When to go — Puerto Plata

The optimal window for Puerto Plata and the North depends on your goal. For classic beach and all-inclusive stays (Playa Dorada, Sosúa), choose December-April (dry season): perfect climate (24-28 °C), low humidity, refreshing trade winds, calm turquoise sea at 25-26 °C, minimal sargassum on the north coast (much less exposed than Punta Cana). It's also high tourist season — book 2-3 months ahead for December-February.

For kitesurfing at Cabarete, two peak seasons. June-August corresponds to daily thermal winds (trade winds generated by daytime island heating) — constant 18-25 knot winds in the afternoon, almost guaranteed. It's the global kite high season (World Cups organised). December-March also offers excellent conditions with general trade winds (15-20 knots, sometimes more). May and September-November are more uncertain (less regular winds, more calm).

May and November are tourist shoulder season: rates down 20-30%, reduced crowds, still very acceptable climate. September-October is active hurricane season — Puerto Plata is on the Atlantic hurricane path (Fiona 2022 hit the north coast), serious risk. Several hotels close in September-October for renovation.

The sargassum season (June-October) affects the north coast less than the east coast — Puerto Plata, Sosúa, Cabarete are much less affected than Punta Cana thanks to northern orientation and Atlantic currents. A key advantage in summer.

Events to note: Puerto Plata Merengue Festival (October, festive local atmosphere), Cabarete Kitesurf World Cup (usually June-July, check annual calendar), Puerto Plata Carnival (February, parades on the Malecón).