Puerto Plata is where tourism in Dominican Republic began. Set around Parque Central explore the Victorian style architecture, visit the cathedral, wander the narrow streets or just relax and people watch at the park. Not keen to explore on your own? Join a Puerto Plata city tour. From the top enjoy the views down on Puerto Plata from above, have a stroll through the botanical garden or have a meal at the restaurant up top.

Last Updated on June 22, by Amanda Stancati. Nestled along stretches of sandy beaches, find Puerto Plata on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic where the Atlantic Ocean laps the shores and where the Dominican people are friendly and the energy busy with beach parties and Caribbean music. Before the construction of all-inclusive resorts, Puerto Plata was a dynamic city of its own with a fishing history, energy, and beautiful landscapes that are now reflected on the resorts. The famous Playa Dorada beach is the most established resort area in Puerto Plata, with each resort on its own slice of beach. Visit the Cabarate area between Puerto Plata and Sosua for a stretch of beach not totally dominated by all-inclusive resorts with offerings of snorkeling, scuba diving, and sunbathing for the beach lover.

In the past, most people skipped the historic town to make a beeline for the more popular tourist beaches such as Punta Cana. But things have recently turned around, mostly because of the many cruise ships passing through. Puerto Plata is making a comeback, and tourist traffic is at an all-time high. Sitting in between an imposing mountain range and the expansive Atlantic coast, this developing port town has seen many cultural revitalization efforts in the past years, making it a lovely stop to stroll along the malecon, visit some of the great restaurants, enjoy panoramic views of the Amber Coast and do some shopping. One of the best things about the Dominican Republic is how easy it is to get there.