Puerto Plata - Dominican Republic

We chose Puerto Plata for our wedding because it’s a place that has brought us closer over the years. For Tito, it’s where much of his family is from, and for Samantha, it’s the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes that make it so special. Together, we've shared many memorable trips here—whether exploring the mountains, relaxing on the beaches, or enjoying the local music and food.

With its perfect mix of adventure, culture, and family ties, Puerto Plata is one of our favorite places, and we’re thrilled to welcome you to this beautiful part of the world!

Casa Colonial Beach & Spa

Our wedding will be at Casa Colonial Beach & Spa, a 5-star boutique hotel in Puerto Plata. While our room block here is full, we’ve secured additional rooms at the all-inclusive Gran Ventana Beach Resort next door.

To Book at Gran Ventana:

Email ycasilla@vhhr.com and CC info@vivalfesta.com with your stay dates, number of guests, and mention it's for Tito and Samantha's wedding.

Rate: $118 USD per person, per night.

Note: You must book via email to receive the special rate.

Puerto Plata Airport (POP)

We recommend flying into Puerto Plata (POP), just a 20-minute drive from the resort. The nearest alternative is Santiago (STI), about 1.5 hours away.

See our Travel Checklist page for more information about what you need to travel.

Getting Around In Puerto Plata

We recommend against renting a car in Puerto Plata, as local roads can be tricky, parking is limited, and driving customs may differ. Instead, use taxis, private shuttles, or the resort’s transportation services to get around.

If you're staying at Casa Colonial and need airport transfer arrangements, please email conciergecc@vhhr.com.

If you'll be arriving Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday before the wedding, check our Ground Transportation page to see if there is a bus scheduled for your flight arrival time.

Travel Questions

To keep all our guests up to date on all travel updates, bus pickup times, and other important event updates, we have registered with a text platform. If you would like to receive these updates from us, sign up using the link below.

Please note, we are not using a travel agent. Guests will need to book their own airfare and accommodations.

We ONLY suggest flying into Puerto Plata (POP) or Santiago (STI)

We recommend flying into Puerto Plata (POP), just a 20-minute drive from the resort. The nearest alternative is Santiago (STI), about 1.5 hours away.

PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU ARE NOT ACCIDENTALLY FLYING INTO PUNTA CANA AIRPORT (PUJ) AS IT IS OVER 7 HOURS DRIVING DISTANCE FROM OUR VENUE.

This must be filled out before you arrive at the airport!

The entry form (a.k.a E-Ticket) is free to complete and can be filled out as soon as you have your flight information, even months in advance. However, it must be filled out before arriving at the airline counter at the airport, as it is required to present it to the airline. Each individual traveler regardless of age or who they are traveling with needs their own E-Ticket completed. Please note that any site that requires credit card information to fill this out is a scam. We only suggest you fill it out through the link below.

TRAVEL NOTE: Following the same process, you will need to complete the form to travel back to the United States. This can be done at the same time you complete your entry form.

Please ensure your passport is not expired and will not be expiring within the next 6 months.

To enter the Dominican Republic, you must have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity before its expiration date, meaning if your passport expires within the next 6 months, you will likely be denied entry.

Please confirm your hotel reservations before you arrive.

For more information about lodging reservations please visit our travel page

Please visit our Ground Transportation page to see if there is a scheduled airport shuttle for your flight arrival date and time.

Saturday April 5, 2025

Casa Colonial Courtyard
4:00 PM

Guest List: All Invited Guests
Event Attire: We want you to be comfortable at our wedding. The dress code is dressy casual attire. For this time of year in the DR, may we suggest the following attire:

Women: sundresses, lightweight separates and flats, sandals or wedge heels for the outdoor ceremony on the lawn and beach reception.
Men: light dress shirt with khaki or other lightweight slacks; jackets and ties optional.

Saturday April 5, 2025

Casa Colonial Pool Deck
5:30 PM

Guest List: All Invited Guests
Event Attire: We want you to be comfortable at our wedding. The dress code is dressy casual attire. For this time of year in the DR, may we suggest the following attire:

Women: sundresses, lightweight separates and flats, sandals or wedge heels for the outdoor ceremony on the lawn and beach reception.
Men: light dress shirt with khaki or other lightweight slacks; jackets and ties optional.

Saturday April 5, 2025

Casa Colonial Private Beach
6:30 PM

Guest List: All Invited Guests
Event Attire: We want you to be comfortable at our wedding. The dress code is dressy casual attire. For this time of year in the DR, may we suggest the following attire:

Women: sundresses, lightweight separates and flats, sandals or wedge heels for the outdoor ceremony on the lawn and beach reception.
Men: light dress shirt with khaki or other lightweight slacks; jackets and ties optional.

Waterfall Excursion

Visiting the twenty-seven waterfalls of Rio Damajagua is a fully immersive jungle experience—you get to slide and jump your way down 7, 12, or all 27 waterfalls in this natural waterpark. It’s a steep trek up through dense vegetation to reach the cascades, but this unique experience is worth the climb.

The easiest way to visit this natural water park is as part of a tour. Your feet will undoubtedly get wet, so wear hiking sandals or water shoes. Bring sunblock and bug spray, and leave your belongings with your tour guides.

Sunset Horseback Riding

Get ready for a horseback ride that's the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Cruise through the jungle on a gravel path, then hit the beach where the waves meet the horses hooves. Pause for some cool pics against the ocean view, and later, kick back at a beach bar in Bergantin for a break and oceanside drinks.

And here's the cool part – if the conditions are right, you might get the chance to take your horse for a swim.

Snorkeling Excursion

Board a comfortable coach from Puerto Plata to Punta Rusia, a quaint fishing village on the northern coast. From there, hop on board a speedboat through the mangrove forest to Paradise Island. Go ashore to sunbathe and explore. You can even don a snorkel and see the tropical fish and coral. When you get hungry, stop for a buffet lunch and open bar before being whisked back to your accommodation.

Kitesurfing Lessons

Located on the north shore of the Dominican Republic, Cabarete is a watersports lover’s dream. Windsurfers have been coming here since the 80s, but kiteboarding, surfing, and standup paddleboarding soon followed. Perfectly situated in the middle of Kite Beach, the constant trade winds, warm waters, and good vibes make Cabarete Kite Point Kiteboarding School the perfect place to learn to kitesurf. They offer beginner, intermediate, and advanced lessons with certified instructors, advanced clinics led by local pros, wing foil lessons, and kite foil lessons!

Historical Fort

This 14th-century Spanish Fortress was built between 1564 and 1577 and was set on a vantage point to defend the seaport from European countries and pirates seeking silver and gold. The fort features four towers and several cannons. On the upper level, visitors can also enjoy the malecon, which is a 1.8-mile paved walkway along the coastline. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the island's heritage, a visit to Fortaleza San Felipe promises an enriching and educational experience.

Surf Board Rentals or Surfing Lessons

Whether you're a seasoned surfing pro looking to rent a board for the day or just looking to try something new with a beginner surfing lesson, Cabarete is a haven for surf enthusiasts of all levels. With ideal conditions for Surf, Kitesurf, Windsurf, and more, Cabarete is rightfully known as the Surf and Wind City. Beyond the adrenaline, experience the laid-back atmosphere favored by digital nomads and the welcoming local community. No matter your skill level, Cabarete offers a unique blend of perfect conditions and vibrant camaraderie, making it the Water Sports Capital of the Caribbean.

Beachside restaurants, bars, & shopping

Situated to the east of Playa Dorada, you’ll find Playa Sosua, an ultra-popular sandy stretch known for its super-soft, khaki-colored shore. The calm, shallow, clear water makes for a stress-free day out for the entire family. Couple that with the ample number of beach-front bars and shops, and you have yourself the perfect day!

But be aware of the afternoon crowds. We recommend spending the morning at Playa Sosua with lunch on the beach before heading off to another one of our things to do in Puerto Plata if hordes of people aren’t really your thing.

Chocolate Museum Tour

Tour the Del Oro Chocolate Factory in Puerto Plata, a free and cherished event for visitors. Explore the bean-to-bar chocolate production process and discover the transformation of organic cacao beans into delectable chocolate bars. Originally established to support Dominican cocoa farmers, the factory upholds high standards and continues to provide value for local crops. Enjoy wheelchair-accessible tours, starting with warm samples of their famous hot chocolate and brownies, and indulge in various chocolate-based products throughout the visit. Don't miss the chance to taste Cacao from Hacienda La Dignidad, Tito's family farm!

Dune buggy tours

Puerto Plata's mixed landscape of mountains, valleys, beaches, and back country offers the perfect setting for off-roading with a dune buggy adventure. There are several tour operators in the region that offer the experience. This exhilarating adventure allows visitors a chance to race across sandy beaches, splash through rivers, and navigate the rugged terrain of the countryside. Drivers and riders will get wet and muddy, so old clothes and a bandana over the nose and mouth are highly recommended.

Golfing

Located just steps from Casa Colonial, Playa Dorada Golf Course is favored among golfers who visit Puerto Plata. Crafted by the legendary Robert Trent Jones, Sr., the course features strategic elements, forced carries, and stunning ocean views. Guests laud the knowledgeable and friendly caddies who add not only guidance but also an element of joy to the rounds. The well-maintained course, with consistently rolling greens, offers a picturesque backdrop for a memorable game. Despite occasional concerns such as mandatory caddies, the consensus among golfers is overwhelmingly positive, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a remarkable round in paradise.

Spa Treatments

Welcome to Bagua Spa, an oceanfront retreat situated along the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. Covering 12,400 square feet, this sanctuary, envisioned by architect Sarah Garcia, integrates Feng Shui principles to create a luxurious escape. Guests can partake in an array of services, including massages, body wraps, aromatherapy, and facials. The spa boasts ten private therapy rooms, two couples' rooms featuring Jacuzzis and ocean-view terraces, along with three outdoor treatment gazebos. Professional therapists at Bagua Spa seamlessly blend indigenous Dominican healing traditions with European spa practices, delivering a distinctive and rejuvenating experience.

Hiking Trail

If you're looking to do something less touristy, consider a hike to La Rejoya Waterfall. Spanning about two miles, the hike can be steep and slippery, taking approximately 45 to 90 minutes. While the main falls are accessible, the others are closed to visitors as they supply water to nearby communities. The main cascade, featuring a natural swimming spot, with some visitors opting to use the natural clay as a mud mask for a unique spa experience.

This trip can be done with or without a guide, although we recommend going with a guide due to the spotty cell signal. Plus, going with a guide often gives you more info about the plants in the thick jungle, details about the falls, and can include some perks (like transportation, snacks, or lunch) depending on who you're booking with. If you go the guide route, there are a few options (but feel free to look into your own tour options, too). Here are some we found:

You know this one...

Delicious combination of ripe avocados, sweet onions, fresh tomatoes, and cilantro.

Boiled yucca root with cilantro, oil, vinegar and topped with sliced red onions

Fried Ripe Plantains

Stewed chicken

Roasted pig

A spicy stew of goat meat

A casserole that combines layers of ripe plantain, minced beef, and cheese.

A dessert made from shredded coconut, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and milk.

A baked custard made with condensed and evaporated milk, eggs, and sugar, smothered with a caramel sauce.

Chocolate cake made from the hacienda's own cacao

Cacao isn't the only export of Hacienda La Diginidad, in fact, some of what will be served will come straight from the Hacienda itself! Guests can expect to try tropical fruit like papaya, dragonfruit, tangerines, starfruit, cacao, bananas, coconut, sugarcane, and more - depending on the season's supply of course.