Puerto Plata is a beautiful city on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. July is a great time to visit Puerto Plata, as the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Here are seven secret places to visit in Puerto Plata in July 2024:
Playa Dorada
Playa Dorada is a beautiful beach located just east of Puerto Plata. It is known for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and gentle waves. Playa Dorada is a great place to relax and soak up the sun, or to enjoy a variety of water sports, such as swimming, snorkeling, and windsurfing. There are also several restaurants and bars located on the beach, so you can enjoy a meal or a drink while you enjoy the scenery.
Ocean World Adventure Park
Ocean World Adventure Park is a marine park located just west of Puerto Plata. It is home to a variety of marine animals, including dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and stingrays. Ocean World Adventure Park offers a variety of activities, such as dolphin and sea lion encounters, shark feedings, and stingray petting. There is also a water park located on the property, so you can cool off after a day of exploring the marine park.
Fortaleza San Felipe
Fortaleza San Felipe is a historic fort located in the center of Puerto Plata. It was built in the 16th century to protect the city from pirates. Fortaleza San Felipe is now a museum, and it offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s past. The fort is also a great place to enjoy the views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Amber Cove
Amber Cove is a cruise ship port located just east of Puerto Plata. It is a popular destination for cruise ships from all over the world. Amber Cove offers a variety of activities for cruise ship passengers, such as shopping, dining, and excursions. There is also a beach located on the property, so you can relax and soak up the sun after a day of exploring the port.
Mount Isabel de Torres
Mount Isabel de Torres is a mountain located just south of Puerto Plata. It is the highest point in the city, and it offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Mount Isabel de Torres is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. There is also a cable car that takes visitors to the top of the mountain, so you can enjoy the views without having to hike.
La Isabela
La Isabela is a small town located about 30 minutes east of Puerto Plata. It is the site of the first permanent European settlement in the Americas. La Isabela was founded by Christopher Columbus in 1493, and it was the capital of the Spanish colony of Santo Domingo for several years. Today, La Isabela is a small town with a rich history. There are several historical sites located in the town, including the ruins of the first church built in the Americas.
Sosúa
Sosúa is a beach town located about 20 minutes east of Puerto Plata. It is known for its beautiful beaches, its vibrant nightlife, and its large population of Jewish immigrants. Sosúa is a great place to relax and soak up the sun, or to enjoy a variety of water sports, such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving. There are also several restaurants and bars located on the beach, so you can enjoy a meal or a drink while you enjoy the scenery.
Culture
Puerto Plata is a city with a rich culture. The city is home to a variety of museums, art galleries, and historical sites. Puerto Plata is also known for its music, dance, and cuisine. The city is home to several music venues, and there are often live music performances in the streets. Puerto Plata is also known for its traditional Dominican cuisine, which includes dishes such as sancocho (a meat and vegetable stew), mofongo (a mashed plantain dish), and arroz con pollo (rice with chicken).
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit Puerto Plata are from January to April and from September to December. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is little rain. However, Puerto Plata is a popular tourist destination, so it is important to book your accommodations in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season (January to April).
Nearby Transportation
Puerto Plata is served by Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP). The airport is located about 20 minutes east of the city. There are several airlines that offer flights to Puerto Plata, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to your hotel. There are also several rental car companies located at the airport.
Local Food
Puerto Plata is known for its traditional Dominican cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include sancocho (a meat and vegetable stew), mofongo (a mashed plantain dish), and arroz con pollo (rice with chicken). There are also several international restaurants located in Puerto Plata, so you can find a variety of cuisines to choose from.
Best Hotels
There are several great hotels located in Puerto Plata. Some of the most popular hotels include the Casa Colonial Beach & Spa, the Occidental Caribe, and the Emotions by Hodelpa Playa Dorada. These hotels offer a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, restaurants, and bars. They are also located close to the beach and other attractions.
Conclusion
Puerto Plata is a beautiful city with a rich culture and history. There are many things to see and do in Puerto Plata, and it is a great place to visit for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous exploration of the Dominican Republic.
