This region is incredibly appealing, because the resorts and dining facilities are pleasant and much more affordable than many of the neighboring Caribbean islands. Accommodations are springing up all the time and a number of new and exciting restaurants are in the works. Many of the best features of this area can be found minutes outside the center of Puerto Plata, in a region called the Playa Dorada, where you can find a glorious golf course, a horseback riding stable, and many other wonderful activities.

Puerto Plata was the first custom-built tourist area in all of the Dominican Republic. The sand on the majority of the beaches is a lovely beige color, and rarely does it get too hot to take a barefoot afternoon stroll and not burn the bottoms of your feet. The wide array of water sports and ever-present merengue music adds to the charm of Puerto Plata. It rains a lot here in winter, but the temperature remains moderate. The sights and nightlife are surprisingly abundant, with plenty of day and nighttime events to keep you busy and content. While very populated with tourists, Puerto Plata remains safe and inviting.