Playa Sosua, Puerto Plata - Dominican Republic

Playa Sosua, near Puerto Plata, and the Playa Dorada, is probably one of the main tourist attractions in the north. The beautiful turquoise of the Atlantic, and the great expanse of the white sands lends to a magic that one must experience in person. Sosua Beach is perfect for that long stroll - so inviting to just send your cares away on the next set of waves.

Whereas Europeans tend to visit the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana and surrounds, North Americans have been returning to the Puerto Plata area. With the golfing at Dorada, and the tranquility of Playa Sosua - it's little wonder.

Lush mountains make their way down to the coconut palms that line Sosua Beach. A few hotel complexes (much fewer than neighboring Dorada) jut into the sand as if to hold the beach in place. And you can still see the silver-gray trees whose leaves Columbus saw in 1502 and named this bay area "Silver Port" - Puerto Plata. There are still remnants of Columbus around the Dominican Republic. In fact there is so much still to be discovered, who knows when the next big find will happen. It wasn't too many years ago that an Italian fellow found an ancient pirate ship near La Romana, while swimming near the beach on a cruise ship excursion. Yes - grab your snorkel and fins. You could be next!

The beach here is lined with shrubs, those coconut palms and an occasional tropical almond tree. Mixed with the normal vendors who walk the beaches, you'll find those gals who braid hair for next to nothing so your daughter can wear them back home as a reminder of the fun in the sun.

Playa Sosua - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - rich, golden medium grain.
• Facilities - full service.
• Shade - palms and umbrellas.
• Sports - all types, operators standing by.
• Notes - much quieter than Playa Dorada.
  

No way you could have told me there would be another awesome beach in Puerto Plata. It just gets better and better, and Sosua is no exception. Fun and beautiful, almost childlike, the waves and sand play a melody throughout the day that will have you dreaming on your beach chair in no time flat. Bring the camera. This one is awesome!

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.
  

This coastline boast three great beaches. Of the three, Cofresi is the most charming. You will find fun and sun here along with a myriad of water toys that can make your time away from home just that much more exciting. Pictures of Playa Cofresi often appear in magazine all over the world. And now you know why.