Puerto Plata’s waterfront and laidback mentality are its main attractions, and there’s no better way to enjoy this than along the Malecon waterfront strip. If it’s swimming and sunbathing you’re after, Playa Dorado is the best beach to visit. San Felipe is an interesting historical attraction, as it’s one of the few remaining heritage buildings in the city. Another must-do for tourists is a cable car ride to the top of Mt Isabel, where the view of the coast and countryside is best.

Costambar
The perfect getaway for those looking to escape the bustling resorts, the nearby town of Costambar has ample facilities without the crowds. The sheltered beaches here are especially calm, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Onsite facilities include a golf course and a range of seafood restaurants.

Fort San Felipe (Fuerte San Felipe)
On the site where Christopher Columbus originally intended to found Spain’s first colony in the Americas, Fort San Felipe is the only colonial heritage building still standing in Puerto Plata. The fort was built in response to a 16th century pirate attack. Tourists are invited to cross the moat and tour the many rooms in the fort. There is also an onsite museum that offers insight into the history of the colony. 
Phone: +809 261 6043

Malecon
The main waterfront road, Puerto Plata’s Malecon is lined with restaurants, bars and a variety of boutiques. The strip lights up after hours when the dance clubs and bars open their doors. As the night progresses, street vendors prepare snacks outside for those who need a break from drinking and dancing. During the day, visitors come to the beach here, not to swim (the beach is too small), but to enjoy the refreshing breeze and maybe take a walk along the coast.

Mt Isabel de Torres
Rising almost 800 metres above sea level, Mt Isabel is the most prominent natural landmark in Puerto Plata. For an outstanding panoramic view of the city, take the seven-minute cable car ride to the top. The botanical gardens at the peak are nice, with walking trails cutting through swaths of tropical vegetation. There is also a statue of Christ here standing guard over Puerto Plata. 
Phone: +809 970 0501

Playa Dorada
This is the core area of Puerto Plata’s resort community. More than 15 miles of sandy beaches are on hand, and while most of the land here is owned by private resorts, the coastline remains open to the public. Entertainment facilities here are top notch and include a large shopping centre, golf courses and casinos.

Rum Factory
Brugal Rum is the local brand of choice, and the bottling plant in Puerto Plata is the largest in the country. The facility is open to visitors who are given a brief but informative tour of the bottling process. Of course, the tour is followed by a free tropical cocktail featuring Brugal’s finest. There is also a gift shop with a range of spirits, souvenirs and apparel. 
Website: www.brugal.com.do