Family Time in Puerto Plata

The Dominican Republic is the most visited country in the Caribbean, and if you’ve been there, this probably won’t surprise you. The country offers everything you could hope for from a relaxing tropical getaway.

Although many visitors head straight for Punta Cana, we think that Puerto Plata is a hidden gem. It was once the Dominican Republic’s most popular tourist spot, and today it has plenty to do, but is a little more laidback and quieter than the other side of the island. This makes it perfect for families who want the quintessential Dominican Republic experience, but without the huge crowds.

We booked an exchange at an all-inclusive resort and our kids loved exploring the resort’s features and attractions, including the huge pool and sand volleyball court. As we did a quick tour around the property, my husband and I found ourselves eyeing the spa – so we were particularly thankful for the resort’s ‘Kid’s Club’ that gave the kids a chance to play some age-appropriate games while we had a relaxing massage.

While relaxing poolside became a favorite activity, we also got out to explore the wider area. We took a taxi out to Playa Dorada, which had beautiful gold sand and enjoyed kite surfer’s paradise, “Kite Beach.” Although our kids were too little (and I was too uncoordinated) to give it a try, we enjoyed watching the kite-surfers skim over the water and seeing their colorful kites contrast against the blue sky above.

In fact, the whole city of Puerto Plata is beautifully colorful, as we discovered walking around the historic center. We especially liked wandering down the seafront Malecon, and stopped to buy some fresh fruit for the kids.

On our final day in beautiful Puerto Plata, we opted to ride the cable car up to Mount Isabel de Torres. It’s the tallest cable car in the Caribbean, and from the highest point you get an amazing view out over the island, and even check out Puerto Plata’s version of ‘Christ the Redeemer.’

It was a really amazing way to cap off a wonderful time enjoying family time in stunning Puerto Plata, and definitely a family trip we’ll always remember!