Puerto Plata – formally called San Felipe de Puerto Plata – is a gorgeous city in the Dominican Republic, the third-largest in the country, and also the capital of the province of Puerto Plata.
The city is a popular tourist destination, especially for cruise passengers. It is situated on the Amber Coast and features a wide range of activities and excursions for tourists.
Puerto Plata has two separate cruise ports: Puerto Plata Cruise Port in Taino Bay and Amber Cove Cruise Port in Amber Cove. They are relatively close by, so although we’ll be focusing on the Puerto Plata Cruise Port, the attractions, restaurants, and sights we discuss will be accessible from either port.
Sightseeing & Activities
There are many things to do when you dock at the Puerto Plata cruise port, whether you want to walk around the beach, do some shopping, or go on an excursion.
Damajaqua Cascades
One of the most well-reviewed tourist attractions in Puerto Plata is the Damajaqua Cascades, also called the 27 Waterfalls.
The waterfalls are located in the Cordillera Septentrional mountain range, and you can take a guided tour to hike up to the waterfalls and even swim in some of them.
Most tours to the Cascades last about three hours, and round-trip transportation from your cruise ship is included.
Walk the Malecón
Walking around Puerto Plata is a great activity in and of itself. If you just want to stay near the port, we recommend walking along the Malecón, a boardwalk that runs along the ocean.
The Malecón is about two miles long, and there are plenty of places to stop and rest, do some people-watching, or grab a bite to eat.
Discover Monkeyland
If you want to see animals, then head over to Monkeyland, a sanctuary for abandoned monkeys. It’s about 25 minutes away from the port by car or bus.
At Monkeyland, you can learn about the different species of monkeys and see them up close. You can even feed some of them!
Paddle Through a Manatee Reserve
Another animal-centric activity near Puerto Plata is paddling through a manatee reserve. These gentle giants are often called “sea cows.” You can see them up close by taking a kayak or paddleboard tour through the reserve.
Museo del Ambar Dominicano
If you’re interested in preserved insects and learning about Dominican history, stop by the Museo del Ambar Dominicano, which is also known as the Amber Museum.
Amber is a fossilized tree resin found in the Dominican Republic, and the museum has a large collection of amber jewelry and artifacts.
Mundo King Art Museum
If art, architecture, and sculptures are more up your alley, visit the Mundo King Art Museum. Here, you’ll find some of the most exquisite paintings and unique sculptures. It’s a 35-minute drive from the port, but many people claim it’s well worth the trip.
Shopping & Food
Shopping at the local markets is a fun activity, as you can learn about the local culture, pick up gifts for your loved ones back home, and haggle for the best prices.
There are many markets in Puerto Plata, but we recommend checking out the Mercado Modelo — the city’s main market — if you have some extra time, as it’s an hour away.
Here, you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade jewelry.
Otherwise, if you’re looking for places to combine shopping, food, and memorable activities, check out our top three picks:
Ocean World Adventure Park, Marina, and Casino
The Ocean World Adventure Park, Marina, and Casino is a lovely place to spend a few hours, as it has something for everyone.
The park has an aquarium where you can see sharks, dolphins, and other sea creatures up close. You can even swim with dolphins.
There is also a casino, if you’re feeling lucky, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Island Rum Tasting Tour
If you love a good adult beverage now and then, it’s a great idea to discover the local rum when exploring a Caribbean city. Taking an island rum-tasting tour is a fun way to do this, and you’ll learn about the history and production of rum while sampling some delicious varieties.
Del Oro Chocolate Factory
Looking for something a little more family-friendly on this cruise ship stop? Then consider visiting the Del Oro Chocolate Factory.
This factory offers tours so you can see how chocolate is made, and of course, there’s a shop where you can buy some delicious chocolate treats to take home with you.
Nearby Beaches To Check Out
Of course, when people think of cruises to the Caribbean, beaches are one of the first attractions to come to mind. Fortunately, you’ll have several nearby beach options to check out on your stop.
Playa Dorada
Playa Dorada is a beach resort area about 10 minutes away from Puerto Plata by car. This beach has plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. There’s also a golf course if you’re looking to hit the links.
Amber Cove
Amber Cove is a beach located in a nearby cove, and it’s a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. You can even go cliff-jumping here if you’re feeling for an adventurous shore excursion.
Taino Bay
Taino Bay is another snorkeling spot, and it’s known for its clear water and diverse marine life. If you’re looking to explore beneath the waves, this is a great place to do it.
Local Currency & Tipping Customs
The official currency in Puerto Plata is the Dominican Peso.
Tipping at least 10% is customary in the Dominican Republic if you enjoyed the service. Some restaurants may even add an automatic 10% gratuity to your bill.
Transportation in Puerto Plata
Your cruise ship will use either dock in the Puerto Plata Cruise Port or the Amber Cove Cruise Port (if it is a Carnival Cruise line). Either way, it is easy to access other modes of transportation once you get off the ship.
The most convenient way to get around is by taxi, as they are relatively inexpensive (about $3 to $5 USD for an average ride). Plus, if you are good at and comfortable bargaining, you may even be able to get lower prices.
Another option is taking the local bus, which costs around $0.60 USD per ride. The buses in Puerto Plata are typically blue and white, and they have the words “Guagua” or “Confort” written on them.
Cruise Lines That Sail Here
There are several major cruise lines that sail to Puerto Plata, either docking at Puerto Plata’s port or the Amber Cove port.
These lines include but are not limited to:
- Carnival
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Royal Caribbean
- Celebrity Cruises
- MSC Cruises
- Holland America Line
If you’re interested in taking a cruise to Puerto Plata, make sure to check out the offerings from these and other major cruise lines.
Conclusion
Puerto Plata is a great cruise ship stop for those who want to explore the city, enjoy the beach, or learn about the Dominican lifestyle. With so many exciting things to do, you’re sure to find something that interests you. Just be sure to bring some sunscreen and enjoy your time at one of the most beautiful ports in the Caribbean – Puerto Plata cruise port.
