Puerto Plata & Cabarete, Dominican Republic: things to do, when to go & how long to stay

Overview

The north coast has more wind and swell than the south, which is exactly why Cabarete became a watersports centre. Puerto Plata adds a cable car to Pico Isabel de Torres and a restored historic centre.

Plan & book

Stays, activities and transport for Puerto Plata & Cabarete will be bookable here soon.

Where to stayComing soon

Curated stays by area and budget will appear here once hotel partners are connected.

Tours & activitiesComing soon

Bookable experiences will appear here once activity partners are connected.

Car rentalComing soon

Rental pickup options will appear here once car partners are connected.

Why go to Puerto Plata & Cabarete

Kitesurfing and windsurfing at Cabarete
Teleférico cable car above Puerto Plata
27 Charcos de Damajagua canyoning
Cheaper than the eastern resorts

Budget

Puerto Plata & Cabarete is affordable by Dominican Republic standards. Across Dominican Republic, mid-range travellers typically spend about $110–$180 per person per day.

Country-level planning estimate, excluding flights. See the full Dominican Republic budget breakdown.

Practical information

Language: Spanish; English is widely used in resort areas
Currency: Dominican peso (DOP); US dollars are accepted at many resorts
Power: Type A/B, 110–120V
Entry: Entry rules depend on nationality — verify current official requirements before booking.

When to go to Puerto Plata & Cabarete

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Plan 3–5 days here. Highlighted months are the best fit for most travellers.

Getting around

Resort transfers cover most Punta Cana trips and are usually pre-booked with the hotel
Car rental is the practical way to combine the north coast, Samaná and the mountains

Suggested itineraries

North coast active
9 days
Watersports, canyoning and mountain air.
Route: Puerto Plata & Cabarete → Jarabacoa & the Cordillera Central → Santo Domingo