Things to do in Puerto Plata

Itineraries for Your Trip to Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata locals share their perfect days.
Find your Puerto Plata

2 Days in Puerto Plata for First Timers

Curated by Lydia SchrandtLydia Schrandt is a writer, editor, and award-winning photographer currently based in Houston. She’s a contributor for USA TODAY 10Best and serves as the first chair of the Editors Council of the Society of American Travel Writers. Her work has appeared in Draft, Time Out Beijing, Travel+, USA TODAY, San Francisco Chronicle, and others.

Two days in Puerto Plata lets you tour the city’s colonial monuments with time to spare for soaking up the natural beauty and outdoor-adventure opportunities that make the Dominican Republic so appealing. Here are some tips for how to make the most of 48 hours on the northern coast.


Day 1: Morning

Take these cool morning hours to explore the town of Puerto Plata and all its historic charms. During a sightseeing tour, you’ll have the chance to visit Fort San Felipe, sip spirits at the Brugal Rum Distillery, tour the Amber Museum, and ride the cable car to the top of Isabel de Torres Mountain for views across the Amber Coast. 

Day 1: Afternoon

Cool off this afternoon with some time in the azure Caribbean waters. Spread out a towel on a local beach or opt for a more active afternoon of snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, Jet Skiing, scuba diving, or parasailing. Tours typically include all necessary equipment, so all you need to do is show up and have fun.

Day 1: Night

After a day of activity, get ready to party like a VIP during a bar crawl to some of the hottest nightlife spots on the northern coast. Leave the driving to someone else as you drink and dance your way from one private table to the next in Puerto Plata, Sousa, and Cabarete.

Day 2: Morning

The Dominican Republic is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and today is all about exploring the great outdoors. Kick off your day with a short trek to the 27 waterfalls of Damajagua, where you can swim, jump, and slide in Mother Nature’s very own waterpark. Alternatively, explore the rugged countryside by dune buggy.

Day 2: Afternoon

In the afternoon, take to the trees to experience the beauty of the Dominican Republic while soaring through the canopy by zipline. For a convenient and budget-friendly day, combine your favorite adventures—such as ziplining, ATV riding, and waterfall hiking—into a single tour.

Day 2: Night

Tonight, treat yourself to an evening of dinner and live entertainment at Ocean World Puerto Plata. This Vegas-style dinner show features intricate costumes and upbeat Caribbean music, paired with an open bar and time to play some slots or dance at the Ocean World disco.

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