North Coast, Dominican Republic
Cabarete rests on the scenic North Coast of the Dominican Republic, within the Puerto Plata province. The Atlantic Ocean borders its northern edge, bringing constant trade winds that make its bay ideal for watersports. Inland, the landscape rises, featuring lush green hills and tropical vegetation. Rivers flow from these hills, meeting the ocean and forming lagoons like Laguna de Cabarete, a haven for wildlife and calm-water activities. The town sits on the main coastal highway, Route 5, with easy access to neighboring communities. This strategic spot places Cabarete within reach of both mountain excursions and further coastal exploration, creating a diverse natural playground for visitors. Its tropical setting brings warm temperatures year-round, inviting travelers to enjoy its outdoor pursuits at any time.
Cabarete thrives as a dynamic, informal town. Its main draw includes kitesurfing, windsurfing, and surfing, gathering enthusiasts globally. Beyond watersports, the area presents outdoor activities like canyoning, caving, and horseback riding. Dining ranges from affordable local "comedores" to international beachfront restaurants.
Accommodation choices suit every budget, from hostels to boutique hotels and vacation rentals. A relaxed daytime vibe transitions into a lively nightlife along the beach. Visitors find a youthful, energetic atmosphere here, with a strong connection to nature and outdoor pursuits. Cabarete presents a practical, engaging travel experience rather than a polished resort feel.
Cabarete's weather stays invitingly warm. Average daily temperatures typically range from 77°F (25°C) to 84°F (29°C). The town does not have a clear "dry" or "wet" season. Rainfall can occur any time. October to December usually sees more rain, along with June to September, which can also bring significant showers. Rain often comes in short, heavy bursts, clearing quickly. Humidity remains high continuously due to the tropical environment.
Match your visit to your preferred activities. For Kitesurfing & Windsurfing, December to April brings consistent and strong winds, often between 15-25 knots. June to August also brings reliable thermal winds. Surfing in winter months, from November to April, typically means larger swells to nearby surf breaks like Playa Encuentro. For Beach & Relaxation, visit from December to April for the sunniest conditions. May to June brings good weather with fewer crowds. For Canyoning & Outdoor Excursions, dryer periods, from December to April, are better for river-based activities like the Damajagua waterfalls.
Less rain, consistent winds. Active atmosphere. Expect higher prices and more crowds.
Fewer crowds and lower prices. May and June bring good wind conditions. Increased rain in October.
Lowest prices and fewest tourists. A more authentic local experience. Higher risk of hurricanes from August to September. More rain possible.
From June 1 to November 30. Peak activity usually between August and September. Tropical storms bring heavy rain and strong winds. Travel insurance consideration is wise.
Temperatures rarely reach extreme highs or lows. The climate stays consistently warm, making heatstroke prevention important.
Most nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, European Union countries, and many South American nations, do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 30 days. Instead, a Tourist Card comes with the airfare for most international flights. For stays exceeding 30 days, or for other purposes like work or study, obtain a visa from a Dominican Republic embassy or consulate before travel.
Prepare these documents for entry: Your passport must remain valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Travelers must complete an E-Ticket online before both arrival and departure. This electronic entry and exit form generates a QR code. Present this QR code to immigration authorities. Show proof of onward or return travel. Show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay, like credit cards or bank statements. Immigration rarely requests this from tourists.
The Tourist Card fee is usually part of the airline ticket price. If not, it costs approximately US$10. Upon arrival, present your passport and the QR code from your completed E-Ticket. Immigration officials will stamp your passport with the authorized length of stay. The process is generally straightforward. No specific special permits are generally needed for standard tourist activities or areas in Cabarete. No additional permissions are needed for beach access, watersports, or common attractions. As of recent updates, no specific health-related entry requirements exist for most travelers. Standard international travel health precautions apply.
Keep your E-Ticket QR code easily accessible on your phone or printed.
The Dominican Peso is the local currency. US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas. However, transactions often round up, and the exchange rate may not favor you. Pay in DOP for better value. ATMs are widely available in Cabarete. Many dispense both DOP and USD. Inform your bank of your travel plans to prevent card freezing. Fees for foreign transactions and ATM withdrawals apply. Most hotels, larger restaurants, and supermarkets accept credit cards. Smaller shops and street vendors operate on a cash-only basis.
Prices are general estimates and can fluctuate.
Daily costs (US$40-US$70). Stay in hostels or budget guesthouses. Eat at local "comedores" or street food stalls. Use public transport like guaguas or motoconchos. Engage in free activities like beach time.
Daily costs (US$80-US$150). Stay in mid-range hotels or Airbnb apartments. Dine at casual restaurants. Take occasional taxis or shared shuttles. Participate in a few paid excursions, like a surf lesson or a day trip.
Daily costs (US$200+). Stay in boutique hotels or luxury resorts. Enjoy fine dining. Use private transportation. Opt for guided tours and multiple watersports activities.
These daily estimates exclude international flights.
Prioritize your well-being in Cabarete. No vaccinations are universally required for entry to the Dominican Republic from the US, Canada, or Europe. However, several are generally accepted as beneficial: Routine Vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, yearly flu shot). Hepatitis A & B (due to potential exposure through contaminated food or water). Typhoid (for adventurous eaters or rural area visitors). Rabies (for outdoor activities, animal handling, or prolonged rural stays). Consult a travel doctor four to six weeks before your trip.
The Dominican Republic, including Cabarete, generally has a higher crime rate than many developed countries. However, violent crime against tourists is relatively rare. Petty crime, like pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs more often. Cabarete is generally safe for tourists, especially in the main areas along the beach and town center. Use common sense. Travel insurance is highly regarded. Your policy should cover medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, and theft of belongings. Compare policies from providers like World Nomads or SafetyWing or Insubuy.
Traveler's Diarrhea: Drink Bottled water, avoid ice outside reputable spots, eat well-cooked food, peel fruits. Carry Anti-diarrhea medication like Imodium A-D. Mosquito-borne Illnesses: Dengue and Chikungunya are present. Use DEET insect repellent, wear long sleeves at dusk/dawn, use nets. Sunburn & Heatstroke: UV index is high. Use high-SPF Reef-safe sunscreen, wear hats/sunglasses, hydrate, seek shade.
Cabarete has small clinics for basic care. For serious emergencies, larger hospitals in Sosúa (like Centro Medico Cabarete) or Puerto Plata may be needed. Private hospitals generally perform better than public ones. Pharmacies in Cabarete stock common medications. For general emergencies (police, fire, ambulance), dial 911. Service quality varies.
Tap water is unsafe for drinking. Always drink bottled water. Hotels and restaurants use purified water for drinking and ice. A Water filter bottle is a personal option. Choose clean, well-maintained restaurants. Opt for freshly cooked food. Avoid raw or undercooked meats, unpasteurized dairy, unwashed fruits/vegetables. Street food can be safe, but observe hygiene before buying.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Petty Theft: Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur, especially in crowded areas or after dark. Avoid displaying valuables. Use a Money belt. Motoconchos (Motorcycle Taxis): Risky due to erratic driving. Negotiate price first. Beach Safety: Do not leave valuables unattended. Avoid walking alone on deserted beaches at night. Scams: Be wary of overly friendly strangers. The main beach area and Calle Principal are generally safe day and evening. Areas further from the main tourist strip might have less lighting and fewer tourists at night. Monitor local news and weather reports. Hurricane season from June 1 to November 30. Direct hits are rare, but tropical storms may bring heavy rain and strong winds. The Dominican Republic is in an active seismic zone. Be aware of rip currents when swimming in the ocean.
