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9 Things to Do in Puerto Plata

Spend the Perfect Port Day in Puerto Plata

By Melanie Hamilton | Published on February 24, 2026

Perched on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata sprawls across lush mountains, valleys and rivers fertile for cacao and coffee. Surrounded by the deep blues of the ocean, whose glistening waters earned it the nickname “Bride of the Atlantic,” it sure is easy on the eyes. It’s also remarkably easy to explore. When your Royal Caribbean ship docks at Amber Cove or Taino Bay, you’re minutes from 16th-century fortresses, cascading waterfalls and beaches where the toughest call is choosing between snorkeling coral reefs or ordering another round of crispy empanadas and ice-cold cervezas.

Most cruise itineraries give you 8 to 10 hours in port — just enough time to discover why this city has been captivating visitors for centuries. To make sure you get the most out of your time, I’ve organized the best attractions in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, by type so you can plan the perfect day.

Historic And Cultural Sites

Puerto Plata’s colonial past reaches back to the early 1500s, making it one of the oldest European settlements in the Americas. Spanish fortresses sit blocks away from ornate Victorian mansions that reflect the 19th-century tobacco boom that made this port wealthy beyond its wildest dreams.

1. Fortaleza San Felipe

Built in 1564 when pirates were more than fun fiction, this fortress defended Puerto Plata’s harbor with stone walls thick enough to withstand cannon fire and invasion attempts. Today, though, the only thing under siege is your camera roll — the ramparts offer stunning views across the bay where Spanish galleons anchored once upon a time. Inside, a small museum houses artifacts from the colonial era, including weapons, maps and relics that tell the story of Caribbean defense strategy.

2. Amber Museum

The name Puerto Plata means “Silver Port,” a name inspired not by an abundance of the mineral, but by its shimmering coast. An equally relevant color to explore, however, is amber, and the Dominican Republic produces some of the world’s finest. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion, the collection includes rare specimens with prehistoric insects perfectly preserved — mosquitoes, spiders and beetles frozen mid-flight millions of years ago. Plus, you’ll learn why Dominican amber is particularly prized (it’s often clearer and older than Baltic varieties), and the difference between authentic pieces and fakes.

3. Historic Downtown And Umbrella Street

Puerto Plata’s downtown rewards its wanderers. Stroll past colorful Victorian buildings with intricate gingerbread fixings, pause at Central Park where locals picnic under shady mahoganies and palms, and admire the peace of St. Philip Cathedral. Then it’s time for the real showstopper, Umbrella Street, where hundreds of colorful umbrellas float overhead, creating a pretty canopy of reds, blues, yellows and greens. Whimsical? Yes. Practical? Also yes. The umbrellas provide shade while you browse local shops selling everything from hand-rolled cigars to Dominican art and traditional goods — rum samples, anyone?

Nature And Adventures

Towering 2,600 feet above Puerto Plata’s coast, Mount Isabel de Torres dominates the skyline and boasts some of the Caribbean’s most thrilling outdoor experiences. Beyond the peak, the region’s swimming holes and hiking trails showcase the Dominican Republic’s incredible biodiversity, with the famous 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua topping any adventurer’s bucket list.

4. Teleférico Puerto Plata Cable Car

The Caribbean’s only aerial tramway climbs all 2,600 feet up Mount Isabel de Torres in a scenic 10-minute ride with sweeping views of the coast, city and countryside. The ride is an adventure in and of itself, but at the summit, it gets even better. You’ll find botanical gardens and a spectacular homage to the country’s Catholic heritage, a giant Christ the Redeemer statue similar to Rio’s famous landmark.

5. 27 Waterfalls Of Damajagua

Grab your suits and swim shoes — this is Puerto Plata’s marquee adventure. Here, a series of cascades plunge through the jungle, creating natural water slides and pools where you hike upstream, then slide and jump your way back down. Expect to get soaked, slightly sore and absolutely exhilarated.

6. Mount Isabel De Torres National Park

Beyond the cable car station, the national park offers botanical gardens overflowing with thousands of species of plants, among them vibrant bromeliads, fragrant orchids, thick ferns and a myriad of wildlife from elusive lizards to colorful parakeets. Explore one of its many trails that wind through mystical cloud forest and marvel at how elevation transforms the landscape — cooler temps plus persistent mist make for an ambience worlds away from the beach heat below. In other words, an escape within an escape.

Beaches And Water Activities

With water temps averaging a calm and balmy 80F year-round, Puerto Plata’s coast delivers everything from swanky resort-style luxury to rowdy water sports and quiet, colorful snorkeling spots. You can reach most beaches in about 15-30 minutes from the port(s).

7. Playa Dorada

Sometimes the best thing to do in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, is nothing at all, and for that, there’s Playa Dorada. Golden sand stretches along this resort beach backed by all-inclusive hotels, restaurants and an 18-hole golf course. The calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming or creating the perfect afternoon under an umbrella with a cold drink and a good read as the waves lap.

8. Sosúa Beach

The crescent-shaped bay stays protected from waves, creating the perfect snorkel conditions to explore coral reefs and friendly tropical fish just offshore. The town of Sosúa offers authentic local restaurants perfect for feasting on fresh seafood and shopping for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.

9. Cabarete Beach

Consistent trade winds off the Atlantic have made this beach world-renowned for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Book a lesson to learn how to surf the wind and soar above the waves. Not an adrenaline junkie? Even if you never touch a board, watching dozens of colorful kites dance across the water is entertainment enough.

Things To Do Near The Cruise Port

Short on time or prefer staying close to the ship? You can still experience some of the best of Puerto Plata within easy reach of both ports without committing to a full-day excursion, meaning you can easily combine your own handful of activities for a DIY adventure.

From Amber Cove

A 10-minute taxi will land you at Ocean World Adventure Park, where you can enjoy marine animal encounters and shows. Right next to Ocean World is Playa Cofresi, but if you prefer to be back near Amber Cove, Plata Bachata is just as good. Both offer perfect spots to lounge in the sun and enjoy fresh fish and “tostones” steps from the sand.

From Taino Bay

Historic Downtown and Umbrella Street are just a 15-minute walk or 5-minute taxi ride from the port and put you smack dab in the heart of Puerto Plata. From here, you can branch out to Fortaleza San Felipe for some adventurous fortress exploration and views of the harbor. Macorix House of Rum’s tastings and tours are also worth carving out time for on the way back to the ship to learn about (and indulge in!) the island’s loved-round-the-globe beverage.

From Either Port

You can easily enjoy shopping for souvenirs at both ports. Search for the perfect piece of amber or larimar to bring home, then seek out stout hand-rolled cigars, rich vanilla and coffee, and local spiced rum concoction, “mamajuana.” For an authentic bite before heading back to the ship, search for food stalls serving “taroa” (Dominican street food layered with plantains, meat and cheese) and sip on coconut water right from the source while you wait.

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Puerto Plata

Most cruise ships dock for 8-10 hours — this sample itinerary hits the highlights, with options for each slot of time so you can adjust based on your interests.

● Morning: Choose your adventure — tackle the 27 Charcos de Damajagua waterfalls or ride the Teleférico cable car to Mount Isabel de Torres for panoramic views and botanical gardens.

● Lunch: Enjoy Dominican specialties like “mofongo,” fresh fish or “pastelitos” at a restaurant in historic downtown or beachfront.

● Afternoon: Relax at Playa Dorada or Sosúa Beach with snorkeling, or explore Fortaleza San Felipe and the Amber Museum for culture and history.

● Late Afternoon: Browse local shops for amber or larimar jewelry, then grab a cold Presidente beer on the Malecón.

Plan Your Puerto Plata Cruise Adventure

Ready to explore Puerto Plata’s historic forts, pristine beaches, and thrilling waterfalls? The best way to experience this Dominican gem is on a Royal Caribbean cruise, where your floating hotel and logistics coordinator is complete with all the perks your heart desires — all you need to do is show up.

Puerto Plata pairs perfectly with other Caribbean destinations, letting you experience the best of the Dominican Republic alongside Jamaica, The Bahamas or the Eastern Caribbean.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker eyeing up those waterfalls, a beach lover searching for that perfect stretch of sand or a history buff eager to explore old fortresses, Puerto Plata delivers on all fronts.

Get acquainted with the “Bride of the Atlantic” and explore cruises to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.