Cayo Arena Day Trip from Puerto Plata – Snorkeling & Mangroves

location_on Cayo Arena, Monte Cristi, Dominican Republic schedule 1 day
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Day trip to Cayo Arena from Puerto Plata, Sosúa & Cabarete: speedboat, snorkeling, Dominican lunch, and mangrove safari in Monte Cristi.

About this tour

Join our Cayo Arena Day Trip Puerto Plata and discover one of the Dominican Republic’s most breathtaking natural treasures: a tiny sandbar surrounded by turquoise waters and colorful coral reefs. Whether you are staying in Puerto Plata, Sosúa, or Cabarete, this excursion includes hotel pick-up and drop-off for a seamless journey to paradise.

Your adventure begins with a scenic ride along the north coast to the fishing village of Punta Rucia, where a speedboat will be waiting. The boat trip across crystal-clear waters takes you to Cayo Arena, also known as Paradise Island, a postcard-perfect destination that feels like a dream.

On arrival, you’ll have plenty of time to relax on the powdery white sand and swim in warm Caribbean waters. Snorkeling equipment is included, allowing you to explore the surrounding coral reefs, home to schools of tropical fish and vibrant marine life. It’s one of the best snorkeling spots in the Dominican Republic.

After your island time, the tour continues with a mangrove safari through the Monte Cristi National Park. These protected mangroves are one of the country’s most important ecosystems, offering unique scenery and the chance to learn about local biodiversity.

A delicious Dominican lunch is served during the day, along with refreshing drinks from the open bar. Finally, you’ll head back by boat to Punta Rucia and return to Puerto Plata, Sosúa, or Cabarete by evening.

This day trip is perfect for couples, families, and groups who want a mix of relaxation and adventure. Combining snorkeling, beach time, Dominican cuisine, and eco-tourism, it’s one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have on the north coast of the Dominican Republic.

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Itinerary Overview

  • 7:00 AM – Hotel pick-up in Puerto Plata, Sosúa & Cabarete
  • 9:30 AM – Arrival at Punta Rucia, safety briefing & boat boarding
  • 10:00 AM – Speedboat ride to Cayo Arena (Paradise Island)
  • 10:30 AM – Snorkeling & swimming at Cayo Arena
  • 12:30 PM – Boat ride back via Monte Cristi mangroves
  • 1:00 PM – Traditional Dominican buffet lunch in Punta Rucia
  • 2:30 PM – Departure back to Puerto Plata area
  • 5:00–6:00 PM – Arrival at hotels in Puerto Plata, Sosúa & Cabarete

⚠️ Disclaimer: This itinerary is for reference only. Timings and sequence may vary depending on sea conditions, group size, and logistics. We ensure the best possible experience on the day of your tour.

Map

What's Included

  • Round-trip transportation from Puerto Plata, Sosúa & Cabarete.
  • Speedboat transfer to Cayo Arena.
  • Bilingual professional guide.
  • Snorkeling equipment.
  • Open bar (beer, rum, soft drinks, water).
  • Dominican lunch buffet.

What's Not Included

  • Tips (optional).
  • Personal expenses & souvenirs.

Know Before You Go

  • Bring swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen.
  • Wear water shoes or sandals for the boat.
  • Carry some cash for souvenirs in Punta Rucia.
  • Don’t forget your camera!
  • This excursion is ideal for travelers based in Puerto Plata, Sosúa, and Cabarete.

Meeting & pickup

Pickup starts:

1 Hour before departure

Additional pickup details

Pickup is available from most hotels and Airbnb in the city center.

An extra charge may apply.

What To Expect

Clock tower and El Morro in Monte Cristi, Dominican Republic

Monte Cristi

Monte Cristi in northwest Dominican Republic offers Cayo Arena, El Morro, and pristine mangroves—an authentic Caribbean escape.

Boats at the mangrove channels of Monte Cristi National Park in the Dominican Republic

Monte Cristi National Park

National park in northwest Dominican Republic, known for El Morro cliff, mangroves, cayos, and pristine eco-tourism experiences.

Panoramic view of Puerto Plata city and coastline from Mount Isabel de Torres, Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata

North-coast province with golden beaches, Cable Car, Damajagua waterfalls, and hubs like Sosúa, Cabarete and Punta Rucia.

Aerial view of Punta Rucia beach and turquoise waters in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Punta Rucia

Quiet fishing village in Puerto Plata, famous as the gateway to Cayo Arena and home to stunning Caribbean beaches.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for...

Health Restrictions

Not recommended for travelers with back problems Not recommended for pregnant travelers Not recommended for...

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.

Health Restrictions

Not recommended for travelers with back problems
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions

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