Travel Tips
Cabarete
Sosua
Samaná
Paradise Island & The Mangroves
Puerto Plata
Jarabacoa
Monkey Jungle and Zip Line
Ocean World Adventure Park
Dudú Lagoon
Cabarete
Cabarete is a vibrant resort town on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. Known for its picturesque Cabarete Bay, the area is protected by a coral reef, creating calm waters perfect for various water sports. The breezy conditions on beaches like Cabarete and Kite Beach make it a haven for kitesurfing and other activities. North along the coast, Encuentro Beach is famous for its excellent surf breaks. The town’s main street, Calle Principal, is lined with restaurants and bars, offering a lively atmosphere near the waterfront.
Kite Beac Kite Beach, named for its ideal kitesurfing conditions, caters to both beginners and experienced riders. Its proximity to a reef creates flatter water near the shore and stronger waves further out, with minimal shore break. These conditions make it easier for novices to learn kitesurfing, as the flatter water simplifies body dragging and getting up on the board.
Cabarete Beach. Located at the heart of the town, Cabarete Beach is a prime spot for water sports enthusiasts. It's popular for kite surfing, windsurfing, laser sailing, and surfing, drawing a cosmopolitan crowd from around the globe. The beach's energetic vibe is complemented by the scenic beauty and excellent conditions for various activities. The beach is lined with restaurants and bars offering a lively atmosphere.
Sosua
Sosua is a vibrant and picturesque beach town located in the Puerto Plata province of the Dominican Republic, just about 4 miles (6.4 km) from the Gregorio Luperón International Airport. Known for its stunning beaches and rich history, Sosúa offers a variety of attractions and activities that cater to a wide range of interests.
Sosúa Bay: Renowned for its excellent diving conditions, Sosúa Bay attracts divers from around the world. The well-preserved coral reefs surrounding its beaches create an underwater paradise teeming with diverse fish species and intricate reef structures. The calm, sheltered waters also make it an ideal spot for snorkeling. During winter, the bay becomes a popular site for whale watching, offering visitors a chance to witness these magnificent creatures up close.
Playa Alicia: Also known as Waterfront Beach, Playa Alicia is a relatively new addition to Sosúa's coastline. This beach was formed naturally around 2002 after a storm caused sand to be deposited where there were once sheer rock cliffs. Today, Playa Alicia is celebrated for its beautiful sandy shore and tranquil environment. Scenic Spots Mirador Park: Located on the shore of Alicia Beach at the end of Dead End Street, Mirador Park is one of Sosúa's most iconic spots. It offers breathtaking views of the Amber Coast, particularly stunning at sunset when the sky is painted in vibrant hues of red and orange. This scenic spot is perfect for capturing memorable photographs and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Samaná
Samaná Peninsula, located on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, is a true hidden treasure of the Caribbean. Known for its unspoiled natural beauty, Samaná offers a stunning array of landscapes, from lush mountains and cascading waterfalls to pristine beaches and turquoise waters. It's no wonder that this region is often referred to as a paradise. One of the most unique aspects of Samaná is its blend of natural attractions. The area is home to the Los Haitises National Park, a protected area featuring dense mangroves, ancient caves with Taíno Indian petroglyphs, and a rich diversity of wildlife. The park's secluded bays and islets are best explored by boat, offering an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers.
Samaná is also renowned for its spectacular whale-watching opportunities. Each year, between January and April, thousands of humpback whales migrate from the frigid waters of the North Atlantic to the warm bay of Samaná to mate and give birth. This migration offers visitors a rare chance to see these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat. In addition to its natural wonders, Samaná boasts some of the most beautiful and untouched beaches in the Dominican Republic. Playa Rincón, considered one of the finest beaches in the world, is a secluded stretch of white sand and clear blue water that can be reached by boat or a scenic drive through the mountains. For those seeking adventure, the Salto El Limón waterfall provides a perfect excursion. A horseback ride or hike through the tropical forest leads to this impressive 52-meter waterfall, where visitors can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool at its base.
Although reaching Samaná requires a bit of effort, with a journey of about three hours from the nearest major city, the experience is well worth it. Whether you choose a day trip or a longer stay, Samaná promises a wealth of unforgettable experiences. You can customize your visit to include a mix of exploration, relaxation, and adventure, ensuring a trip that caters to your interests and leaves you with lasting memories of this Caribbean paradise.
Paradise Island & The Mangroves
Embark on a scenic journey from Cabarete to Punta Rucia, where adventure awaits at Paradise Island and The Mangroves (Cayo Arena). After a 2.5-hour drive through the Dominican countryside, board a boat in Punta Rucia and sail to Paradise Island. Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs or relax on the sun-soaked beach. Then, explore The Mangroves, cruising through winding waterways. Let nature's beauty enchant you on this unforgettable excursion.
Start your day early from Cabarete to beat the crowds at Punta Rucia and fully enjoy Paradise Island's pristine beauty. Don't forget your diving mask and snorkel for exploring the vibrant coral reefs. Pack a portable cooler with ice, Dominican rum, and snacks to elevate your island experience.
After returning from Paradise Island, savor a delicious meal at a local restaurant and take a refreshing swim at the nearby beach. Then, head back to Cabarete, filled with unforgettable memories of your adventure.
Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata, located on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, is a vibrant city renowned for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and captivating cultural attractions.
The city is home to a wealth of attractions, including the historic Fortaleza San Felipe, the Amber Museum showcasing the region's prized gemstone, and the iconic cable car ride to the summit of Pico Isabel de Torres, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Visitors can wander through the charming Victorian District, with its colorful houses and cobblestone streets, or unwind on the pristine beaches that fringe the city's shores.
With its blend of colonial architecture, natural wonders, and vibrant culture, Puerto Plata offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to explore the beauty of the Dominican Republic's north coast.
Jarabacoa
Rent a cozy 2-bedroom house with garden in Cabarete, a kitesurfing paradise. 5-minute walk to the beach, near Janet's Supermarket. Fully furnished with amenities like AC, internet, TV, washing machine, barbecue, gas cooker, and jacuzzi/pool. Dog-friendly. Secure area with maintenance services.
Rent a cozy 2-bedroom house with garden in Cabarete, a kitesurfing paradise. 5-minute walk to the beach, near Janet's Supermarket. Fully furnished with amenities like AC, internet, TV, washing machine, barbecue, gas cooker, and jacuzzi/pool. Dog-friendly. Secure area with maintenance services.
Monkey Jungle and Zip Line
Monkey Jungle sits snugly between Sosua and Cabarete, just 9 km along El Choco Road. It's a haven for squirrel monkeys and a hub of excitement with its 4500-foot zip line certified by ACCT. But what makes this place truly special is its heart: profits from the zip line and the sanctuary fund a free medical and dental clinic right on-site.
Once you're geared up and briefed by our guides, it's time to meet the stars of the show: the squirrel monkeys! They can't wait to greet you, sitting on your shoulder or head, and nibbling from special plates. It's the ultimate photo opportunity, set against the stunning backdrop of the Dominican Republic.
After the monkeys have had their fill of attention, they scamper back into the trees, leaving you with unforgettable memories and the knowledge that your adventure supports a great cause.
Ocean World Adventure Park
Visitors looking to fulfill their dream of swimming with dolphins can do so at Ocean World Adventure Park, the most complete entertainment complex in the Dominican Republic. Located in Cofresi Beach, just three miles west of Puerto Plata, this park offers a variety of marine experiences for both children and adults.
At Ocean World, guests can enjoy shows featuring sea lions and nurse sharks, explore an exotic bird area, and snorkel in an artificial coral reef aquarium teeming with hundreds of tropical fish. For those seeking more excitement, there's a giant slide that plunges you into an artificial swimming lagoon.
Additionally, the park features gift shops, merengue dance performances, and food tasting events, ensuring a fun and memorable visit for all.
Dudú Lagoon
Laguna Dudu is located in the north of the Dominican Republic, near the town of Cabrera, approximately two hours' drive east of Puerto Plata and one hour from Playa Grande. The park offers plenty of outdoor activities, surrounded by natural cliffs where you can swim in the crystal-clear water and snorkel. For the adventurous, there is a zipline that lets you jump straight into the water from a height of 10 meters (33 feet) into the deepest part of the lagoon.
Laguna Dudu isThe area is also home to several caves, where you can admire natural formations such as stalactites and stalagmites. A visit to Laguna Dudu can easily be combined with other beach activities at Playa Grande. This wide, two-kilometer-long (one mile) golden beach is known for its waves, making it a great spot for surfers. The beach is lined with numerous souvenir shops, bars, and seafood restaurants, offering excellent local specialties. The perfect palms and golden beach landscape at Playa Grande make it a favorite among photographers. located in the north of the Dominican Republic, near the town of Cabrera, approximately two hours' drive east of Puerto Plata and one hour from Playa Grande. The park offers plenty of outdoor activities, surrounded by natural cliffs where you can swim in the crystal-clear water and snorkel. For the adventurous, there is a zipline that lets you jump straight into the water from a height of 10 meters (33 feet) into the deepest part of the lagoon.