Cayo Arena Day Trip from Puerto Plata
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Get ready for the most exciting experience of your life! Cayo Arena, whose real name is Cayo Paraiso is a coral island situated to the northwest of the Dominican Republic, off the coast of Puerto Plata in Punta Rusia. Stunningly beautiful, this little island was plunged into a beautiful landscape that people think it's like being in a dream. Imagine sunbathing on a small island in the sea surrounded by white sands and clear waters where you can see the bottom with incredible sharpness, their colors ranging from the Green Turquoise Acqua literally is this island called Cayo Arena.
Available options
Cayo Arena
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Bottled water
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Beverages
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
This sandbar that is frequently visited by hundreds of tourists is a jewel of nature, a true paradise in the Caribbean. It is difficult to know the size because it contracts and expands depending on the seasons of ocean currents, which contradicts its location, which is one of the driest areas of the
Dominican Republic.
Your excursion to Cayo Arena offers a wonderful tour departing from Puerto Plata, in comfortable air-conditioned buses and experienced drivers, accompanied by professional guides. Head to the north of the Dominican Republic and get ready for a journey full of splendid landscapes and green mountains to Punta Rusia, a picturesque fishing village on the coast of Puerto Plata. Once you reach Punta Rusia, in La Isabela Bay, you will board a boat to take you to Cayo Arena.
Board a modern speed boat, and admire the flora and fauna of the waterway and visit the national park, navigating through the mangroves, with a variety of beautiful natural colors. If you are lucky, you'll see the famous mammal, the manatee. This animal is popularly known as a sea cow!
After 45-minutes enjoying this unforgettable ride we arrived at Cayo Arena, here we have free time to snorkel and observe many species of fish of all colors, take pictures, take a refreshing swim in crystal clear water, chatting with fishermen who come to Island or relax in fine sand.
2
After a full-day out on Cayo Arena, you'll be transported back to your Puerto Plata hotel.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
2.3
3 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.3
10 reviews
5★
7
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Important notes
Important Restrictions;
• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Minimum drinking age is 18 years
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
We recommend you to bring:
• Sunscreen
• Towel
• Extra clothing
• Money for souvenirs and tips.
• Comfortable clothing
About Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata is a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and lively culture. It's a popular tourist destination offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and rich heritage.
Top Attractions
Playa Dorada
A beautiful beach with golden sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free (Resort access may require fees)
Mount Isabel de Torres
A scenic mountain with lush vegetation and panoramic views of Puerto Plata. Accessible by cable car.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate
Fort San Felipe
A historic 16th-century fort offering insights into the city's colonial past.
Historical
1-2 hours
Low
Ocean World Adventure Park
A popular amusement park featuring a water park, dolphin encounters, and other attractions.
Entertainment
Full day
Moderate to Expensive
Puerto Plata Carnival
One of the most famous carnivals in the Caribbean, featuring colorful parades, music, and dance.
Cultural
Multi-day event
Free to attend (Costs for special events)
Must-Try Local Dishes
La Bandera
A traditional Dominican dish consisting of rice, beans, meat (usually chicken or beef), and salad.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Mangú
A mashed plantain dish often served with eggs, cheese, and fried cheese.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Sancocho
A hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and root vegetables.
Soup
Contains meat
Tostones
Fried plantain slices, often served as a side dish.
Snack
Vegetarian, Vegan
Popular Activities
Kite surfing
Wind surfing
Trekking
Water sports
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Sunbathing
Visiting historical sites
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the peak tourist season with pleasant weather and minimal rain. It's ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
24-29°C
75-84°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Dominican Peso (DOP)
Time Zone
GMT-4
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Puerto Plata is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Gregorio Luperón International Airport • 15 km from city center
By bus
Terminal de Guaguas
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses, known as guaguas, are the most common form of public transport. They are inexpensive but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Puerto Plata City Center
Playa Dorada
Costa Dorada
Sosúa
Day trips
Sosúa
15 km from Puerto Plata • Half day to full day
A nearby town known for its beaches, nightlife, and diverse community.
Cabarete
20 km from Puerto Plata • Full day
A vibrant beach town known for its water sports and nightlife.
Damajagua Waterfalls
30 km from Puerto Plata • Full day
A series of 27 waterfalls offering a thrilling trekking and swimming experience.
Festivals
Puerto Plata Carnival • February (dates vary)
Festival del Ambiente • June
Festival de la Luna • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Mount Isabel de Torres for stunning views of the city and surrounding area
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and handicrafts
- Try local seafood dishes at beachfront restaurants
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your travel experience
- Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
