Top reasons to visit Puerto Plata
- Stunning Beaches: Puerto Plata boasts beautiful beaches like Playa Dorada, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
- Rich History: Explore historic forts and vibrant streets that showcase the city's colonial past and local culture.
- Adventure Activities: Enjoy thrilling experiences such as banana boat rides and dance classes for the adventurous spirit.
- Family-Friendly Fun: The area offers various family-oriented attractions and recreational activities suitable for all ages.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels and resorts catering to different tastes and budgets.
Find great hotels in Puerto Plata
Experience the vibrant beauty of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, with a variety of hotel accommodations to suit every traveler. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly resort, a cozy hotel for a romantic getaway, or an adventure-filled vacation, Puerto Plata has options that cater to your needs. Discover top hotels and resorts in the area, ensuring a memorable stay surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich local culture.
- Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada - All Inclusive: Experience a vibrant family vacation at Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada, a 4.5-star resort renowned for its all-inclusive offerings. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, this property features direct beach access and a plethora of amenities to keep both kids and adults entertained. Enjoy unlimited food and drinks at various on-site dining options, along with activities like kayaking, aerobics classes, and nightly entertainment. Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s amenities, including a free kids' club, playground, and babysitting services. This resort provides a lively atmosphere for creating unforgettable memories by the sea.
- Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort & Spa All Inclusive: For adventure seekers, Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort & Spa, a 3-star all-inclusive gem, offers a dynamic beach experience. Guests can indulge in unlimited food and drinks while engaging in various land and water activities, such as volleyball and non-motorized water sports. The resort's prime beachfront location allows easy access to exciting adventures like parasailing and windsurfing nearby. With its relaxed atmosphere and diverse entertainment, this resort is ideal for travelers looking to blend relaxation with a bit of thrill in their vacation.
- Playabachata: Playabachata is a 4-star resort that invites guests to unwind in a serene beach environment. Known for its unique access to natural hot springs, this all-inclusive property offers a tranquil escape for those seeking relaxation. Guests can enjoy unlimited food and beverage options while taking in the stunning ocean views. The resort's beachfront location ensures easy access to sun-soaked days and peaceful evenings by the shore, making it a wonderful choice for travelers looking to rejuvenate in a picturesque setting.
Where to stay in Puerto Plata
Experience the charm of Puerto Plata, a tropical paradise perfect for families and beach lovers alike. Explore the vibrant city harbor, indulge in unforgettable vacation activities, and soak in the relaxing atmosphere. Nearby regions offer family-friendly adventures and stunning scenery, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both excitement and tranquility. Discover the unique vibes of Puerto Plata Province and create lasting memories during your stay.
- Playa Dorada: Nestled around the beautiful coastline of Puerto Plata, Playa Dorada is a vibrant neighborhood known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. This area enjoys a steady stream of visitors year-round, with peak seasons occurring in March and during the summer months of July and August. Travelers flock to Playa Dorada for its family-friendly atmosphere, extensive golf courses, and recreational areas. Highlights include the picturesque beaches where you can sunbathe, swim, or engage in water sports, as well as nearby historic landmarks that offer a glimpse into the region's rich history.
- Cofresi: Located in close proximity to Puerto Plata, Cofresi is a charming village that perfectly combines relaxation and adventure. With visitor numbers peaking in March and the summer months, Cofresi offers a unique experience for families and business travelers alike. The village is famous for its beautiful beaches and recreation parks, making it a perfect spot for both leisure and family activities. Don’t miss the local historic sites, including a historic fort that provides insight into the area's past, as well as shopping centers where you can indulge in local crafts and cuisine.
- Costa Dorada: This picturesque neighborhood lies around Puerto Plata and is renowned for its breathtaking beaches and family-oriented activities. Costa Dorada experiences peak travel during the winter months of December to February, attracting visitors eager to enjoy the outdoor experiences it has to offer. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the top-notch golf courses available, while families can explore various outdoor venues. The nearby water features and wetlands add to the natural beauty of the area, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Things to do in Puerto Plata
Shopping
In Puerto Plata, visit the local markets for unique crafts and souvenirs. Check out Plaza 27 for a mix of shops and dining options. If you're up for a drive, explore the nearby Blue Mall, about 24km away, featuring a range of international brands and boutiques.
Recreation
At the Casa Colonial Beach & Spa, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and relax by the pristine beach. Experience yoga sessions with ocean views or take a leisurely stroll along the beach, soaking in the serene atmosphere and tropical surroundings.
Visit the Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort for holistic wellness activities, including meditation sessions and fitness classes. Enjoy the on-site spa services, and unwind in the tranquil gardens, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature.
Explore the Ocean World Adventure Park for a unique blend of relaxation and fun. Engage in marine activities, then unwind at the spa overlooking the ocean, where you can enjoy massages and wellness treatments inspired by the sea.
Adventure
In Puerto Plata, explore the stunning landscapes with an exhilarating zip line tour through lush canopies. Discover the beauty of the ocean while snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs. For thrill-seekers, take a challenging hike to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres for breathtaking views of the coast.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Ocean World Adventure Park, where you can enjoy live shows and entertainment. For a lively atmosphere, visit the nightlife hotspot, The Beach Club, featuring dancing and cocktails by the ocean. Don't miss the local bars on Calle Pedro Clisante for a variety of music and drinks.
*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 visit to Puerto Plata, consider exploring free attractions like Malecón De Puerto Plata. Travel during the off-peak months from September to November for lower prices, and book your hotel 1-3 months in advance to secure the best deals. Sundays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to filter hotels by budget and eco-friendly options, and consider package deals combining flights and activities for extra savings. Public transport options include taxis and buses, offering economical ways to navigate the area.
- 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 February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Puerto Plata is usually 1-3 months out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can organize your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally friendly hotel options that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in Puerto Plata with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata is an ideal destination for beach, family, and city-themed vacations. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions including vibrant streets, beautiful beaches, and historic forts. Popular points of interest like Costa Dorada and Playa Dorada offer a mix of culture and outdoor experiences, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and adventure. Don't miss the chance to soak in the local charm while enjoying the coastal scenery.
- Malecón De Puerto Plata: Stroll along this vibrant street that showcases the lively spirit of Puerto Plata. Lined with shops, cafes, and stunning ocean views, it's a perfect spot to soak in the local atmosphere and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.
- Fort San Felipe: Explore the rich history of this 16th-century fortress that offers a glimpse into the colonial past of the Dominican Republic. With its impressive architecture and scenic views of the waterfront, it's a cultural gem worth visiting.
- Pico Isabel de Torres: Embark on an adventure to this majestic mountain, where you can hike or take a cable car to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views. The lush surroundings make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
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, Dominican Republic, is easy with several airport options. Gregorio Luperon International Airport (POP) is the closest, located 14km away, with hotels like The Ocean Club, a Luxury Collection Resort, 5km from the airport, and Casa Colonial Beach & Spa, 8km away. Santiago Cibao International Airport (STI) is 45km from Puerto Plata, with nearby options including Hodelpa Garden Court, just 3km away, and Hodelpa Gran Almirante Hotel & Casino, 11km away. For those flying into La Isabela International Airport (JBQ) in Santo Domingo, 154km away, luxury hotels like El Embajador and JW Marriott are within 13km of the airport.