5 Reasons Why This Dominican Republic Resort City Is Soaring In Popularity

Last Updated 8 months ago

Nestled between towering mountains lies the third-largest city in the Dominican Republic – Puerto Plata.

The seaside resort town is exploding in popularity this spring, with many resorts selling out at record speed.

Puerto Plata is home to some of the country’s most scenic landscapes; from its lush hills to soft white-sand beaches, travelers love this city for its versatility and tropical atmosphere.

Here are the top 5 reasons to visit Puerto Plata this spring:

Array Of Luxury Accommodations

With over 100,000 hotel rooms, Puerto Plata is packed with high-end resorts and smaller boutique properties, offering travelers excellent variety.

Bird's eye view of a resort with pools in Punta Cana

Much like Punta Cana, Puerto Plata’s high-end resorts are predominantly all-inclusive. Some of the highest-rated properties include Sunscape Puerto Plata, with an impressive 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor.

Situated on the shores of Playa Dorada, this 4-star resort has 585 rooms and a great selection of family-friendly amenities thanks to the Unlimited Fun all-inclusive package. Guests love the resort’s poolside entertainment and surrounding beaches.

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Dominican Republic resort with pool in the foreground and palm trees and ocean in the background

Another excellent choice is Bluebay Villas Doradas, an adults-only resort with some of the most gorgeous tropical views in the city. Ideal for honeymooners, this 4-star resort is surrounded by fun activities, including an 18-hole golf course.

Gorgeous Tropical Scenery

Unlike Punta Cana, Puerto Plata’s landscape is varied and dramatic. Its 2,400-foot high mountain range provides some awe-inspiring views for a perfect tropical getaway. Meanwhile, the city’s shoreline is adorned with white-sand beaches.

Stunning white sand beach in Puerto Plata

To experience the best of Puerto Plata’s nature, try out the city’s iconic Cable Car, which takes travelers to the city’s highest peak in just 10 minutes. A round trip costs just over $10 per person, making it one of the most affordable day trips in the country.

While Puerto Plata is home to an amazing variety of tropical beaches, few can beat Playa Dorada. Stretching for nearly 3 miles, this white-sand beach is situated just east of the downtown area.

For something closer to the city center, opt for Playa Acapulco or Long Beach, both of which are top-rated.

Ecotourism Powerhouse

Even though Puerto Plata is the perfect destination for lounging by a resort pool, the city is even before for outdoor nature activities.

Its proximity to tropical jungles, towering mountains, and abundant beaches makes it a hub for all sorts of eco-journeys. The best way to make the most of Puerto Plata’s nature is to book a guided tour.

View of a cable car ride in Puerto Plata

This 5-hour ‘Zip N Splash’ combo tour includes both ziplining as well as discovering 12 breathtaking waterfalls in the Rio Damajagua area. The $124 per person tour includes a guide as well as hotel pick up and drop off.

City Exploration

Being the third-largest city in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata is a small metropolis bursting with local culture and life.

The city of nearly 500,000 residents is packed with museums, restaurants, and monuments. Some of the must-see attractions include the Fortaleza de San Felipe, a Spanish fortress dating back to the 16th century.

Indepdence Park in Puerto Plata with greenery and birds

For a more laid-back experience, head to Independence Park, one of the most important national monuments paying homage to the country’s independence.

Growing Cruise Ship Hub

Last but not least, Puerto Plata has consolidated its position as the leading cruise ship destination in the Dominican Republic.

A cruise ship docked at sea with palm trees and blue waters

Situated around six miles from the city center, Amber Cove is the largest cruise port in the country, welcoming the likes of Carnival and Princess cruise lines. Taíno Bay is the second largest port in the country, where Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruise liners dock.