Puerto Plata’s coastline is a showcase of beautiful beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant streets. It’s an ideal port for those wanting to combine adventure, culture, and relaxation during a cruise stop. Whether you’re eager to zipline over treetops, snorkel among colorful fish, or explore the historic city, Puerto Plata has a lot to offer. We’re especially fond of tours that mix heart-pumping activities with authentic local flavor, like the VIP DayPass/ which combines ziplining, ATV riding, and horseback adventures, all wrapped into one day. With options covering everything from snorkeling at Sosua Beach to private catamaran cruises, you’ll find plenty to keep your camera busy and your adrenaline high.
Quick Overview
Puerto Plata offers a range of shore excursions that cater to different interests. For thrill-seekers, ATV and buggy tours take you off-road through scenic rural landscapes (see details). History lovers can explore the city’s iconic sites like the San Felipe Fortress and Umbrella Street (more info). For those seeking relaxation, snorkeling, catamaran trips, and beach days at Sosua Beach are excellent choices. Budget travelers might prefer the city tour or a quick ride around town, while adventure enthusiasts can opt for longer, multi-activity tours such as the Blue Sky Catamaran. Now, let’s dive into what makes each of these excursions special.
1. VIP DayPass: ATV, ZipLine, Horse Riding / Shore Excursion & Hotel
This full-day adventure offers a fantastic mix of adrenaline and nature—perfect for first-time visitors or those eager to experience several activities in one go. You’ll zip across jungle treetops, roar through dirt trails on a rugged ATV, and enjoy a gentle horseback ride. After working up an appetite, a provided lunch and a dip in the pool await, followed by a stroll through lush gardens and a look at rescued animals. The professional guides ensure safety and fun, and hotel pickup simplifies logistics.
What makes this tour stand out is its variety—combining ziplining, ATV riding, and horseback riding, all in a single day. Reviewers consistently praise the organization, friendly staff, and value. The tour earns a perfect 5.0/5 from 84 reviews, with many saying it was “well worth the money” and “the best experience ever.” If you want to try it all without the hassle of booking separate tours, this is your best bet.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers wanting a comprehensive experience with great guides and included meals.
2. Puerto Plata Shore Excursion, Snorkeling tour & Sosua Beach Day
For those who prefer relaxing on the water, this half-day snorkeling and beach trip hits the mark. You’ll visit two snorkeling spots in Sosua Bay, protected by coral reefs teeming with ocean life. The snorkeling guide will help you spot fish and explain the reef ecosystems. Afterward, you can stretch out on Sosua Beach’s 1 km sandy shoreline, soak up the sun, and watch people go by.
The tour includes all equipment and sun chairs, making it easy to just relax and enjoy. Rated 5.0/5 from 46 reviews, travelers love the clear waters, friendly guides, and the chance to see fish up close. Many mention that the process is “safe, relaxed, and enjoyable,” and some appreciated the patience of guides helping first-timers.
Bottom line: Great for families or anyone wanting a low-key, scenic day on the water with excellent snorkeling.
3. Amber Cove & Taino Bay Shore Excursion: 2 person Buggy Tour
This half-day buggy tour offers a taste of rugged Dominican scenery. Perfect for all levels, the tour kicks off with a quick safety briefing, then whips you off-road through muddy paths, rural villages, and along the coast. A highlight is the stop at Playa Bergantin, where you can swim and relax on the sand. The small-group format ensures an intimate experience, and pickup from Amber Cove simplifies planning.
Reviews note the spectacular scenery, with many mentioning the muddy, fun ride and the opportunity to see local life up close. The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity. For around $119, it provides a value-packed introduction to the countryside, especially if you’re keen on off-road adventures.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting an active, off-the-beaten-path experience that’s easy to fit into a port day.
4. Amber Cove & Taino Bay Shore Excursion – Puerto Plata City Tour
If culture and history appeal more, this private city tour provides a relaxed way to see Puerto Plata’s highlights. You’ll visit Umbrella Street, stroll through Paseo de Doña Blanca, and explore the Fifi Jewelry Amber Museum. Your guide will take you to the Impressive San Felipe Fortress and other sites, all at your pace.
Rated 5.0/5 by 24 reviews, visitors highlight the personalized service and the chance to learn about the local history. The tour lasts around 3.5 hours with convenient port pickup. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of the city’s charm without the crowds or rushing.
Bottom line: Best suited for those interested in culture and history, wanting a personalized experience.
5. Private Charter on Blue Sky Catamaran
For a luxurious day on the water, this private catamaran cruise is hard to beat. You’ll set sail from either Amber Cove or Taino Bay, visiting multiple reefs and swimming spots. The snorkeling gear is included, and soft drinks are on board, so you can relax while enjoying the turquoise views.
Rated 5.0/5 from 8 reviews, travelers rave about the personalized service and the chance to have a private experience with family or friends. Many mention the delicious onboard food and the opportunity to snorkel at different reefs, seeing abundant marine life.
Bottom line: Perfect for small groups seeking a tailored, upscale day with plenty of swimming and snorkeling.
6. Shore Excursion Cruise ship Waterfalls y Buggys
This adventurous tour combines buggy riding with visits to impressive waterfalls. It’s a solid choice for active travelers who want a full day of fun and natural beauty. The tour includes lunch and drinks, plus free Wi-Fi. It’s designed to avoid long lines, making it an efficient way to see Damajagua waterfalls without the crowds.
Rated 4.0/5 from 73 reviews, many praise the scenery, well-managed logistics, and friendly staff. Some mention the uphill climb at the waterfalls, so good fitness helps. The tour lasts about 5.5 hours and suits those seeking a mix of adventure and nature.
Bottom line: Best for adventurous travelers eager to explore waterfalls and rural landscapes without long waits.
7. Amber Cove & Taino Bay – Puerto Plata City Tour
This short city tour hits key highlights in about 3.5 hours. You’ll walk through colorful streets like Umbrella Street and Pink Alley, visit Fifi Jewelry Amber Museum, and see Independence Park. It’s a good option for those who want a quick cultural overview with minimal walking.
Rated 4.5/5 by 17 reviews, travelers appreciated the local insights and the personalized approach of guides like Rafael. Some mention the walk from port to the vehicle, so light walking shoes are recommended.
Bottom line: A concise way to get a feel for Puerto Plata’s charm if your time is limited.
8. Shore Excursion: Combo ATV & Militar Waterfalls | No Long Lines
This tour stands out for avoiding long lines and offering an authentic countryside experience. You’ll ride ATVs through tropical landscapes, visit crystal rivers, and hike to waterfalls. The tour includes lunch and drinks., making it a full, satisfying day.
Rated 4.5/5 from 14 reviews, reviewers love the off-road riding and local scenery, especially the chance to see small pools and waterfalls on private land. It’s well-suited for those who want adventure without the crowds.
Bottom line: Great for active travelers looking for a genuine rural experience with plenty of fun on four wheels.
9. ATV and Horse Riding in Puerto Plata / Shore Excursion & Hotel
This half-day tour combines ATV riding with horseback riding, both offering different ways to experience the countryside. The guide takes you to scenic spots, including a lunch stop, and hotel pickups are included.
Rated 4.5/5 by 7 reviews, people highlight the fun ATV challenges and the mellow horseback riding. Reviewers also mention the organized nature and friendly staff. It’s perfect for those wanting a diverse outdoor activity.
Bottom line: Suitable for families or groups wanting both adventure and relaxed riding.
10. Puerto Plata ATV N Zip Adventure / Shore Excursion & Hotel
This family-friendly tour combines 8 ACCT-certified zip lines with a 300cc ATV ride through the Dominican countryside. You’ll experience both sensation of flying and off-road exploration, plus enjoy a traditional meal afterward.
Rated 4.6/5 from 5 reviews, it’s praised for its balance of adrenaline and scenic views. The tour is flexible in duration (3-6 hours), making it adaptable for your schedule.
Bottom line: Excellent for families or groups seeking a mixed adventure with safety and fun.
11. Puerto Plata: Guided City Tour Shore Excursion
This 3-hour guided city tour takes you to Umbrella Street, Paseo de Doña Blanca, and the San Felipe Fortress. It’s a straightforward way to see Puerto Plata’s most famous sights and learn about its history.
Rated 3.6/5, some reviewers note the long walk from port but appreciate the informative guide and local flavor. It’s best suited for travelers with a limited schedule who want a quick overview.
Bottom line: Good for a brief, educational overview of Puerto Plata’s highlights.
12. Private City Highlights Shore Excursion & Guided Tour
For a more personalized experience, this private tour covers historic landmarks, rum and chocolate factories, and the oceanfront Malecón. It’s fully customizable, making it ideal for travelers who want to focus on specific interests.
Rated highly for its customized attention and local insights, it’s perfect for those who value a tailored tour over a group experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a private, flexible tour with in-depth local stories.
13. Shore Excursion | Amber cove & Taino Bay | ATV Quas Adventure
This family-friendly ATV tour offers an authentic ride through the Dominican countryside. You’ll visit local farms, see tropical fruit trees, and explore rural roads. It’s a fun, active way to see the countryside in just 3 hours.
While reviews are currently unavailable, the focus on culture and nature makes it appealing for those wanting an immersive experience.
Bottom line: Suitable for families or groups looking for a short, energetic adventure.
$75.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Shore Excursion in Puerto Plata
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and the kind of experience you want. If adrenaline is your priority, the VIP DayPass or the ATV and Zip Adventure will deliver. For a relaxed, scenic day, snorkeling at Sosua Beach or a city tour suits those seeking culture. Budget travelers might prefer the City Tour or the short buggy trips, while families and groups should consider private charters or multi-activity options.
Practical tips include booking early to secure spots, especially for popular tours like the private catamaran or the zipline adventure. Consider your physical condition for activities like waterfall hikes or off-road rides, and check whether transfers are included to simplify your day.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Plata’s wide variety of shore excursions means there’s truly something for all. Active travelers will love the adventure tours like buggy rides and waterfalls, while those seeking relaxation will enjoy snorkeling and beach days. For culture buffs, the city tours offer a glimpse into local life and history. If you’re traveling with family or a group, private options or multi-activity days can maximize fun and value.
To get the most out of your time, plan ahead and book early. Whether you want a quick overview or an all-day adventure, Puerto Plata’s shores are ready to deliver memorable moments. With this list, you’re well-equipped to choose the tour that best fits your style—and make your cruise stop one to remember.