Cabarete, Dominican Republic, is a small coastal town on the north shore that isn’t your typical vacation spot. It’s known for its epic watersports scene—especially kitesurfing—but it has so much more to offer! Fresh food, dancing, hiking, surfing, nightlife, horseback riding…the list goes on.
It’s the perfect destination for travelers who are looking for a laid-back, fun adventure.
I’m Moreno, and I was born and raised right here on these beaches. After 30+ years of living here, I now run a small kitesurfing school in Cabarete, teaching people from all over the world. Naturally, I know every spot worth visiting, so here’s my ultimate local guide to Cabarete, DR!
What is Cabarete, Dominican Republic?
Cabarete is located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, right next to Sosua and Puerto Plata. We sit right on the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by lush mountains and the National Park El Choco.
The Dominican Republic sees over 10 million tourists every year, and many of them head to Punta Cana for the all-inclusive experience. Cabarete is different. It’s a town of around 15,000 people with only one all-inclusive resort, and you’ll find locals alongside travelers, digital nomads, and expats from around the world.
It’s not overcrowded, and it feels like a real place, not a resort bubble.
[IMAGE]
Cabarete has been named the Surf and Wind City by the DR’s Ministry of Tourism, and for good reason.
It’s known as the watersports capital of the Caribbean with world-class kitesurfing conditions over 300 days a year, thanks to consistent trade winds and a protected bay.
We’ve produced many kitesurfing champions, like Robinson Hilario, and learning to kiteboard is one of the main reasons people from all over the world come here!
But kitesurfing is just one part of what makes Cabarete special. What I love about living here is that you get a town to explore, not just a resort. You can eat at family-run restaurants, walk for miles on the beach, explore jungle waterfalls, take yoga classes, dance merengue—there’s ALWAYS something to do.
I have a dedicated post on things to do in Cabarete, but here are my top 5:
What to do in Cabarete, Dominican Republic?
1. Kitesurf on Kite Beach
This one is obvious, but Cabarete is one of the best places to learn kiteboarding because of its perfect wind conditions. It’s windy almost year-round!
You’ll find kitesurfing schools spread from Cabarete Bay to Kite Beach, but the best place to learn is Kite Beach because you get flatter water thanks to the reef. The waves on other parts of Cabarete Beach can be pretty rough and hard for learning.
We offer private kitesurfing lessons right on Kite Beach! It takes about 9 hours of lessons to learn, so it’s perfect for a weekend trip or a week-long stay. Fair warning: it’s addictive.
2. Go surfing at Encuentro
Cabarete is also a surfing destination, and Encuentro Beach is probably the prettiest beach you’ll ever see. It’s a shaded beach with lots of trees, and there’s always a friendly crowd hanging out, especially in the mornings.
It’s the perfect tropical paradise for kids and adults, and on weekends, there’s often live music and cute little restaurants where you can refuel with coconut water and snacks!
Come early in the morning for surfing (6-8am), and stick around for breakfast, lunch, or just to chill. Once the wind picks up in the afternoon, there’s not much to do anymore, and schools and restaurants close down. We recommend taking surfing lessons with Vibez Surf Club!
3. Eat fresh food
[IMAGE]
Cabarete has an amazing food scene with lots of healthy and not-so-healthy options, but all of the food is ridiculously fresh, and the restaurants have an authentic local feel.
You’ll find both Dominican and international options, but don’t expect to see many Asian restaurants—the ingredients are more expensive and harder to come by. That said, there are some interesting cases of Asian/Dominican fusion, like the Salmon Maduro roll (sushi made with sweet plantain) at La Mesa Taina.
For breakfast or lunch:
For dinner:
Authentic Dominican:
Sweets:
You can use the Komida App to get delivery, too! It’s like Uber Eats or Seamless, Dominican edition.
4. Go horseback riding
One of the best things about Cabarete is that you can get out of the beach and do other stuff, too! In Punta Cana, you’re stuck in your resort, but in Cabarete, you’re right next to El Choco National Park, and there’s a lot of exploring and hiking that you can do.
One unique way to explore the jungle is to go horseback riding with Rancho Luisa y Tommy.
It’s a beautiful, rustic experience through the rural Dominican hills with a couple of stops at freshwater rivers to swim. After you finish your ride, you’ll also get an authentic Dominican lunch with stewed chicken, rice, and beans at the rancho!
5. Enjoy the nightlife
[IMAGE]
There’s lots of dancing, bars, and nightlife, particularly on Cabarete Beach, which means you’re right on the beach under the stars with waves rushing in. THE place to be on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays is Ojo Club Cabarete, which is a good place to have dinner and then stick around for drinks and dancing late into the night.
There are also live music nights at the pizza place La Chabola, most Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and karaoke on Mondays at VoyVoy. Plus, you can always do a happy hour at one of the beachfront bars (my family’s favorite is Drifter) or take a dancing class (bachata or salsa) with the NinaFrika Dance School.
Beaches in Cabarete, Dominican Republic
Cabarete Beach
[IMAGE]
Best for: Swimming, tanning, bar hopping, and dining
This is the main beach in town and probably your first stop when you arrive. You’ll find a mix of kitesurfing, windsurfing, beachfront restaurants, and Cabarete’s only resort, Viva Tangerine.
The central location means it’s buzzing with activity, but that also means it can get crowded, especially during peak season. The waves here can be quite big, which is exciting if you’re into watersports but not ideal for a relaxing swim.
Walk further down toward the Drifter/Lifestyle area if you want calmer waters. This stretch is much better for tanning, swimming, and just hanging out without dodging kites and windsurf sails. Plus, Drifter is awesome for appetizers & happy hour under the palm trees.
Kite Beach
Best for: Kitesurfing, learning to kitesurf, and watching the action
This is THE spot for kitesurfing or learning how to kitesurf. The reef that runs parallel to the shore makes the water much flatter than other parts of Cabarete, which is perfect for beginners. You’ll also enjoy the laid-back vibes.
Even if you’re not interested in kitesurfing, Kite Beach is worth a visit. You can grab a seat at La Mesa Taina or another beachfront bar and watch kite surfers launch into the air doing crazy tricks!
Encuentro Beach
[IMAGE]
Best for: Surfing, families with kids, and peaceful mornings
Encuentro is hands down the most beautiful beach in the area. It’s a surfer’s paradise with consistent waves, and it’s lined with trees that provide plenty of shade. The entire area has a wild, untouched feel that’s becoming rare in the Caribbean.
This is a morning spot. Come early for the best surf conditions and to experience the peaceful vibe before the wind picks up (around noon).
Families with kids love it here because the setting is safe and the community is friendly, plus there’s a small playground. On weekends, you’ll often find live music and local vendors selling tropical fruits and snacks.
La Boca
[IMAGE]
Best for: Families, flat water practice, kitesurfing downwinders
La Boca isn’t technically a beach, but it’s one of my favorite spots that most visitors miss. About 15 minutes from Cabarete, you’ll find where the La Boca River meets the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a completely different experience from the ocean beaches—the water is shallow and fresh.
This spot is perfect for kids who want to play in the water without big waves, and it’s also popular with kitesurfers who want to practice on flat water or do a downwinder back to Cabarete. The natural setting feels more remote, which is fun.
Plus, Wilson’s La Boca restaurant sits right on the river and serves authentic Dominican food, mostly fish and seafood. They also offer boat tours if you want to explore more of the river system.
Cabarete Beach and Kite Beach are within walking distance of each other (10-15 minutes).
For Encuentro and La Boca, you’ll typically have to drive for 10-30 minutes, depending on where you’re staying.
Where to stay in Cabarete, Dominican Republic?
It depends on what you’re here for. Cabarete is a small town, but there are three main areas where you can stay, each with its own vibe:
Cabarete Center is your best bet if you want to be close to the main restaurants, bars, and nightlife. You’ll be walking distance from Cabarete Beach and most of the town’s attractions. This area has the most dining options, beach chairs, and many shops.
Kite Beach is where you want to be if you’re coming for a kitesurfing trip. You’ll wake up and walk onto the beach with your gear. The area is quieter than the center, but still has good restaurants and bars. We have a few properties at or near Kite Beach:
- 1-bedroom apartment at Kite Beach Hotel
- Affordable Studio at Kite Beach Hotel
- Luxurious 1-Bedroom at Seawinds (closer to Cabarete Center)
Encuentro is the choice for people who want to be closer to nature and/or surfing. It’s more peaceful and great for families, but you’ll need to drive to the main town for dining and nightlife.
Airbnb is typically the best place to book your accommodations. You’ll find everything from budget-friendly studios to luxury villas in Cabarete and the surrounding areas.
Is Cabarete, Dominican Republic, safe?
[IMAGE]
Yes, Cabarete is a safe destination with minimal crime. Serious incidents are very rare here. The most common issue visitors might face is petty theft, but that’s easily avoided with basic common sense. Don’t flash expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash, and stick to well-lit areas at night.
You’ll likely feel safer walking around Cabarete at night than you would in most major cities like New York or Miami. It’s a small town, and the community looks out for visitors.
How to get to Cabarete, Dominican Republic?
The easiest way to get to Cabarete is by flying into Puerto Plata Airport (POP), which is only about 20 minutes away by car. However, you can also fly into Santiago (STI) or Santo Domingo (SDQ).
Here’s how long it takes to get to Cabarete from each airport:
- Puerto Plata Airport (POP): 20-30 minutes
- Santiago Airport (STI): 1.5-2 hours
- Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ): 4-5 hours
Puerto Plata is likely your best option. It’s the closest airport with good international connections, especially from North America and Europe. You can take a taxi, rent a car, or arrange a transfer through your accommodation.
How much does it cost to live in Cabarete?
[IMAGE]
Many people relocate to Cabarete from the US, Canada, and all over the world, so there’s an active expat community. Like everywhere else, prices have been rising in recent years, but the cost of living is still lower compared to most Western countries.
If you’re visiting:
- Accommodation will run you $50-150 USD per night for a nice place.
- Meals cost $8-15 USD for breakfast or lunch, $35-60 USD for a fancy dinner with appetizers, main course, and drinks (per person).
- If you rent a car, expect to spend $40-60 USD per day.
If you’re relocating:
- Long-term accommodation will run $800-1,500 USD/month for something nice but not luxurious.
- Plan for an overall monthly budget of $3,000-5,000 USD/month for a comfortable lifestyle for a family.
The costs can vary a lot depending on your lifestyle. You can live more affordably if you adjust your daily routine to be more local.
If you buy imported foods, eat out all the time, rent a beachfront condo, and run your AC 24/7 (electricity is expensive on the island), you’ll spend a lot more money. If you stick to local foods and way of life, you can live on a modest budget.
Is Cabarete worth visiting?
Heck yes! Cabarete is perfect for people who want an authentic Dominican experience while staying in a safe & international spot close to nature. It’s a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers, especially if you love staying active and trying new things. At the same time, there’s plenty of opportunity to just chill on the beach or at a bar with a cold Presidente (our local beer) in hand!
FAQs
Is Cabarete family-friendly?
Yes, very family-friendly! There are many activities for kids of all ages. Encuentro Beach is especially great for families because of its laid-back atmosphere and shallow areas that almost turn into natural “kiddie pools.” If your kids are older, they’ll also love taking surfing or kitesurfing classes or visiting the Monkey Jungle. Most restaurants have kid-friendly food options, and, in general, everywhere & everyone welcomes kids.
What airport do you fly into to go to Cabarete, Dominican Republic?
Puerto Plata Airport (POP) is your best option because it’s only 20-30 minutes from Cabarete. You can also fly into Santiago (1.5-2 hours away) or Santo Domingo (4-5 hours away), but Puerto Plata is the most convenient and has good international connections with North America (Canada, US) and Europe.
What to wear in Cabarete, Dominican Republic?
Just bring casual beach, street, and athletic wear. Cabarete is not a fancy place, and people don’t care what you wear. Flip-flops, shorts, swimwear, and light cotton shirts are perfect. If you’re planning on horseback riding or hiking, make sure to bring appropriate shoes and long pants for protection.
Most importantly, cover yourself from the sun! Because of the wind, you often can’t feel how much sun you’re getting, which makes it easier to get sunburned. Bring a good hat and sunglasses. If you’re planning on taking surfing or kitesurfing lessons, it’s a good idea to have a rash guard or another type of long-sleeve coverage.
Where is Cabarete, Dominican Republic?
Cabarete is located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, right on the Atlantic Ocean. It’s next to Sosua and Puerto Plata, surrounded by mountains and the National Park El Choco. The location creates consistent trade winds from the Atlantic, which is why Cabarete has such great conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
How many people live in Cabarete, Dominican Republic?
Approximately 15,000 people live in Cabarete, and this number swells during peak tourist season and in the winter when many expats and digital nomads come here.
Do you need a car in Cabarete?
Not necessarily, but it makes things more convenient. Cabarete is a small town, so you can walk to most places, but you might not want to do it in the heat of the day or if you’re short on time. If you don’t want to rent a car, you can use motoconchos (motorcycle taxis) that are everywhere on the street. They’re cheap and convenient, but there’s a higher risk of getting into an accident. Cars are safer.
A car is also handy if you want to explore El Choco, La Boca, or the rivers and waterfalls outside of Cabarete. If you’re only coming for a couple of days and sticking to the main town, you can probably survive just fine walking and taking the occasional motoconcho.
What is the nightlife like in Cabarete, Dominican Republic?
There are bars, a lively nightclub, live music nights, and plenty of dancing. Nightlife in Cabarete is there if you’re looking for it, but it’s not overwhelming. Most residential areas are quiet at night, but when you do go out, it’s fun. You can dance the night away at Ojo Thursday through Saturday, and regular events are happening around town, like live music nights or DJ pop-ups. Plus, a happy hour at one of the many beachfront bars is always a good idea!
Book your kitesurfing lessons in Cabarete! 🏄
Ready to experience what makes Cabarete so special? At KLK Cabarete, we offer private, personalized kitesurfing lessons on Kite Beach or at your location. Our beginner 9-hour package will get you riding the waves independently by the end of your trip.
Learn more about kitesurfing lessons or get in touch, and we’ll hook you up with all kinds of local advice! 🤙
I learned to kite right on Cabarete’s Kite Beach when I was 13, borrowing gear from anyone who'd let me and crashing more times than I can count. Over the years, I've safely taught hundreds of students from complete beginners to advanced riders, and I still get the same rush every time I see a student nail their first water start or finally ride upwind. When I’m not teaching, you’ll find me hanging out with my family!
IKO-Certified Kitesurfing Instructor, Cabarete Local, Husband & Toddler Dad
KLK, I’m Moreno!
More About Kitesurfing Lessons
