4 Best Sights in North Coast, Dominican Republic

The new cultural center of Sosúa, inaugurated with much celebration by Mayor Llana in 2013, continues to "grow up." Open to the public and free of charge, the ground-floor gallery has rotating exhibitions that primarily feature work by Sosúa and Dominican artists, such as Teddy Tejada. Music and dance lessons, from violin to ballet, are offered to local children on the second floor, as are other culturally minded activities, including photography workshops.

Sosúa's cultural center is open to the public and free of charge. The ground-floor gallery has rotating exhibitions that primarily feature work by Sosúa and Dominican artists, such as Teddy Tejada. Music and dance lessons, from violin to ballet, are offered to local children on the second floor, as are other culturally minded activities, including photography workshops.

While Sosúa is not known for its sights, this museum stands as one of the exceptions, chronicling the immigration and settlement of Jewish refugees in the 1940s. The adjacent small wooden synagogue is the wedding spot for many Jewish couples from abroad. Hours can be irregular, but chances are good that someone will be at the museum to let you in if you get there early in the day.

You can try phoning the accommodating Hotel Casa Valeria nearby to confirm if the museum is open.

This long stretch of beach on Sosúa Bay, renowned for its coral reefs and dive sites, is a 20-minute drive east of Puerto Plata. Here, calm waters gently lap at a shore of soft, golden sand. Swimming is delightful—except after a heavy rain, when litter floats in. But beware of sea urchins in the shallow water—beach shoes are definitely recommended—and bring your own mask and snorkel if possible. You can see mountains in the background, the cliffs that surround the bay, and seemingly miles of coastline. Snorkeling from the beach can be good, but the best spots are offshore, closer to the reefs. The beach is backed by a string of tents where hawkers push souvenirs, snacks, drinks, and water-sports equipment rentals. The weekend scene here is incredible—local families pack the beach, and the roar of Dominican fun fills the air. Don't bring valuables or leave your belongings unattended. There is a small parking area on the beach's north end at the south end of La Puntilla Street. Amenities: food and drink; parking (free). Best for: snorkeling; swimming; walking.