Dominican Republic resorts: where is the best place to go? Description, prices, reviews. Dominican Republic: which coast to choose for your holiday? The best resorts on the southern coast of the Dominican Republic
The slopes of Mount Isabel de Torres are rich in flora - about eight thousand species of plants grow here, almost a thousand of which can be found only on Dominican lands. Many of these species have been existing for several million years; such long-livers include, for example, a three-meter fern, whose dense thickets perfectly contributed to the atmosphere in the famous movie epic about dinosaurs.
The summit of Isabel de Torres is crowned by a statue of Jesus Christ with outstretched arms, located at an altitude of 2600 meters. This monument almost completely copies famous statue Christ the Redeemer from Rio de Janeiro - perhaps smaller in size. TO observation deck at the foot of the statue you can take a funicular; the view of the northern coast of the Dominican Republic from there will be an excellent basis for many vivid photographs!
Beaches of Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata once lived on smuggling, and its inhabitants were so successful in aiding and abetting pirates that spanish king ordered to wipe this center of evil from the face of the earth. Only in 1742 did the colonists Canary Islands reoccupied this place, rebuilding a city here, which to this day is full of unique charm thanks to its peculiar mixture of colonial spirit and Victorianism.
Tropical greenery, a wonderful climate and soft winds have created ideal conditions here for relaxation from the hustle and bustle. There are three independently developed resort centers here. Playa Dorada 5 kilometers from Puerto Plata - resort complex of 13 hotels that have their own oceanfront club with a golf course, restaurants, beaches, horseback riding. The small town of Sosua, 19 kilometers from Puerto Plata, offers wide choose souvenir shops, bars and all kinds of entertainment. Cabarete is a place for young people and water sports enthusiasts.
The “Amber Coast” of Puerto Plata, or, as it is also called, the “Amber Coast”, is widely known, where black amber - ambergris - is often found. By the way, here you can visit the Amber Museum, and also Fort St. Philip, Independence Park, Cathedral St. Philip, botanical garden, rum and chocolate factories, see the huge bronze statue of Christ. From the top of Monte Isabel de Toros, there is a breathtaking view of the ocean and the city.
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Cabarete Beach
Cabarete Beach is a continuous line 6 kilometers long, with pure golden sand, clear sea and tall palm trees.
Cabarete Bay is 2 kilometers long. In the Cabarete area there are also the beaches of Perla Marina, Seahorse Ranch, Encuentro, Punta Goleta, Kite Beach, and Playa Laguna.
The beaches of Cabarete are among the top ten beaches in the world ranking.
There is an excellent infrastructure for water sports: surfing, kiting and windsurfing, so many young people who prefer active recreation come here. The most significant month for tourists who enjoy water sports or just watching is February, when the National Open Windsurfing Championship takes place.
Playa Grande beach is one of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic. It is located in the north of the island in resort place- Playa Rio San Juan. According to Conde Nast Travel magazine, this beach is one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world.
Thanks to the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, this place is very popular among fans of windsurfing and sailing. Divers will also love the beach - there are underwater caves, coral reefs and even sunken ships.
There is a restaurant right on the beach where, if you wish, they will serve you a table right on the shore. Here you can try parrot fish, delicious shrimp, the freshest oysters and enjoy cocktails made right inside a pineapple or coconut.
Cofresi Bay
Cofresí Bay is one of the bays of the Caribbean. The bay was named after Roberto Cofresi, a pirate who buried his treasure in the area.
The bay has a wide but small beach with fine golden sand. This area is considered elite and is called Hacienda resort. The area has clear water, beautiful hills and coconut palm forests that attract people to the bay. a large number of tourists. Currently, about one hundred villas have been built on the banks of Cofresí. Visitors to the bay can purchase one of the houses or rent it for a while.
Weekly in Cofresí, parties with fireworks and various show programs are organized for vacationers.
The Ocean World water park is located next to the bay. In Cofresí Bay you can enjoy not only clean water and a wonderful view of the bay, but also visit cafes and restaurants offering to taste national cuisine. Ginger cakes and crab claws are popular dishes in Cofresí Pirate Bay.
El Dudu Cave
El Dudu karst cave is round lake, which is connected to another open body of water using two underwater rock passages.
The bottom of the lake is at a depth of 16 meters and is completely littered with tree trunks that have fallen from the slopes. It is interesting that the trees do not rot, but only become stronger over time - thanks to the fresh water saturated with limestone.
One of the passages is 50 meters long: it ends with an air pocket in which you can float. On the other side of the reservoir there are a couple of other underwater caves, 90 and 110 meters long - they come to the surface in a second lake called Lily.
All the numerous branches of the caves have long been studied by scuba divers, who like to dive in one lake and emerge in another. Freedivers also like to come here (diving underwater without scuba gear - holding their breath).
Village of Punta Rucia
Punta Rucia – fishing village, located in picturesque bay, which is protected from the sea by reefs. Near it there is an uninhabited island where tourists often sail. In Spanish, Rucia means “gray”, and Punta means “tip”, “nose”, which means that the sea in the village is gray due to small ripples. Near the village there is a lagoon where sea cows live, as well as caves with drawings of ancient Indians.
The village is famous for its seafood, so tourists here will definitely try freshly caught fish and other seafood.
The climate in the village, located near the border of Haiti, is special: here, they say, there are almost 360 sunny days per year and only here do cacti and trees grow, reminiscent of the African savannah.
The most popular attractions in Puerto Plata with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places Puerto Plata on our website.
More attractions of Puerto Plata
The resort area of Puerto Plata is one of the most attractive holiday destinations in the Caribbean, attracting about 600 thousand tourists annually. It is worth noting that the resort area includes not only the city of Puerto Plata, but also resorts such as Cofresí, Playa Dorada, Sosua and Cabarete. All of these resorts offer guests paradisiacal sandy beaches with tropical vegetation, warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as a good selection of 4- and 5-star hotels, excursions, shops, cafes, restaurants, casinos and nightclubs.
Old sea port Puerto Plata with its unique style of architecture is one of the best cities on the Amber Coast. The cradle of tourism in the Dominican Republic is located in Puerto Plata, and not in Punta Cana, because the Playa Dorada resort complex was built here in the 70s.
What is the sea like in Puerto Plata?
The resort area of Puerto Plata is considered one of the most popular in the Caribbean. This area is located on the Atlantic coast. Although it would not be a mistake to say that this resort area is located on the coast of the Sargasso Sea, it is still generally accepted that it is washed by the Atlantic Ocean. The ocean in the Puerto Plata area is always warm, although some tourists may find the water in the area cool for swimming between December and March.
Puerto Plata on the map of the Dominican Republic
Not all tourists know where the Puerto Plata resort is located, because until recently only a few Russian tourists had heard this name. Finding Puerto Plata on a map of the Dominican Republic is not difficult, because it Big City in the north of the island of Hispaniola.
As we said above, the Puerto Plata resort area includes not only the resort town of the same name, but also several small resorts located near it.
Playa Dorada is located 10 minutes east of the center of Puerto Plata, and many well-known hotels are concentrated in this area. Essentially, Playa Dorada is one huge complex for a holiday that includes more than a dozen beach hotels, having a common sand beach and an 18-hole golf course. Guests different hotels can meet in the evening at a casino or nightclub, and during the day they can meet at Playa Dorada Plaza, mall with many shops and a cinema.
The resort of Cofresí is also an enclave of several small hotels and residential communities, but it is located west of the city of Puerto Plata. Not far from it is small resort Maimon, in which you will find new resort hotels all-inclusive, popular among North Americans. The Maimon resort area is a place for those who want to enjoy quiet rest and relaxation.
Luperon Resort is about an hour's drive west of Puerto Plata. It is quite isolated, so is also ideal for lovers have a relaxing holiday V beautiful place. Nearby is La Isabela National Park, where there is a small museum with a collection of objects dating back to the first European settlement in the New World.
The famous surfing resorts of Sosua and Cabarete are located east of Puerto Plata, 30 and 45 minutes' drive respectively.
Distance from Puerto Plata to Punta Cana and Santo Domingo
The resort areas of Puerto Plata and Punta Cana are quite far from each other, so you are unlikely to have the desire to travel from one area to another.
The distance between Puerto Plata and Punta Cana in a straight line is 278 km, but if you go from one resort to another by road, then you will have to cover a distance of approximately 380 km.
The distance between the cities of Puerto Plata and Santo Domingo is much shorter - it is “only” 200 km.
How long is the flight to Puerto Plata from Moscow?
Puerto Plata is one of the most distant resorts to which direct flights are offered from Moscow. Currently, direct flights from Moscow to Puerto Plata are operated by the airline " North wind", which flies to this resort area once every 10-11 days. The flight time Moscow - Puerto Plata in this case is 11-13 hours.
Weather in Puerto Plata
The weather in the famous resort area in the north of the Dominican Republic is warm all year round, and the annual and daily temperature ranges in Puerto Plata are small. Unlike Punta Cana, Puerto Plata's slightly drier season is summer rather than winter, so it's no surprise that most tourists come to this resort area between May and August. This time of year in Puerto Plata is ideal for many water sports and beach holiday weather.
During the “cold” season (the period from November to April is so called here), the weather in Puerto Plata is also warm and characterized by low relative humidity. Rains occur a little more often at this time than in summer. The air temperature during the day is usually 26-29°C, and at night it drops to 20-22°C.
During the "hot" season (from May to October) daytime temperature generally fluctuates between 30-32° C, and at night it usually drops to 23-25° C. At this time, it is recommended to use light clothing, preferably made of cotton or other natural materials.
Puerto Plata, like virtually all tropical resorts, has a mosquito problem, especially in summer season. Mosquitoes usually appear after dark, so it is advisable to wear long sleeve shirts and trousers in the evening. It is very advisable to have repellent on hand.
Hurricane season in Puerto Plata officially runs from June 1 to November 30, but if you look at the statistics, most hurricanes occur in August and September. Puerto Plata is located off the main path of tropical cyclones in the Caribbean, so hurricanes often bypass this resort.
Puerto Plata Airport
Puerto Plata Airport is one of the largest in the Dominican Republic. This international Airport receives about 1 million passengers a year, including tourists from Russia. It is approximately 20 km from Puerto Plata city center and takes approximately 22 minutes by car.
Gregorio Luperon International Airport is conveniently located between the cities of Puerto Plata and Sosua, on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. Built in 1979 to promote tourism in the northern region of the country, the airport is capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft. aircraft, including B-747 and A-340, as its runway is 3081 meters long and 46 meters wide. The Puerto Plata Airport passenger terminal has an area of 27,075 square meters and is capable of handling up to 1,200 passengers per hour.
As befits an international airport, Puerto Plata Airport has a Duty Free store. True, this is a relatively small store with a modest selection of goods.
Beaches of Puerto Plata
It is no secret that many tourists go to the Dominican Republic mainly for the sake of relaxing on beautiful and photogenic beaches. Bavaro is considered the most beautiful beach in the Dominican Republic, but the beaches of Puerto Plata can also amaze you with their beauty. Near famous city in the north of the Dominican Republic you can find some of the last remaining beaches in the Caribbean, untouched by tourism. However, most tourists relax on the popular beaches of Playa Dorada, Cabarete and Sosua, which, despite the large number of vacationers, are always kept clean.
Below are the best beaches in Puerto Plata that are popular among locals and tourists.
Cabarete Beach
Kiteboarders and surfers should definitely visit Cabarete Beach. This best beach in the Puerto Plata area for sports. There are almost no “seals” here, and most of the vacationers are active young people. Cabarete Beach is known as the best place for surfing in the Dominican Republic, so here you will meet surfers from different countries peace.
Playa Encuentro
This beach will also appeal to fans of surfing or kiteboarding. Playa Encuentro attracts not only experienced surfers, but also beginners. This is not a busy beach with bars, restaurants and local vendors, but rather a fairly secluded beach with only a few board and kite rentals. Since the waves at Playa Encuentro are relatively low most of the year, it is better suited for beginners.
Playa Dorada
If surfing and kiteboarding are not your thing, then you should pay attention to Playa Dorada, which is considered one of the calmest beaches in the resort area of Puerto Plata. Despite the proximity to big city, the beach offers a calm atmosphere most of the time. There are water sports here, but the beach is still mostly visited by the “lazy” crowd. There are several local vendors selling their wares, but you won't even notice them unless you're interested in shopping. Almost the entire beach of Playa Dorada is divided between hotels, and tourists spend almost all their time on the beach of their hotel.
Playa Dorada Beach is quite beautiful, with bright blue water and lush palm trees. The proximity of this beach to Puerto Plata is a definite plus for those who want to spend some time exploring interesting city and shopping.
Cofresi Beach
Cofresí Beach is just as stunning as Playa Dorada and also invites you to just relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle. Cofresi is one of the most beautiful beaches in this resort area. There are plenty of sun loungers and vendors walking along the beach offering souvenirs, food and drinks. In general, Cofresí is an ideal place for those who want to relax by the ocean from morning to evening.
Sights of Puerto Plata
Many tourists, who at a certain point in time are bored with a hotel holiday, wonder what they can see outside the hotel, where they can go. The resort area of Puerto Plata is one of the leaders in the Dominican Republic in terms of the number of attractions. At the same time, the attractions of Puerto Plata are quite diverse; even for children there are many interesting places.
A park Entertainment Ocean World Adventure Park. Just west of the city of Puerto Plata there is an amusement park that includes a zoo and a marine park. It features the world's largest dolphin lagoon, shark interaction pool, tiger feeding area and bird area. In addition, Ocean World Adventure Park has a large artificial beach and a marina. As you may have guessed, this park is a great place for families with children.
Columbus Water Park. A fairly large water park by local standards with slides and pools is located about 10 km from Playa Dorada beach.
Fun City amusement park with go-karts. Also close to Playa Dorada is the Fun City amusement park, which attracts lovers of outdoor fun. Fun City opens in the afternoon and is open all evening.
Victorian architecture in Central Park. Puerto Plata differs from many other Dominican cities with its unique architecture. Here you will find about 150 houses and public buildings built in the Victorian style. Most of such buildings are located near the city's Central Park.
National Park Isabel de Torres. It is located on the top of a mountain and is a botanical garden that is considered one of the best in the Caribbean. You can take a cable car to the top and explore the park along winding paths through subtropical vegetation and numerous streams. Cable car open from 08:30 to 15:30 from Monday to Saturday.
Paradise Island. The drive to Paradise Island can take up to 2.5 hours, but it's worth it if you love gorgeous beaches. Paradise Island is popular among scuba diving enthusiasts and tourists looking to spend time in a beautiful place.
Amber Museum. It's hard to find a souvenir shop in Puerto Plata that doesn't sell amber products. Near Puerto Plata there are largest deposits amber in the world. Amber is fossilized tree resin that hardened millions of years ago. Often plants and insects were found in this resin. If you want to know more about this semi-precious stone, then you should definitely visit the Amber Museum.
Taino Art Museum. If you are interested in learning about the indigenous peoples of the Dominican Republic and their culture, then visiting the Taino Museum of Art should definitely be on your plans. Although the Taino Indians disappeared long ago, many modern Dominicans claim that they are the ancestors of these Indians.
This is an eco-tourist attraction located about half an hour from Puerto Plata. The area's many cascading waterfalls and pristine landscape make it an ideal place to test your physical abilities.
Fortress of San Felipe. A historic Spanish fortress looming over the entrance to the city's port. The fort was built in 1577 and was sometimes used as a prison. It is the oldest standing structure in Puerto Plata and the only example of colonial style architecture. In 1965, the fortress was turned into a museum, which now houses artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries, including cannons.
Brugal Rum Distillery. The largest distillery in the Dominican Republic, annually producing 1.5 million liters of white and dark rum. For guests at the plant there is free excursion, during which you can see how sugar cane is turned into a popular alcoholic drink. You can also purchase high-quality rums from the distillery store.
Duarte Road. A street where you can see many artists working on their original works of art.
Shopping in Puerto Plata
The city of Puerto Plata and surrounding areas contain rich deposits of amber, giving the area the name "Amber Coast". So don’t be surprised that in all souvenir shops, markets and city streets you will find beautiful necklaces, bracelets and other accessories made from real amber. For many tourists, shopping in Puerto Plata is associated with the purchase of amber products.
As in all Latin America, Puerto Plata has several colorful markets where you can not only buy local crafts and collectibles, but also learn about the basic customs of the locals. Puerto Plata also offers several large shopping centers for travelers who want to visit boutiques and specialty stores to choose elegant evening wear, beachwear or even exclusive jewelry. The main shopping centers in Puerto Plata are Plaza Turisol, Playa Dorada Mall and Plaza Isabela.
Playa Dorada Mall is an ideal place for shopping, especially for tourists who stay in one of the hotels hotel complex Playa Dorada. In Playa Dorada Mall you will find a cinema, bars and restaurants, pizzerias, jewelry stores, travel agencies, Internet cafes, casinos, souvenir shops and a children's playground.
Which is better: Puerto Plata or Punta Cana
As you probably already understood, Puerto Plata is an interesting and beautiful resort area with good hotels and beautiful beaches. But now it's time to compare it with the most popular resort in the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana.
Which is better: Puerto Plata or Punta Cana? As is often the case, each of these resorts has advantages and disadvantages.
Punta Cana is a very popular resort in the east of the Dominican Republic, and most tourists from Russia vacation here. This popularity has ensured that there are many companies in Punta Cana working with Russian tourists, so here you can easily buy excursions, order a photo shoot and even organize a wedding.
Punta Cana has a fairly large selection of hotels to suit every taste and budget; there are quite a few luxury hotels here, which Puerto Plata cannot boast of.
In turn, Puerto Plata boasts a large number of attractions, because it is a large city with a relatively long history. If in Punta Cana there is practically no place to walk outside the hotel, then the city of Puerto Plata offers a large selection of places suitable for walking. It is also worth noting that the resorts of Sosua and Cabarete, located near Puerto Plata, are the best places for surfing in the Dominican Republic.
Overall, Punta Cana seems to be the preferred option in most cases, but for surfers and those who want to explore on their own interesting places, Puerto Plata may be a more attractive holiday destination.
Puerto Plata: photos
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Map of resorts and beaches of the Dominican Republic
If you have not yet decided which resort to choose in the Dominican Republic, take a closer look at Punta Cana. The noisy and cheerful city is located in the center of the resort area of the same name in the southeast of the country. Couples and businessmen come here to relax.
Beach holiday. According to reviews, Punta Cana is one of the best resorts in the Dominican Republic. There are several areas here. In the center there is an urban area with an airport. A little further - fashionable area Cap Cana with expensive hotels and the more affordable area of Bavaro, where there are shops, a hospital, pharmacies and banks.
The coastline stretches for 32 km. The beaches of Bavaro are considered the best in the Dominican Republic. The shore is covered with white sand, the entrance to the water is gentle, and the swimming area is separated from the shore by coral reefs. Hotel beaches have the necessary infrastructure, but municipal beaches do not. In free places you usually won’t find changing cabins, toilets or showers.
(Photo © Mustang Joe / flickr.com / License CC0 1.0)
Things to do. Rich in Punta Cana undersea world, so diving is developed. The resort's fish restaurants are reputed to be the best in the country. In the vicinity there are two national parks and a marine reserve.
Prices. Most coastal hotels are 4-5*. On average, a double room costs from $80. It is much cheaper to live in a guesthouse - $25-35 per night.
Punta Cana in high season (winter):
(Photo © unsplash.com / @joelcasilla)
Where is the best place to relax in the Dominican Republic? If you are not limited by budget, we recommend going to the elite suburb of Punta Cana - Cap Cana. This is a young resort designed for wealthy clients.
Beach holiday. The coastline extends for 8 km and is covered with white, very fine sand. The beaches of Cap Cana are clean, with a gentle entrance to the water. Some of them belong to hotels. The most beautiful beaches are located in the southwest of the resort.
Things to do. Cap Cana has a modern port for 200 yachts and 200 boats, as well as excellent golf courses. Swim in the outdoor saltwater pools or visit the fitness center or spa. During your vacation, take an excursion to the Manati Nature Reserve and watch exotic birds at tropical island Cayo Levantado.
Prices. In Cap Cana the most high prices among other resorts in the Dominican Republic. There are five luxury hotels and a boutique hotel. They serve guests on an all-inclusive basis, so tours are expensive.
Cap Cana in high season (winter):
(Photo © booking.com / Green Village 03)
When asked where to go to the Dominican Republic for a holiday with small children, many answer unequivocally - to Boca Chica.
Beach holiday. One of the best resorts in the Dominican Republic is located in a natural lagoon and is reliably protected by a coral reef from waves and large predators. The beaches are covered with white powdery sand. The swimming area is shallow - no more than one and a half meters. 30 km from the resort is main city Dominican Republic - Santo Domingo, so on weekends the beaches of Boca Chica are crowded with vacationers from the capital.
Things to do. Popular with tourists water activities: diving, yachting, surfing and sea fishing. Take an excursion to Santo Domingo and visit the small tropical islands.
Prices. Accommodation is cheaper than in Punta Cana: there are no 5* hotels and many budget hotels 3-4*.
Boca Chica in high season (winter):
(Photo © booking.com / whala!boca chica)
Where to go to the Dominican Republic if you want a relaxing holiday? Tourists recommend Juan Dolio - this is a quiet resort in the Dominican Republic, compared to neighboring Boca Chica. Located on the coast Caribbean Sea, 50 km from the capital.
Beach holiday. The beaches of Juan Dolio are in no way inferior to others. Everything is as advertised: small White sand, turquoise water, rows of tall coconut trees. There are almost no waves near the shore, and the depth is small - 1.5-2 m. In some places, corals are located close to the shore, and there are fragments of them - take special shoes.
Things to do. Play golf or bowling, ride horses, go diving and snorkeling. Go see the sights of Santo Domingo: Aquarium Park, Columbus Lighthouse and Ozama Fort.
Prices. Juan Dolio - budget resort Dominican Republic The cost of a holiday there is approximately the same as in Punta Cana.
Juan Dolio in high season (winter):
(Photo © booking.com / Marbella Juan Dolio I)
Samana
Many people believe that the best place to relax in the Dominican Republic is at the Samana resort. It is located on a protected peninsula, far from large cities.
Beach holiday. Samana is called an ideal place for lovers of individual recreation, newlyweds and lovers of eco-tourism. Tourists enjoy the beaches in the southern and northern parts of the peninsula, as well as on the island of Cayo Levantado.
Things to do. Horseback riding excursions, jeeping, diving, snorkeling and deep-sea fishing are popular. Admire ancient rock paintings in deep caves, visit the 30-meter El Limon waterfall, watch dolphins and manatees. From mid-January to March you can see the migration of humpback whales.
Prices. Accommodation in 3-4* hotels will cost from $40 to $80, and a double room in a guesthouse will cost $20-30.
Samana in high season (winter):
(Photo © Einfach-Eve / pixabay.com)
A large recreation area is located in the north of the country, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. It unites three resorts at once - Playa Dorada, Cabarete and Sosua.
Beach holiday. The coastline is more than 100 km. Hotel beaches are equipped. The conditions here are ideal for water sports because the ocean waves are higher than in the Caribbean.
Things to do. It is better to go to this Dominican Republic resort for those who like to diversify beach activities with excursions and active recreation. In Puerto Plata, all attractions are located compactly. The coastal city has preserved the colonial style of the era of the conquerors - neat houses decorated with carvings, defensive structures and Catholic churches. Visit the ruins of Columbus's home, visit the Amber Museum and the Brugal Distillery.
If you like to be active, take the cable car to the top of Isabel de Torres. Take a windsurfing school, play golf and ride horses. Watch spectacular cockfights at the Gallistico Club.
Prices on vacation for northern resorts The Dominican Republic is slightly lower than Punta Cana.
Puerto Plata in high season (winter):
(Photo © booking.com / Playabachata Resort)
A large resort center is located in the southern part, between Punta Cana and the capital of the country. La Romana is considered one of the best Dominican Republic resorts in the Caribbean.
Beach holiday. Tourists like silence and cleanliness. Shady coconut groves grow on the shore, and hotels have excellent beach infrastructure.
Things to do. The main entertainments are tennis, golf, diving, spearfishing, fishing, yachting, horse riding and jeeping. Tourists are in demand for excursions to the city of artisans and artists of Altos de Chavon and boat trips to the islands of Saona and Catalinita. Visit Central Park, admire the City Hall building and the ancient Catholic Church of Santa Rosa de Lima.
Prices. The cost of a holiday in La Romana is the same as in Punta Cana. For independent budget holiday choose 3* hotels - accommodation costs $50-80 per night. Guesthouses are even cheaper - $30-40.
La Romana in high season (winter):
(Photo © booking.com / Luxury Bahia Principe Bouganville)
Determining which Dominican Republic resort is better is not easy. According to reviews, an unusual option is a holiday in the capital of the country.
Beach holiday. The city has a rocky coastline and no beaches. Swimming spots are located around Santo Domingo - Boca Chica and Juan Dolio. They are conveniently accessible by public transport. Locals and tourists also enjoy the picturesque sandy beach of Guayacanes.
Things to do. Santo Domingo is the first city of the New World, which was founded by Europeans at the end of the 15th century. Today it is the cultural and economic center of the country. Most of the city's monuments and museums are concentrated in the so-called “Colonial Zone”.
Connoisseurs of architecture and history love to relax in the capital. Santo Domingo is a favorite among shopping fans, as there are many markets, shopping centers and boutiques here. If you want to see natural attractions, go to the Three Eyes Cave, the National Botanical Garden, the Zoo, Mirador Suri and Enriquillo Parks.
Prices in the capital of the Dominican Republic, prices are no higher than in other popular resorts in the country, and there is a greater choice of inexpensive accommodation.
Santo Domingo in high season (winter):
(Photo © booking.com / Catalonia Santo Domingo)
Best resorts The Dominican Republic receives the most flattering reviews from tourists from around the world. Holidays on the coast of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean are ideal for anyone who is not afraid of long flights and relatively high prices.
According to reviews, a universal place for tourists with different needs is Punta Cana. Youth groups and families with small children prefer Boca Chica or La Romana. Those who want to spend their holidays alone come to the Samana Peninsula. Whatever the choice, at any resort in the Dominican Republic you can count on clean beaches, comfortable hotels, water activities and interesting excursions.
Introductory image source: © Playabachata Resort / booking.com.
The province of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata, is comfortably located in its northern part and is known for its history since the time of Columbus. This resort is famous for its warm tropical climate, gentle sea, luxurious white sand beach, clear coastal waters and a huge selection various types active rest. The area is rich in deposits of black amber, which is why the name Puerto Plata itself translates as “amber coast”.
Airport
"Gregorio Luperon" International Airport) - Puerto Plata International Airport, located 15 km from the resort. The airport has everything necessary for travelers: an ATM, restaurants, a mother and child room, Duty Free and other services.
Nature
The nature of the resort is very different from the nature of Punta Cana. Puerto Plata is located at the foot of the mountain and is surrounded by green groves, flower beds and parks. Extraordinary mountain landscapes prevail here. There is a tourist area near Puerto Plata Playa Dorada with separate infrastructure and features. The resort has been repeatedly awarded a certificate for the purity of the water and the high level of service. Travelers have a well-developed infrastructure, an excellent sandy beach, a world-famous golf course, restaurants and all kinds of entertainment at their disposal. Puerto Plata also consists of such popular holiday destinations as Cabarete And Rio San Xyan. They are located along the coast, the length of which is more than 100 kilometers.
Cabarete- it is small picturesque resort in the Dominican Republic, ideal for tourists who prefer active view recreation and water sports. Every year the World Windsurfing Tournament is held here, as well as the Cabarete Race Week, where some of the best windsurfers from around the world compete. Holidays in this picturesque place are distinguished by well-developed infrastructure, all kinds of entertainment, beautiful seascapes, favorable climate, magnificent beaches with clean golden sand. Nearby is El Choco National Park, which amazes with its diversity of tropical plants and unique fauna. At the resort you can explore caves, visit beautiful lagoons, underground lakes and boat rides.
In the northern part of the Dominican Republic, an hour's drive from Cabarete is located small town Rio San Juan, which has preserved the amazing atmosphere of a small quiet town. It is in demand among lovers of secluded relaxation and surfers. The Gris Gris Lagoon is located in Rio San Juan. It is truly attractive and amazing fairy world, where secluded caves and ponds with crystal clear and fresh water. Turtles and a wide variety of fish live here. Mangroves along the shores of the lagoon with roots extending under the water are the home of a huge number of birds.
Attractions
In the southwestern part of the resort of Puerto Plata rises the famous Mount Isabel de Torres (Monte Isabel de Toros). A trip there by cable car will make indelible impression. From above, a magnificent, breathtaking and evocative panorama of the city and the coast opens. There you can also stroll along botanical garden and see a copy of the world famous statue of Christ in Brazil, made of bronze.
The main attractions of Puerto Plata: Independence Park, the Amber Museum, Fort St. Philip (1540), the Cathedral of St. Philip, as well as factories for the production of chocolate and the pirate drink - rum.
Puerto Plata resorts offer their guests a wonderful holiday without the hustle and bustle, as well as luxurious beaches with golden sand, protected areas with pristine nature, a huge selection of different types of outdoor activities, delicious national cuisine, the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of the country by visiting its attractions, of which there are plenty.
Puerto Plata is a place that has been gaining tourist popularity over the past few years. This is not surprising, because this resort has many gorgeous beaches, and also, unlike other places in the Dominican Republic, it is quite safe for relaxation. What can I say, I fell in love with Puerto Plata as soon as I saw its landscape from the airplane window.
And now I will try to tell you about this wonderful resort in every detail. I hope that I can make you fall in love with Puerto Plata just like I did.
How to get there
The distance from Moscow to Puerto Plata is 9,298 km, from St. Petersburg - 8,714 km. Due to the great distance from Russia, the only way to get to the resort is by air. There are no direct flights from Russian cities. To get to your destination, you will have to fly with at least one transfer.
In the next section I will tell you in more detail how you can get to Puerto Plata from Moscow and St. Petersburg.
By plane
From Moscow
Who flies:
From Saint-Petersburg
How to get from the airport to the center
Most flights land at Puerto Plata's La Union International Airport (POP), also known as Puerto Plata Gregorio Luperon Airport.
From here you can get to the city center using:
- bus. This method is perfect for a budget tourist, because... travel will cost approximately 2 USD per person. The fare is paid to the driver upon entering the bus. Spacious and comfortable buses run approximately every 15 minutes, starting at 05:00, with the last bus leaving around 23:00. The journey to the city center will take approximately half an hour. The bus stops near the central park of Puerto Plata. The landmark is the Church of St. Philip. The stop is located next to the airport, ask any airport employee, and he will be happy to tell you. We didn’t travel by bus, so I can’t indicate specific points on the map.
- Taxi. The minimum cost of a trip by economy class taxi is 15 USD, the travel time from the airport to the center of Puerto Plata will be approximately 20 minutes. It is best to book a taxi in advance, as the drivers who stand at the exit from the airport will charge you a significantly higher amount.
- car rent. You can also rent a car at the exit from Puerto Plata Airport. You can see how much it will cost you, and also book the car you need in advance, for example. In my opinion, if you have the funds, this is the best option: it’s safe and you can enjoy tropical views.
Clue:
Puerto Plata - time is now
Hour difference:
Moscow 7
Kazan 7
Samara 8
Ekaterinburg 9
Novosibirsk 11
Vladivostok 14
When is the season? When is the best time to go
Whenever you go to Puerto Plata, it is always very warm here, so the resort is equally attractive to tourists at any time of the year. As such, there is no tourist peak here during a certain period.
The coldest period occurs in January-March, the average daily temperature does not fall below +26.8 °C, and the warmest is July-August, the average daily temperature at this time is +31.1 °C.
In my opinion, Puerto Plata is a holiday destination accessible all year round. You can enjoy tropical fruits here every day throughout the calendar year, and Atlantic Ocean(washes from the North) and the Caribbean Sea (washes from the South) are always equally welcoming.
Puerto Plata in summer
Puerto Plata is a great place to vacation in the summer. Although there are quite a lot of tourists here, there are no crowds anywhere. Most of the vacationers I met were Americans; our compatriots were also present, but in small numbers; I also saw Spaniards.
I think it's worth noting that the summer months are considered the windiest. Wind gusts at this time reach 5.6 m/s, when usually when viewing the weather forecast for any other months in Puerto Plata, you will see that the wind is so insignificant that it is indicated as 0 m/s. 
The wind does not interfere with rest in any way, the only thing to take into account is that in windy weather the skin burns quite quickly, and you can easily not notice it. I advise you to apply sunscreen with a high SPF level in advance, and then you can truly enjoy your vacation.
Puerto Plata in autumn
In autumn, the wind subsides, but it is in the autumn months that the maximum amount of precipitation occurs. In November, the number of rainy days reaches 7, and the showers here are very strong, although short-lived. If you get caught in this kind of rain, get wet to the skin.
Is this a good time to travel? My answer is yes! Despite the fact that autumn is the rainy season, the rains end so quickly that they cannot ruin your vacation. In addition, it is in autumn that the sea is warmest here.
As for the average temperature in autumn:
- in September the air temperature is +31.3 °C, the water temperature is +29 °C;
- in October the air temperature is +30.9 °C, the water temperature is +29.1 °C;
- in November the air temperature is +28.7 °C, the water temperature is +28.4 °C.
Puerto Plata in spring
A trip to Puerto Plata in the spring is no less attractive than in the summer or autumn. There is practically no wind, rainy days pass, the air and water temperatures are slightly lower than in autumn, but quite comfortable.
Average temperature in spring:
- in March, the air temperature is +27.2 °C, the water temperature is +26.1 °C;
- in April the air temperature is +28.6 °C, the water temperature is +26.5 °C;
- in May the air temperature is +29.3 °C, the water temperature is +27 °C.
Puerto Plata in winter
Winter Puerto Plata is a great place to come and where you can warm up from our long Russian winter. Warm ocean, tropical air, chocolate tan - all this awaits you in the beautiful city in winter.
You can also come here to celebrate the New Year. Who said, that New Year- does it have to be snow and a Christmas tree? Maybe it’s worth celebrating the holiday in a more exotic way. During New Year's holidays the trip will cost more, but the impressions gained are worth paying a little extra. You can get acquainted with the current prices of tours for the New Year, for example,.
Clue:
Puerto Plata - monthly weather
What are the prices for holidays?
When planning a trip to the Dominican Republic, it will always be more economical to purchase a tour, but independent travel is often the most interesting.
Package tour
Travel voucher to Puerto Plata for two, including flights, transfers and accommodation in a three-star hotel with all inclusive meals, will cost approximately 2,586 USD (150,000 RUB) for two. Another about 1,000 USD (58,000 RUВ) should be taken with you for entertainment.
Solo travel
Solo travel will cost at least 862 USD (500,000 RUВ) more. If you plan your vacation on your own, you will have to spend at least 2,078 USD (121,018 RUВ) on tickets alone; a room in a 3* hotel with breakfast will cost approximately 60 USD (3,500 RUВ) per day.
For food in a cafe, travel, excursions, entertainment, you need to take an additional at least 1,724 USD (100,000 RUВ) for two. Oddly enough, the most economical way would be to choose accommodation with an all-inclusive food system (often offered in a package tour); prices in local supermarkets are at the same level as in Moscow, and often even higher. The only cheap things here are fruit and local rum.
To summarize
Total, with a package tour, the total cost will be 3,586 USD (208,000 RUВ), with independent trip- 4,402 USD (255,316 RUВ). My calculations are, of course, approximate, but, according to my observations, a trip to Puerto Plata for 10 days will cost approximately this amount.
Clue:
Cost of food, accommodation, transportation and other things
Currency: Euro, € US Dollar, $ Russian Ruble, Rub Dominican Peso, RD$
Main attractions. What to see
Puerto Plata is a resort rich in attractions. No one will be bored here, no matter what your budget is, here you will definitely find something interesting for yourself. A more detailed description of all attractions can be found in the relevant sections below.
Top 5
Beaches. Which ones are better
The main tourist beaches of the city include the following:
The following 3 beaches can also be reached by taxi or car, but they are further from the center than the ones listed above and getting to them by car takes from 30 to 50 minutes, a taxi will cost 30-50 USD:
Churches and temples. Which ones are worth visiting?
Cathedral San Felipe
One of the most significant religious places in Puerto Plata is the only temple. It is designed in a colonial style and is located in the central square of the city:
Address: Calle Jose del Carmen Ariza.
Opening hours: daily - from 09:00 to 17:00.
The cathedral is small, but very bright. Entrance here is free, but before entering the cathedral you can meet local guides who will be happy to give you a tour in English or Spanish, and, of course, they will count on tips. The size of the donation is at your discretion. We did not turn to guides and enjoyed the architecture and interior decoration of the temple on our own.
In Puerto Plata there are no requirements for appearance temple visitors, but remember: if you want to be treated with respect, treat the place you are visiting accordingly and choose modest, appropriate attire.
In my opinion, Cathedral San Felipe deserves your attention no matter what religion you belong to. There is a sense of calm here, and I think the cathedral is a great place to get your thoughts in order.
Museums. Which ones are worth visiting?
Museo del Ambar
Opening hours: The park is open to everyone every day - from 09:00 to 18:00.
Parque Nacional Isabel De Torres
In my opinion, this is the best tropical park in the Dominican Republic.
It has a large area and you can spend several hours here.
As I mentioned above, you can only get to the park by cable car. The ticket price will be 8 USD. Some places offer excellent panoramic views of Puerto Plata. If you're lucky with the weather, from here you can see the whole city at a glance.
Be sure to take photographic equipment with you. Some of the most beautiful pictures are taken here. You can get to the funicular by taxi, the cost of the trip is about 10 USD, the travel time is about 10 minutes.
To save money, you can try walking from the center. The journey will be about 3 km and will take you approximately 40 minutes.
A Parque Independencia (Parque Central)
This park is the heart of Puerto Plata, and this is where you should start your acquaintance with the resort. I will tell you more about the park below.
Nearby Islands
Food. What to try
Read more about traditional Dominican food in the corresponding section of the review article on the Dominican Republic. I will say that I ate the most delicious food in Puerto Plata fast food In my life! Yes, it’s strange to go several thousand kilometers away and eat fast food, but that’s exactly what happened. At first glance, the fast food here is completely ordinary - burgers, French fries, deep-fried fish, beer and soda. But because everything is prepared from the freshest ingredients, the taste of this food seemed divine to me.
It is also worth noting that in any restaurant in Puerto Plata you can taste fresh seafood. Seafood is worth a try grilled shrimp. You can find this dish in any coastal cafe.
By the way, dinner in a budget cafe in Puerto Plata will cost from 15 USD for two, in a middle-class restaurant from 50 USD, in a gourmet restaurant from 100 USD.
Opening hours: Mon-Sat - 08:00-17:00. In fact, around 15:00 the market begins to wind down, so I recommend visiting it in the morning.
Here it is worth, for example, buying a coconut for 0.5 USD, while on the beach local traders will offer you the same nut for 2 USD. You can also buy bananas, watermelons, peppers, cucumbers and tomatoes here. Prices - from 1.5 USD per kg. The advantage of the market is that you can haggle a little here: not everyone will give up the price, but, nevertheless, for some products it will be possible to bring it down significantly.
As for local drinks, the Dominican Republic, like the resort of Puerto Plata itself, cannot be imagined without Barcelo and Brugal rum. I will tell you more about the nuances of purchasing it below.
Holidays
Annual Puerto Plata Cultural Festival
The celebration lasts for a week and is most often held in the third week of June. Please note that during the day it can be very hot, the air temperature rises above +30 °C. If you can't stand the heat and want to take part in the festival, don't worry, you can do it in the evening when the air temperature is more comfortable. After all, the festival lasts until late at night, and sometimes even lasts all night.
This event includes concerts, as well as, of course, dance performances, which anyone can take part in. Take my word for it, even if you are not a dancer, festival time is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and dance with local residents and other tourists for national motives. It's fun and a real pleasure.
Safety. What to watch out for
Although Dominican Republic is famous among our tourists as a country where pickpocketing and prostitution flourish, Puerto Plata can break this stereotype.
Here you can absolutely safely take a night walk along the coast without fear that someone will take your wallet or documents out of your pocket. Although I always go on vacation accompanied by a young man, it seems to me that Puerto Plata is also safe for girls without a male escort.
Things to do
Puerto Plata is rich in entertainment; here even the most sophisticated tourist will find something to his liking. Here you can learn to surf, dance and enjoy local drinks at the bar, and do some shopping at the local shopping center. I will tell you more about everything in the relevant sections below.
Extreme Sports
Kitesurfing
One of extreme species sports that you can do in Puerto Plata, for example, on El Chapparal beach at the kitesurfing school KITE LEGEND SCHOOL.
The school is suitable for beginners, and for those who have already tried kitesurfing, and even for extreme sports enthusiasts.
Lesson cost for 1 person:
- 3 hours - 210 USD,
- 5 hours - 340 USD,
- 9 hours - 594 USD,
- 14 hours - 840 USD.
The price of the lessons includes an individual instructor and a kite. Training takes place in your swimsuit, no additional clothing is provided.
Both adults and children are allowed to take part in the lessons, but children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Lessons are conducted in English and Spanish, but I was not lucky enough to meet Russian-speaking instructors here.
Opening hours: Mon-Sun - from 09:00 to 18:00.
Diving
For diving and snorkeling, go to school DIVA DOMINICANA.
Price - from 100 USD for 2 dives. The price of the dive includes equipment rental and instruction, which is conducted in Spanish, English, and Danish. There are no Russian-speaking instructors.
Persons over 16 years old are allowed to take lessons. From the school you will be taken towards Sosua Beach where you can dive and look at the underwater flora and fauna.
Opening hours: Mon-Sat - from 08:00 to 17:00, Sun - closed. You can view the offers and prices of the diving school.
Surfing
For surfing, head to Encuentro Beach in the Cabarete area. I recommend that you pay attention to Encuentro Surf School.
The school has lessons for beginners, advanced surfers, and avid surfers. Cost of classes:
- from 45 USD - for beginners,
- from 50 USD - for intermediate level,
- from 60 USD - for advanced level.
People of all ages are allowed to take part in the lessons, but I have not met children under 6 years old here. All children are admitted only if accompanied by an adult. Lessons are taught in Spanish and English.
Friends, you often ask, so we remind you! 😉
Flights- you can compare prices from all airlines and agencies!
Hotels- don’t forget to check prices from booking sites! Don't overpay. This !
Rent a Car- also an aggregation of prices from all rental companies, all in one place, let's go!
Anything to add?
