The North Coast Places

Puerto Plata and Playa Dorada

Golf

Los Mangos Golf Course. This course is about 5 km (3 miles) west of Puerto Plata and is much less crowded and more tranquil than many of the large resort areas, and that is even more true of Cofresí, which is a bit farther west. Costambar is right off the Puerto Plata-Santiago Highway. You'll see a large overhead sign on the right. Go to the security gate and say you're coming to check out the golf course. Greens fees at Los Mangos Golf & Beach Resort are $40 for 18 holes, $25 for 9. Carts cost $20 for either 9 or 18 holes; caddies are $9 and $15, respectively (plus tip). The course is open from 9 to 6 daily. You can enjoy a couple of cold ones at the little clubhouse when you finish. Carretera John F. Kennedy 2, Costambar, 57000. 809/970-3073 or 809/696-2858.

Playa Dorada Golf Club. Golf Digest has named Playa Dorada Golf Club one of the top 100 courses outside the United States. It's open to guests of all the hotels in the area. Greens fees for 9 holes are $47, 18 holes $79; caddies are mandatory for foursomes and will cost about $15 for 18 holes, $8 for 9 (plus tip); carts are optional, at $24 and $18, for 18 or 9 holes, respectively. The attractive clubhouse has lockers, a pro shop, a bar, and a restaurant. Reservations during high season should be made as far in advance as possible. Guests at certain hotels in the Playa Dorada complex get discounts. Next door to Victoria Resort, Playa Dorada, 57000. 809/320-4262. www.playadoradagolf.com.