Step back in time at Puerto Plata's Centro Histórico, where colorful Victorian buildings line cobblestone streets. The imposing San Felipe Fort stands guard over the Atlantic coastline. Inside the 16th-century Amber Museum, golden treasures glow within a historic villa. Wander through the neighborhood to discover St. Philip the Apostle Cathedral and Independence Park. The nearby Malecón promenade offers ocean views and seafood dining options. Traditional merengue venues and Dominican eateries provide an authentic taste of local culture.
El Pueblito captures Dominican culture in a charming Mediterranean-style village just minutes from Puerto Plata's beaches. Cobblestone pathways wind between whitewashed buildings where local artisans craft pottery, jewelry, and textiles. Live merengue music fills the air as visitors explore boutique shops selling amber and handwoven goods. The central plaza hosts cultural performances that showcase traditional Dominican dance and music. Nearby attractions include Playa Dorada beach, a scenic golf course, and the Puerto Plata Cable Car. Most visitors arrive by taxi for a day trip filled with authentic cuisine and artistic discoveries.
Costambar combines the best of Dominican beach living with resort amenities in a relaxed gated community. Golden sands stretch along the calm Caribbean waters while palm trees sway overhead. The neighborhood offers a more laid-back alternative to Puerto Plata's busy center. Los Mangos Golf Course provides a green retreat for those seeking recreation beyond the beach. Visitors can easily access nearby attractions like Fort San Felipe and the Museum of Taino Art. The community's beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood and Dominican classics with stunning ocean views.
Los Domingues offers an authentic slice of Dominican life away from Puerto Plata's tourist hotspots. This quiet residential neighborhood reveals daily Dominican culture through corner stores, family eateries, and friendly locals. Children play in the streets while neighbors chat on their stoops. Simple guesthouses and budget accommodations make this area ideal for travelers seeking value. The neighborhood serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions like Isabel De Torres National Park. Local comedores dish up hearty Dominican meals at prices that won't break the bank.
Playa Dorada is Puerto Plata's premier beach resort complex, offering golden sands and clear Caribbean waters. The gated community features all-inclusive resorts alongside a championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones. Plaza Dorada adds shopping and dining options for visitors seeking sun-soaked relaxation. Within the manicured grounds, you'll find organized beach activities from snorkeling to catamaran trips. Resort entertainment includes live music and themed parties. The tranquil setting balances tourist amenities with tropical beauty, making it perfect for those wanting convenience without venturing far.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Puerto Plata
Playa Dorada
8.6/10 (3,731 reviews)
Playa Dorada captivates with its pristine golden sands and turquoise waters along Puerto Plata's coastline. Enjoy water sports, golf, or simply unwind at one of the elegant beachfront resorts.
Photo by Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic
Open Photo by Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic
Malecón De Puerto Plata
8.6/10 (1,095 reviews)
This vibrant coastal promenade offers spectacular Caribbean views alongside rhythmic crashing waves. Savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants or visit during the colorful Puerto Plata Carnival celebrations.
This 16th-century Spanish fortress once protected Puerto Plata from pirates and now houses colonial artifacts. Climb to the top for breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views while exploring original cannons and chambers.
Playa Costambar enchants with golden sands and clear turquoise waters perfect for tranquil swimming. Explore nearby coral reefs before savoring fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants with ocean views.
Ascend Pico Isabel de Torres in the Caribbean's only aerial cable car for breathtaking views of Puerto Plata. At the summit, enjoy a botanical garden and Christ the Redeemer statue similar to Rio's famous landmark.
Playa Grande dazzles with miles of golden sand framed by lush jungle and Atlantic waters. Swim in its gentle waves, snorkel near the reef, or savor fresh seafood from local vendors along the shore.
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Cofresi Beach during your travels in Puerto Plata? Discover the lively bars and entertainment choices in this relaxing area.
Robert Trent Jones Sr.'s masterpiece features five ocean-view holes amid Caribbean splendor. Enjoy wide fairways and strategic bunkers while your caddie navigates this championship course within Playa Dorada resort.
"A nice hotel, very clean. Very friendly staff. Big rooms, high ceiling, A/C. Overall, this place deserves 5 stars but the restaurant, really drags this hotel down. Extremly long wait to receive our meals, cold. 45 minutes to 1 hour to wait for breakfast. Also, internet did not reach all the bed rooms which was annoying. Not major but still something to mention. Besides that, everything this hotels brings up is great"
"We had a wonderful stay! The host and his companion were absolutely amazing, very welcoming, and attentive to our needs. They took us to Costambar, where we had a fantastic time and truly enjoyed the experience. The chef was also excellent, and breakfast was delicious. Everyone went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and well taken care of. We really appreciated the hospitality and would definitely recommend staying here. We would love to come back again!"
"Food was not the greatest, paid for a dinner by the beach which I paid $180 food was terrible and service was even worse. Bedroom was outdated and bathroom was terrible.. shower wouldn't even work and had a water leak in room..most of the staff were nice but our server for our dinner at the beach was terrible. Power went out a few times.. would I stay there again or recommend it absolutely not"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
For a delightful shopping experience in Puerto Plata, explore local markets for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, Colinas Mall, located 35.4km away, and Bella Terra Mall, 37.0km away, offer a variety of shops and entertainment options in a vibrant atmosphere.
Recreation
Experience the stunning Playa Dorada Golf Course, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst picturesque landscapes. For an energetic day, visit Estadio Cibao for thrilling sports events. Alternatively, unwind at Cinemacentro Cibao, perfect for family entertainment and romantic movie nights.
Adventure
The Puerto Plata Cable Car offers breathtaking views as you ascend to the mountain station, perfect for an adventurous outing. For adrenaline seekers, Fun City provides exhilarating karting experiences, while Laguna SOV waterpark promises a fun-filled day with thrilling slides and family-friendly entertainment.
Nightlife
In Puerto Plata, enjoy vibrant nightlife at venues like Ocean World Adventure Park and the lively streets of Costambar. Experience local bars and clubs offering music, dancing, and entertainment, creating a festive atmosphere where you can mingle and enjoy the Dominican spirit until dawn.
Find the best attractions in and around Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata, nestled on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, is an ideal destination for beach, family, and city-themed holidays. Visitors can explore its rich culture and history through attractions like historic forts and beautiful beaches, including Playa Dorada. The area also offers opportunities for outdoor activities and golf, making it a versatile spot for all types of travellers seeking relaxation and adventure.
Fort San Felipe: This historic fort offers a glimpse into the past with its impressive architecture and captivating cultural vibes. Perched on a hill, it provides panoramic views of the ocean and Puerto Plata, making it an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Cosita Rica Beach: Located a mere 3.2km from Puerto Plata, this idyllic beach boasts soft sands and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect place to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy various water activities, all while basking in the delightful beach vibes.
Taino Valley Tropical Park: This eco-friendly plantation invites visitors to explore lush landscapes and experience nature up close. Engage in various outdoor activities and learn about sustainable practices while enjoying the serene environment.
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.
Tips to save on your trip to Puerto Plata
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically September to November) for more affordable package holidays to Puerto Plata.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Puerto Plata vacation package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Puerto Plata getaway. However, factors like the season, choice of hotel and length of stay will determine how much your vacation to Puerto Plata costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Puerto Plata?
You're likely to find lower rates and greater availability in September, October and November. Check out our cheap Puerto Plata vacation packages and you could land some great off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Puerto Plata?
With about 3 days, you'll have enough time to experience popular neighborhoods like Costa Dorada and Cofresi during your Puerto Plata vacation. Make sure to also add Puerto Plata Cable Car and Playa Grande to your must-do list. Up for some more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Puerto Plata on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Puerto Plata?
Puerto Plata is a good vacation destination with attractions like Cofresi Beach among the many things to keep you busy. Whether you're traveling with the family or planning a trip with friends, a Puerto Plata vacation promises a good time for everyone.
How to find the best Puerto Plata package deals?
Begin your search for a Puerto Plata package deal by entering your preferred trip dates and destination under our "Packages" tab. Then apply a few filters, like "Property type" and "Popular locations," to tailor the results to your exact style. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with big savings. If you don't find the ideal Puerto Plata package deal right away, just switch up your dates and search again. Bear in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Puerto Plata escape off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Puerto Plata vacation as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your Puerto Plata escape by booking a tailored vacation package. Check the "Package" heading, then select your travel dates and destination to see the best flight and hotel prices. Bundling can save travelers hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a rental car and you may land a better deal.
When to book a vacation package to Puerto Plata?
If you're planning an impromptu Puerto Plata adventure, check out our last-minute deals that can be booked up to one week before you go. Don't want to leave things to the last minute? You can land sensational deals on your hotels and flights by booking well in advance.
How to plan a trip to Puerto Plata?
Pick the ideal time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you like can all influence your decision on when to travel to Puerto Plata.
Work out your budget: Ensure you have enough money to pay for everything from transportation and food to flights and activities. Your hotel will likely be the largest expense during your trip to Puerto Plata.
Set the duration of your trip: Start by making a list of all the attractions and activities you want to experience in Puerto Plata. Then, estimate how long you'll need for each, along with any travel time.
Combine your flights and hotel: Epic destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left now is to choose a Puerto Plata vacation package that brings all your bookings together.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.