Puerto Plata

DESTINATIONS dominican republic puertoplata

Puerto Plata

In his first trip to the stupendous region, Christopher Columbus noted the silver-tipped appearance of the area’s prominent mountain. As “plata” is Spanish for “silver”, Columbus christened it “Monte de Plata”, and the city became known as Puerto de Plata. Luring vacationers much as it had Columbus, Puerto Plata is one of the Dominican Republic’s most renowned cities. Lending to a bright culture of friendly people and recreational activities, Puerto Plata will exceed even your wildest and greatest of expectations.

The City

Welcome to Puerto Plata, a Caribbean city soaked in sunshine. The streets of this vibrant city come to life with warmth and character. Stroll through the downtown to meet the amiable Dominican people and have a cold beer and you’re sure to be smiling soon. Unwind on the northern shore, taking in white sand beaches overlooking crystal clear waters, or plan an adventure to the top of 2,600 foot Mount Isabel de Torres. After a long day at play, enjoy a romantic dinner for two over fresh caught seafood and a glass of red wine. Falling asleep to the rolling waves reminds you that it begins all over again come morning.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Unwind at the beautiful beach, enjoy adventures in the water or at the top of a mountain. There is enough to do in Puerto Plata to make for a perfect vacation.

27 Charcos

27 waterfalls are nestled in the rolling hills of the Northern Corridor mountain range and offer a real tropical adventure. Touring these waterfalls will excite even the adrenaline junkies out …

Teleferico Puerto Plata Cable Car

This cable car offers a great view over Puerto Plata. At the top of the hill, you will have access to a lovely botanical …

High Z's Fishing Tour

If you like fishing, go with High Z. Very well known in Puerto Plata, the experienced captains and crew know the best places to catch the biggest fish! Sometimes, you can even see whales on your …

Historical Centre

There is an abundance of Victorian-era architecture in Puerto Plata's historic city centre. The colorful houses have been undergoing restoration over the past decade, and can be seen in Calle Duarte, Calle Separación, Calle Beller and Calle …

Mount Isabel de Torres

There are many ways to explore Mount Isabel de Torres and plenty of reward for making it to the top! Check out the cable car if you’re not into …

Amber Museum

This compact museum offers visitors a glimpse into how amber is really formed. The museum holds the very famous amber seen in the box office hit "Jurassic …

Fortaleza de San Felipe

Find cultural and historical interest at Fort San Felipe, also known as El Morro de San Felipe. This defensive fortress used to serve as the main protective shield against invaders and pirates, and is now open to public visits. Just around the bend from great …

Playa Grande

The dramatic Playa Grande is widely considered to be one of the top beaches in the world. Craggy cliffs, crystalline blue sea, and plenty of space makes the beach a …

Cofresí Beach

Cofresí Beach has a long stretch of golden sand that's perfect for swimming and surfing. Locals mainly use the public area on …

La Casa de Cultura

Drop by here when you're strolling through the park. An art gallery has revolving exhibits that will help you understand how much talent there is in this country. You may even wish to buy from a budding artist. This Victorian building also has workshops for those talented in dance and …

Ocean World Adventure Park

The multimillion-dollar Ocean World Adventure Park has marine and wildlife interactive programs. Take advantage of the dolphin and sea lion shows, a double-dolphin swim, a tropical reef aquarium, seeing stingrays, shark tanks, a rain forest, and a Tiger Grotto inhabited by Bengal …

Playa Dorada

Playa Dorada is beloved for its soft sand, reefs for snorkeling, clear waters that invite for swimming, and more. This is also a good place for windsurfing, water-skiing, and …

Gri Gri Lagoon

For those seeking snorkeling, head an hour and a half away to Playa Grande. Here you'll find the Gri Gri lagoon, perfect for snorkeling. The shipwreck site of the Concepción is another one of its …

Dining

Whether you want local cuisine or something different there are excellent choices in Puerto Plata to satisfy your palate. Naturally, local cuisine takes precedence.

El Bergantin Caribbean Grill

Located in a green Victorian building right in the middle of the city, this venue is full of historic vibe. You will enjoy Caribbean delicacies as well as fish and chips in one of Puerto Plata’s most popular …

Tostacos and Sushito

As the name suggests, this restaurant serves both TexMex food options – tacos, burritos, burgers and more – and various Sushi rolls. Customers enjoy the casual atmosphere and the quick service of the …

Le petit Francois

This venue located by Playa Dorada provides a romantic atmosphere as well as delicious food. The menu consists of Canadian and Dominican cuisine – seafood, cordon bleu, poutine – and is made from local, fresh ingredients. Le petit Francois can also be rented for private …

Jamvi's

Pizzeria Restaurant Jamvi's offers a variety of food in a casual atmosphere and is open for both lunch and dinner. Enjoy pizza, burgers and local cuisine outdoors or indoors. For families with children, there even is a small playground right outside the …

Green Jack Restaurant

A must try for those new to Puerto Plata! The menu is unique and the service impeccable. The menu offers everything from fish to meat, burgers and salads. There is an indoor section and a beautiful outdoor patio where you can enjoy your …

Natura Restaurant at Natura Cabana

The freshest of seafood, sounds of the waves crashing against coral rock, and a menu that changes with the seasons makes Natura Restaurant a prominent venue. The vegetables and herbs used are farmed at Natura's organic …

Restaurant Le Papillon

Whether on business or enjoying a romantic getaway, Le Papillon is the perfect night out. The setting is comfortable and inviting, with nautical decor complete with a large ship model suspended over the bar. Besides their regular menu, there is always fresh seafood and fish. They are famous for their big juicy lobster dishes …

Cafes

Sea breezes and white sands are made that much more fun with an espresso or cup of coffee. Afternoon fare at cafes comes second only to breakfast! See below for tasty options.

KAFFE

If you are looking for a place to enjoy a good cup of coffee or a refreshing milkshake in a peaceful, cozy atmosphere, KAFFE is the place to be. It is well loved for its delicious local and international dishes and offers vegetarian and vegan …

Tio Pan Panaderia

The extensive menu of Tio Pan Panaderia offers breakfast options, coffee varieties and smoothies, plus sandwiches, pizza and other international dishes. Tio Pan, as it is called, is appreciated for its friendly service and affordable …

Veranda

If you are up to a breakfast or lunch under lush trees with a view on the ocean, then you should pay a visit to Veranda at the Casa Colonial Beach & Spa. Here you can enjoy continental options as well as Dominican classics, such as grilled bananas and locally brewed …

The Anchor

This is a great place, if you are looking for a local experience and tasty, affordable food. It serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Anchor will make you feel like home and is known for its friendly …

Cabarete Coffee Company

Cabarete Coffee Company works alongside local suppliers to provide affordable and healthy fast-food options and free delivery. Enjoy a menu of organic fresh roasted coffee and hot chocolate from local …

Kite Club Café

Kite Club Café is located on Kite Beach in Cabarete. Come for brunch or lunch with wraps, organic salads, fresh fruit smoothies and homemade iced …

Belgium Bakery

For excellent pastries and coffee, head over to Belgium Bakery. It's especially good for …

Bars & Nightlife

The fun doesn't stop when the sunsets in Puerto Plata. There are dancing clubs, as well as bars.

Lust Afterwork

Lust Afterwork is a bar that offers occasional live music and a large variety of shots and cocktails. You can choose between enjoying the casual atmosphere indoors or …

Big Lee's Beach Bar

Big Lee’s Beach Bar is one of the best places to unwind. Great, low-key atmosphere, cold beer, good food and friends. Also hosting live music on …

Ocean World Terrace

The terrace at the entertainment park Ocean World offers a spectacular sunset view on the Atlantic. Besides that, you can enjoy music, watch sports games or just mingle with locals. A large variety of beverages is …

Señor Rock Bar & Grill

Señor Rock is an American restaurant playing live music in Playa Dorada every night. They serve specialties of steak, seafood, pizza, burgers, fajitas, chicken, wings, and …

Onno's Bar

Onno's Bar is a serious party place! Expect wall-to-wall and back-to-back crowds since Puerto Plata's youth thrive on …

Mares Restaurant & Lounge

The Mares offers al fresco dining overlooking the pool, as well as indoor dining. Appetizers are tasty and of generous portions, with delights like the beet salad and plantain sushi …

Shopping

While visiting Puerto Plata the best way to find great shopping is to head off of resort property. Numerous bazaar-like hubs are scattered about the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, just take a stroll, bargains are never far off; remember to haggle to get the best deals.