Puerto Plata

The historic, adventurous north

Puerto Plata, on the northern coast, is one of the country’s most historic and characterful cities. Known as the Amber Coast for its deposits of prized Dominican amber, it blends Victorian architecture, colonial fortresses, green mountains dropping to the sea and beaches for every taste.

The Puerto Plata cable car, the only one in the Caribbean, climbs to Pico Isabel de Torres, crowned by a replica of Christ the Redeemer and a botanical garden with spectacular views of the bay.

Adventure in nature

The area is the adventure capital: the famous 27 Charcos de Damajagua, where you jump and slide among waterfalls and natural pools; the kitesurfing of Cabarete, a world mecca for the sport; and the surf of Sosua and Encuentro.

History and rum

The historic center, with its 16th-century San Felipe Fortress and colorful houses, tells the story of a prosperous city. Part of the Dominican rum tradition was also born here, with distilleries open to visitors.