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Puerto Plata
A historic port on the Amber Coast, with a Spanish fort, waterfalls and kitesurfing beaches
A historic port on the Amber Coast, with a Spanish fort, waterfalls and kitesurfing beaches
Built by the Spanish in the 16th century to defend the harbour, the fort stands at the end of the Malecón with a small museum.
Photo: CareAhLine, CC0
About 30–40 minutes away, guided groups climb up a river canyon, then jump and slide down natural pools. How many falls are open depends on water levels.
Guides, helmets and life jackets are provided and required.
Photo: Funcheta, CC BY-SA 4.0
About 30 minutes east, this laid-back town is a well-known kitesurfing and windsurfing centre with beachfront bars.
Photo: Alex Proimos, CC BY 2.0
A sheltered bay with calm water and snorkelling, about 20 minutes from Puerto Plata.
Photo: Scotia, CC BY 3.0
Try la bandera, sancocho (meat stew), fried fish with tostones and fresh fruit juices.
Malecón and Cabarete beachfront restaurants are popular; local comedores are cheaper.
Gregorio Luperón International Airport is about 20 minutes from the city. Buses run from Santo Domingo (about 3.5–4 hours) and Santiago. All air travellers must complete the free online e-ticket form before check-in. The US$20 departure tax is included in airfares.
Taxis, gua-guas (minibuses) and rental cars link the coastal towns.
The Dominican Republic uses the peso (DOP). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but paying in pesos is usually cheaper. Many visitors stay at all-inclusive resorts.
Prices are approximate; check current rates.
History, waterfalls and beaches.
Visit Fortaleza San Felipe, the amber museum and the central park, then walk the Malecón.
Climb and slide down the 27 Waterfalls.
Snorkel at Sosúa and watch the kitesurfers in Cabarete.
The teleférico is closed until a new system opens, planned for 2028.
Hurricane season runs from June to November.
Complete the online e-ticket before your flight.
Cabarete is windiest in the afternoons and in summer and winter peaks.
Quick answers for planning time in Puerto Plata.
No; it closed in June 2024 and a new system is planned to open in early 2028.
A series of river falls at Damajagua that you climb and slide down with a guide.
About 30 minutes by road.
Yes, all air travellers must complete the free online form.
December to April.
Planning a wider trip? Our Dominican Republic travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.