One of the most popular beach resorts on the Dominican Republic's North Coast, Sosúa offers plenty of sun, sea, sand and sex appeal. While the gorgeous beaches and clear waters are reason enough to visit, Sosúa also boasts a rich cultural heritage and a wealth of outdoor adventures. Myriad restaurants keep foodies happy, and the area knows how to party once the sun's gone down. If all that wasn't tempting enough, it's just a short drive from Puerto Plata International Airport, so you can live it up within minutes of landing!
Make the most of your vacation and discover the diverse jewels that contribute to Sosúa's enchanting appeal and reputation as a top DR travel destination.
Playa Sosúa is one of the prettiest beaches in the Dominican Republic, drawing crowds keen to swim, sunbathe and relax while soaking up some sun. Looking for more action? You'll find nearby outlets where you can rent snorkeling gear to spot vibrant aquatic life just below the surface. You may even catch a glimpse of visiting turtles and dolphins. Stroll along the soft sands and admire the picturesque coastline and crescent-shaped bay, or book boat tours for a different perspective.
Backed by swaying palms and casual eateries, Sosúa Beach is also a top spot for sampling local cuisine and sinking your teeth into sumptuous seafood. Watch one of Mother Nature's finest shows in the evening as the sun sets in a riot of orange and gold hues over the shimmering sea.
The coral reefs surrounding Sosúa are teeming with tropical marine life like angelfish, squirrel fish, peacock flounder and yellowfin snapper, alongside moray eels, mollusks and sea horses. There's a possibility of sighting friendly whale sharks year-round, while if you visit between November and April, you might see humpback whales on their migratory journeys. Some of the best local snorkeling hotspots include Three Rocks, Coral Garden, Puntilla and Ray Point. Whatever your experience level, Sosúa caters to all, with shallow and deep snorkeling areas.
Plenty of local outlets rent snorkeling gear if you want to wade in independently, or you can arrange boat trips to take you farther out and cover a wider area. Plan your snorkeling adventures between November and April for the best visibility and calm conditions.
If you're looking for a quieter place to bask in the sunshine, Playa Alicia is a lesser-known gem about 15 minutes from Sosúa Beach. It's ideal for families looking to escape the crowds and couples seeking relative solitude. Feel the soft, blond sands beneath your soles, dip in the refreshing waves and enjoy the blissfully peaceful atmosphere. A couple of eateries rest nearby if hunger strikes, and you can rent chairs and parasols for incredibly affordable fees. Come here for sunset, too, and be wowed by natural splendor.
In times gone by, Sosúa provided a welcoming refuge for Jewish immigrants during World War II. The community built a settlement on an abandoned banana plantation, where many Jews still live today. An active synagogue also remains in the town, offering glimpses into local Jewish life. The wood-frame building is the original place of worship built by those seeking a peaceful haven. Although closed at the time of writing, the town hopes to reopen its informative Jewish Museum in the future.
If you're craving after-hours fun, wander along Pedro Clisante Street, the hub of Sosúa's night scene. Whatever your taste, you'll find somewhere here to entertain you long into the wee small hours; from live music joints, casual hangouts and pulsating discos to sports bars, piano lounges and karaoke spots, Sosúa knows how to please. Popular venues include Jolly Rogers, Nelson's Lounge, Sondabar, The Shark Bar and Diamond Club and Lounge. You can hop on a party bus, join a bar crawl, or hit up a casino for even more nocturnal frolics.
A terrific adventure activity for old and young alike, mount a steed to appreciate scenic country views and explore by horseback. Popular routes trot past lush forests, stretching fields, rolling hills and sweeping beaches, letting you soak up all the area's beauty with minimal effort. Various companies arrange full- and half-day excursions, including Seahorse Ranch Equestrian Center, Singing Horse Foundation and Rancho Salvaje Lorilar, and some itineraries include extra experiences, such as waterfall trips or ziplining.
Attend a safety briefing, affix your harness, strap on your helmet and get ready for an exhilarating experience! Soar through the skies along the 4,500-foot, ACCT-certified zipline at Monkey Jungle, admiring the jungle below. Thanks to a hand brake, you're fully in control of your speed, and your ride takes you through seven stations and two suspended bridges. The thrilling adventure even plunges you 50 feet into a bat cave! Ziplining guests must be over three years old and weigh less than 300 pounds (maximum 250 pounds for the cave drop). Adults must accompany children, and all visitors must wear closed-toe shoes. Long pants are recommended, too.
You can also pair your zipline ride with a visit to the Monkey Jungle Experience. Enter the ancient grotto to meet over 20 squirrel monkeys and a tribe of rescued capuchins. You can also feel good knowing that profits go directly into an NGO program supporting the local community.
Located in the Los Charamicos area, Pescaderia Sabor Casero dishes up delicious seafood caught fresh from the nearby waters. Eat like a local as you indulge in grilled red snapper, fish and vegetable soup, octopus in red sauce and lobster. The outdoor seating lets you watch the world go by as you dine, and the casual eatery lies near the heart of town and within easy reach of DR Highway 5. Open from morning until night most days, the restaurant typically closes on Thursdays. Note: You'll need cash, as cards aren't accepted here.
If you're already a certified diver, the world—or, rather, Sosúa—is your oyster! Explore the deep Atlantic waters to spot diverse marine life, including myriad tropical fish, nudibranchs, stingrays, crabs and turtles around the corals and walls. Top diving sites include Airport Walls 1, 2 and 3, Larimar, Pyramid and Ray Point and 5 Rocks. There's even a shipwreck—Zingara Wreck—for advanced scuba divers, while experienced technical divers can discover the freshwater caves inland.
Close to the shore, the shallower waters are ideal for those with less experience; the farther out you go, the stronger the current. If you don't already have PADI certification, local operators offer various courses, allowing you to whet your appetite for ocean exploration. After basic training, instructors accompany you to varying depths.
Contact Aqua Adventures by Scuba Dive Sosúa, Superior Dive Sosúa or Dive Cabarete to start the ball rolling. May to December offers the calmest conditions, while November to April is the best time to see whales.
Situated around 9 miles east of downtown Sosúa, El Choco National Park offers a natural escape within easy reach of the resort. Spot native flora and fauna, including over 30 species of birds and reptiles, and hike trails that wind through the jungle. Cycling and caving are also popular here; you can descend into caves filled with captivating natural rock formations and discover underground rivers. Alternatively, cool down with a dip in a lagoon or freshwater spring.
The national park also provides stunning views of tropical landscapes. You can book guided tours with several operators in town. Alternatively, make your way there independently and appoint a guide outside the entrance. The dry season—from December to April—is the best time to visit, and you'll have a better chance of seeing wildlife if you go early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Cayo Arena, AKA Paradise Island, is a must-do day trip from Sosúa. Once you feast your eyes on the crystal-clear waters and pure white sands, you'll quickly understand how the island earned its paradise nickname! You can easily arrange a trip to the island from one of several local operators. Excursions typically include a bus ride to the post at Punta Rucia, from where you'll catch a 20-minute speedboat to the island. Some packages also include snorkeling stops and exploration of the endangered mangroves.
Be on the lookout for wild pelicans on the ride over, too. Don't forget your swimming and snorkeling gear, towel, sun cream, sunglasses, hat, camera and money, all secure in a waterproof bag. Although the waves will be choppier, visit outside the high season to escape the crowds. If you must go at the most popular time (December to February), go as early in the morning as possible.
If you're searching for one of the most unique things to do in Sosúa, Castillo Mundo King will check your box. The quirky museum is brimming with whimsical and eccentric art, including paintings, sculptures and carvings. It showcases works from local and international artists and houses an extensive collection of alien- and UFO-themed exhibits. Snap plenty of pictures outside the castle-like architecture before getting plenty of snaps of the wondrous works inside. The five-story museum perches on top of a hill—go to the top for gorgeous 360 vistas of the town and surroundings.
Waterfront Restaurant sits on Alicia Beach, looking over the glistening Atlantic Ocean. Offering terrific views at any time, it's awe-inspiring at sunset. Along with striking vistas, the popular restaurant dishes up mouth-watering cuisine, and the menu effortlessly blends Dominican flavors and international favorites for a terrific taste sensation. Sink your teeth into tasty seafood, steaks and traditional local specialties. The sophisticated atmosphere makes this an excellent choice for a romantic dinner with your beloved.
Within easy reach of Sosúa, the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua are clustered to create a picturesque natural site where you can enjoy adventure galore. However, trips don't usually include every waterfall—that would be exhausting! Instead, tours typically take in seven or 12 of the majestic water features. Don't forget your bathing suit, as you'll be sure to want to plunge into the refreshing falls and glide down nature-made water slides. Wear non-slip shoes that you can get wet, too, because you'll be climbing cascades and hiking over slippery rocks. You'll also need sun protection. Book your fun day with a local tour operator or online.