Cabarete is famous for kiteboarding and windsurfing. Colorful kites dot the sky from November through March when consistent trade winds make it a global kiteboarding destination. But if you're not a kiter—or even if you are—Cabarete offers far more than water sports. This bohemian beach town has evolved into a full-fledged destination with excellent restaurants, vibrant nightlife, cultural experiences, and natural attractions. Here are 20 things to do that showcase Cabarete's full personality.
Food and Dining (The Real Soul of Cabarete)
1. Breakfast at Local Cafés
Start your day at one of Cabarete's excellent cafés. Try Livity (organic, healthy bowls), Onolicious (smoothies and acai bowls), or Cabarete Beach Club for breakfast overlooking the water. Cost: $8-15.
2. Fresh Seafood Lunch
Hit a beachfront restaurant for fresh fish, lobster, or ceviche. La Boca (casual beach vibes), Encuentro (upscale), or Cabarete Maik's (long-standing favorite) all serve exceptional seafood. Cost: $18-35 per person.
3. Dinner at Upscale Restaurants
Cabarete has punched above its weight culinarily. Restaurants like Enigma Grill, Dragonfly, and Alquimia offer fine dining with international and Caribbean influences. Cost: $35-60 per person.
4. Food Tour and Local Market
Explore the local market, sample street food, and visit farms. Tours often include cooking demonstrations. Cost: $45-75 per person.
5. Dominican Rum and Cigar Experience
Several shops offer rum tastings paired with local cigars. Dominican tobacco is world-renowned. Cost: $25-40.
Beach and Water Activities
6. Kite Beach Sunset
Even if you're not kiteboarding, watch kiteboarders from Kite Beach at sunset. The visual display is spectacular, and the beach vibe is electric. Cost: Free (grab a drink at a beach club).
7. Snorkeling
Cabarete's reefs are less crowded than Sosúa's. Snorkel from the beach or book a guided tour to deeper reefs. Cost: $35-70 for tours.
8. Scuba Diving
The nearby dive sites (Cabarete Wall, Treasure Wreck) are excellent. Several dive shops offer certification and guided dives. Cost: $65-150 per dive.
9. Paddleboard Yoga
A unique Cabarete experience. SUP yoga combines fitness with ocean views. Cost: $40-50.
10. Horseback Riding on Beach
Ride horses along the shore at sunset. Multiple operators available. Cost: $45-65.
Nightlife and Entertainment
11. Rooftop Bars at Sunset
Cabarete has excellent rooftop venues (The Spot, Crazy Moon, Vegan Café rooftop). Perfect for sunset drinks and people-watching. Cost: $5-12 per drink.
12. Beach Clubs by Night
Beach clubs like Liquid and Cabarete Maik's transform into nightclubs with DJ and dancing. Cost: $0-10 cover, drinks $6-12.
13. Live Music Nights
Cabarete hosts live bands and DJs regularly, especially in high season. Check local events or ask your property manager. Cost: Free to $20 cover.
14. Casino (Nearby Puerto Plata)
If gambling appeals, several casinos operate in Puerto Plata (25 minutes away). Cost depends on betting.
Nature and Adventure
15. Hiking in Sosúa/Cabarete Area
Multiple trails ranging from easy to challenging. Some lead to waterfalls or viewpoints. Many require guides. Cost: $30-80 per person.
16. ATV Tours
Ride through countryside, visit local communities, explore hidden waterfalls. Cost: $75-120.
17. Laguna Gri-Gri (Cenote and Underground River)
Day trip (30 minutes) to explore underground caves and stalactites. Boat tours available. Cost: $35-50.
18. Zipline Through Jungle
Sosúa Adventure Park (20 minutes away) offers zipline courses with views and swimming holes. Cost: $55-70.
Culture and Relaxation
19. Yoga and Wellness Classes
Cabarete is big on wellness. Multiple studios offer yoga, pilates, and meditation. Drop-in classes: $15-20. Cabarete attracts digital nomads and wellness tourists, so the scene is quality.
20. Spa Day
Relax at one of Cabarete's spas. Massage, facial, or full spa packages available. Cost: $40-120 per treatment.
Day Trips from Cabarete
Sosúa (20 minutes)
Visit the main beach, explore neighborhoods, experience different vibes. Cost: Whatever you spend on food and activities.
Puerto Plata (25 minutes)
Visit the historic fortress, explore downtown, visit Ocean World. Cost: Varies by activity.
Why Cabarete Feels Different
Cabarete has a younger, more bohemian energy than Sosúa. It attracts adventurers, digital nomads, artists, and people seeking authentic Caribbean culture (not the tourist version). The town is walkable, the nightlife is genuine, and the restaurants are run by people who care about food.
It's less "family resort town" and more "cool beach destination." If you prefer craft cocktails over rum punch, locally-owned restaurants over franchises, and genuine interactions over tourist experiences, Cabarete is your vibe.
Pro Tips for Cabarete
- Book activities through local operators: Better prices and personal service than large tour companies.
- Explore downtown at night: The best restaurants and bars are in the town center, not the beach.
- Try the local beer: Cerveza Presidente is ubiquitous, but try smaller local breweries and craft options.
- Don't miss the farmers market: Saturday mornings are ideal for fresh produce and local goods.
- Ask your property manager for recommendations: Caribbean Breeze staff know the best local spots and can help arrange activities.
The Cabarete Vibe
Cabarete isn't a traditional beach resort—it's a living, breathing beach community. Locals hang out alongside tourists. The nightlife is fun without being touristy. The restaurants are authentic without being pretentious. It's a place where you'll find yourself striking up conversations at beach clubs, making friends on hikes, and wanting to extend your stay.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, culture, or great food, Cabarete delivers. Come for the kiteboarding if you want, but you'll find so much more to love about this extraordinary beach town.