The Best Puerto Plata Taino Bay Independent Excursions

 

Puerto Plata is a vibrant coastal city on the northern shore of Dominican Republic known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and welcoming culture. Often called the birthplace of tourism in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata combines colonial charm with modern attractions, making it a popular destination for cruise passengers and vacationers alike.

Visitors can explore the city's colorful Victorian architecture, stroll through the historic downtown area, and visit landmarks such as Fortaleza San Felipe, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. One of the city's most famous attractions is the Puerto Plata Cable Car, which carries visitors to the summit of Mount Isabel de Torres for panoramic views of the city, coastline, and surrounding mountains.

The Taino Bay cruise port in Puerto Plata is designed as a destination rather than just a docking area. Cruise passengers can enjoy large swimming pools, a lazy river, tropical landscaping, restaurants, bars, shopping areas, free Wi-Fi, and shaded relaxation spaces without leaving the terminal complex. Many of these amenities are included for cruise guests, making Taino Bay a popular choice for travelers who prefer a relaxing day close to the ship.

For visitors looking to explore beyond the port, Taino Bay serves as a gateway to Puerto Plata’s attractions, including beaches, historic landmarks, local markets, waterfalls, snorkeling areas, and adventure excursions. The port's central location reduces travel time and makes it easy to combine sightseeing with time spent enjoying the port facilities.

Click here for a full list of all of these excursions. Or click the title of the excursion below. This will give you more information about the excursion. If you book through this link, Trips with Angie will get a small commission and a copy of your booking. If you’ve booked your cruise through Trips with Angie, we can double check the timing and add it to your itinerary.

Monkeys and Waterfalls
Discover the beautiful Damajagua Waterfalls, a series of 27 cascading falls in the tropical rain forest near Puerto Plata. Enjoy a moderate hike through the jungle, and the chance to jump, slide, and swim at seven falls. Afterwards, stop at the Chocolovers chocolate factory for a tour. Includes pickup from the cruise port or local hotels.

Step into a world of wonder and excitement at Monkey Mania in beautiful Puerto Plata! This extraordinary experience invites you into the heart of nature, where our playful squirrel monkeys await your arrival. These charming and intelligent creatures are not just adorable but also incredibly curious and friendly, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to interact and bond with them in a lush, tropical paradise.

This Monkey Home and Damajagua waterfalls tour offers pick up at the cruise port. Head to Monkey Home, and place a plate of fruit for the monkeys to approach you.  After your visit to Monkey Home, then go all the way to Damajagua Waterfalls, where you will be able to take the tour in 7 different pools, jumping and sliding.

Explore the city, with or without the beach!

Come and live with us the culture of the Dominican Republic in a day full of learning and unique places full of culture and history. Enjoy the greens and wonderful vegetations of the country side. Swim up in our beautiful beaches and feel Dominican for a day with this Puerto Plata exploration tour and beach day. Transportation is available from the port.

Experience the perfect combination of culture and relaxation with the Umbrella Street, Rum, and Chocolate Factory Tour.  What sets us apart is the commitment to a hassle-free experience: we combine the historical aspects of Puerto Plata – such as the Fortress of San Felipe, the colorful Umbrella Street and Pink Street. Transportation is available from the port.

Up for some off road exploration?

Discover the jungles of the Dominican Republic in an exciting way on this thrilling buggy tour in Puerto Plata. Join a small group and climb aboard your buggies for a trip through the rugged countryside. Zip along dirt trails, drive past local villages, and head to Teco’s Beach for views of the turquoise waters. Transportation is available from the port.

Enjoy an ATV adventure with this tour. Get a taste of local life as you ride an ATV through the countryside and past small villages. Taino Bay cruise ship passengers will also stop at the Chocolate Factory to enjoy various tastings. Includes round-trip transfers from your Taino Bay cruise port.

Want to experience some local culture?

Join the Eat like a local food tour.  Try the purest flavors of Puerto Plata:  delicious crispy empanadas, tropical sweets, traditional dishes. You’ll learn the history of culture in every bite. We will enter the markets and corners that only the true Puerto Platenos know! Transportation is available from the port.

Escape and discover the real Dominican countryside just outside Puerto Plata. Enjoy a relaxing journey into the tropical hills where nature, culture, and traditional flavors come together. Your experience includes a scenic countryside drive through lush mountains, a walk through a beautiful tropical park with flowers, bamboo & fruit trees, fresh Dominican coffee tasting and tropical fruit tasting from the island. Transportation is available from the cruise port.

What about an adventure on the water?

Spend a fantastic morning or afternoon on a catamaran cruise with this excursion from Puerto Plata. Relax in comfortable transportation as you make your way from your resort to a private dock. Climb aboard your boat and head to the open waters, where you will see stunning beaches and the incredible coastline of the Dominican Republic. Transportation is available from the port.

How about a private tour?

In just 4 hours on a private tour, Puerto Plata unfolds like a vibrant tapestry on our compact tour. Soar above paradise on the Puerto Plata Cable Car, where lush rainforests and dazzling ocean vistas stretch beneath your feet. Dive into the 16th century at San Felipe's mighty fortress, a sentinel whispering tales of pirates and conquerors. Uncover hidden treasures like amber, find serenity in Central Park's embrace, and marvel at the Cathedral's grand history. Then, indulge your senses: savor local rum and rich chocolate, stroll the vibrant Malecon with the ocean breeze with your guide on this private guided tour for up to 15 people. Pick-up and drop-off from the port is included.