Cayo Paraiso (Paradise Island)

The basics

Those staying in Puerto Plata will likely depart from the fishing village of Punta Rucia to reach Cayo Paraiso. Speedboats take visitors on the short ride across the bay to the island where you can swim and snorkel in the surrounding coral reef and lagoon. The snorkeling is considered among the best in the Dominican Republic. Watch for vibrantly colored tropical fish, sea turtles, stingrays, eels, and more. Bright coral formations are found, as well.

Things to know before you go

• The natural landmark El Morro, a 777-foot (237-meter) limestone mesa, is located in Monte Cristi National Park, which is also home to mangroves, subtropical dry forests, and swamps.

• Keep an eye out for The Seven Brothers Cays (Los Cayos Siete Hermanos)—several small islands that serve as the nesting grounds for a number of reptile species.

• There is very little shade on the island and typically none on the boat, so hats and sunblock are highly recommended.

• Tours typically include equipment for snorkeling, lunch, and unlimited drinks (alcoholic and nonalcoholic).

How to get there

Tours to Cayo Paraiso depart from the northwest section of the Dominican Republic. It’s about a 25-minute speedboat ride across the bay to Cayo Paraiso from Puerto Plata. There are combination tours available that take visitors to both Cayo Paraiso and Monte Cristi National Park, with roundtrip transportation from area hotels included.

When to get there

If you want to experience the culture of Monte Cristi, visit on the days leading up to Easter Sunday when locals host a big Carnival-like celebration. Overall, the months between December and March are considered the best time to visit the Dominican Republic, as you can expect lots of sunny days and little rain.

Monte Cristi National Park

This national park is one of the driest areas in the Dominican Republic, receiving about 2 inches (5 centimeters) of rain per year. Extending from the Haitian border to the tip of Punta Rucia, Monte Cristi includes subtropical dry forests, lagoons, mangrove swamps, beaches, and a 777-foot (237-meter) limestone mesa called El Morro that juts up from the water.