6, 2018
Puerto Plata is a superb spot to go kiteboarding or windsurfing and is taken into account top-of-the-line locations for this in actual fact. The town has a few of the greatest circumstances for each sports activities, with dependable winds and loads of large open areas to apply and discover with these excessive kites.
There are a number of colleges and rental facilities positioned within the space that supply classes, gear rental and guided excursions. Kiteboarding and windsurfing will be loved all yr spherical in Puerto Plata, with peak season operating from December by means of March.
Take a look at La Puntilla Amphitheater
La Puntilla Amphitheater is a well-liked vacation spot within the space and it’s proper subsequent to the fort talked about later on this article. Situated on the seafront promenade of the Malecón, and dealing with the Atlantic Ocean, this open-air theater is house to many festivals and cultural occasions all year long. It options pure seating on grassy slopes and a colourful stage that provides guests gorgeous views of the ocean.
The amphitheater has hosted live shows by world-famous musicians, together with Daddy Yankee, Juan Luis Guerra, Victor Manuelle, and Tito Nieves. La Puntilla Amphitheater additionally hosts film screenings, artwork exhibitions, trend reveals, and different thrilling actions for all ages.
Go to the Altos de Chavon, a reproduction of a Sixteenth-century Mediterranean village
The Altos de Chavón is a tremendous place to go to within the Dominican Republic. Situated on the banks of the Chavón River close to La Romana, this duplicate of a Sixteenth-century Mediterranean village was created by clothier Gianni Versace and architect Roberto Copa. Right here you possibly can discover its cobblestone streets and admire its colourful buildings, all whereas taking within the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
Inside, you possibly can browse artwork galleries, craft workshops, and boutiques that includes native handmade crafts. The amphitheater hosts dwell music performances the place visitors can dance to conventional rhythms and luxuriate in scrumptious meals from native eating places. It’s an excellent time out for anybody on the lookout for a novel cultural expertise.
Get extra details about Altos de Chavon right here.
Sponsored Hyperlinks
Tour the ruins of La Isabela
La Isabela is a historic website close to town correct. It was the primary European settlement established within the Americas by Christopher Columbus and his crew in 1493. The location was declared a Nationwide Monument of the Dominican Republic in 1942 and at present it’s managed by the Nationwide Historical past and Anthropology Institute.
Guests to La Isabela can discover its ruins which embrace the stays of a number of homes, a fortification and a cemetery in addition to different constructions that have been a part of this authentic settlement. There’s additionally an archaeological museum onsite which homes artifacts from the time Columbus sailed to America. Excursions can be found at La Isabela with educated guides who present details about this necessary piece of historical past.
Take a stroll by means of the Nationwide Botanical Backyard
The Nationwide Botanical Backyard in Puerto Plata is a spotlight of the Dominican Republic. It covers an space of over 150 acres and options quite a lot of plant species from world wide. The backyard is split into 5 most important areas, every with its personal distinctive ecosystem.
Right here you possibly can discover the plush tropical forest and marvel at unique flowers within the orchid home. And why not soak up wonderful views from the point of view, and uncover hidden gems like uncommon palm bushes and colourful birds alongside the way in which? There are additionally strolling paths that result in a waterfall and different sights. With its breathtaking magnificence, it’s no surprise why this backyard is a well-liked vacation spot for guests to Puerto Plata.
Go zip lining by means of the jungle cover on the Monkey Jungle Journey Park
Should you love monkeys this one is a must-see. Monkey Jungle Journey Park is positioned on 280 acres of land between Sosúa and Cabarete, about 6 miles from the street to El Choco Nationwide Park. This park is thought for its stunning setting and big selection of actions, together with a seven-station zip line, a botanical backyard, and an historical Taino cave that guests can discover.
The park is house to pleasant squirrel capuchin monkeys that work together with guests and should even climb in your shoulders for a photograph op. Simply be forewarned you won’t wish to put on your favourite clothes on this one.
Along with offering a enjoyable and thrilling expertise for guests, Monkey Jungle Journey Park additionally serves as a restoration middle for rescued capuchin monkeys. Whereas on the park, you possibly can tour the botanical gardens, zip line throughout the farm (with runs as much as 800 toes lengthy), or strive the Cave Descender, an exciting cable-controlled drop right into a cave that’s 60 toes deep.
Be taught concerning the historical past of the area on the Fortaleza San Felipe
The Fortaleza San Felipe is a fortification in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. It’s positioned on the entrance of the bay of Puerto Plata. The fort was constructed by the Spanish in 1577 to guard town from pirates and different attackers.
It underwent a number of modifications over time and served as a navy base for a few years till it was deserted in 1975. Right now, it serves as a vacationer attraction and museum showcasing the historical past of the area.
Now you possibly can discover the fortress and study its previous, together with its use throughout colonial occasions, when it served as an outpost of Spanish protection towards British assaults through the 18th century.
You may as well go to interactive reveals which function artifacts from totally different historic eras, reminiscent of weapons used throughout battles, previous images and paperwork associated to native historical past.
Go on a safari tour by means of the close by Ebano Verde Scientific Reserve
The Ebano Verde Scientific Reserve is without doubt one of the most gorgeous pure areas in Puerto Plata and an excellent place to go on an adventurous safari tour. It’s house to a few of the greatest chook watching spots within the Dominican Republic, in addition to an abundance of different wildlife together with monkeys, iguanas, and even crocodiles.
In your tour you possibly can count on to see loads of lush tropical vegetation and exquisite waterfalls cascading down from the mountain slopes. As you journey by means of the reserve, your information will be capable of level out attention-grabbing vegetation and animals alongside the way in which. You may additionally have an opportunity to identify a few of the uncommon species that dwell on this protected space.
Take a look at the native crafts and souvenirs on the Artisan’s Village in Sosúa
The Artisan’s Village in Sosúa close to Puerto Plata affords an excellent choice of native crafts and souvenirs. The village is house to a number of native craftspeople, who make handmade gadgets reminiscent of jewellery, leather-based items, wooden carvings, pottery, and different distinctive gadgets. You may as well discover quite a lot of Dominican souvenirs, together with hats, t-shirts, keychains, and postcards. You’ll want to take the time to discover all of the wonderful handicrafts and decide up the right memento.
Go deep-sea fishing and attempt to catch a few of the space’s considerable marlin, tuna, and wahoo
Deep-sea fishing in Puerto Playa is a tremendous expertise and the realm is thought for its abundance of marlin, tuna, and wahoo. There are numerous constitution fishing corporations who provide day journeys out to one of the best spots. You possibly can count on to catch quite a lot of species relying on the season and time of yr.
One of the best time to go deep-sea fishing in Puerto Playa is usually between November and Could, when the waters are at their warmest. Should you’re fortunate, you may even spot some whales or dolphins when you’re on the market! It doesn’t matter what kind of fish you’re on the lookout for, Puerto Playa has one thing for everybody.
Go rafting or kayaking on the Rio Yaque del Norte
The Rio Yaque del Norte in Puerto Plata is a well-liked spot for white water rafting and kayaking with rapids starting from Class I to Class IV. You possibly can select to do both self-guided or guided excursions, each of which can be found from native tour operators. The tour operators can present all the mandatory tools together with life jackets, helmets and paddles in addition to security briefings.
Go to the Columbus Aquapark
The Columbus Aquapark is an outside water park with quite a lot of sights, together with a lazy river, wave pool, and waterslides. The park additionally contains a full day of leisure and actions reminiscent of dwell reveals, dwell Merengue music, video games, and extra. Guests also can take pleasure in quite a lot of meals and drinks obtainable on the on-site restaurant. With its handy location simply off the principle freeway in Puerto Plata, it’s straightforward to achieve the Columbus Aquapark for a enjoyable time out with household or mates.
Take a day journey to the close by city of Cabarete
A day journey to the close by city of Cabarete in Dominican Republic is an effective way to expertise the native tradition and discover a brand new vacation spot. Situated on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, Cabarete is thought for its stunning seashores and vibrant nightlife. The city boasts a variety of actions, reminiscent of kiteboarding, windsurfing, and crusing, making it a great vacation spot for adventurers.
There are additionally loads of eating places and cafes within the space. You possibly can discover close by sights like Playa Encuentro seaside or take a ship journey to Sosúa Bay. With its gorgeous seashores, thrilling actions, and vibrant nightlife, Cabarete is unquestionably price visiting.
Go on a whale-watching tour to see humpback whales and different marine life
A whale-watching tour in Puerto Plata is an effective way to witness the wonders of humpback whales and different wonderful marine life. There are a number of operators providing excursions that depart from the port of Puerto Plata, permitting you to soak up the great thing about the ocean and its inhabitants.
These excursions sometimes final round 2-3 hours and embrace not solely the recognizing of humpback whales, but in addition dolphins, sea turtles and extra. Whether or not you select a big boat or a smaller vessel, it is possible for you to to rise up shut with these majestic creatures. In addition to offering a novel expertise, these excursions are additionally academic – your information will offer you attention-grabbing details concerning the animals that you just’ll encounter through the journey.
Take pleasure in an area all-inclusive seaside resort
1. Be Reside Assortment Marien – Situated in Puerto Plata, this all-inclusive seaside resort affords quite a lot of actions and facilities, together with a personal seaside, a number of swimming swimming pools, a number of eating places and bars, and plenty of leisure services.
2. Viva Wyndham Tangerine – Located proper on the gorgeous golden sands of Playa Dorada seaside in Puerto Plata, this all-inclusive resort boasts an array of eating choices, a full service spa and wellness middle, sports activities actions and extra.
3. Way of life Tropical Seashore Resort & Spa – Providing gorgeous views of the plush inexperienced mountains and white sandy seashores of Puerto Plata’s coast, this all-inclusive resort options an array of facilities that embrace 5 eating places and bars, a nightclub, two swimming swimming pools and far more.
4. Paradisus Puerto Plata Resort – This luxury all-inclusive resort affords its visitors an unforgettable stick with its eight eating places and bars, 5 swimming swimming pools, totally outfitted health middle and spa remedies.
Discover the Maimón area to the west of Puerto Plata
The Maimón area is thought for its stunning seashores, lush jungles, and distinctive wildlife. Guests can discover the native tradition and luxuriate in actions reminiscent of scuba diving, horseback using, zip-lining, and mountain climbing. The close by waterfalls are additionally a preferred vacation spot for guests to Maimón.
There are additionally many resorts on this space that cater to vacationers on the lookout for a calming getaway. Guests also can take a tour of the historic websites and monuments within the space, such because the Loma de la Cruz Church, inbuilt 1842. Different sights embrace El Choco Nationwide Park and Cueva del Puente Cave.
River Maimon, Dominican Republic 🇩🇴☁️
📸: pedromestres | IG pic.twitter.com/t9Qx6Iu9jQ— Caribbean Traveler (@CaribExplores) January 12, 2022
Soak up some tradition at Casa de la Cultura
Casa de la Cultura in Puerto Plata is a cultural middle that gives academic and cultural actions for the group. It affords lessons in theater, dance, music, portray, images, sculpture and extra. The middle additionally has an artwork gallery and hosts varied occasions all year long.
FAQ on Puerto Plata
Is Puerto Plata nicer than Punta Cana?
Should you’re making an attempt to resolve between a visit to Puerto Plata or Punta Cana, it’s powerful to say which is the “nicer” vacation spot – it actually comes down to non-public desire. Puerto Plata is positioned on the north coast of the island and is thought for its stunning seashores and historic landmarks. It’s additionally an excellent spot for journey seekers, with actions like zip lining and horseback using obtainable. The town can be identified for its colonial-style structure, which provides to its allure.
However, Punta Cana is positioned on the japanese tip of the island and is thought for its luxurious all-inclusive resorts and gorgeous seashores. If leisure is extra your factor, Punta Cana is a superb selection – it’s identified for its spas and golf programs, and is the right spot to relax and unwind.
Did Puerto Plata get hit by a hurricane just lately?
No, Puerto Plata was circuitously hit by a hurricane lately. The closest hurricane to make landfall close to Puerto Plata was Hurricane Irma in 2017, which made landfall on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic.
The place is the Puerto Plata airport and which airways fly there?
Puerto Plata Airport (Gregorio Luperón Worldwide Airport) is positioned in San Felipe de Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, simply east of Puerto Plata. Airways that fly to the airport embrace Avianca, Aeromexico, Air Canada, Air Europa, American Airways, Delta Air Strains, JetBlue Airways, United Airways and Volaris. The airport in Puerto Plata is about 10 miles from the cruise port. Relying on visitors, it normally takes about 20 to half-hour to drive between the 2 areas.
What time zone is Puerto Plata?
Puerto Plata is positioned within the Atlantic Customary Time Zone (AST).
The place Do Cruise Ships Dock in Puerto Plata?
Cruise ships owned by Carnival Corpiration dock on the Amber Cove Cruise Middle in Puerto Plata. The cruise middle is positioned roughly 15 miles from town. Most different cruise traces like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises will dock on the Taino Bay cruise port.
Conclusion:
Visiting Puerto Plata is an effective way to expertise the wonder and tradition of the Dominican Republic. The Puerto Plata area has a lot to supply with its gorgeous seashores, lush mountain ranges, vibrant nightlife, and scrumptious delicacies. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a calming seaside getaway or an adventure-filled exploration of the realm, there’s most likely one thing for you round Puerto Plata.
From buying in native markets to exploring historic websites and nature reserves, you’ll be capable of make some unbelievable recollections throughout your go to. Whether or not you’re visiting for just a few days or staying some time longer, Puerto Plata is certain to go away you with unforgettable impressions.
