Located on the north side of the Dominican Republic (DR) on the Atlantic Ocean. Puerto Plata is a small but charming town. Except for a few attractions, not an exciting destination in itself, but does offer one of the nicer swimmable beaches in the DR. It makes a good gateway to the majority of what is to be found on the north (and north east) side of the Dominican Republic. The area is rich with culture for someone having a bit of time to explore.
About 30 minutes east of Puerto Plata is Sosúa and the Sosúa Beach area. This is more a beach party community, with a good helping of the ex-pats from various places from around the globe. A cute place at day, but may not be the most child friendly area at night. This is more of a place to party with it’s share of bars and discos.
Though not part of the North Coast, about 2+ hours further down the coast is the Samaná region. December is Humpback Whale watching season as they have come south to feed. This is a lusher and more laid back region between where the Atlantic and Caribbean meet off the coast of the Dominican Republic.
POP Gregorio Luperón International Airport, the airport serving Puerto Plata, is a small but efficient. The lounge is used by the VIP service, and Priority Pass, but it is not spectacular. It is served by the major Caribbean players, American, JetBlue, United, WestJet and a few of the European carrier for seasonal or charters. SO it is a major hub with daily service to the US and Canada.
AZS Samaná El Catey International Airport is a lesser used airport for the Samaná Regions. Mostly seasonal flights from Canada servicing the snowbirds that roost here during the harsh Canadian winter months.
The Dominican Republic has more than it’s share of cheap to mid-priced “All Inclusive” beach hotels, but it does have some good quality hotels and resorts.
Playa Dorada just a twee bit south of downtown.
Beyond doubt, this is the best hotel in Puerto Plata and the area. And with a great beach, this makes a great place to stay for a few days to see the region. And the Restaurant and Spa are some of the best in the region.
1.5 hours east of Puerto Plata
Amanera opened in 2016 and is the first to be integrated with a golf course. But fear not, this is a true Aman.
Sosúa
Sosúa Beachfront Hotel, the high end option in Sosúa. Currently Closed for renovations due to recent high surf damage.
a bit east of Sousa in Cabarete
Thatched-roof cottages with open-air living rooms, plus 2 restaurants, a yoga studio & beach access. This makes for a pleasant “alternative” stay.
in the Samaná region
A plantation style Guest House with 6 Junior Suites, Beach Club and Restaurant.
about an hours drive west from Puerto Plata
Complex of 27 waterfalls visited on guided, high-adrenaline tours with hiking, sliding & swimming.
departs from Puerto Plata
From Puerto Plata you can take a calbe car into Isabel De Torres National Park. Spectacular views and monument at the top.
Duarte, Puerto Plata 57000
The Dominican Republic is famous for it’s amber, and the North Coast is where a majority of it originates.
Driving in the DR is not for the faint of heart or timid folk. It has been compared to the video game Speed Racer with live action. Some may wish to have their transfers pre-arranged. The main roads are well paved (mostly) but venturing off the main highways may be an adventure in itself. And the traffic patterns tend toward the chaotic.
-
- The beachfront at Casa Colonial
-
- One fo the beaches at Sosúa
-
- Sosúa
-
- Now read the book
-
- The countryside
-
- Local Wildlife
Need a bit of help planning a trip?
Let me know.
Leave a Reply