Things to do in Guananico

Playa Dorada’s glorious white sands, clean waters and colorful reefs make this beach one of the most well-known tourist destinations on the island. The beach has different sections, with certain parts reserved for the patrons of nearby beachfront resorts, but other parts remain open to the general public. Sun yourself on the fine sands, go snorkeling off the shore and cool off by wading into the sea.

Puerto Plata Cable Car carries passengers up the side of the Isabel de Torres mountain to a height of around 800 meters (2,625 feet). Admire the views from the cable car and from the summit, where a botanical garden, a statue of the open-armed Christ the Redeemer and a restaurant await.

Take your time on El Malecon, Spanish for “The Boardwalk,” to enjoy the street performers, food stalls, bars and restaurants that line this oceanfront entertainment precinct. The popular pedestrian zone runs alongside George Washington Street, which is famed for its palm tree-lined parks, fine-dining restaurants and lively bars.

Standing sturdy on a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the 16th-century Fort San Felipe was perfectly placed to protect the colonial city from pirate invasions. These days, it is open to the public who come here to learn more about the structure’s role in Puerto Plata’s history. Check out old military artifacts, such as bayonets and cannonballs, and admire views out over the sea from this elevated vantage point.

The 27 Charcos, or Damajaqua Cascades as the site is also known, is a series of 27 cascading falls hidden inside the lush jungle. Prepare for thrills as you trek through tropical forest to reach the falls. Then climb from fall to fall, before splashing, jumping and sliding your way down them into crystal clear plunge pools.