Ultimate Guide: Top Things to Do in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

This visit to the Dominican Republic was supported and arranged by the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism and Go Dominican Republic.

Puerto Plata, the birthplace of tourism in the Dominican Republic, captivates with its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, lush mountains, and verdant valleys. Home to the Caribbean's only aerial tramway and some of the country's earliest resorts, this destination offers endless discoveries.

A Brief History of Puerto Plata

Founded on January 2, 1494, near La Isabela just outside Puerto Plata, this was the first village established in the New World by Christopher Columbus. The city earned its name from the silvery shimmer of its coastal trees viewed from afar.

Street art in Puerto Plata

Dominican Republic Essentials

• Currency: Dominican Peso (RD$). Approximately RD$60 = $1 USD (rates fluctuate; check current exchange).
• Language: Spanish
• Drives on: Right

Top Things to Do in Puerto Plata

Explore Historic Puerto Plata on Foot or Bicycle

Centered around Parque Central, wander Victorian-style architecture, visit the cathedral, stroll narrow streets, or people-watch in the park. Prefer guided? Join a Puerto Plata city tour.

Ride the Teleférico or Hike Mount Isabel de Torres

Caribbean's sole aerial tramway ascends 800-meter Mount Isabel de Torres (hike if you're active). Summit views of Puerto Plata await, plus botanical gardens, a restaurant, and a replica of Rio's Christ the Redeemer .

Jumping into a cool swimming hole after a bike ride through the countryside

Bike or ATV Through Jungle Paths in Northern DR Countryside

Swim in hidden lakes, sip coconuts with locals, and traverse lush hills with Outback Adventures on electric bikes or ATVs. A highlight for adventure seekers.

Tour a Rum Factory

Caribbean rum fame shines in the DR. Visit Macorix House of Rum to learn production and taste local flavors like Coco Splash and Pineapple Rum.

Stargazing on Playa Dorada

Unwind on Playa Dorada or Playa Cabarete

Relax on these shores with gentle Caribbean waves.

Visit a Cigar Shop

DR rivals Cuba in cigars. Learn history, tobaccos, and try rolling your own.

Fort San Felipe

Free entry to this historic fort with informative audio guides.

More Exciting Activities

27 Waterfalls of Damajagua

Prime adventure day trip with dazzling cascades. Book tours here .

Monkey Jungle

Rescue center with free-roaming squirrel monkeys and zipline supporting the community.

Surf Lessons in Cabarete

Beginner-friendly waves at Cabarete Beach.

Horseback Riding

Trot Cabarete's dramatic coast. Try this beach tour.

Key Paradise

Tropical island escape: boat, snorkel, beach. Book here.

Snorkel and Dive

Rich corals offshore. See 2-tank dives or snorkel trips .

Casa Museo Gregorio Luperón

History buffs: knowledgeable guides and films.

The Amber Museum

On the 'Amber Coast,' featuring Jurassic Park-inspired specimens.

Cabarete Caves

Guided hikes revealing medicinal plants.

Where to Stay

Sunrise at Casa Colonial

Stayed at luxurious Casa Colonial Beach & Spa on Playa Dorada ($250+/night double). Budget picks:

• Backpacker: Hotel Central ($25/night double)
• Midrange: Blue Jacktar ($100/night double)

Search more on Booking.com.

Where to Eat in Puerto Plata

Appetizers at The Beach Club at Sea Horse Ranch

Lucia Restaurant : French-Caribbean fusion at Casa Colonial .

Casita Azul Victoria Bar & Grill : Caribbean classics in a Victorian home; try coconut mojito.

The Beach Club at Sea Horse Ranch : Oceanfront gourmet with sunset views.

Recommended Tours

Day tours for easy exploration:

27 Falls of Damajagua
Puerto Plata ATV
City tour & tram
Horseback beach
Gastronomy tour
Catamaran
Ocean World
Monkey Jungle zipline
Safari
Snorkeling
More tours .

Getting Around

Walk historic center; taxis/Uber for resorts. Motorbike taxis nearby (adventurous). Buses to other cities/Haiti . Airport 25 mins away.

Best Time to Visit

November–March: dry, ideal. April–July: warm, festive. Avoid August–October (hurricane season).

Safety

Lower crime than elsewhere; stay aware.

Traditional Carnival costumes in La Vega