Puerto Plata Travel Guide

What was once the last stop for ships sailing back to Europe is today primarily known as a place with all-inclusive resorts and affordable restaurants, bars and outlet shops.

Situated on the wave-battered Atlantic on the country's north shore, Puerto Plata is livelier and slightly cooler than places on the Caribbean shore. In addition to crowds of bargain-hunting tourists, you'll find surfers draped over their boards waiting for the next wave, vendors along the oceanfront promenade, El Malecón, peddling their wares, and retirees walking hand in hand, their feet crunching in the sand and silver hair reflecting the sunshine.  

But there's more to Puerto Plata that just budget-friendly resorts, rolling swells and American, Canadian and European expats lazing away their golden years. To the east is Sosúa, an emerging resort town that was founded by Jews fleeing Nazi Europe. Home to one the country's most beautiful stretches of sand, Sosúa Beach, a half-mile wide expanse tucked into a sheltered cove.

Then there's Cabarete, a town that made its name as the Caribbean's top windsurfing destination and as a lover's lane for single travelers. Cabarete has emerged as a hip surf spot with youthful energy and playground for those seeking sun, surf and nightlife.

Away from popular areas, Puerto Plata's lush green landscape conceals many still-raw areas untouched by mass tourism and waiting to be explored.

Where to Go in Puerto Plata