Cabarete Travel Guide

Discover the stunningly diverse and culturally rich Cabarete with this comprehensive travel guide. Read on for insider insights on places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Cabarete

Cabarete is a paradise destination located in the Western Cibao region of the Dominican Republic, in the Caribbean. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this vibrant and lively town has something to offer for everyone. From pristine beaches to lush jungles, from thrilling outdoor adventures to culturally rich experiences, Cabarete has it all.

List of Places to Visit in Cabarete

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are a history buff or interested in the rich culture of the Dominican Republic, you must visit the following attractions.

  • El Choco National Park: El Choco National Park is a natural wonderland full of limestone caves, hidden lagoons, and tropical flora and fauna. It is also a historical cultural landmark as the Taino Indian’s settlement was discovered here.
  • Cabarete Museum: Learn about the fascinating history and culture of the Dominican Republic at the Cabarete museum. Exhibits include information about the region’s ecological systems, Taino settlement, pirate activities and rebellion history and more.
  • La Isabela: Cabarete is a short drive away from the town of Luperon, where Christopher Columbus founded the first European settlement of the New World, La Isabela. The location is now a historical site with exhibits and museums.

Natural Attractions of Cabarete: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cabarete boasts some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the Caribbean that are not to be missed.

  • Playa Encuentro: Playa Encuentro is the surfers’ paradise. With consistent waves, it is the best place to surf in the Caribbean. Lessons from experienced surfers are easily accessible to newbies too.
  • Damajaqua Cascades: Damajaqua Cascades is a series of twenty seven stunning waterfalls with natural pools, perfect for diving, hiking, and exploring. Visitors can book excursions to see them.
  • Sosua Bay: Just 15-minutes from Cabarete is the picturesque Sosua Bay. The calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can see an extensive variety of marine life and the colorful coral, and explore the underwater caves.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cabarete

With its diverse and spectacular terrain, Cabarete offers various hiking and biking routes for adventure enthusiasts.

  • El Choco National Park: The trails in El Choco National Park are perfect for adventurers and nature lovers, covering flatlands, hills, and valleys.
  • Rio San Juan to the Lagoon Grigri: This 35 km route offers an extraordinary view of the Atlantic, a swamp full of birds, and finally the famous Gri-Gri lagoon.
  • Mount Isabel de Torres: Climb Mount Isabel de Torres and feast your eyes with the spectacular panoramic views from the summit.

Best Things to Do in Cabarete: Activities and Tours

Cabarete has tons of activities that you can do and tours to join. Some of the best things to do in Cabarete are:

  • Kiteboarding: With trade winds providing ideal conditions, Cabarete attracts kiteboarders from all over the world. Learning or perfecting kiteboarding skills in the ever-clear waters is a must-do.
  • Horseback Riding: Enjoy a horseback ride along the beach and visit the hills of the Cordillera Oriental Range.
  • Nightlife: Cabarete’s nightlife scene with its live music and DJ’s playing is one of the liveliest in the Caribbean.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cabarete

Here is an itinerary for a week spent in Cabarete to get the most out of your visit.

Day Activity
Day 1 Swim or Surf at Playa Encuentro
Day 2 Explore the history of Cabarete Museum and La Isabela
Day 3 Trek through El Choco National Park
Day 4 Relax and Snorkel at Sosua Bay
Day 5 Bike-hike a route Rio San Juan to Gri-Gri
Day 6 Visit the majestic cascades of Damajaqua
Day 7 Try kiting for first time with experts and experience the wildness of the Cabarete nightlife

Food and Drink Scene of Cabarete

Cabarete’s food and drink scene is a melting pot of cultures with Caribbean influences. Here are some must-try food dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Locrio de mariscos (rice and seafood dish)
  • Chicharrón de Pollo (crispy fried chicken)
  • Pescado Frito (fried fish served with rice and beans)
  • Fritura (assorted fried snacks like Plantains, yucca, chicken nuggets, and cheese)
  • Mofongo (a Puerto Rican specialty of mashed plantains with garlic, with or without meat or shrimp)

Local Beverages

  • Mama Juana: This is a traditional Dominican cocktail that combines red wine, honey, and rum. It’s been said to be an aphrodisiac.
  • Presidente Beer: A very popular beer in the Dominican Republic. Locals serve it very cold, straight out of the bottle or can.
  • Morir Soñando: Made with freshly squeezed orange juice combined with milk and sugar, this smooth and refreshing drink is perfect for a hot Caribbean day.
  • Rum: Ponche de Ron (rum blended with milk), Mama Juana (rum-soaked in red wine), and Cuba Libre (rum and cola) are popular.

Where to Stay in Cabarete: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

As a popular tourist destination, Cabarete has a wide range of accommodations spanning from luxury to budget-friendly. Some top recommended places to stay include:

  • Kitebeach Hotel: The Kitebeach hotel is a waterfront hotel popular with kiteboarders. Rooms feature views of the sea, garden or pool, air conditioning, free wifi and kitchenettes.
  • Natura Cabana: The Natura Cabana has thatched-roof bungalows and offers yoga classes and a spa. Cabanas have rustic decors and terraces for outdoor relaxation.
  • Extreme Hotel: The hotel provides eco-friendly accommodations in villa-style rooms and composting toilets. They offer kiteboarding lessons, yoga classes, and an outdoor pool.

What to Buy in Cabarete: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cabarete is famous for its hand-made crafts, jewelry, drinks, and other souvenirs. Some of the best local products to buy are:

  • Larimar Jewelry: The Larimar stone is the signature stone of the Dominican Republic, featuring shades of blue. You will find a vast collection of handcrafted jewelry made from this stone.
  • Local Rum: The Dominican Republic is famous for its delicious rum, so make sure to bring a bottle of it back home along.
  • Coconut Oil: Locally produced coconut oil used in skincare is available in abundance in Cabarete, and you shouldn’t miss out on getting a bottle.

Local Culture and Customs of Cabarete

Cabarete has its own rich and unique culture and customs that visitors must respect and try to learn as they explore. Dominicans are friendly people who welcome tourists warmly and are proud of their rich heritage, including the Taino Indian influence, African slave heritage, and European settlements, particularly from Spain.

Best Time to Visit Cabarete

The best time to visit Cabarete is from December to April. These months see dry weather with mild temperatures ranging between 25-27 degrees Celsius and little rainfall. Kiteboarders prefer to visit between June to August when the winds are stronger.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cabarete

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Use cash when possible since many places may not accept credit cards.
  • Try to learn a little Spanish before arrival as English is not widely spoken.
  • Take mosquito repellent as Dengue and Zika are present in the Eastern Caribbean.
  • Dress casually for warm weather, though bringing a cover-up for the evenings is recommended.

Don’t:

  • Wear beachwear in town or in restaurants.
  • Do drugs: drug possession can mean severe legal consequences in the Dominican Republic.
  • Drink and drive: Law enforcement is strict on drink driving with significant legal consequences.
  • Leave valuables in your vehicle or your bags unattended on the beach.
  • Walk the beach after dark or in secluded areas unsafely.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cabarete

Cabarete is a relatively safe tourist destination, though visitors should be vigilant and take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and theft. Stick to well-lit spots and remain aware of your surroundings.

Health in Cabarete

Ensure you take precautions before traveling. Recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Rabies. Mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue, Zika, and Malaria are present in the Eastern Caribbean, so it is essential to have appropriate measures to prevent bites.

Getting to Cabarete: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cabarete

The closest airport to Cabarete is the Puerto Plata Gregorio Luperón International Airport, which is approximately 20 minutes drive from the town. In addition to this, the Santo Domingo and Santiago airports are within reach as well.

Bus Stations Near Cabarete

The bus station in Sosua is closest to Cabarete, and regular coaches travel from all over the country.

Other Options

Taxi services are available for those who don’t want to travel by bus.

How to Get Around in Cabarete

The most common transport option in Cabarete is public transportation like motorcycles and buses, which are affordable and accessible. Visitors can also rent cars, motorcycles, and bicycles to get around the town easily.

Where to Go Next from Cabarete: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cabarete’s location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the Dominican Republic. Some nearby destinations to visit include:

  • Santiago de los Caballeros: Visit the colonial capital of the Dominican Republic for museums and cultural attractions.
  • Santo Domingo: Explore the oldest city of the New World, some museums and UNESCO sites worth seeing.
  • Puerto Plata: It’s located west of Cabarete, with lovely beaches and more surfing spots than Cabarete.

Conclusion

Cabarete, the hidden gem of the Caribbean, offers everything, be it history, culture, beaches, or adventure. With its stunning natural beauty and a wide range of activities and places to explore, it’s no surprise that it has been a favorite of many travelers. This comprehensive guide should help you plan your perfect Cabarete vacation.