Puerto Plata is the largest city in the province of Puerto Plata where Cabarete and Encuento Beach are located. It is a 30 minute drive from Ocean Palms Residences and can be a great option for a day trip away from the activities of Cabarete for the day. It offers some of the oldest colonial history in the Dominican Republic, amazing views and a little something out of the ordinary. Read on to see our Puerto Plata must see list:

Puerto Plata Must See List:

1. Mt. Isabella De Torres

A trip to Puerto Plata wouldn’t be complete without a ride up the “Teleferico” (Gondola) to the city’s highest peak – Mt. Isabella de Torres. The city of Puerto Plata is located at the foot of Mt. Isaebela de Torres; with sweeping views of the city below, it will have you thinking of Rio De Janeiro in Brazil. Complete with a large statue of Jesus at the top, the teleferico ride is rewarded with winding paths and bridges that carry you through a botanical garden and encircle the amazing statue and view. The climate is different up there, so make sure you pack a jacket and your camera!

2. Downtown Puerto Plata

puerto plata downtown — San Felipe Cathedral Puerto Plata

They say the best way to see a city is on foot, and the old quarter of Puerto Plata is the perfect place to wander.. With plenty of shops and restaurants in this district, you can fill your afternoon with sites of old Victorian architecture. Visit the local monuments and be sure to catch the San Felipe Cathedral in the main square. Like lots of town squares in Latin America, there are always people gathered here, and it’s a great way to take in the local culture, especially on a weekend or evening.

3. Fortaleza San Felipe

Fortress Puerto Plata — Fortaleza San Felipe, Puerto Plata

Recently modified to contain a massive open air amphitheatre, the area that contains the fortress is an absolute must see. Particularly beautiful and bustling with activity around sunset, this spot is not only breathtaking, it is teeming with cultural history. You can sit at the top of the amphitheatre and take in the view of the ancient fortress and main port of Puerto Plata. The fortress was originally built in 1564 by King Felipe II to protect his territory from pirates and other invaders. The stone structure is one of the oldest in the Caribbean and was once used as a prison.

4. Malecón de Puerto Plata

puerto plata must see malecon — The Malecón in Puerto Plata

Encircling the old quarter of the city and reaching as far west as the fortress, this paved pathway follows the popular beaches of Puerto Plata. With an array of beach side restaurants and places to swim, this could be the most refreshing part of your trip to the city.

5. Damajagua Waterfalls

best of puerto plata waterfalls — The Damajagua Waterfalls Puerto Plata

Also known as the 27 waterfalls, this is one of the top tourist attractions in the whole province. Located just 30 minutes from the city centre, you can arrive by car or with a tour company like Iguana Mama. The waterfalls are a breathtaking site, with 27 in total, you can jump swim, and hike your way down the river canyon. Just make sure you take your gopro!

Day trips are a great way to see the region, and with so many local attractions it’s hard to know where to start. Puerto Plata is definitely on our must see list, so we hope you too will enjoy the many sites the city has to offer!