8 Best Things to do in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

Looking for the best things to do in Puerto Plata? You’re in the right place!

Puerto Plata is a destination I can’t get enough of – and for good reason! Its vibrant streets, stunning beaches, and endless adventures offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie ready to go canyoning or an ocean lover eager to find the best snorkeling spots, this city has it all.

To help you make the most of your trip, I’ve rounded up the 8 best things to do in Puerto Plata – personally tried, tested, and absolutely worth adding to your itinerary!

Things to do in Puerto Plata

1. See Puerto Plata’s top sights on a city tour 

• Duration: 4 hours
• Time: Confirm start time with tour operator after booking
• Highlights: Explore the top highlights of Puerto Plata with a guide, see landmarks such as Fortaleza San Felipe (Spanish fortress) and the Puerto Plata Cathedral, visit a chocolate factory, go rum tasting at a rum factory
• Inclusions: Hotel/port pick-up/dropoff, guide/driver, rum factory entrance, bottled water
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check out the 570+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re visiting Puerto Plata for the first time, this city tour is a fantastic way to dive into the island’s rich history and vibrant culture! You’ll see all of the city’s top highlights in just half a day, making it the perfect choice for cruise passengers or anyone short on time. 

The day kicked off at the Macorix House of Rum, where we sampled eight (yes, eight!) delicious Dominican rum varieties. Next, we explored Independence Park, buzzing with locals and Victorian charm, before heading to Fortaleza San Felipe, a historic Spanish fortress overlooking the ocean. The coastal views and pirate history here were unforgettable!

My favorite part, though, was wandering through the vibrant Umbrella Street and Paseo de Doña Blanca (aka Pink Street). These colorful, quirky streets were a photographer’s dream and such a fun place to explore! We also stopped by a local jewelry and cigar store, both excellent spots to pick up some souvenirs to bring home. 

And then, the sweetest stop: the chocolate factory! Sampling organic Dominican cocoa while learning about its production was the perfect way to wrap up the day.

With its variety of stops and insightful guide, this tour is an absolute must for anyone new to Puerto Plata. Don’t just take my word for it – check out the 400+ 5-star reviews!

Check availability for this popular tour here!

2. Go canyoning at the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua 

• Duration: 4 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times available throughout the day
• Highlights: Enjoy a scenic hike through the forest, explore several waterfalls by jumping, sliding, and swimming your way through the canyon, and enjoy a delicious Dominican lunch
• Inclusions: Hotel/port pick-up/dropoff, guide/driver, lunch, water, helmet, life jacket
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check out the 500+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

The last time I was in Puerto Plata I did this canyoning waterfall adventure and let me tell you, it’s the best excursion I’ve ever done!

This thrilling experience takes you deep into the lush jungle outside Puerto Plata, where you’ll hike, climb, jump, and slide through a series of stunning waterfalls and natural pools as you make your way through the canyon.

The day starts with a traditional Dominican lunch to fuel up for the adventure ahead. The food was delicious, with hearty local flavors that got us ready for the action! Afterward, you’ll hike through the tropical forest, soaking in the beautiful scenery as you make your way to the first waterfall.

Then comes the real adventure – navigating the waterfalls! You’ll climb, jump, and slide your way down natural rock formations into sparkling turquoise pools. Some jumps are as high as 25 feet (7.6 meters), and sliding down the smooth rocks is like nature’s version of a waterslide. And don’t worry if big jumps aren’t your thing – there are alternative routes available to keep things safe and enjoyable for everyone!

It’s important to note that this tour involves plenty of hiking and stairs, so a moderate level of fitness is required. But if you’re up for the challenge, it’s absolutely worth it. Between the stunning scenery, refreshing pools, and adrenaline-pumping fun, it’s no surprise this tour has hundreds of 5-star reviews. It’s a must-do experience for thrill-seekers visiting Puerto Plata!

Learn more about my favorite Puerto Plata tour and secure your spot here!

3. See wildlife at Monkeyland 

• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Time: 9 am
• Highlights: Get up close to monkeys at a local sanctuary, feed the monkeys right from your hand, get adorable photos with the monkeys, and enjoy coffee and chocolate samples
• Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, guide/driver, entry fee
• Rating: 5 stars (check out the 950+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

For animal lovers visiting Puerto Plata, this Monkeyland tour is an absolute must! It combines hands-on wildlife encounters with stunning views of the Dominican countryside, making it an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages.

The adventure begins with pickup from your hotel and a scenic drive through lush plantations and rolling hills. Once at Monkeyland, you’ll meet the star attractions – adorable squirrel monkeys! These curious little creatures are as friendly as they are playful and even hopped right up onto my shoulders and hands. I had so much fun feeding them and watching them nibble on the fruit – it was adorable! 

What really sets this experience apart is the knowledgeable guides. They shared so much about the monkeys’ behaviors and conservation efforts, making the visit both fun and educational. 

Beyond the monkeys, you’ll also learn about local agriculture with a stop at a traditional farm. We got to sample fresh coffee and cacao straight from the source – it was such a delicious treat!

Whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, or solo, this tour is perfect for anyone looking to connect with nature and enjoy some unique, up-close animal encounters. Just don’t forget your camera – these little guys make for some amazing photo ops!

Reserve your spot here and don’t pay a cent until just before you go!

4. Get your adrenaline pumping on a buggy excursion

• Duration: 2.5 to 5 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times available
• Highlights: Cruise around Puerto Plata’s rugged countryside on a double ATV buggy, stop at Teco’s Beach for a swim, enjoy a hot chocolate and coffee tasting
• Inclusions: Hotel/port pick-up/dropoff, guide, water, goggles, helmet, waterproof phone case, bandana
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check out the 200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

For an adrenaline-filled adventure, this Puerto Plata buggy tour is an absolute blast! It’s perfect for thrill-seekers looking to explore the island’s rugged countryside in the most exciting way possible – behind the wheel of a super buggy!

The tour kicks off with a quick briefing before you hop into your buggy and set off on a muddy, off-road adventure. Along the way, you’ll zoom through dirt trails, splash through puddles, and explore picturesque landscapes. 

Be warned: you’re going to get muddy – really muddy! So make sure to bring a change of clothes for afterward. Trust me, it’s part of the fun and adds to the adventure!

One of my favorite parts was stopping at a local beach for a quick swim. It was the perfect way to cool off and wash away some of that mud! The tour also includes visits to small villages where you can catch a glimpse of everyday Dominican life and buy some neat souvenirs.

We love that this tour provides flexible pricing depending on how many people share a buggy. And for those looking to extend the fun, there’s an option to upgrade to a longer tour that includes a visit to the Damajagua Waterfalls. Whether you choose the standard or extended tour, this is a thrilling, messy, and unforgettable way to explore Puerto Plata!

Read the great reviews and reserve your spot here!

5. Experience the countryside on a horseback ride 

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 8:30 am
• Highlights: Go on a scenic horseback ride through the countryside, pass through local villages and lush plantations, and ride along the coastline at Bergantin Beach
• Inclusions: Hotel/port pick-up/dropoff, guide/driver
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check out the 90+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Puerto Plata’s breathtaking landscapes, this horseback riding tour is an absolute must! Whether you’re an experienced rider or a total beginner, this tour is designed for all skill levels and even includes a quick lesson to get you comfortable in the saddle.

The adventure starts with a warm welcome from the friendly guides, who are pros at making everyone feel at ease. After getting paired with a horse that matches your experience level, you’ll set off on a scenic ride through lush countryside and stunning ocean views. The gentle pace makes it easy to relax and soak in your surroundings.

For me, the highlight was riding along the picturesque beach. The sound of the waves and the feel of the sea breeze made it such a memorable experience! Along the way, our guide shared stories about the area’s history and culture, adding a personal touch to the journey.

This tour is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for a laid-back yet exciting way to see a different side of Puerto Plata. With everything included – horses, helmets, and expert guides – all you need to bring is your sense of adventure!

Reserve your spot here and enjoy FREE 24-hour cancellation!

6. Go ziplining on a thrilling combo tour

• Duration: 6 hours
• Time: 7 am or 8 am
• Highlights: Zoom down 8 different ziplines, jump and slide your way down multiple waterfalls, go on a peaceful horseback ride, enjoy a traditional Dominican lunch
• Inclusions: Hotel/port pick-up/dropoff, guide/driver, lunch, bottled water, equipment
• Rating: 5 stars (check out the 60+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

I love ziplining and jump at every chance to do it, but this zipline combo experience in Puerto Plata has to be one of my all-time favorites! It’s the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable day for thrill-seekers.

The 8-line zipline course lets you glide high above the lush Dominican jungle to take in the panoramic views. Flying through the air with the wind in my face was absolutely exhilarating, and the guides were amazing at ensuring everyone felt safe and confident the entire time. Whether it’s your first zipline or your 50th, you’ll be smiling the entire time!

But the fun doesn’t stop there. This tour also includes a visit to the Damajagua Waterfalls for an epic canyoning adventure. Sliding and jumping through the cascading falls was such an exciting and unique experience – it’s the kind of activity you’ll talk about long after the trip!

To round out the day, you’ll enjoy a relaxing horseback ride through the picturesque Dominican countryside. It’s the perfect way to take in the scenery at a slower pace after all the adrenaline-filled activities. 

So if you’re looking for thrills, incredible views, and unforgettable memories, I highly recommend this tour!

Learn more about this epic zipline combo tour here!

7. Go snorkeling in Sosua Bay 

• Duration: 5.5 hours
• Time: 8:30 am, 9 am, 9:30 am
• Highlights: Visit two epic snorkeling spots in Sosua Bay, see a variety of marine life, relax on the beach 
• Inclusions: Hotel/port pick-up/dropoff, guide/driver, sun chair, snorkeling equipment
• Rating: 5 stars (check out the great reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re a fan of crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, then you have to add this snorkeling tour to your itinerary! It’s the perfect combination of underwater adventure and beach relaxation, making it ideal for those who want a balanced day of fun and downtime.

The tour kicks off with a boat ride to some of the best snorkeling spots in the area. Once we jumped into the water, we were surrounded by colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish – it felt like swimming in a real-life aquarium! 

Our guide, Richard, was fantastic, pointing out different marine species and ensuring everyone, from beginners to experienced snorkelers, felt comfortable the entire time. 

After the snorkeling adventure, we headed back to Sosúa Beach to unwind. This stretch of sand is one of the most beautiful in the Dominican Republic, with turquoise waters and plenty of space to stretch out. You can grab a beach chair, go for a swim, or explore the local vendors offering fresh coconuts and souvenirs – so make sure you bring some extra cash with you. 

What’s great about this tour is how easy and stress-free it is. Everything from the snorkeling gear to transportation is included, so all you need to bring is your swimsuit and sunscreen!

Check availability for this highly-rated tour here!

8. Take a speedboat ride to Paradise Island

• Duration: 9 to 10 hours
• Time: 7 am
• Highlights: Enjoy a speedboat ride to Paradise Island (Cayo Arena), go snorkeling around the island, relax on the beach, spot wildlife on a boat ride through the mangroves
• Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, guide, snorkeling equipment, bottled water/soda, lunch
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check out the great reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a true tropical paradise, then you have to go on this Cayo Arena tour! With its pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, it’s no surprise that this hidden gem is nicknamed “Paradise Island”!

The adventure starts with a scenic drive along the stunning coastline, followed by a thrilling speedboat ride out to the sandbar. The moment you set foot on Cayo Arena, the postcard-perfect scenery will blow you away – think powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and breathtaking views all around!

We spent the morning snorkeling around the colorful reef, where we spotted schools of tropical fish and even a few starfish. After exploring the underwater world, we kicked back on the soft sand to relax and bask in the Caribbean sunshine.

In the afternoon, we took a peaceful boat ride through the mangroves. Gliding through these lush waterways was a serene experience and the perfect way to spot some fascinating local wildlife.

This tour is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for some fun and relaxation in one of the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful settings. With transportation, lunch, and snorkeling gear included, all you have to do is show up and enjoy your day in paradise!

Secure your spot on this paradise tour here before it sells out!

Where to Stay in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Now that you have your itinerary planned it’s time to find the perfect hotel! Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront resort, a cozy boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly option, there’s something here for everyone.

Choosing the right place to stay is key to making the most of your trip, so I’ve rounded up the best accommodations in Puerto Plata to help you find the perfect base for your Caribbean adventure!

Luxury – $$$

The Skylight Suites Hotel is a beachfront hotel in Puerto Plata offering spacious suites, each with a private balcony and garden or ocean views. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, unwind at the spa, and dine at the on-site restaurant. With its prime location and comfortable amenities, it’s an excellent choice for a relaxing stay by the beach!

Prices usually range from $170 – $250 USD per night. Check all the options and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

The Gaia Residence is a great mid-range option in Puerto Plata, combining comfort and convenience. This modern property offers spacious rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and patios. With an outdoor pool and location close to Puerto Plata’s best beaches and attractions, the Gaia Residence is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a balance of affordability and quality!

Prices start around $100 USD per night and you can check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Villa Carolina Bed and Breakfast is a charming and affordable stay in Puerto Plata, offering cozy rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and thoughtful touches like free toiletries and work desks. Guests can relax in the outdoor pool, enjoy the tropical garden, or make use of the shared kitchen and lounge. Family rooms and ground-floor options make it a great choice for couples or groups.

Rooms here are very budget-friendly, starting at as low as around $50 USD per night, with breakfast included in select rates. Visit Booking.com to reserve your stay.

For more options, see all of Puerto Plata’s hotels listed here!

Renting a Car in the Caribbean

Renting a car in the Caribbean gives you the freedom to explore beyond the resorts—think secluded beaches, remote viewpoints, and vibrant local towns that buses don’t reach. As long as you are prepared for the road conditions and informed about local driving rules, renting a car can be a great addition to your trip!

We always book through Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s easy to compare providers, filter for exactly what you need (like an automatic or 4×4), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want all the details, check out our full Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the Caribbean

• Know the driving side: Some Caribbean islands drive on the left, while others stick to the right. It really varies island to island, so double-check before you go—and make sure you’re comfortable driving on that side of the road, especially if it’s different from home.
• Know the local driving rules: Road laws and signage can differ between islands, so it’s worth doing a quick check before pickup. Seatbelts are usually mandatory, texting and driving is typically illegal, and honking is often just a friendly heads-up. Expect low speed limits and shared roads—think scooters, pedestrians, and even the occasional animal—so stay alert and take your time!
• Add full insurance: Roads can be unpredictable, with potholes, hills, and narrow lanes—especially outside resort areas. For that reason, we always recommend adding on full coverage insurance to your rental. Discover Cars makes this super easy (and affordable!) to add on, so you can drive with peace of mind.
• Choose the right car: For beach tracks or hilly inland roads, a compact SUV or 4×4 might be your best bet. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, or even luggage space to suit your needs.
• Watch for extra fees: Some rental companies charge sand cleaning fees, airport pickup surcharges, or require you to return the car spotless. It’s nothing to stress over—just check the fine print so you’re not caught off guard.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• On some islands, a temporary/visitor’s driving permit may be required. These are normally issued by the rental agency for a fee. Check with your company in advance, so you’re not surprised by extra costs at pickup!
• An IDP (International Driving Permit) may be required depending on your destination and the language of your license. Always check the country’s requirements beforehand so you’re prepared.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

There you have it, our guide on the best things to do in Puerto Plata! This is a true gem in the Dominican Republic with its incredible beaches and so many amazing activities. We hope our list will help you make the most of your time here!

If you need more travel inspiration or tips for this part of the world, have a look through our entire section on the Caribbean here! Or our full blog covers destinations around the world. Happy traveling!

10 Best Things to do in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

10 BEST Things to do in Nassau, Bahamas

10 Best Things to do in Curacao