Things to do in Puerto Plata

Ralph

From Ralph's guidebook

Snorkel among colorful fish in a tropical reef Watch the antics of dolphins, sea lions and sharks Pause for a complimentary lunch, included with your day pass Walk through the Rainforest, Bird Exhibit and Habitat of Iguanas. Discover the largest manmade dolphin habitat in the world at Ocean World Puerto Plata, a must-see attraction for any visit to the Dominican Republic. With a full-day pass, you can snorkel in a tropical reef aquarium, learn more about marine mammals from expert handlers, get up-close to feed tropical birds and walk through a tropical rainforest, Bird Exhibit and Habitat of Iguanas. The pass also includes access to some of the animal shows. Have fun with the playful sea lions, watch the skill of the dolphins, and see all the drama of the shark show. Then, relax on Dolphin Beach and soak up some Caribbean rays. With lunch and lounge chairs included as part of the package, this is your passport to a world of marine adventures. Round-trip hotel transfers by bus Lunch Snorkeling at Tropical Reef Aquarium Pirate's Pool Rainforest, Bird Exhibit and Habitat of Iguanas Use of Dolphin Beach (lounge chairs included) Sea Lion Show Dolphin Show Shark Show Tropical Bird Show Drinks Transportation from hotels outside Puerto Plata (USD 5 surcharge for hotels in Sosua and Cabarete. USD 10 surcharge for hotels in Luperon, Rio San Juan, and Playa Grande) All interactive programs You are advised to bring: a camera, bathing suit, towel, sun block and additional money for pictures and souvenirs Please note, you must not wear jewellery on your hands, neck and ears in case your harm the animals Children must be supervised by an adult (18+) at all times

Cynthia

From Cynthia's guidebook

Visitors who dream of swimming with dolphins can fulfill their wish here. Aside from dolphins, children and adults can enjoy a multitude of marine experiences, from shows with sea lions and nurse sharks to an exotic bird area. For more adventure, try the giant slide that throws you into the artificial swimming lagoon.

Dulce Estancia

From Dulce Estancia's guidebook

An exciting program designed for adventurous travelers to meet sharks, dolphin, then enjoy a perfect day at our adventure park with hotel transfer and lunch included. From swimming with sharks or dolphins to watching a lively dance performance, you’ll find exciting activities all day at this popular attraction Ocean World visitors have the opportunity to snorkel in the Tropical Reef Aquarium, learn about marine mammals, feed exotic tropical birds, walk through a tropical rainforest, visit the pirate pool, slide down the water slides, and observe the Dolphin Show, Shark Show, Sea Lions Show and Tropical Bird Show. Guests also have free access to the Dolphin Beach with beach chairs and much more! Purchase a park day pass, which includes many activities. Throughout the day multiple shows are presented at the dolphin, sea lion, shark and bird “stages.” Snorkel with colorful fish in the Tropical Reef Aquarium. Swim at Pirates Pool. Sunbathe at Dolphin Beach. Visit the Rainforest, Bird Exhibit and Iguana Habitat. Consider booking other exciting activities for additional fees. Get a kiss from a dolphin after it gives you a ride. Share a wet hug with a sea lion. Swim safely among sharks. Join the Bravissimo Fiesta on Wednesday or Saturday evening, with Dominican and Latin music, dance and entertainment as well as plenty of alcohol. Opt for a Behind the Scenes tour of the park’s working areas. Check with us for any special excursion offerings including bus transportation, lunch and additional activities. Arrange a guide or check the day’s schedule as soon as you arrive to move around the park with an optimal plan for enjoying all the activities that interest you. Book tickets online. Some fees are reduced for Dominican Republic residents. Reserve a wheelchair if needed; check on any specific limitations for animal interactions. Children through age 3 have free admission. Ask for discounts for seniors and kids through age 12. Bring your swimsuit, towel and sunscreen. Note that water bottles are not allowed in the park. If you will be swimming with the animals, leave your jewelry at home to avoid causing them any injury. At the end of the day you may want to purchase photos taken by the roving park photographers. The park is open Monday through Sunday from morning to early evening, including holidays. Drive west from the Puerto Plata International Airport to reach Ocean World in about 40 minutes. Stop along the way in the city of Puerto Plata to visit Fort San Felipe, Victorian Times and the Malecon Puerto Plata seafront area. Have plenty of fun and adventure at Ocean World Adventure Park.

Gloria

From Gloria's guidebook

The Teleferico Puerto Plata cable car will take up to the Mountain "Isabel Del Torres" where you will have stunning views of the ocean and beautiful Puerto Plata City. There are also absolutely gorgeous gardens all across the top of the mountain.

Trisha

From Trisha's guidebook

Hike your way up or hop on the only cable car in the Caribbean to reach Mount Isabel de Torres, flanked by a giant statue of Christ the Redeemer–one of the province’s iconic landmarks. You’ll be standing 793 meters (2,600 feet) above Puerto Plata’s verdant hills, surrounded with phenomenal views of Puerto Plata’s Atlantic Ocean and beaches in the distance. Once at the peak, hike the beautiful botanical gardens filled with local flora, caves, and plenty of areas for respite from the sun. A breathtaking 10-minute ride takes you soaring in one of two cable cars 800 meters (2,625 feet) above Puerto Plata’s magical landscape–from the sea on your north to the lush, verdant plains that eventually lead you to the other end of the cable, at Mount Isabel de Torres. Location: Puerto Plata Phone Number: (809) 970 0501 Schedule: 8:30am – 17:00pm

Philippe

From Philippe's guidebook

Day 3 / PUERTO PLATA (1.5 hours round trip / 100KM) We suggest a variety of activities for you to choose from based on your interests. • Ocean World (water slides, sea lions, and the main attraction - swimming with dolphins.) At Ocean World Adventure Park, located in Cofresí, just over five kilometers (three miles) west of Puerto Plata city, visitors can fulfill their dream of swimming with dolphins. Children and adults can also enjoy a multitude of marine experiences, including shows with sea lions and nurse sharks, an exotic bird area, and snorkeling in an artificial coral reef aquarium filled with hundreds of tropical fish. For those seeking adventure, there's a giant slide that throws you into an artificial swimming lagoon. • Puerto Plata city tour including a cigar factory visit and cable car ride Discover the highlights of Puerto Plata's urban landscape and monuments. Visit the rum factory, admire the local architecture, and take a cable car up to Mount Isabel de Torres for a breathtaking view of the city and the majestic statue of Christ the Redeemer. • Buggy tour Immerse yourself in the beautiful natural landscape of the Dominican Republic on this half-day buggy excursion in the dunes. Ideal for all levels, a pre-departure orientation is included. Drive off-road through muddy trails and scenic coasts in the province of Puerto Plata. Small group tours include a stop at Playa Bergantin with an optional swim.

Ana

From Ana's guidebook

Lose yourself in Puerto Plata’s Umbrella Street, a whimsical lane of floating colors, blooming bougainvillea, and café-lined charm — only moments away from the villa.

Elvis

From Elvis's guidebook

technically San Felipe Street but you can find it under “Umbrella Street” on maps. This street is just as it sounds—a street with umbrellas hanging down. It’s whimsical, colorful, and brought a huge smile to my face.

Seline

From Seline's guidebook

Umbrella Street in Puerto Plata is a fun and colorful spot that’s perfect for a photo op and a leisurely walk. Lined with vibrant umbrellas overhead, it creates a lively and picturesque atmosphere that’s hard to miss. Whether you’re strolling, taking in the sights, or snapping a few pictures, it’s a delightful place to experience the charm of Puerto Plata. Plus, there are plenty of local shops and cafes nearby, so you can easily make a day out of exploring this unique and colorful street!

Ana

From Ana's guidebook

Puerto Plata’s Malecón, about 10 minutes from the villa Step back in time at Fortaleza San Felipe, a 16th-century fortress built by the Spanish to protect the city from pirates. Overlooking the ocean, it offers sweeping coastal views and a fascinating peek into Puerto Plata’s colonial past.

Elvis

From Elvis's guidebook

Fort San Felipe (Fuerte San Felipe) is Puerto Plata’s only remaining colonial structure and one of the first European forts constructed in the Americas. The Fort was built between 1564 and 1577 to defend against colonists from other European countries, as well as pirates looking for silver and gold.

Seline

From Seline's guidebook

Fortaleza San Felipe in Puerto Plata is a fascinating piece of history that you won’t want to miss. This 16th-century fortress offers stunning views of the ocean and the city, along with a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. Walking through its walls, you can imagine what life was like centuries ago while soaking in the incredible coastal scenery. It’s a great spot for history buffs and anyone looking to enjoy panoramic views of Puerto Plata, all while exploring one of the oldest structures on the island!

Ana

From Ana's guidebook

10 minutes from the villa Step into the charm of Puerto Plata’s historic downtown at Parque Central, surrounded by colorful Victorian architecture, cozy cafés, and the city’s iconic white gazebo — a perfect spot for photos and people-watching.

Eric

From Eric's guidebook

Visit some of the most popular sites in Puerto Plata with this city tour. First stop is Macorix House of Rum where you will tour the factory and learn the history of Macorix rum and sample 8 types of drinks. Next you will visit the amber museum which has several display rooms, with an impressive collection of pieces of many sizes, containing plants, insects and other fossilized small animals. The Chocolate Factory is next with insights into cocoa and the chocolate making process, after which you will visit umbrellas street, pink street and central park. That brings you to lunch, which is not included in cost of the tour, but you can choose the place you want to eat at. After lunch you will be taken to the cable car (Teleferico) that takes you 10 min up to an amazing view of the city from atop of Isabel de Torres. Once you have taken in the sights and descend again the final stop of the tour is Fortaleza San Felipe is a historic Spanish fortress l known as El Morro de San Felipe and was used to protect the City of Puerto Plata from pirates. Pick up is 8am from your location, includes transportation and entrance admission to all stops (except for lunch). Total time is 7-8hrs.

Ryan

From Ryan's guidebook

The quintessential starting spot for a half-day tours around POP, try the gelato, take a brief walk to the "pink street and umbrella street" grab a coffee and a lunch, walk to the malecon (boardwalk) and drink a Presidente. Take a short drive to the Teleferico from there and ride up to see the awesome panoramic views of the city and ports.