Photo by Jonathan Mueller on Unsplash · Unsplash License

North CoastBeach

Long Beach

Miles of open golden sand for walks and body surfing

WaterGood

SandGolden

VibeFamily-Friendly

Water temp79°F

Sand color

Golden

Water color

Deep blue

Water temp

79°F / 26°C

Current

Moderate

Best time

Early morning or late afternoon

Best months

December - April

Entry fee

Free

Length

3000m

Lifeguards

Access

Easy

Parking

Informal roadside parking

Shade

Limited — few natural shade structures

Nearest town

Puerto Plata

Nearest airport

POP - Gregorio Luperón International

Heads upStrong waves and undertowNot ideal for weak swimmersSun exposure - limited shade

Marine lifeTropical fishPelicans

WaterGoodCurrentModerateSandGoldenVibeFamily-Friendly

The overview

Long Beach (Playa Long Beach) is a relatively recent addition to Puerto Plata's beach scene, developed as part of the Amber Cove cruise port complex. This beautiful stretch of sand was created and maintained for cruise ship visitors but is also accessible to independent travelers.

The beach features fine golden sand, clear water, and excellent facilities including restaurants, bars, and water sports. It is cleaner and better maintained than some older Puerto Plata beaches.

Time it right

Seasonal guide

How Long Beach shifts through the year. Each bar's height is the sea temperature, and the teal bars mark the best months for a beach day. Water temperature shows in °F by default; switch to °C with the toggle.

Best time to visit

Shoulder season

Bar height = sea temperature

79°

0.3-0.5mJan

79°

0.3-0.5mFeb

79°

0.3-0.5mMar

81°

0.3-0.5mApr

82°

0.3-0.5mMay

82°

0.5-1mJun

84°

0.5-1mJul

84°

NOWAug

84°

0.5-1mSep

82°

0.3-0.5mOct

81°

0.3-0.5mNov

81°

0.3-0.5mDec

Best time to visit: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Nov, Dec. The sea stays warm year-round; these months pair calm water with the lightest crowds and lowest sargassum risk.

Month	Waves	Crowds	Sargassum	Rating
Jan	0.3-0.5m	High	None	Excellent
Feb	0.3-0.5m	High	None	Excellent
Mar	0.3-0.5m	Moderate	None	Very Good
Apr	0.3-0.5m	Moderate	None	Very Good
May	0.3-0.5m	Low	None	Good
Jun	0.5-1m	Low	None	Good
Jul	0.5-1m	Moderate	None	Good
Aug	0.5-1m	Moderate	None	Fair
Sep	0.5-1m	Low	None	Fair
Oct	0.3-0.5m	Low	None	Good
Nov	0.3-0.5m	Moderate	None	Very Good
Dec	0.3-0.5m	High	None	Excellent

In the water

Calm to moderate conditions with a gradual sandy slope. The beach faces a sheltered section of the coast, reducing wave energy. Swimming is safe and lifeguards may be on duty during cruise ship days. Good for families.

Getting there

Located near the Amber Cove cruise port, about 10 minutes west of Puerto Plata. Taxis from Puerto Plata cost RD$500-1,000. From the airport, about 25 minutes. Access may be limited on non-cruise days -- check availability.

Pack for it

Passport or ID: May be needed for port area access
Cash and card: Facilities accept both
Sunscreen
Snorkeling gear: Clear water near the rocks

Time it right

Best on cruise ship days when all facilities are open and operating. December to April for best weather. Check cruise schedules to plan your visit.

Local knowledge

Visit on a non-cruise day for a quieter experience if the beach is open
The facilities here are newer and better maintained than many north coast public beaches
Combine with a visit to the Amber Cove shopping and entertainment complex

In pictures

Photo gallery

Good to know

Long Beach questions

How long is Long Beach in Puerto Plata?

Long Beach stretches for several kilometers along the coast west of the Playa Dorada resort complex. The extended length means you can find quiet sections even during busy periods. The beach is popular with locals and offers a more authentic Dominican experience compared to the resort areas nearby.

Is Long Beach good for swimming?

Long Beach has variable conditions along its length. Some sections have calm areas suitable for swimming, while others can have stronger waves. The beach is not reef-protected, so ocean conditions depend on the swell and wind. Always check local conditions and swim near other people. Early mornings tend to be calmest.

Are there facilities at Long Beach?

Facilities are scattered along Long Beach rather than concentrated. You will find local restaurants, or comedores, offering inexpensive Dominican food and drinks at various points. Beach chairs may be available for rent in some areas. The eastern end near Playa Dorada has more services, while the western stretches are more remote and natural.