The best tropical getaways start in Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata, or La Novia del Atlántico, sits along the northern shores of the Dominican Republic offering picturesque getaways not far from home. Best known for its stunning golden sands and lush tropical landscapes, every step taken in this island paradise brings you closer to some of the greatest history, adventure and nightlife the Dominican Republic has to offer. With much to discover, we’re highlighting some of the reasons why Puerto Plata should be at the top of your vacation bucket list.

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Easy entry paradise

Travel to the Dominican Republic’s sought-after paradise is made easy as a Sunwing Easy Entry Destination, meaning that no matter where you travel within the country, you won’t have to worry about inbound testing requirements or complicated restrictions but can instead spend your time focusing on planning the getaway of your dreams and perfecting your tan. Canadians travelling to Puerto Plata on the northern coast can take advantage of easy and direct flights from multiple gateways this summer, including twice weekly flights on Tuesdays and Fridays from Toronto, and weekly flights on Tuesdays from Montréal and Québec City.

More than 100 kilometres of beach

The perfect spot for your sun and sand getaway, Puerto Plata offers a shore for your every need. A few of our favourites include the palm-lined Playa Dorada with stunning golden sands and swimmable waters, ideal for basking in the rays and catching up on your favourite book, while Playa Cofresí in Cofresí Bay, both named after the legend of Cofresí’s Pirate, offers a livelier atmosphere with prime conditions for snorkelling and diving. Playa Sosúa, another beautiful stretch of sand contrasted by the deep blue hugs a crescent-shaped bay, twenty minutes east of Puerto Plata and is the perfect day-time recluse with access to a number of bars, restaurants and shops.

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Sites worthy of Instagram

The Victorian-style architecture, historic sites and colourful buildings along the streets of Puerto Plata provide a picturesque backdrop for your venture into the past. Stay in the historic city centre and capture the sights of local vendors, the iconic Saint Philip the Apostle Church or the incredible street art with vibrant colours and designs. A great Instagram photo comes with an even better vantage point, so check out Fortaleza San Felipe, a Spanish fortress with history dating back to the 16th century, or ride the Teleferico cable car up Mount Isabel de Torres for some of the best views of the city and the coast, with a breathtaking botanical garden at the summit.

Endless adventure for the explorer at heart

Home to legendary landscapes with majestic mountains and unique wildlife to discover, fun-filled adventures in this paradise are infinite. Water lovers will feel particularly at home in Playa Cabarete, a short jaunt from Puerto Plata, boasting optimal conditions year-round for all kinds of water sports, including windsurfing and kitesurfing. Those with jungle fever can explore the famous 27 cascades of Damajagua or the majestic falls of El Limón, accessible only by foot or horseback, or dune buggy through Puerto Plata’s diverse landscapes exploring the countryside, sugarcane fields and quaint villages.

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Nightlife beloved by locals and travellers alike

While sunny skies may dominate the days in Puerto Plata, the city comes alive at night with plenty to do to extend the fun after dark. With a variety of options lining the city streets, head to Cabaret and enjoy an early meal dining on local and international favourites beachside, or sample tasty cocktails at Meclao’ Rooftop Lounge before dancing the night away at the famous Kviar Show Disco and Casino loved by both vacationers and locals. Should you choose to stay within the comforts of your hotel, many all inclusive resorts in destination offer fantastic entertainment programs right on site for guests to enjoy, including their own discos or nightclubs!