Puerto Plata is more than just a sunny beach destination. It’s a place where your lunch can be an unforgettable part of the adventure itself. Whether you’re craving a hearty Dominican buffet after a day of waterfall jumping or enjoying a scenic city tour with local eats, Puerto Plata offers diverse options that cater to all tastes and activity levels. We love tours like the 7 Waterfalls in Puerto Plata + a Delicious Local lunch for its perfect mix of adventure and authentic cuisine, and the City Highlights Tour with Mount Isabel & Lunch for its scenic views and culture.
In this guide, you’ll find a variety of lunch experiences that combine outdoor activities, cultural sightseeing, and delicious local flavors. So, whether you’re after a quick bite or a full-day feast, these tours have something to satisfy your appetite for both adventure and good food.
Quick Overview
Puerto Plata’s lunch experiences range from waterfall adventures with included buffet meals to city tours with traditional Dominican cuisine, and even thrilling zipline and canyoning adventures. Many tours include hotel pickups, scenic stops, and opportunities to taste local spirits and cocoa. For those interested in combining multiple activities, tours like the Damajagua Waterfalls Private Tour with Lunch or the Combo: Damajagua Waterfalls and City Tour with Dominican Lunch offer great value. Below are detailed reviews of each top lunch experience.
1. 7 Waterfalls in Puerto Plata + a Delicious Local lunch
This tour stands out for combining hiking through lush forests, sliding down waterfalls, and enjoying a traditional Dominican buffet. It’s rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on 76 reviews, which speaks volumes about its popularity and quality. The adventure starts at the Damajagua Waterfalls, where you get to jump, slide, or swim through a series of 27 waterfalls. The guides are known for their friendly, helpful attitude—they really make you feel like family. After the water fun, you’ll enjoy a buffet offering meats, rice, and local specialties in Puerto Plata. The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, ideal for travelers who want a taste of both adventure and local flavor.
Top reviews highlight the fun and safety of the hike: “The waterfall sliding was a lot of fun,” and “The guides made us feel safe and supported.” This tour is best suited for active travelers who love outdoor adventures and aren’t afraid of getting wet. The value is excellent for the price—$55 per person includes all safety gear and transportation.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice if you want a full dose of adrenaline paired with a hearty Dominican lunch in a friendly setting.
2. Amber Cove/Taino Bay: 7 Waterfall Tour with Swimming & Lunch
Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 99 reviews, this tour takes the waterfall experience and makes it accessible right from the cruise port. It’s slightly longer at 4 hours and includes pick-up from outside Amber Cove or Taino Bay, making it very convenient for cruise passengers. The highlight is the chance to jump, slide, and swim in pristine waterfalls, complemented by a local Dominican buffet. The guides are bilingual, helping both Spanish and English speakers enjoy the trip.
The itinerary features a short bus ride, waterfall swimming, and shopping at a local stop, offering a well-rounded day. Reviewers mention feeling safe and well-cared-for, praising the effort to showcase the natural beauty of the country. This tour is perfect for cruise travelers who want an active, yet relaxed day with authentic food.
Value for money is clear, given the included transportation, lunch, and scenic activities. It’s ideal for those who want a seamless experience with no worries about logistics.
Bottom Line: An easy, fun, and authentic outdoor adventure suitable for most ages, especially if you value convenience and good food.
3. Puerto Plata: City Highlights Tour with Mount Isabel & Lunch
For around 6 hours, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of city sightseeing, scenic views, and a traditional Dominican lunch. It scores 4.6 out of 5 based on 125 reviews, and is perfect for travelers who want to explore Puerto Plata’s cultural landmarks. The tour includes a ride to Mount Isabel (De Torres), where panoramic views and a botanical garden await. You’ll also visit Fort San Felipe, the Cathedral, and the local markets, giving you a taste of local life.
The highlight is the lunch at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Dominican dishes. Guides provide rich commentary about the city’s history and culture, making this a comprehensive experience. The scenic drive and city stops make it suitable for those interested in a more relaxed tour with plenty of photo opportunities.
Reviewers appreciate the mix of history and scenery, noting the views from Mount Isabel are spectacular. The price reflects the full-day experience, making it a value-packed cultural outing.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors who want a relaxed but thorough introduction to Puerto Plata’s sights and flavors.
4. Damajagua Waterfalls Private Tour with Lunch
Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 32 reviews, this private tour offers the flexibility of customizing your experience. Starting at $60 per person, it’s perfect for families or groups seeking a more personalized adventure. The tour includes hiking through rainforest trails, jumping and sliding down waterfalls, and enjoying a local Dominican lunch with mountain views.
What makes this tour stand out is the private setting, allowing you to skip the crowds and go at your own pace. Guides are attentive and safety-conscious, which is top of mind for many travelers. You can choose between a family-friendly option or a more challenging hike with slides and jumps.
Many reviewers mention the excellent service and flexibility, with some saying, “They went above and beyond to help our group.” It’s best suited for active travelers who want the thrill of waterfalls with the comfort of a private experience.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private choice for waterfall lovers who want a tailored adventure with authentic food.
5. Puerto Plata: City Tour, Mountain and Lunch
This full-day tour, rated 4.8 out of 5, offers a scenic ride to Mount Isabel, visits to local landmarks, and a typical Dominican lunch. It combines panoramic views, cultural visits, and local flavors. Highlights include a guided tour of Isabel de Torres National Park, a visit to the rum factory, and stops at the Cathedral and Fort San Felipe.
It’s perfect for travelers who want an immersive experience of Puerto Plata’s scenic and historic sights. The tour also includes stops at popular photo spots and a leisurely lunch, making it ideal for those interested in history and culture. The guide provides insightful commentary throughout, enriching the experience.
This tour is ideal for those with limited time but who want to see both the mountains and city with a delicious Dominican meal to round out the day.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded cultural and scenic tour for those wanting a full perspective of Puerto Plata.
6. Puerto Plata: 27 Waterfalls Adventure with Traditional Lunch
Rated 4.4 out of 5, this tour is a great option for waterfall enthusiasts. It’s about 4 hours long and includes jumping, sliding, and swimming through the 27 waterfalls of Damajagua. The adventure is paired with a traditional Dominican lunch overlooking mountain scenery, making it a perfect combination of activity and local flavor.
What sets this apart is the emphasis on authentic experiences—hiking through lush forests and enjoying a genuine rural meal. The tour is suitable for those who want a moderate level of activity with a focus on fun and scenery. Reviewers mention the mountain views and the thrill of jumping as highlights.
Value for money is strong, with a comprehensive package that includes gear, lunch, and transportation.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers looking for a mix of waterfall fun and traditional Dominican cuisine.
7. Damajagua Waterfalls with Lunch from Amber Cove and Taino Bay
Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 9 reviews, this tour makes it easy for cruise passengers to experience waterfalls and local food in a single day. It includes door-to-door transportation, making logistics a breeze. The tour involves hiking, jumping, and sliding, with a fatigue-friendly pace.
The highlights are the convenience and quality of experience—with a small group, attention to safety and personalized service shine through. Many reviews praise the friendly driver and guide and the quality of the included lunch.
Suitable for cruise travelers looking for a no-hassle adventure, this tour provides an authentic natural experience with the comfort of transportation.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise guests wanting a hassle-free, fun-filled waterfall experience.
8. Puerto plata city tour with & Lunch local
Rated 5 out of 5 with 7 reviews, this compact 4-hour tour takes you through Puerto Plata’s main sights, including the Amber Museum, San Felipe Fortress, and local markets. It concludes with a Delicious Dominican lunch featuring local specialties and drinks like Coke and water.
The tour is ideal for those wanting a quick yet thorough overview of the city’s highlights, with photo stops and shopping opportunities. The lunch is included, providing a taste of local cuisine in a relaxed setting.
It’s best suited for travelers with limited time seeking cultural insights and authentic food without a strenuous schedule.
Bottom Line: A concise, tasty introduction to Puerto Plata’s sights and flavors.
9. Puerto Plata/Amber Cove: Zipline and Waterfalls with Lunch
Rated 4.9 out of 5, this adrenaline-packed experience combines ziplining over waterfalls, swimming in natural pools, and a traditional lunch. The tour includes five zipline courses and visits to seven waterfalls. You’ll enjoy rainforest views from the ziplines and the refreshing thrill of jumping and sliding.
The tour’s unique feature is the combination of high-energy ziplining with waterfall fun. It’s suitable for active travelers who want a full day of adventure, with the added bonus of port transfers.
Many reviewers comment on the spectacular scenery and smooth logistics, making this a top choice for thrill-seekers.
Bottom Line: An action-packed tour perfect for adventure lovers wanting ziplining, waterfalls, and a satisfying lunch.
10. Damajagua Waterfalls Adventure Tour With Lunch Included
Rated 4.5 out of 5, this full-day adventure combines hiking, jumping, sliding through waterfalls, and a traditional Dominican lunch. The tour is designed to create lasting memories through active participation in natural landscapes. It’s ideal for those seeking a well-rounded outdoor experience.
The tour includes all necessary gear, transportation, and a local meal overlooking scenic mountain views. Many reviews mention the excellent guides and the fun of jumping into the waterfalls, with some noting the hike is more demanding but rewarding.
Value is high considering the comprehensive experience—perfect for active travelers who want a balance of physical activity and culture.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting a full, authentic waterfall adventure with a hearty meal.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience
When selecting a tour, consider your fitness level, time availability, and interests. If you’re an active person eager for waterfalls and outdoor fun, tours like the 7 Waterfalls in Puerto Plata + a Delicious Local lunch or the Damajagua Waterfalls Private Tour with Lunch are excellent. For a more relaxed, cultural experience, the City Highlights Tour with Mount Isabel & Lunch offers scenic views and historical sites.
Budget-wise, smaller group or private tours tend to cost a bit more, but you gain flexibility and personalized attention. Cruises should look at waterfalls tours from Amber Cove, which include port pickup and drop-off for convenience.
Booking early is always wise, especially during peak seasons. Also, match the tour’s physical demands with your comfort level—more demanding hikes or ziplining tours require good footwear and a healthy dose of enthusiasm.
Final thoughts:
Puerto Plata offers a rich variety of lunch experiences that go beyond just eating. From waterfall jumps and scenic city visits to ziplining and private adventures, there’s something for every appetite—whether you’re after thrills, culture, or simply a good meal. For family trips, the private and semi-private tours provide a personal touch, while active travelers will love the adrenaline-filled options. Be sure to book early, choose based on your interests, and get ready to enjoy a truly memorable culinary and outdoor journey in Puerto Plata.