Looking for sunny beaches and sunnier dispositions? Then Puerto Plata is for you. This beach resort area in the northwest part of the Dominican Republic is known for its beautiful sand and friendly residents.

Puerto Plata is a quiet, unassuming town with a colorful history. The Fortaleza de San Felipe protected the town from many attacks. Legend has it that the fort was captured only once - by drunken pirates. Later the fort was used as a political prison.

Amber, the Dominican Republic's national stone, is showcased in the Museo de Ambar Dominicano.