Discovering Paradise
Cabrera
Perched on clifftops overlooking the Atlantic, Cabrera is an emerging destination known for its stunning Playa Diamante — a hidden beach at the base of towering sea cliffs. The town offers a peaceful atmosphere, excellent seafood, and access to some of the north coast's most dramatic coastal scenery.
☀️February to May
🌡️27°C (81°F)
✈️Gregorio Luperón (POP) — 2 hr or Cibao (STI) — 2.5 hr
Quick Facts
🌡️
Avg Temperature
27°C (81°F)
☀️
Best Months
February to May
✈️
Nearest Airport
Gregorio Luperón (POP) — 2 hr or Cibao (STI) — 2.5 hr
Cabrera is the north coast's most dramatic hidden gem — a small town perched on clifftops overlooking the Atlantic where the coastline reaches its most spectacular heights. The star attraction is Playa Diamante, a pristine beach nestled at the base of towering sea cliffs, accessible only by a steep trail that adds to its sense of discovery.
The town has quietly attracted a community of expats and nature lovers drawn by the extraordinary coastal scenery, affordable living, and lack of tourist infrastructure. This isn't a party town or a resort zone — it's a place for people who appreciate raw natural beauty and genuine Dominican hospitality.
From clifftop viewpoints, the Atlantic stretches to the horizon in every direction, and the coastline reveals hidden coves, blowholes, and sea caves that few visitors ever see. Cabrera feels like the Dominican Republic's answer to Big Sur — dramatic, unspoiled, and deeply satisfying for those who find it.
Ideal
Good
Rainy
Apr
21° — 30°
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Aug
23° — 32°
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Dec
21° — 29°
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Feb
20° — 28°
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Jan
20° — 28°
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Jul
23° — 32°
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Jun
23° — 31°
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Mar
20° — 29°
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May
22° — 30°
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Nov
22° — 30°
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Oct
22° — 31°
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Sep
23° — 32°
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Temperature in °C💧 = ~5 rain days
Cabrera is on the north coast, about 15 minutes east of Río San Juan.
By Air
The nearest airports are Gregorio Luperón (POP) in Puerto Plata (about 1.5-2 hours west) and Cibao International (STI) in Santiago (about 2.5 hours south). A newer option is El Catey Airport (AZS) in Samaná, about 2 hours east.
By Car
From Puerto Plata, follow the scenic coastal road east through Sosúa, Cabarete, and Río San Juan — about 1.5-2 hours of beautiful Atlantic coast driving. From Santo Domingo, take the Autopista Duarte to Santiago, then northeast to the coast — about 3.5 hours total.
By Bus
Guaguas from Puerto Plata and Nagua pass through Cabrera on the coastal route. From Santo Domingo, take Caribe Tours to Río San Juan and connect by local guagua.
Getting Around
A rental car or motoconcho is essential for reaching beaches and viewpoints. The town center is small and walkable.
Cabrera's accommodations are small-scale and character-rich — no chain hotels, no resorts, just genuine places to stay.
Clifftop Villas
Several expat-owned villas and B&Bs sit on the clifftops with jaw-dropping ocean views. These offer the most memorable stays, often with pools and gardens, from US$60-150/night. Book well in advance during peak season.
In Town
Simple guesthouses and small hotels in Cabrera center offer basic rooms from US$25-45/night. These put you within walking distance of restaurants and shops.
Eco-Lodges
A few rural properties in the hills behind Cabrera offer eco-lodge stays surrounded by tropical gardens and farmland. Ideal for those seeking complete tranquility.
Playa Diamante
The crown jewel — a hidden beach at the base of massive sea cliffs. Access is via a steep trail (about 15 minutes down). The beach has golden sand, clear water, and a sense of complete isolation. Few tourists know about it.
Clifftop Viewpoints
The coastline around Cabrera features some of the most dramatic cliff formations on the island. Several informal viewpoints along the coastal roads offer panoramic Atlantic views. Best at sunrise or sunset.
Playa El Bretón
A long, wild beach south of Cabrera, popular with locals but rarely visited by tourists. Good for long walks and beachcombing.
Orchid Gardens
The hills around Cabrera support a surprising diversity of orchids and tropical flowers. Several small botanical gardens welcome visitors by arrangement.
Caving & Hiking
The limestone geology creates caves and underground formations. Local guides can take you to cave systems with stalactites and ancient rock art. The hiking through tropical forest and farmland is rewarding.
- Wear proper shoes for Playa Diamante. The trail down is steep and can be slippery. Flip-flops won't cut it.
- Rent a car. Cabrera's attractions are spread out along the coast and a vehicle gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
- Combine with Río San Juan. The two towns are 15 minutes apart and complement each other perfectly — Río San Juan for the lagoon and Playa Grande, Cabrera for the cliffs and Playa Diamante.
- Ask locals about hidden beaches. There are several coves along the coast that don't appear on maps. Friendly locals will point you in the right direction.
- Bring supplies. Cabrera has small shops and comedores but limited restaurant options. Stock up if you're staying in a villa with a kitchen.
- Best season: December-March for the driest weather and calmest seas. The cliffs and viewpoints are spectacular year-round.
Sample Itineraries
Cabrera Cliff & Cove Explorer
Discover the dramatic clifftop views and hidden beaches of Cabrera.
🌅 Morning2.5h
Playa Diamante
Hike down to this jaw-dropping beach tucked between towering cliffs. The turquoise water and white sand feel like a private paradise.
Playa Diamante
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the trail down. Bring everything you need as there are no vendors.
Midday1.5h
Clifftop Viewpoints
Drive along the coastal road and stop at the scenic overlooks. The views of the Atlantic crashing against the limestone cliffs are breathtaking.
Cabrera Coastal Road
☀️ Afternoon2h
Hidden Cove Swimming
Find one of the several small coves accessible by trail along the coast. These sheltered spots offer calm swimming and total solitude.
Cabrera Coves
🌙 Evening1.5h
Sunset Dinner in Town
Head to Cabrera town for a simple Dominican dinner. The comedores serve hearty plates of rice, beans, and stewed chicken.
Cabrera Town
Practical Information
🚗 Getting Around
Private Transfer(US$100-150)
From POP airport. Scenic drive along the north coast.
Guagua(RD$200-400)
Minibuses from Nagua or Río San Juan.
💵 Daily Budget
BudgetUS$30-50
Mid-rangeUS$60-120
LuxuryUS$150-250
🛡️ Safety Tips
- ✓Cabrera is a quiet, off-the-beaten-path town — very safe
- ✓Roads to remote beaches may be unpaved — 4WD recommended
- ✓Bring cash — ATMs are limited
- ✓Playa Diamante requires a short hike — wear proper shoes
📶 Connectivity
Moderate. 4G in town center. WiFi in hotels. Limited in rural areas.
💰 Tipping
10% service charge (propina legal) included in restaurant bills. Tip extra 5-10% for excellent service. Hotel housekeeping: RD$50-100/day. Tour guides: US$5-10/person.
Photo Gallery
an aerial view of a beach and ocean
Beautiful Beaches
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Playa Diamante?
Playa Diamante is a secluded beach at the base of tall cliffs near Cabrera. Access is via a steep staircase carved into the rock, approximately 100 steps down. Drive or take a motoconcho to the access point on the coastal road east of Cabrera. There is no entrance fee. Bring your own water and snacks as there are no vendors.
Is Cabrera worth visiting or should I stay in Rio San Juan?
Cabrera is quieter and more off-the-beaten-path than Rio San Juan, which makes it perfect for travelers seeking hidden beaches and dramatic cliff scenery. If you want more restaurants and tour options, base yourself in Rio San Juan and day-trip to Cabrera. If you prefer solitude and nature, Cabrera itself is a rewarding base.
What hidden beaches can I find near Cabrera?
Besides Playa Diamante, look for Playa El Breton (a wide, uncrowded beach south of town), Playa La Entrada, and several unnamed coves along the cliffs. Many require a short hike or scramble. Ask locals for directions as some are not well signed. Always check tide conditions before descending to cliff-base beaches.
Do I need a rental car in Cabrera?
Yes, a rental car or at least a scooter is strongly recommended. Cabrera's best attractions are spread along the coast and rural roads. Public transport is limited to infrequent guaguas on the main highway. Motoconchos can take you to some spots, but a car gives you the freedom to explore hidden beaches at your own pace.
How many days should I spend in Cabrera?
Two days is ideal. Spend one day exploring the coastal cliffs and hidden beaches, and another visiting Dudu Lagoon (shared with Rio San Juan area) and the lush countryside. If you are a hiker or beach explorer, you could easily fill three days discovering lesser-known spots.
Nearby Destinations
Explore more places near Cabrera
Plan Your Cabrera Trip
Everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit.
Nearest airport: Gregorio Luperón (POP) — 2 hr or Cibao (STI) — 2.5 hr