Top reasons to visit Puerto Plata
- Stunning Beaches: Puerto Plata features beautiful beaches like Playa Dorada, perfect for relaxation and water sports.
- Rich History: Explore historical sites such as Fort San Felipe, showcasing the area's colonial past.
- Vibrant Culture: Experience local traditions, music, and dance that reflect the Dominican way of life.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a variety of attractions, from adventure parks to water sports suitable for all ages.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxurious resorts to cozy hotels, catering to every traveler's needs.
Find great hotels in Puerto Plata
In Puerto Plata, you'll discover a diverse selection of accommodations ranging from luxurious resorts to comfortable hotels, perfect for families, adventure seekers, and couples looking for a romantic getaway. With stunning ocean views and a variety of amenities, these top hotels and resorts in Puerto Plata cater to every traveler's needs, ensuring a memorable vacation experience in this beautiful Dominican destination.
- Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada - All Inclusive: Nestled along the stunning coastline of Puerto Plata, Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada is a 4.5-star resort designed for families and beach lovers. This all-inclusive haven boasts a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, reflecting its commitment to guest satisfaction. With direct beach access, guests can enjoy a plethora of activities including kayaking, aerobics, and entertainment programs. Families are well catered to with amenities such as a children’s pool, playground, and supervised childcare. Dining options are plentiful, featuring unlimited food and drink through buffet and à la carte services, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxing family vacation.
- Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort & Spa All Inclusive: This 3-star all-inclusive resort offers an adventurous getaway for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Puerto Plata. With a variety of recreational activities available, including surfing, windsurfing, and fishing nearby, guests can immerse themselves in the local watersports scene. The resort features unlimited food and drink options, including a buffet and a la carte dining. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site facilities, while families can enjoy the children’s club that ensures younger guests are entertained. The direct beach access allows for sun-soaked days by the ocean, making it a lively spot for adventure-seeking vacationers.
- Playabachata: Playabachata is a 4-star all-inclusive resort that invites guests to unwind in a serene beach setting. With natural hot springs nearby, this accommodation offers a unique twist for those looking to relax and rejuvenate. The resort features direct beach access, allowing for leisurely strolls along the shore. Guests can indulge in unlimited food and drinks throughout their stay, creating a stress-free environment. Perfect for beach enthusiasts, Playabachata provides a tranquil escape with a focus on relaxation and natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for a soothing vacation experience.
Where to stay in Puerto Plata
Experience the tropical paradise of Puerto Plata, where stunning beaches and vibrant city life blend seamlessly. This family-friendly destination offers unforgettable adventures, from the picturesque city harbor to the lush surroundings of Puerto Plata province. Whether you're relaxing on the sandy shores or exploring nearby attractions, Puerto Plata promises a memorable vacation filled with diverse vibes and activities for everyone.
- Playa Dorada: Nestled along the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Playa Dorada is a vibrant neighborhood known for its stunning beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. With a steady flow of visitors year-round, this area peaks in March and during the summer months of July to August. Travelers flock here to enjoy outdoor activities like golf at the renowned golf courses and spend leisurely days at the beach. The proximity to local landmarks such as historical sites and picturesque islands adds to its charm, making Playa Dorada a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration.
- Cofresi: Located within the Puerto Plata region, Cofresi is a quaint village that offers a unique blend of beach relaxation and cultural experiences. While visitor numbers remain consistent throughout the year, the peak seasons coincide with March and the summer months. Cofresi is popular among families and business travelers alike, offering recreational parks and shopping centers for leisure and convenience. Its nearby attractions, including historic forts and beautiful beaches, provide a rich backdrop for exploring the local history while enjoying the sun and surf.
- Costa Dorada: Situated close to Puerto Plata, Costa Dorada is a delightful neighborhood that invites visitors with its beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational opportunities. While not overly seasonal, this area sees a surge in travelers from December to February. Families and outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Costa Dorada for its golf courses and lush landscapes. The nearby water features and wetlands enhance the natural beauty of the area, offering serene spots for relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers.
Things to do in Puerto Plata
Shopping
In Puerto Plata, visit the Ocean World Marketplace for unique souvenirs and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out the Plaza Tropical, located 19km away, featuring a variety of shops and local vendors for a more extensive shopping experience.
Recreation
Experience tranquility at The Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort’s spa, offering massages and rejuvenating treatments surrounded by tropical gardens. For outdoor fun, visit Cofresi Beach for sunbathing, water sports, and vibrant nightlife just a short distance away.
At the Casa Colonial Beach & Spa, indulge in personalized wellness treatments and enjoy the serene beach atmosphere. Nearby, explore the lush trails of El Choco National Park for hiking and nature observation, immersing yourself in the local flora and fauna.
Relax at the Spa at the BlueBay Villas Doradas, where you can unwind with holistic therapies and beachfront yoga sessions. Afterward, take a scenic ride on the Teleférico cable car to Mount Isabel de Torres for panoramic views and lush gardens.
Adventure
In Puerto Plata, explore the stunning waters of the Caribbean while kite surfing at Cabarete Beach, an ideal spot for thrilling water sports. Experience the breathtaking views from the top of Mount Isabel de Torres, accessible by cable car, offering an exhilarating ride and panoramic scenery.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Puerto Plata is vibrant and diverse. Start with a lively atmosphere at Ocean World, where entertainment meets the sea. For a more relaxed vibe, check out the bars along Calle Pedro Clisante, offering a mix of music and local flavors to enjoy the evening.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Puerto Plata
To save money during your trip to Puerto Plata, visit from September to November when prices are lower, and book your hotel 1-3 months in advance for the best rates. Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most expensive. Utilize public transport options like buses for affordable travel, and enjoy free attractions like Malecón De Puerto Plata. Consider booking through Expedia for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities, and check for last-minute offers to snag great deals.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Puerto Plata are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January to February and April, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Puerto Plata about 1-3 months out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Puerto Plata is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Puerto Plata is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will show you sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel reservation in Puerto Plata with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata offers a fantastic vacation experience with its stunning beaches, family-friendly activities, and rich history. Visitors can explore popular attractions like Playa Dorada and the historic Fort San Felipe, while enjoying the vibrant culture and outdoor adventures the area has to offer. Whether you're looking to relax by the beach or immerse yourself in local heritage, Puerto Plata has something for everyone to enjoy.
- Malecón De Puerto Plata: Stroll along this vibrant street that showcases the lively spirit of Puerto Plata. Lined with palm trees, local shops, and eateries, the Malecón offers a perfect blend of city vibes and coastal charm, making it ideal for people-watching and enjoying the sunset.
- Fort San Felipe: Explore this historic fort that dates back to the 16th century, reflecting the rich culture and history of the Dominican Republic. With its impressive architecture and scenic views of the ocean, Fort San Felipe invites visitors to step back in time while soaking in the cultural significance of the area.
- Pico Isabel de Torres: Embark on an adventurous hike or take a cable car ride to the summit of this iconic mountain. Offering breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities, Pico Isabel de Torres is a fantastic spot for nature enthusiasts and those seeking panoramic views of Puerto Plata.
Best time to go to Puerto Plata
The best time to visit Puerto Plata can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Puerto Plata falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Puerto Plata falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Puerto Plata
Traveling to Puerto Plata is convenient with several nearby airports. Puerto Plata (POP-Gregorio Luperon Intl.) is the closest, located 14km from the city. Excellent hotel options include The Ocean Club, a 5-star resort 5km away, and Casa Colonial Beach & Spa, 8km away. Santiago (STI-Cibao Intl.) is another option, situated 45km from Puerto Plata, with notable hotels like Hodelpa Garden Court and Hodelpa Gran Almirante Hotel & Casino. Lastly, Samana (AZS-El Catey Intl.) is 117km away, offering hotels such as Viva V Samana and Sublime Samana. Each airport provides various transportation options to ensure a smooth journey to your accommodations.