Places to see
Amusement Park
Water park attractions including pools and waterslides; access to the Tropical Reef Aquarium, where you can snorkel; and educational animal shows, which include dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and tropical birds.
Ocean World Adventure Park, Puerto Plata
History
A key piece of Puerto Plata’s history, Fortaleza San Felipe was built by the Spaniards in the 16th century to defend the north coast of the Dominican Republic from the British and Dutch, and from French pirates in search of the area’s abundant gold and silver. Considered one of the most important colonial military structures in the Caribbean, it was completed in 1577 and later served as a prison from the 19th century through the Trujillo years. Now a museum, touring the fort reveals the original canons facing the Atlantic, ancient weapons, and numerous hidden chambers. The panoramic views over the Puerto Plata coastline are impressive. Catching the sunset at the foot of the fort, beside La Puntilla park, is a daily Puerto Plateño activity.
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A key piece of Puerto Plata’s history, Fortaleza San Felipe was built by the Spaniards in the 16th century to defend the north coast of the Dominican Republic from the British and Dutch, and from French pirates in search of the area’s abundant gold and silver. Considered one of the most important colonial military structures in the Caribbean, it was completed in 1577 and later served as a prison from the 19th century through the Trujillo years. Now a museum, touring the fort reveals the original canons facing the Atlantic, ancient weapons, and numerous hidden chambers. The panoramic views over the Puerto Plata coastline are impressive. Catching the sunset at the foot of the fort, beside La Puntilla park, is a daily Puerto Plateño activity.
Sightseeing
No visit to Puerto Plata is complete without riding the teleférico–the only complete cable car ride you’ll find in the whole Caribbean region, operating continuously since 1975. A breathtaking 10-minute ride takes you soaring in one of two cable cars 800 meters (2,625 feet) above Puerto Plata’s magical landscape–from the sea on your north to the lush, verdant plains that eventually lead you to the other end of the cable, at Mount Isabel de Torres. Explore the nature reserve and botanical gardens, enjoying the ride back down by cable car once more before heading out.
Pico Isabel de Torres, 57000, République dominicaine
Restaurant and shop at the top
Beach
The closest beach is a little further than a short walking distance. I’d personally suggest driving (5 minute drive) to the beach.
Puerto Plata Beach
Rivers
Taking a cold river dip, near or away from the beach, is part and parcel of DR culture. Locals love to swim in fresh water rivers, cooking along the banks, and resting in the shade. For more adventure, go river rafting in Jarabacoa and feel the rapids as you tumble over mini cascades past a rocky shore. Rent a kayak and glide along the majestic Chavón River, in La Romana, once featured in the movie Apocalypse Now. In the southwest, the rivers of Barahona—easily accessed as they tumble down to meet the sea—are so magnificent for a swim that they are natural attractions, combining food and drinks on site. Lakes are no less impressive—hop on a boat tour of Lago Enriquillo, sitting 30 meters (138 feet) below sea level at the lowest point in the Caribbean, and home to American crocodiles.
Rivers dips are ideal during the summer when temperatures are at their highest, but you can enjoy them year-round, while lakes are ideal for bird spotting.
Rio Damajagua 27 Charcos, 27 Waterfalls