Playa Cofresi, Puerto Plata - Dominican Republic

Cofresi Beach is located close to Puerto Plata and was named after an infamous Puerto Rican pirate, Captain Roberto Cofresi. This town began much like Buzios, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; a tiny fishing village that went on for years as a sleepy bay on the Atlantic.

Today, Cofresi has changed but only slightly, with high-end hotels and condos offering great views of both Cofresi Beach and the nearby mountains. What a fantastic bay - golden sand blending into crystal clear water. There is only one entrance to the town; a narrow road that runs all the way to the beach. Mountains peak at either side of the city.

Close to Cofresi Beach is the Ocean World & Water Park which houses the world's largest dolphin lagoon. There is also a sea lion encounter claimed to be best in the world; but what some come for is the world's first shark interaction pool. Check this out when you're not at the beach. If you're in Cofresi, ask anyone for directions.

While here, make sure you check out the local Dominican coffee, which locals say is second only to Colombian. And the cuisine here is special as well. If you can, get a local to shop at Puerto Plata with you for the best choices at the markets. Later, experiment some of the great dishes served in this country. Culture not to be missed.

Playa Cofresi - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - golden, coral/rock content.
• Facilities - full service.
• Shade - trees along the strand, some huts/umbrellas.
• Sports - full service.
• Notes - charming beach not likely to be overrun with tourists.