Diving on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic is far different from that of the southern coast. The Atlantic Ocean tends to be rougher than the Caribbean Sea and many of the dive sites are deeper. However, Sosúa offers a unique environment that makes Atlantic diving accessible to even the most novice divers.
Here current is minimal and most of the colorful coral reefs are shallow enough for Open Water divers. There are also deeper walls, reefs and wrecks for advanced divers. Anything outside of the confines of the bay, such as dive sites closest to Puerto Plata, are subject to harsh currents and reserved for divers with plenty of experience. Tec divers may also wish to explore the inland freshwater cave system.
Puerto Plata and Sosúa enjoy a hot and humid climate year-round. Air temperatures during the summer months range from 77-85°F (25-30°C) while water temperatures are 79-83°F (26-28°C). Air temperatures during the winter months range from 70-80°F (21-26°C) while water temperatures are 75-79°F (24-26°C).
December to May is the dry season in Puerto Plata and Sosúa. During these summer months, you can expect sunny, hot and mildly humid conditions. At this time of year, winter squalls move through the northern coast creating rough sea and heavy surges.
From December to April every year, humpback whales migrate near the island to calve and begin another mating season. The males put on a spectacular show.
Puerto Plata is home to its own international airport known as Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP). This port of entry lies about 15 minutes from downtown and welcomes flights from most North American cities and some flights from Europe.
Fly with our Partner Condor from Frankfurt to Puerto Plata. With the Condor Activity Card your dive luggage flies for free.
Are you flying from Zurich? Our partner Edelweiss will fly you to Puerto Plata. 23kg dive luggage is included in the flight price.
This page wouldn't be possible without contributions from the following PADI members: Dive Center Merlin, Dive Cabarete. Disclaimer
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