What to Do in Puerto Plata on a Cruise: The Ultimate Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

What to Do in Puerto Plata on a Cruise

Puerto Plata is a beautiful port city on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. It’s a popular cruise destination, thanks to its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Puerto Plata has something to offer everyone.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best things to do in Puerto Plata on a cruise. We’ll cover everything from swimming and sunbathing to hiking and exploring. So if you’re planning a cruise to Puerto Plata, be sure to read on for some inspiration!

Activity Description Cost
Visit the Colonial Zone Explore the historic center of Puerto Plata, which is home to a number of Spanish colonial buildings, including the Fortaleza San Felipe, the Catedral de San Felipe Apstol, and the Casa de la Cultura. $10-$20
Take a Hike in the Isabel de Torres National Park Hiking to the top of Pico Isabel de Torres, the highest point in the Dominican Republic, offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city of Puerto Plata. $10-$20
Go Shopping at the Mercado Modelo Browse the stalls at the Mercado Modelo, a traditional market where you can find everything from souvenirs to fresh produce. $5-$10
Visit the Amber Museum Learn about the history of amber and see some of the world’s most beautiful amber specimens at the Amber Museum. $5-$10
Take a Swim in the Atlantic Ocean Enjoy the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean at one of the many beaches in Puerto Plata. $0-$5

Puerto Plata is a beautiful port city on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. It’s a popular cruise destination, thanks to its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. There’s something for everyone in Puerto Plata, from historical attractions to outdoor adventures.

Sightseeing

There are many things to see and do in Puerto Plata. Here are a few of the top attractions:

  • Cruise ship docks. The cruise ship docks are located in the heart of the city, making them a convenient starting point for exploring Puerto Plata. There are several shops, restaurants, and bars located right next to the docks, so you can easily grab a bite to eat or do some shopping before or after your cruise.
  • Colonial city center. The colonial city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Puerto Plata. The city is full of historic buildings, including the Fortaleza San Felipe, the Catedral de San Felipe Apstol, and the Casa de la Cultura.
  • Playa Dorada Beach. Playa Dorada Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Plata. The beach is long and sandy, with crystal-clear water and plenty of palm trees. There are several hotels and resorts located right on the beach, so you can easily enjoy all the amenities of a beach vacation.
  • Amber Coast. The Amber Coast is a stretch of coastline located just east of Puerto Plata. The coast is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. There are several hiking trails and ecotourism opportunities available in the Amber Coast.
  • Whale watching. Puerto Plata is a great place to go whale watching. The whales migrate through the area between January and March, and you can often see them from the shore or on a boat tour.

Activities

In addition to sightseeing, there are also many other things to do in Puerto Plata. Here are a few of the top activities:

  • Shopping. Puerto Plata is a great place to do some shopping. There are many shops located in the city center, selling everything from souvenirs to designer clothes. You can also find some great bargains at the duty-free shops located in the cruise ship docks.
  • Golfing. There are several golf courses located in Puerto Plata, offering a variety of challenges for golfers of all levels. The most popular course is the Playa Dorada Golf Course, which is located right next to the beach.
  • Spas. Puerto Plata is home to some of the best spas in the Dominican Republic. The spas offer a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. You can also find some great spas at the local resorts.
  • Nightlife. Puerto Plata has a vibrant nightlife scene, with something to offer everyone. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and casinos to choose from. You can also find some great live music at the local restaurants and bars.
  • Casinos. Puerto Plata is home to several casinos, offering a variety of games, including blackjack, roulette, and slots. The casinos are located at the local resorts and hotels.

Puerto Plata is a beautiful and exciting city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, you’re sure to find it in Puerto Plata.

Food and Drink

Puerto Plata has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, offering everything from traditional Dominican cuisine to international favorites. Here are a few of the best places to eat in Puerto Plata:

  • La Casita del Conde is a popular restaurant that serves traditional Dominican food in a beautiful colonial setting. The menu features dishes like sancocho (a hearty soup made with chicken, vegetables, and plantains), asopao de mariscos (a seafood stew), and lechn asado (roast pork).
  • El Jibarito is another great option for traditional Dominican food. The restaurant is known for its mofongo (a dish made with mashed plantains and pork cracklings), which is often served with a fried egg and a side of chicken or beef.
  • La Sirena is a seafood restaurant that offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes. The menu features everything from grilled fish and lobster to paella and seafood pasta.
  • El Patio is a rooftop restaurant that offers stunning views of the city. The menu features international cuisine, including pizzas, pastas, and steaks.
  • La Terraza is a casual restaurant that serves Mediterranean cuisine in a beautiful garden setting. The menu features dishes like grilled lamb chops, paella, and seafood risotto.

In addition to these restaurants, there are also plenty of bars and nightclubs in Puerto Plata where you can enjoy a drink and some live music. Some of the most popular bars and nightclubs include:

  • La Boom is a large nightclub that features live music and dancing. The club is open until 4am, and it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
  • La Vela is a rooftop bar that offers stunning views of the city. The bar is open until 2am, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a drink with friends.
  • El Tiburon is a beach bar that serves seafood and drinks. The bar is open until 1am, and it’s a great place to enjoy a sunset cocktail.
  • El Faro is a lighthouse bar that offers stunning views of the ocean. The bar is open until 11pm, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a drink with friends.

Rum Tastings

Dominican rum is world-renowned, and there are a number of rum distilleries in Puerto Plata where you can enjoy rum tastings. Some of the most popular rum distilleries include:

  • Ron Brugal is one of the largest rum distilleries in the Dominican Republic. The distillery offers rum tastings and tours, and you can even learn how to make your own rum.
  • Ron Barcel is another large rum distillery in the Dominican Republic. The distillery offers rum tastings and tours, and you can also learn about the history of rum production in the Dominican Republic.
  • Ron Santiago is a small rum distillery that produces high-quality rum. The distillery offers rum tastings and tours, and you can also learn about the different types of rum that are produced in the Dominican Republic.

Getting Around

The best way to get around Puerto Plata is by taxi. Taxis are relatively inexpensive, and they can take you to all of the major tourist attractions in the city. You can also get around by bus, but the buses are not as frequent as taxis. If you want to explore the surrounding area, you can rent a car or take a tour.

Here are some tips for getting around Puerto Plata:

  • Taxis are metered, so make sure to ask the driver to turn on the meter before you start your journey.
  • The fare for a taxi ride from the airport to the city center is around $10.
  • Buses are the cheapest way to get around, but they are not as frequent as taxis.
  • You can rent a car from most major car rental companies in Puerto Plata.
  • There are a number of tour companies in Puerto Plata that offer day trips to the surrounding area.

Puerto Plata is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, delicious food, or exciting nightlife, you’re sure to find it in Puerto Plata. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

What are the best things to do in Puerto Plata on a cruise?

  • Visit the Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its historic buildings, including the Fortaleza San Felipe, the Catedral de San Felipe Apstol, and the Alczar de Coln.
  • Take a day trip to the nearby town of Santiago de los Caballeros, the second-largest city in the Dominican Republic.
  • Go swimming, snorkeling, or diving in the clear waters of Playa Dorada, a popular beach resort.
  • Visit the Amber Museum, which houses a collection of amber fossils, including insects, plants, and animals.
  • Take a hike in the Cordillera Septentrional mountain range, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

**How can I get to Puerto Plata from the cruise ship port?

  • The cruise ship port is located in the city of Puerto Plata, about a 15-minute drive from the city center. You can take a taxi or a public bus to get to the city center.
  • If you want to visit other destinations in the Dominican Republic, you can take a bus, a taxi, or a tour.

**What is the best time to visit Puerto Plata?

  • The best time to visit Puerto Plata is from December to April, when the weather is warm and sunny. The average temperature during this time is around 27C (80F).
  • The rainy season runs from May to November, but it is still possible to visit Puerto Plata during this time. Just be aware that there is a higher chance of rain.

**What is the currency in Puerto Plata?

  • The currency in Puerto Plata is the Dominican peso. The exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 50 DOP.
  • You can exchange your money at the airport, at banks, or at exchange bureaus. You can also use your credit card at most stores and restaurants.

**What is the language spoken in Puerto Plata?

  • The official language in Puerto Plata is Spanish. However, many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • If you don’t speak Spanish, don’t worry. Most people in Puerto Plata are very friendly and helpful, and they will be happy to help you communicate.

**What are the safety concerns in Puerto Plata?

  • Puerto Plata is a safe city, but it is always important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Avoid walking alone in dark or isolated areas.
  • Keep your valuables close to you at all times.
  • Be aware of pickpockets and scammers.

**What are the best restaurants in Puerto Plata?

  • There are many great restaurants in Puerto Plata, serving a variety of international cuisines.
  • Some of the most popular restaurants include:
  • La Sirena, which serves seafood and Dominican cuisine.
  • El Patio, which serves traditional Spanish tapas.
  • La Terraza, which serves Italian cuisine.
  • The Hungry Monkey, which serves American comfort food.

**What are the best bars and nightclubs in Puerto Plata?

  • Puerto Plata has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and nightclubs to choose from.
  • Some of the most popular bars and nightclubs include:
  • The Hard Rock Caf, which has live music and a dance floor.
  • The Embassy Nightclub, which is known for its wild parties.
  • The Blue Marlin, which is a beachfront bar and restaurant.
  • The Level 2 Lounge, which offers stunning views of the city.

Puerto Plata is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers a variety of attractions for cruise passengers. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, an exciting adventure, or a cultural experience, you’re sure to find something to your liking in Puerto Plata.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

  • The best time to visit Puerto Plata is during the winter months, from December to April.
  • The main cruise port in Puerto Plata is the Amber Cove Cruise Terminal.
  • The most popular attractions in Puerto Plata include the Malecn, Playa Dorada, the Fortaleza San Felipe, and the Altos de Chavn.
  • There are a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops in Puerto Plata, where you can enjoy local cuisine, live music, and shopping.

If you’re planning a cruise to the Dominican Republic, be sure to add Puerto Plata to your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.