The Dominican Republic welcomes over 6 million tourists every year, making it a popular vacation destination in the Caribbean. And who wouldn’t want to visit the Dominican Republic? With gorgeous weather and fair prices, it’s no wonder more and more tourists are flocking here every year.
When you first consider a trip to the Dominican Republic, you may immediately think of Punta Cana. However, that’s not your only option. In fact, Puerto Plata has been seeing a huge increase in popularity recently.
If you decide to stay at the Sunscape Puerto Plata, you may wonder what activities are nearby that will fill up your day and let you enjoy that perfect weather.
We’re here to help! Keep reading to discover 8 things to do near the Sunscape Puerto Plata.
1. Hit the Beach
You can’t go to the Dominican Republic and not visit the beach! Right outside the Sunscape Puerto Plata is Playa Dorada, which is the widely considered the best beach in the area.
Of course, you could spend your day sunbathing or cooling off in the water. But Playa Dorada is also a great place to go fishing, kayaking, or snorkeling! Sunscape Puerto Plata even offers kayaking and snorkeling equipment free of charge.
2. Enjoy the Views
The beach isn’t the only gorgeous part of the Dominican Republic. While you’re staying in Puerto Plata, you can’t miss the Mount Isabel de Torres cable car ride.
This will take you up to the top of the mountain, giving you the best view in the area. But the adventure isn’t over once you reach the top. You can also check out the botanical garden which has plenty of walking paths, a beautiful lagoon, and a cave.
Don’t forget to admire the Statue of Jesus, which is reminiscent of Brazil’s Christ the Redeemer statue. Take a few pictures before admiring the view from here.
3. Learn the Local History
If you’re a history buff, you’ll be pleased to know that you can visit a historical site right here in Puerto Plata. Construction on Fort San Felipe finished back in 1577, and it was used to protect the city against pirates.
You can feel free to explore the fort and check out the collection of 18th and 19th-century military artifacts housed inside. Since it overlooks the water, this is also a great photo opt!
4. Learn a New Sport
Just because you’re going on a tropical beach getaway, doesn’t mean you can’t get your adrenaline pumping, too! Located down the beach a bit from Sunscape Puerto Plata is Kite Legend School.
The main activity here is kiteboarding lessons, so you can learn how to glide over the waves and maybe catch a little air! However, they also offer standup paddleboarding (SUP), yoga, snorkeling, horseback riding, and surfing. Take your pick and spend the day learning something new.
5. Visit Cabarete
Do you already know how to kiteboard or windsurf? While the local beach has plenty of great waves and wind, the conditions are a bit better in Cabarete.
Located east of Puerto Plata, you’ll find plenty of ways to fill up a day trip to this town. Of course, the conditions are great for those who love surfing, kiteboarding, or windsurfing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars, giving Cabarete a great nightlife.
It is, however, about a 45-minute drive from the Sunscape Puerto Plata. So, if you decide to spend the day here, make sure you arrange for transportation beforehand.
6. Check Out Some Waterfalls
If you want to enjoy as much nature as possible, don’t forget to visit the 27 Charcos de Damajagua (the 27 waterfalls).
You’ll start by taking a short up-hill hike. Then, you’ll be free to take plenty of pictures (a waterproof camera or phone pouch is recommended), slide down the waterfalls, and jump into the clear waters.
There are a few tour operators to choose from, most of which provide a safety helmet, life vest, and snacks.
7. Explore the Countryside
Do you want to find a unique way to explore the Dominican Republic countryside? You can’t go wrong with an ATV tour!
Again, there are plenty of tours to choose from. But most will last 4-5 hours, giving you a chance to soak up all the natural beauty around you. If you’ve already driven an ATV, you may want to opt for a dune buggy tour instead to try something new.
8. Take a Day Trip to Key Paradise
Are you planning to spend a couple weeks at Sunscape Puerto Plata? Then you’ll likely have time to fit in a day trip or two!
One of the best day trips is to Key Paradise. This tropical island is the epitome of paradise, hence the name. You can enjoy shallow waters with sandbars poking through and soft, white sand.
You can also snorkel, take boat rides, and do a bit of sightseeing. There’s an adorable bar shaped like a hut where you can purchase a variety of alcoholic drinks to sip on as you lounge on the beach.
What to Do When Staying at The Sunscape Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata is full of amazing things to do. Once you book your reservation at the Sunscape Puerto Plata, follow this list of activities to plan your itinerary. From visiting Fort San Felipe and ATVing through the countryside to taking a yoga class and relaxing on the beach, there is sure to be something for everyone in Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic.
Are you planning to visit other cities, like Punta Cana, during your trip? Then check out some of the other activities this Caribbean island has to offer.