Cabarete Beach: The Ultimate Guide!

Welcome to Cabarete Beach, a stunning destination in the Dominican Republic that offers sun, sea, adventure, and vibrant nightlife.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into all things Cabarete, from its location to the best time to visit, top attractions, where to eat, nightlife, the cost of living, and frequently asked questions to ensure you have an amazing trip.

I spent a month living in Cabarete and I really loved it there. I spent time living in the Kite Beach area as well as closer to town so I’ll share all the details on each area and where I recommend.

Cabarete is a special place, where both locals and expats mingle together and the vibe is very relaxed and welcoming. I’d definitely recommend a trip here, particularly if you love kitesurfing.

Where is Cabarete Beach?

Let’s start with the basics! Cabarete Beach is located in the Puerto Plata province of the Dominican Republic.

The closest airport is Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP), in Puerto Plata which is about a 25-minute drive from Cabarete. You can easily reach the town from the airport by taxi or shuttle. A taxi will cost around $30.

Cabarete itself is a small, charming coastal town that’s known for kitesurfing. It’s super windy here which is great for keeping the heat and humidity at bay, but also for kiteboarders.

If you are visiting the Dominican Republic, check out my guide to the best Dominican Republic Beaches.

Best Time to Visit Cabarete Beach

Cabarete Beach is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Usually for most people visiting Cabarete, all they are interested in knowing is – when is the wind best!

The weather in Cabarete Dominican Republic is typically warm and tropical, with average temperatures ranging from 77°F (25°C) in the cooler months to 88°F (31°C) in the warmer months.

Rainy and Dry Season: The Dominican Republic experiences a rainy season from May to November and a dry season from December to April. If you prefer sunny, rain-free days, plan your visit during the dry season.

Kitesurfing: Cabarete is famous for kitesurfing. It has 300 windy days per year! The windy season for kitesurfing enthusiasts is from June to September when trade winds blow consistenty. However, the wind is still good throughout the high season too, so you can’t go too wrong.

High and Low Season: The high tourist season in Cabarete is from December to April, which is also the dry season. If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy more budget-friendly rates, consider visiting during the low season from May to November.

Things to Do Near Cabarete Beach

1. Kitesurfing

Cabarete is renowned for its perfect kitesurfing conditions. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, you can take lessons or simply enjoy watching the experts at Kite Beach.

Cabarete offers an ideal environment for kitesurfing, thanks to its consistent trade winds and warm, turquoise waters. The town boasts a lively kitesurfing culture, with numerous schools and rental shops (I think there are over 30!) along its sandy shores.

For those looking to learn kitesurfing, Cabarete offers a range of top-rated schools staffed by experienced instructors. Among them, schools like Laurel Eastman Kiteboarding and Kite Club Cabarete stand out for their commitment to safety and excellence.

Lessons typically range in price from $100 to $150 per hour, with packages available for beginners and advanced riders. These schools provide all the necessary gear, including kites, boards, and safety equipment.

Renting kitesurfing equipment in Cabarete is also an option for experienced riders. Rental costs can vary, but on average, it’s approximately $50 to $75 per hour or $200 to $300 for a full day.

You’ll see for yourself when you get there, but Cabarete’s kitesurfing conditions can be challenging due to strong currents and intense waves. It was difficult to learn in and if you’re not confident in water, you might struggle a little (like I did!).

For example, I usually cannot go underwater without holding my nose. But clearly isnt possible with a kite in one hand and a board in the other. So I basically drank a lot of seawater during my 10 hours of lessons!

While this may pose a learning curve, it also provides an adrenaline rush that keeps kitesurfers returning for more exciting experiences in this Caribbean paradise. They say “If you can kite in Cabarete, you can kite anywhere”.

For intermediate and advanced riders, you’re in for a real treat.

2. Visit the Caves

As you venture into Las Cuevas de Cabarete, you’ll be greeted by a mesmerizing underground landscape featuringlimestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites that have formed over millennia. There are three pools too, one which is just for pictures and the other two that you can jump in and swim.

The ticket price includes a guide who will take you around for around an hour. He’ll tell you about the history of the reserve as well as about the plants that grow there (we got sent home with the biggest avocado I have ever seen!).

I’ve included this as one of my favourite experiences in Cabarete but it was, in my opinion, so overpriced. Locals are charged $5 and tourists $20 which isnt a huge amount of money, but really there is not a lot to see here.

But if you’re happy to pay it, it does make for a good break from the beach.

3. Visit Sosua

Take a day trip to Sosua, a nearby town with beautiful beaches, like Playa Alicia and Playa Sosua.

Sosua is just up the road from Cabarete and you can flag the bus on the main road to take you there. It’s around 50pesos each way.

The things I recommend you do in Sosua are check out the beaches. Playa Alicia and Playa Sosua are beautiful, but be really careful of the current here.

My favourite is Playa Alicia as it’s a lot more relaxed. You can rent a sun bed and spend the day here. If you eat at the restaurant, Waterfront Playa Alicia, you get the parasols for free.

If you don’t eat at the waterfront restuarant, I highly recommend visiting Steven Cafe for an amazing curry! The food was great and it’s a lovely place to sit, with fairy lights and overlooking the sea.

4. Visit Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata, located along the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, is a city steeped in history and natural beauty. Getting to Puerto Plata from Cabarete is relatively straightforward as you can just flag the bus, or take a taxi there.

One of the must-visit sites in Puerto Plata is the Amber Museum. This museum provides insight into the world of amber, showcasing a stunning collection of amber specimens, some of which contain prehistoric insects. Entry to the museum itself is free, and you can then choose if you want to explore independently or with a guide.

Another historical gem in Puerto Plata is Fort San Felipe, a well-preserved Spanish fortress that dates back to the 16th century. You can explore its maze-like interior, climb the walls for panoramic views of the city, and learn about the region’s rich history. The entry fee for Fort San Felipe is around $400RD (about $2US) and include the audio headset.

For a unique perspective of Puerto Plata and its surrounding landscapes, consider taking a ride on the Teleférico cable car. This cable car ride offers breathtaking views of the city, the coastline, and the lush greenery of Mount Isabel de Torres.

This tour includes a visit to all the attractions featured on this list as well as a few others, so it’s great value. I love visiting these places on tours because it involves no thinking on my part – just follow the guide and enjoy!

5. Encuentro Beach

While Kite Beach is the place for kiteboarders, Encuentro is the place for surf.

It’s a prime destination for surfers, offering great waves and a fantastic atmosphere. There are a few shacks along the beach where you’ll find the surf schools where you take take lessons or rent equipment.

I heard lots of great things about Bobos Surf School from surfers I met there, as well as expats. Bobos doesn’t have a beach shack but instead you contact him via WhatsApp (+18098825197).

While you’re in Encuentro, you have to explore the food market for delicious local treats.

It’s a little market made up of lots of different food trucks and pop up shops. From the delicious pizza at Pizzicleta to beautiful ceviche at Asumare – there’s so much to try! If you’re vegan, the burgers at Salt Marina are epic. Just don’t do what I did and arrive for lunch, because most of the trucks don’t open until 4-5pm.

6. Horseback Riding Lessons

Sea Horse Ranch is the place to go for horseback riding lessons. It’s definitely more of a higher-end riding experience and all the horses and ponies (for the kids!) are clearly very well cared for and loved.

With a team of specialists well-versed in riding, dressage, and jumping, they cater to riders of all skill levels. It’s a great way to explore the beautiful woodlands and enjoy the more rugged parts of the coastline here.

There are so many options from guided trails and lessons for both adults and children and you can view the prices here. But to give you an idea, a 1.5 hour guided ride is $45 and a 1 hour private lesson (in English) is $50.

7. Monkey Jungle

For a unique experience, visit Monkey Jungle, a sanctuary for rescued and rehabilitated monkeys, giving you the chance to witness these incredible creatures up close and learn about the importance of their conservation.

The highlight of Monkey Jungle, besides the cute little inhabitants, is the ziplining experience that allows you to soar through the lush treetops. As you zip from one platform to another, you’ll not only get an adrenaline rush but also gain a bird’s-eye view of the stunning tropical landscape.

Tickets for the monkey park are $40 or $30 for kids under 12. Tickets for the ziplining adventure are $70 for adults and $50 for kids under 12. Combination tickets are $90 for adults and $75 for children. They don’t accept card so make sure you bring cash! You can view the up to date prices here.

Or, if you’re leaving from Puerto Plata there are a couple of highly rated tours that you could join to take the faff out of your trip – as everything is arranged for you including transport.

The first is one that includes the monkey park only, and the second includes both the monkey park and the ziplining adventure. I recommend the latter!

To get there from Cabarete, you can arrange transportation with a local tour operator or rent a car.

8. 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua

The 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua are a must-visit natural wonder. Located a short drive from Cabarete, these cascading waterfalls offer thrilling opportunities for hiking and jumping into crystal-clear pools.

To start you have to hike for around 70 minutes to get to the top of the Full 27 Falls where the real fun begins as you jump, slide and swim your way back down. The water is incredibly blue and fresh. It’s a really beautiful place.

I recommend that you take a tour so your transportation is arranged for you, particularly if you don’t haved a car. This awesome one-day tour goes from Puerta Plata, Sosua and from Cabarete. It includes transport, a local guide and lunch too so it’s great value.

9. Cola de Pato

Cola de Pato is a hidden gem in the Dominican Republic. It’s a natural waterpark with rock slides and pools in a lush forest setting. It truly is spectucular, but it really makes you work for it.

It’s quite difficult to get to, and you have to be fairly fit and not afraid of heights. For example, it involves climbing a high mountain followied by a 10-km hike. If you love the adrenaline rush, this must be on the top of your list.

Given the difficulty in reaching it, I only recommned you do this with a guide who is familiar with the area. If you’re keen on visiting Cola de Pato, check out JackCana Tours.

10. Go Canyoning

Experience the adventure of canyoning the Magic Mushroom. You’ll explore stunning canyons, rappel down waterfalls, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The mountains where you’ll be canyoning are around a 45-minute drive from Cabarete so arranging a tour is much easier. This tour includes the transportation to and from the canyoning base camp as well as all your safety gear.

Once you’re all geared up for the adventure, a brief 10-minute ride will lead us to the entrance of the canyon. Over the course of 2-3 hours, you’ll rappel, swim, jump, and hike within the canyon. It’s epic!

Afterward, you’ll hike out of the canyon which takes around 30-minutes, and you’ll then be driven back to base for a delicious Dominican-style lunch. It such a fun day out and I really recommend it if you like being out in nature.

Cabarete Beach vs. Kite Beach

Cabarete Beach and Kite Beach are two beautiful coastal spots near Cabarete, each with its unique charm and offerings. Depending on what you’re looking for, you may prefer one over the other.

Cabarete Beach

Cabarete Beach, or Playa Cabarete, is the main beach in the town of Cabarete. It’s a versatile and bustling beach that caters to a wide range of interests.

The beach is lovely with golden sands stretching along the coastline, palm trees providing shade, and a relaxed atmosphere. Here’s what you can expect at Cabarete Beach:

Swimming and Sunbathing: Cabarete Beach is perfect for bodyboarding and wave jumping. The sea is still quite wavy here in high season but it’s a great area to have fun in the sea. It’s also an ideal spot for sunbathing and unwinding under the Caribbean sun as you can rent loungers here.

Waterfront Dining: The beachfront is lined with a variety of restaurants and bars, offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Enjoy your meals with a view of the ocean.

Shopping: Along the beach, you’ll find numerous shops selling beachwear, souvenirs, and water sports equipment. There are actually some nice little boutique shops too like, The Beach Box.

Nightlife: Cabarete Beach is a great place for evening entertainment. Many bars and clubs come to life after sunset, offering live music, dancing, and cocktails.

Kite Beach

Kite Beach, as the name suggests, is the epicenter of kitesurfing and windsurfing in Cabarete. It has a more specialised focus and a vibrant, energetic atmosphere, but it’s quieter at night. Here’s what you can expect at Kite Beach:

Kitesurfing and Windsurfing: Kite Beach is renowned for its consistent trade winds, making it the perfect location for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, you’ll find schools and rental shops to get you started.

Spectacular Aerial Shows: Watch as kitesurfers and windsurfers display their skills in the sea, performing impressive aerial stunts and tricks. It’s a sight to behold.

Laid-Back Vibe: While Kite Beach offers exhilarating water sports, it also maintains a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It’s an excellent place to meet fellow enthusiasts and share experiences.

Waterfront Cafés: You’ll find waterfront cafés and bars that cater to kitesurfers. Enjoy a drink or meal with a view of the action on the water. My favourite place is El CocoTazo – food, cocktails, views and service are all fantastic.

In summary, Cabarete Beach is the go-to destination for those seeking a beach experience with sunbathing, swimming, dining, shopping, and vibrant nightlife.

On the other hand, Kite Beach is primarily for water sports enthusiasts, offering some of the best kitesurfing conditions in the world, thrilling aerial displays, and a more specialized, laid-back vibe. You wouldn’t really go here to sunbathe.

Depending on your interests, you can choose to spend your days at either of these beautiful beaches or explore both to enjoy the best of both worlds in Cabarete.

Best Places to Stay in Cabarete

Choosing the right place to stay in Cabarete largely depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip.

Both Kite Beach and Cabarete Beach offer unique advantages, so let’s explore which one might suit you best. I’ll also recommend three great hotels and apartments in Cabarete.

Kite Beach vs. Cabarete Beach: Where to Stay

Kite Beach is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, particularly kite surfers and windsurfers. Staying near Kite Beach puts you in the midst of the action, with easy access to the best wind and waves.

It offers a more laid-back and specialized atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking thrilling adventures on the water. If you plan to spend most of your time kitesurfing or windsurfing and want to watch incredible aerial displays, Kite Beach is the place for you.

Cabarete Beach, on the other hand, is a more versatile destination, suitable for a wide range of interests. If you prefer a well-rounded beach experience that includes swimming, sunbathing, dining, shopping, and lively nightlife, staying near Cabarete Beach is a great choice. It’s also convenient for exploring the town and other attractions beyond water sports.

Best Cabarete Beach Hotels

1. Velero Beach Resort

Location: Cabarete Beach, past Janet’s supermarket

Why Stay: Velero Beach Resort offers a prime beachfront location with stunning ocean views. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a relaxed beach experience and easy access to water sports, dining, and entertainment.

The resort features spacious suites with modern amenities, a pool, and a beachfront restaurant. Whether you’re into water sports or just want to unwind, Velero Beach Resort has you covered.

2. Kibayo Lagoon Villa

Location: Kite Beach, by the Lagoon

Why Stay: For those eager to dive into kite surfing and windsurfing right away, Kibayo Lagoon Villa offers a prime location near Kite Beach. The accommodations are comfortable, and the proximity to the beach makes it convenient for water sports enthusiasts.

The grounds are absolutely beautiful, right on the lagoon, and they also do a delicious brunch!

3. Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel and Spa

Location: Perla Marina, North of Kite Beach

Why Stay: Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel and Spa is actually located outside Cabarete, in the small town of Perla Marina. I had to feature it though because it’s an absolutely stunning place.

This boutique, beachfront eco hotel offers a unique and peaceful retreat while still allowing you to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cabarete. The spa and treatments are incredible and there’s yoga and other classes on offer too.

With a restaurant, pool and bar, as well as access to the beach, you’ll not want or need to leave! Absolutely perfect for a relaxing stay.

Best Apartments to Stay in Cabarete

If you’re looking for apartment-style accommodations in Cabarete, you have several excellent options. Here are some fabulous cabarete beach rentals:

1. Cabarete Palm Beach Condos

Location: Closer to Cabarete Beach, within walking distance to the beach restaurants and bars

Why Stay: Cabarete Palm Beach Condos offer spacious and well-equipped apartments, perfect for those who want a home away from home. You can enjoy the convenience of a kitchen and a comfortable living space with a beautiful view of the beach.

One thing to note is that these apartments are a little outside of Cabarete, so you’ll need a moped or car to get into town, or be prepared to use taxis.

2. Ocean View Apartments

Location: Cabarete Beach

Why Stay: Ocean View Apartments offer comfortable and well-furnished units with beautiful ocean views. These apartments are ideal for travelers who appreciate both the beach and the convenience of an apartment-style stay, allowing you to cook your meals and enjoy a spacious living space.

3. Estrella Apartments

Location: Cabarete Beach

Why Stay: Estrella Apartments offer a comfortable and self-contained stay experience. These apartments are perfect for those who value independence and convenience. With a kitchen and a cozy living area, you can make the most of your visit while enjoying the surroundings of Cabarete Beach.

Whether you prefer the amenities of a beachfront resort, the relaxed atmosphere of an apartment, or the thrill of Kite Beach, Cabarete offers an array of options to suit your preferences and make your stay truly memorable.

Best Restaurants in Cabarete Beach

For a small town there are so many fantastic Cabarete Beach restaurants! So much so that I’ve written a separate blog on it. So if you want some recommendations of where to eat in Cabarete, read my blog post The Best Restaurants in Cabarete.

La Casita de Papi: Located on Cabarete Beach, this restaurant is known for its seafood dishes – you have to try the langoustines! Enjoy fresh catches of the day in a beachfront setting.

Bliss Restaurant & Lounge: A high-end Italian restaurant, known for its delicious cocktails and cool setting in an old hacienda where you’re seated around a beautiful pool. It’s pricey, but worth it.

La Mesa Taina: A beachside gem at Kitebeach, this is a great spot for sushi. Their monster rolls are to die for!

Best Nightlife in Cabarete Beach

Serenade: This was my go-to place for cocktails on the beach at Cabarete Beach. They delicious and they have a great happy hour menu!

Voy Voy: As well as being a restaurant, Voy Voy transforms into a beachside party spot in the evenings. My favourite night is Monday karaoke night!

Ojo Club: This is the best place to party, and there are often salsa dancing nights here. My friends and I danced the night away here on Christmas Eve – so much fun!

Cost of Living in Cabarete Beach

Hotel: Accommodation costs can vary. You can find budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses for as low as $20 to $40 per night, while mid-range hotels range from $70 to $150 per night.

Apartment Rental: If you’re planning an extended stay, apartments are available. Prices vary, but you can find apartments for $500 to $1,000 per month.

Meals: Dining in local restaurants is affordable, with a traditional meal (chicken and rice) costing around $5. For western choices, you can expect to pay between $10 to $20. Fine dining options you’re looking at $25+.

Transport: Taxis in Cabarete are relatively inexpensive. A taxi ride from Kite Beach to Cabarete Beach will cost around $5.

Beer: A domestic beer typically costs around $2 to $3, while imported beers may be a bit pricier.

Cocktails: Cocktails range from $4 to $10, depending on the venue and your choice of drink. Happy hours are offered everywhere. You can do a little bar hop session between the different happy hours. Cocktails are often cheaper than beers (which arent included in happy hour!).

FAQs

Have the best time in Cabarete

Cabarete Beach is a tropical paradise in the heart of the Caribbean.

Whether you’re seeking thrilling water sports, exploring natural wonders, or enjoying a laid-back beach experience, Cabarete has it all.

With a friendly atmosphere and diverse attractions, it’s a destination that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories.

So pack your bags, head to the Airport, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Cabarete!

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