Things To Do
in Cabarete
Cabarete is a vibrant beach town on the Dominican Republics north coast known for its world class wind and water sports. It blends a laid back Caribbean vibe with a lively international scene, attracting surfers, kiteboarders, and travelers seeking sun, sea, and social beachfront nights. The town sits between tropical mountains and turquoise waters, with a promenade dotted with cafes, bars, and seafood shacks.
Expect sunny days, refreshing trade winds, and evenings alive with music and outdoor dining along the shore.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along Cabarete Beach, feeling the gentle ocean breeze as the sun rises over the horizon. You can grab a traditional Dominican breakfast at one of the beachside cafes, featuring fresh tropical fruits and regional dishes. After breakfast, take some time to relax on the sandy shores, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this popular beach.
In the afternoon, dive into the thrilling world of water sports by trying out kitesurfing or windsurfing, both of which are popular in Cabarete. Join a local school for a lesson, and enjoy the rush of gliding across the turquoise waters while learning from experienced instructors. After your sports session, unwind at a beach bar with a refreshing drink, watching the colorful kites dance in the sky.
As the sun sets, stroll along the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the sky painted in hues of orange and pink. Find a cozy beachfront restaurant for dinner, where you can savor fresh seafood accompanied by local flavors. Cap off the evening by enjoying live music or a bonfire on the beach, soaking in the vibrant nightlife of Cabarete.
Begin your day by visiting the local market in Cabarete, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with friendly vendors as you sample tropical fruits and browse handmade souvenirs that reflect the rich culture of the Dominican Republic. This experience offers a deeper understanding of the local lifestyle and provides a unique opportunity for photography.
After the market, take a short trip to the nearby town of Sosúa to explore its historical sites and beautiful beaches. Spend time at Playa Sosúa, where you can swim in the clear waters or relax on the soft sand, enjoying the lively atmosphere. For lunch, indulge in a meal at a beachside restaurant, trying traditional dishes like mofongo or sancocho.
Return to Cabarete and prepare for an evening of cultural discovery at a local art gallery or craft workshop. Participate in a hands-on experience where you can create your own piece of art or learn about local artisans' techniques. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a restaurant featuring traditional Dominican music, creating a festive atmosphere to end your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-5 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | 5-10 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | 30-50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | 70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World class wind and water sports
- Friendly, relaxed beach-town atmosphere
- Strong seafood and Caribbean flavors with international options
- Compact town with many activities within easy reach
- Can get crowded during peak season
- Some areas outside the beach can be less developed
- Hurricane season requires planning and flexibility
- Prices can be higher in tourist spots compared to inland areas
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen lugar para comer?" - Could you recommend a good place to eat?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Perdón" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Cabarete
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic palm-lined beaches with turquoise water and colorful kites; ideal for sunrise or sunset shots and long exposure seascapes.
Vibrant waterfront with boats, market stalls, and lively colors, perfect for candid street photography.
Panoramic views of Puerto Plata and the coast from a lush hillside accessible by cable car.
Rugged jungle and cascading waterfalls offering dynamic action shots and lush greenery.
Food in Cabarete
Cabarete Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mashed plantains often served with onions, eggs, cheese, or salami; a staple breakfast or side dish.
Must-Try!
A classic Dominican plate of rice, red beans, and meat or chicken, usually accompanied by plantains and salad.
Hearty stew with meat, root vegetables, corn, and plantains; great for sharing after a day in the sun.
Crispy fried fish served with lime, rice or tostones, and hot sauce.
Fresh fish cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and peppers; common at beach stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Stalls along the promenade offering fresh seafood skewers, tostones, yuca frita, frituras, and tropical fruit smoothies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hola or buenos días; dress modestly when away from the beach and avoid beachwear in town centers outside the shore.
Polite conversation, avoid loud confrontations, and ask permission before taking photos of people. Handshakes are common when meeting someone new.
Safety
Tipping in Cabarete
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically add 10-15% if service is not included; small tips for bartenders, guides, and hotel staff are appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; cash (DOM Peso or USD) is preferred for smaller shops and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny days with gentle trade winds; optimal for outdoor activities, swimming, and beach time. Warmer days and cooler nights make evenings pleasant.
Frequent brief afternoon showers and higher humidity; winds remain favorable for kiteboarding and windsurfing. Be prepared for tropical showers and occasional storms during hurricane season.
Cabarete at Night
Hiking in Cabarete
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking and canyoning area within a short drive of Cabarete with lush scenery and natural pools.
Hiking and panoramic coastal views reachable from Puerto Plata; scenic jungle trails.
Airports
How to reach Cabarete by plane.
Nearest international airport to Cabarete; about a 20-40 minute drive depending on traffic. Taxis and private shuttles are common transfers.
Main international gateway for the Dominican Republic; about a 2.5-3.5 hour drive to Cabarete.
Another international option in the north; roughly 2.5-4 hours by road to Cabarete depending on traffic and route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Dominican residents who work in tourism, fishing, and services around Cabarete.
International residents from Europe, North America, and other regions attracted to the wind sports, climate, and lifestyle.
Visitors drawn to beaches, nightlife, and outdoor adventures.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A defining sport of Cabarete with frequent trade winds and a dedicated community.
Strong wind and water conditions make it popular on the main beaches.
Exploring clear waters and coral formations along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cabarete.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian diners can rely on rice and beans, plantain dishes, fresh salads, and fruit smoothies; ask for veggie versions of local plates.