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10 Most Affordable Travel Destinations for Families

San Juan National Historic Site
Family vacations don’t have to cost a fortune to be memorable. With a little planning, you can treat your kids to new adventures, beautiful sights, and fun activities without maxing out your credit card. Whether you’re looking for beachside bliss, theme park thrills, or cultural experiences, these ten destinations are budget-friendly and full of family magic.
 

Here are ten affordable places to travel with kids that offer maximum fun for less money.

Universal Studios Orlando

 U.S. Destinations

1. Orlando, Florida

You can do Orlando without blowing your budget—yes, even with the theme parks! While Disney and Universal can be pricey, there are tons of ways to save with off-site lodging, ticket deals, and alternate attractions.

  • Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Frequent flight deals, discounted theme park bundles, and budget-friendly hotels.
  • Best Time to Visit: January–February (off-season, fewer crowds), late August–October (cheaper park tickets).

  • Why kids will love it:

    • Meeting favorite characters at Disney World or Universal Studios.

    • Splashing around at free hotel pools or water parks.

    • Exploring LEGOLAND Florida (especially great for younger kids).

  • Top Family Activities: 
    Walt Disney World (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios)
     Universal Orlando Resort (Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Volcano Bay)
     ICON Park (The Wheel, Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE Aquarium)
  •  Free & Low-Cost Activities: Lake Eola Park, Disney Springs, Winter Park boat tours
  •  Savings Tip: Use discounted Disney/Universal tickets via Undercover Tourist, book an Airbnb with a kitchen to save on meals.

2. San Diego, California

San Diego is a laid-back coastal city packed with free or low-cost fun. With sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and family-focused attractions, it’s a fantastic spot for all ages.

  • Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Free beaches, outdoor attractions, and citywide GoCity Pass discounts.
  • Best Time to Visit: March–May (fewer crowds, great weather), September–November (cheaper flights & hotels).

  • Why kids will love it:

    • Visiting the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park’s kid-friendly museums.

    • Playing in the sand at Coronado or La Jolla Shores.

    • Exploring tide pools and spotting sea lions.

     

  • Top Family Activities:
     San Diego Zoo (one of the best in the world)
     Balboa Park (museums, gardens, playgrounds)
     La Jolla Cove (seals, sea caves, snorkeling)
     USS Midway Museum (historic aircraft carrier)
     Free & Low-Cost Activities: Mission Beach, Torrey Pines hiking, Old Town San Diego
  • Savings Tip: Kids get free admission to major attractions in October (San Diego Kids Free Month!).
Dude...they actually let US inside the White House!

3. Washington, DC

The ultimate destination for free museums and American history. D.C. is perfect for curious kids and budget-conscious parents.

  • Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Many free museums and landmarks, great public transportation.
  • Best Time to Visit: Late March–June (cherry blossoms, great weather), September–November (fewer tourists).

  • Why kids will love it:

  • Top Family Activities:
     Smithsonian Museums (Air & Space, Natural History, American History – all free!)
     National Zoo (home to giant pandas – free admission)
     National Mall (Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol)
     Spy Museum (fun for kids, small entrance fee)
     Free & Low-Cost Activities: Changing of the Guard at Arlington Cemetery, paddle boating in Tidal Basin
  •  Savings Tip: Stay in Arlington, VA, or Silver Spring, MD, for cheaper hotels but easy metro access. Most of D.C.’s best attractions are free. Use the Metro to save on transportation and stay just outside the city for better lodging prices.

4. Denver, Colorado

If your crew loves the outdoors, Denver is a dream. It’s an easy-going, sunny city at the edge of the Rockies, packed with affordable family adventures.

  • Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Tons of free outdoor activities, affordable ski resorts in winter.
  • Best Time to Visit: June–September (hiking, national parks), December–March (budget skiing).

  • Why kids will love it:

    • Visiting the Denver Museum of Nature & Science or the Children’s Museum.

    • Exploring nearby mountains for hiking, biking, or even snow play.

    • Catching a Rockies game or paddle boating in City Park.

  • Top Family Activities:
     Rocky Mountain National Park (hiking, wildlife watching)
     Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater (free trails, scenic views)
     Denver Museum of Nature & Science (interactive exhibits)
     Denver Botanic Gardens (huge kids’ area)
     Free & Low-Cost Activities: City Park, Union Station, 16th Street Mall
  •  Savings Tip: Buy a Denver CityPASS to bundle museum & attraction tickets at a discount.  Denver has a walkable downtown and great public transit. Outdoor activities in nearby parks and trails are free!

5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Affordable beachfront fun is Myrtle Beach’s specialty. It’s filled with family-friendly hotels, amusement parks, and entertainment options—many with wallet-friendly pricing.

  • Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Cheap beachfront hotels, free beaches, and affordable attractions.
  • Best Time to Visit: April–May (warm weather, lower prices), September–October (fewer tourists, cheaper stays)
  • Why kids will love it:.
    • Splashing in the waves or collecting seashells on the beach.

    • Riding the SkyWheel or playing mini golf.

    • Visiting Alligator Adventure or the Pirate’s Voyage dinner show.

    • Top Family Activities:
       Broadway at the Beach (shops, entertainment, kid-friendly shows)
       Ripley’s Aquarium (shark tunnel, glass-bottom boat rides)
       Family Kingdom Amusement Park (budget-friendly rides & water park)
       Free & Low-Cost Activities: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Huntington Beach State Park

    • Budget tip: Look for all-inclusive hotel deals with free breakfast and water park access. Off-season (spring or fall) travel is both cheaper and less crowded.

God of the Winds Temple, Tulum

Caribbean & Mexico Destinations

6. Cancun, Mexico

A tropical vacation that’s affordable? Say hello to Cancun. With stunning beaches, tons of resorts, and kid-approved excursions, it’s a great choice for families looking to relax or explore.

  • Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Frequent cheap flights, all-inclusive resorts with kid-friendly amenities.
  • Best Time to Visit: April–June (low season, better deals), late August–November (cheaper but hurricane risk).
  • Why kids will love it:

    • Swimming in cenotes or snorkeling near coral reefs.

    • Exploring ancient Mayan ruins at Tulum or Chichen Itza.

    • Enjoying kid-friendly pools and beach games at family resorts.

  • Top Family Activities:
     Xcaret Park (eco-park with underground rivers, wildlife, and Mayan culture)
     Isla Mujeres (beautiful beaches, snorkeling, golf carts for easy travel)
     Chichen Itza (Mayan ruins, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World)
     Free & Low-Cost Activities: Playa Delfines (free public beach), Cenotes (natural swimming holes)
  •  Savings Tip: Stay at family-friendly all-inclusives like Grand Palladium or Panama Jack (kids stay free deals).

7. San Juan, Puerto Rico

No passport needed if you’re coming from the U.S.—Puerto Rico is a Caribbean gem packed with culture, natural beauty, and affordable adventure.

  •  Why It’s Budget-Friendly: No passport needed for U.S. travelers, affordable street food, free beaches.
  • Best Time to Visit: April–June (cheaper than winter high season).
  • Why kids will love it:

    • Playing on Condado or Luquillo Beach.

    • Exploring the colorful streets and forts of Old San Juan.

    • Visiting El Yunque Rainforest for easy hikes and waterfalls.

    • Top Family Activities:
       Old San Juan (colorful colonial streets, El Morro Fort)
       El Yunque National Forest (rainforest hikes, waterfalls)
       Bioluminescent Bay (kayaking at night)
       Free & Low-Cost Activities: Isla Verde Beach, Paseo de la Princesa promenade

    • Savings Tip: Free beach access and inexpensive local eats (hello, mofongo and empanadillas!) make San Juan very family-budget friendly.

8. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana offers classic Caribbean vibes with all-inclusive resorts that cater specifically to families—think kids’ clubs, water parks, and themed dinners.

 

  • Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Many all-inclusive family resorts with kids’ clubs, free meals, and activities.
  • Best Time to Visit: May–June (off-season deals, warm weather).

Why kids will love it:

  • Building sandcastles and snorkeling in turquoise water.

  • Watching live shows or dancing at resort events.

  • Playing in resort water parks or kid zones.

  • Top Family Activities:
     Bavaro Beach (calm waters, great for kids)
     Scape Park (ziplining, caves, cenotes)
     Dolphin Explorer (interactive marine life experiences)
     Free & Low-Cost Activities: Hoyo Azul (natural swimming hole), Macao Beach
  •  Savings Tip: Look for kids-stay-free deals at all-inclusive resorts like Royalton or Melia Caribe Beach.

9. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Jamaica combines vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and family hospitality. Montego Bay, in particular, is home to plenty of budget resorts and exciting activities for all ages.

  • Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Direct flights from the U.S., family-friendly all-inclusive resorts.
  • Best Time to Visit: April–June (cheaper than winter season).
  • Why kids will love it:

    • Riding river tubes or bamboo rafts.

    • Visiting the animal farm or playing at water parks.

    • Dancing to reggae music or tasting sweet Jamaican patties.

  • Top Family Activities:
     Dunn’s River Falls (waterfall climbing)
     Dolphin Cove (swim with dolphins, sharks, and stingrays)
     Mystic Mountain (bobsled ride, ziplining)
     Free & Low-Cost Activities: Doctor’s Cave Beach, Montego Bay Marine Park
  •  Savings Tip: Book an all-inclusive resort with airport transfers included to save on transportation.

Budget-Friendly Europe Destinations

10. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is one of Europe’s best family travel bargains. It’s walkable, colorful, and packed with things to see—without the high price tag of other Western European cities.

  • Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Cheap flights, affordable public transport, free attractions.
  • Best Time to Visit: March–May or September–November (cheaper & good weather).
  • Why kids will love it:

    • Riding the yellow trams up the steep hills.

    • Exploring castles, towers, and pirate-y forts.

    • Snacking on sweet pastel de nata (custard tarts).

  • Top Family Activities:
     Tram 28 ride (scenic old town tour)
     Oceanário de Lisboa (Europe’s largest aquarium)
     Sintra day trip (fairy-tale castles & palaces)
  •  Savings Tip: Lisbon’s food, transport, and lodging are very budget-friendly, especially if you stay in a vacation rental and travel outside summer peak season.

Free Family Road Trip Starter Kit

🎶 Ready to hit the road with magic in the speakers?

Don’t forget to grab our FREE Family Road Trip Starter Kit — packed with printable checklists, kid-approved games, and snack ideas for your next adventure!

🎒 Includes:

  • Packing checklist

  • I Spy game

  • Travel Bingo boards

  • Snack list

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Affordable family travel isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about finding destinations that offer rich experiences, natural beauty, and built-in entertainment without hefty costs. Whether you’re beach-hopping in the Caribbean, museum-hopping in D.C., or castle-hopping in Portugal, these kid-approved spots offer big value and even bigger memories.

So pack those snacks, grab the favorite stuffed animals, and set off on a journey that proves family fun doesn’t have to come with a sky-high price tag.

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Caribbean Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel Dominican Republic

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Amber Cove?

Puerto Plata, Amber Cove, Dominican Republic

“Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Amber Cove?” This is a question that I get asked a lot.  As cruisers, there are some ports where you absolutely want to book an excursion to really get the best out of your day in port.  On the other hand, there are some ports where you can totally get away with not booking an excursion.  If you’re visiting Amber Cove and you’re on a budget, you’re in luck!  You absolutely do not need to book an excursion in Amber Cove!  However, there are lots of really great options available if you decide you want to venture out.

What is an Excursion?

An excursion is an activity that you book in a cruise port. The excursions range from historic tours, snorkeling and beach tours, visits to popular attractions, activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, and cultural activities. They are booked through local tour companies and cost additional money. Excursions can go from anywhere from $39 to hundreds of dollars for scuba diving, golfing, and helicopter tours.

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Amber Cove?

Amber Cove is one of the ports designed specifically for cruisers by the Carnival Corporation.  Ports like Mahogany Bay, Costa Maya, Amber Cove, and Grand Turk were built as havens for cruisers.  They each include shops, restaurants, bars, beaches and/or pools, and other fun things for you to do while you’re in port for the day.

Amber Cove offers bars, restaurants, shops, a resort style swimming pool, a lazy river, water slides and a splash area.   Oh, and the best part?  It’s totally free!  There’s also zip lining available for just a small fee.

Check out our article on 12 Things to Know About Amber Cove for more information on these amazing amenities!  With all of these wonderful features, it’s easy to see why you don’t need to book an excursion in Amber Cove!

Nearby Beaches

Since Amber Cove and Puerto Plata are situated on the Atlantic, the waters can be rather choppy.   In fact, Amber Cove itself doesn’t have beach access for this reason.  That doesn’t mean that there aren’t great beaches in the area, however!  In fact, there are lovely golden sand beaches lined dotted with palm trees all along the coast.  If you want to plan a beach day here, you’ll definitely want to look into booking an excursion or hiring a taxi.  

  1. Maimón Beach

The closest beach to the cruise port Maimón Beach.  It is about 15-20 minute walk (or 1/2 a mile) from the cruise terminal.  The beach has loungers available for rent and is located near bars and restaurants.  

2. Playa Cofresi

Playa Cofresi is about a 10 minute cab ride from the cruise port.  The beach has gentle waves and plenty of lounge chairs in the shade that are available for rent.  Like many of the beaches in this area, there is lots of seaweed.

3. Playa Grande

Playa Grande is a 15 minute cab ride from the cruise port.  This golden beach is known for its swells, which are great for those who enjoy water sports.  

4. Playa Bachata

Another option is to get a day pass for Playa Bachata Resort.  The resorts offers a day pass where you can take advantage of their bars, restaurants, pools, beach, and more.  It’s located about 1/2 a mile from the cruise port and is accessible by foot or by cab.

Recommended Excursions in Amber Cove

The port offers some of the best excursions in the region.  Visit the majestic waterfalls of Rio de Damajagua, zip line, take in the historic sights, hit the beach, swim with dolphins, go on an ATV adventure, or try your hand at watersports.  Whatever you’re into- there’s plenty to do in Amber Cove.

Amber Cove, Dominican Republic

Waterfalls of Damajagua and Off-road Buggy Combo

This exhilarating tour starts with a 2-hour Polaris buggy ride through the local villages and out into the jungle.  You’ll cross the river multiple times, so plan on getting wet!  

Next, take a 40-minute somewhat strenuous hike through the stunning Dominican landscape before cooling off in a waterfall.  If you dare, slide into a fresh, cool pool of mountain water.  Be sure to bring a towel, water shoes, and a couple of bottles of water.

Although the Carnival website doesn’t list it as a requirement, participants must be able to swim.

This is many people’s favorite excursion in Amber cove.

Minimum Age: 8-years-old
Tour Length: 6 hours
Link:  Waterfalls of Damajagua and Off-road Buggy Combo

Damajagua Waterfalls & Monkeyland

Start off in the tropical jungle where you’ll get a chance to visit with super-friendly squirrel monkeys!  Don’t be surprised if they hop on to your shoulder and request a treat.

Next, take an  adventurous 40-minute hike through the jungle to the breathtaking waterfalls of Damajagua.  Here you’ll slide down a natural waterslide into a pool of cool, fresh, mountain water.  

Although the Carnival website doesn’t list it as a requirement, participants must be able to swim.

This is probably the best excursion in Amber Cove as it combines 2 fan favorites!

Mega Truck Country Ride & Culture with Lunch

Want to get a snapshot of Dominican life, history, and culture?  Climb abord an open-air safari truck to explore Puerto Plata.  You’ll get a glimpse of important landmarks such as Independence Square, Felipe Cathedral, and more.  You’ll even get a chance to experience the streams, sugarcane fields, and villages of the countryside.

Visit a ranch where you’ll get to enjoy a traditional Dominican lunch.

Minimum Age: 6-years-old
Tour Length: 5.5 hours
Link: Mega Truck Country Ride & Culture with Lunch

Power Snorkel Adventure

This tour shows you a whole different side of the Dominican Republic…underwater!  You’ll start with a 45 minute off-road adventure in an open air safari truck.  After traveling through the countryside, you’ll arrive at a stunning bay surrounded by a reef.  A SeaScooter will help you explore the reef system with ease. 

Minimum Age:  10-years-old
Tour length: 4 hours
Link:  Power Snorkel Adventure

Triple Adventure: Zip, Buggy & Power Snorkel

This tour allows you to experience the Dominican Republic from the air, sea, and land! Begin with a trek to the Ocean Outpost in a safari style truck.  At the outpost, prepare to fly across the Atlantic on the Adrenaline High Wire Zip.    

The fun doesn’t stop there! Next, hop in a dune buggy to the waterfront where you’ll use a sea scooter to explore the stunning emerald water.   

Minimum Age: 12-years-old
Tour length: 5.5 hours
Link: Triple Adventure: Zip, Buggy & Power Snorkel

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Caribbean Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel Dominican Republic

Playa Bachata Spa Resort- A Classic Caribbean Resort Nestled on a Stunning Beach

When we cruised to Amber Cove, Dominican Republic in March of 2022, cruisers that were unvaccinated were required to book a tour in order to get off of the ship.  Since the twins were only 4 (and not eligible for the vaccine), this rule applied to us. 

After doing a little research, we decided on booking a day at the Playa Bachata Spa Resort in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.  

The main selling points for us were: 

  • the resort is literally right next door to the cruise port so that meant very little travel time
  •  it included lunch
  •  they had a lovely beach and pool
  •  Oh…and it included free drinks.

The Playa Bachata Resort

It took us less than 5 minutes to drive from the Amber Cove cruise port to Playa Bachata Spa Resort.  We were transported in a well-airconditioned Coach bus, which was a nice plus.  The resort itself was pretty much like the resorts you see sprinkled across the Caribbean.  It was nice and quaint and in need of a little facelift (which they were working on while we visited).  

The staff at Playa Bachata Spa Resort was very welcoming.  We got a personal tour of the entire complex which featured: the lobby, restaurants, local vendors, the beach,  and pool. 

 Interestingly, when we visited there were more people that were actually staying at the resort for an extended period of time, rather than on a day pass like cruisers are.  Many of the people that we spoke to were local Dominicans staying at the resort.  Perhaps this is why the staff all spoke to us in Spanish first before communicating in English (which is totally cool by the way, it is their home language after all!).  It was a great opportunity for me to practice using my conversational Spanish.

The Beach

The beach at Playa Bachata Spa Resort is absolutely stunning.  You can tell that they’ve put a lot of money into developing this area.  There were countless lounge chairs lining the beach as far as the eye could see.  The entire beach was lined with gorgeous, massive palm trees and outlined with beautiful shrubbery.  The beach was very attractive!

The beach also had a recreational area, a stage, and a swing that you absolutely have to stop by to get a shot for Instagram.  

Fun Fact: Bachata is a style of romantic music originating in the Dominican Republic.  

The waves on this side of the island are a bit intense, so this isn’t the best spot of snorkeling or for young children to swim out very far.  There was also a lot of seaweed in the water.  Our kids decided they wanted to spend the day poolside, much to my disappointment.

 

The Pool at Playa Bachata

The Pool

That being said, the pool was quite lovely.  It was conveniently located next to the bar and near the bathrooms.  Smiley bounced back and forth between the large resort-style pool and the kiddie pool, whereas the boys stayed in the shallow kiddie pool (pictured above).  The kiddie pool was tiny, but there were not a ton of young kids at the pool so it wasn’t an issue.   Chairs around the pool were a little harder to come by.  There’s also less shade on the pool deck.  

The Restaurant

Our day at Playa Bachata included lunch.  The resort has a large restaurant that serves Dominican food buffet style.  If you’re a little less adventurous when it comes to eating, they also served pasta, pizza, salad, and other very-American dishes.

Closing Thoughts on Playa Bachata

Overall, Playa Bachata Spa and Resort was a nice little spot.  The beach was beautiful and we really enjoyed the pool area.  The complex itself needs a little bit of work, but it appears as that process has started.  It was a nice place to spend the day- since we were required to book an excursion to get off of the ship.  

We’re planning on returning to Amber Cove/Puerto Plata in the fall of 2023.  By that time, the twins will have been vaccinated, so if these restrictions are still in place, we will be able to get off the ship without booking an excursion.  As of right now, our plan is to just hang out at the port area while we’re there.  Although we had a wonderful day at Playa Bachata, I don’t see us returning.

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Caribbean Cruise Travel Dominican Republic

12 Things to Know About the Stunning Amber Cove, Dominican Republic

Are you heading to Amber Cove, Dominican Republic?  This cruise port is quickly becoming one of the most popular cruise destinations in the Caribbean.  In fact, the Dominican Republic itself is the most popular destination in the Caribbean.  To help you plan out your day, we’ve come up with a list of 12 Things to Know about Amber Cove.

If you’re a long-time cruiser, I’m sure you’re dying to check a new port.  Carnival has designed this port similarly to Mahogany Bay, Costa Maya, and Grand Turk.  You could absolutely get away with not booking an excursion here and simply spend the day shopping, zip lining, enjoying the pool, or even drifting in the lazy river!

12 Things to Know about Amber Cove

1. It's the Dominican Republic's Newest Cruise Port

Amber Cove is a stunning 25 acre cruise port complex nestled on the northern shore of the island of Hispaniola.  Located on Maimon Bay, just outside of the beach town of Puerto Plata. The $85 million cruise port was open by Carnival Corporation in 2015. When the complex opened along Amber Coast, it brought cruise ships to the Puerto Plata area for the first time in 30 years.

The site is absolutely gorgeous and offers cruise passengers a way to enjoy the island free of charge.  Basically, the cruise corporation designed this space to KEEP YOU HERE!  

2. The Area is Rich in History

Sure, Amber Cove is new but Puerto Plata certainly isn’t.  The area dates backs in the 1490s when a little-known fellow known as Christopher Columbus first “discovered” the island.  The site was home to one of the first forts in the Americas, Fuerte de San Felipe.  Today, Puerto Plata is a popular beach town with deep roots in their Spanish colonial past.  Although it is tempting to stay at the cruise center, we implore you to get out and explore!  Check out the local museums and landmarks honoring their past.

3. It's Easy to Get Around

Since the entire area is designed around cruise passengers, it’s super easy for them to get around.   From the transportation hub, cruisers have easy access to rental cars, taxis, and guides willing to show you Puerto Plata and the surrounding area.  

Another great feature is that as soon as you get off the ship, you are greeted by pedi-cabs that will whisk you down the pier to the cruise center.  Although it is not a long walk, this is great for those who need a little help getting around or those traveling with young children.  The pedi-cabs work for tips only.

4. There are TONS of Great Excursions

The port offers some of the best excursions in the region.  Visit the majestic waterfalls of Rio de Damajagua, zip line, take in the historic sights, hit the beach, swim with dolphins, go on an ATV adventure, or try your hand at watersports.  Whatever you’re into- there’s plenty to do in Amber Cove.

Check out our recommendations!

5. You Can Spend the Day Like a Celebrity!

You know those luxurious overwater cabanas that you see all over Instagram?  You could totally spend your day relaxing in one!  The overwater cabanas at Amber Cove are exactly what you’ve been daydreaming about.  We’re talking Caribbean breezes, air-conditioning, WIFI, a hot tub, and a personal waiter that will take your food and drink orders.  The Grand Cabana also features 2 water sports that you can enjoy for a full hour.  Choose from kayak, stand up paddleboards, or aqua cycles.  The cabana accommodates up to 20 guests so they are perfect for large groups!

6. You Can Hit the Beach and Pool All in One Day!

Our water babies love places like this because they don’t have to choose between the beach or the pool.  At Amber Cove, you can enjoy both!  You can book a beach excursion (or take a taxi to the beach), or set up at the water park and pool for the day.  The Aqua Zone has a resort-style pool with a swim-up bar, waterslides, a relaxing lazy river, and an ample number of lounge chairs to kick back and relax. There’s also a super-fun children’s splash area.   Oh, and the best part?  It’s totally free!

Note:  There is not beach access at Amber Cove.  

7. The Are Shops Galore

If you are looking for the perfect souvenir, or simply need to take a break from the sun, there are plenty of shops for you to explore at Amber Cove.  The shops feature authentic arts and crafts by local Dominican artisans.  You’ll also find plenty of classic souvenirs such as t-shirts, beachwear, shot glasses, magnets, etc.  While you’re in the shops, be sure to grab some local rum, coffee, chocolate, or amber.

8. You Can Swim with Dolphins (and Sharks!)

If swimming with dolphins is on your bucket list, you can check that off while visiting Amber Cove! Ocean World offers encounters with dolphins, stingrays, and sharks.  The cool thing about the dolphin encounters is that they are done in waist-deep water making them accessible to young children.

9. Zip Lining is a Must!

Are you an adrenaline junkie?  Me too!  I love zip-lining so I was super excited to find out that there are twin 650-foot zips that traverse the Aqua Zone.  Purchase a day pass for $20 for unlimited thrills.  While you’re at the summit, be sure to check out the Sky Bar for spectacular 360-degree views- and a bit of liquid courage.

10. The Weather Will Probably Be Pretty Perfect...

Due to Amber Cove and Puerto Plata being on the northern side of the island, the weather is pretty perfect year-round.  In the summer you can expect the temperatures to be in the 80s, whereas the winter brings average temps of 75 degrees.  December is the wettest month of the year.

11. Puerto Plata is Nearby

The town of Puerto Plata is literally a stone’s throw away. Puerto Plata is a popular beach vacation spot for Dominicans.  Grab a cab and explore the Amber Museum, Brugal Rum Factory, check out the historic downtown, visit the 3-mile long boardwalk, check out historic Fort San Felipe.  Venture a little further inland to explore the impressive Damajagua Falls.  If you’re looking to relax away from the crowds, we suggest spending the day at Playa Bachata Resort.

If you don’t mind traveling a little bit further out, Sosua Beach is about 30 minutes away and offers stunning blue waters and decent snorkeling.  There are also jet-ski rentals.

12. It's Totally Insta-Worthy!

There are plenty of photo opportunities staged around the cruise port area.  Be sure to snap a few photos with the carnival masks, the vibrant blue Amber Cove sign, the stone wall entrance, and the man-made waterfall.  Oh, and obviously you’ll want a shot of you sipping on a pina colada at the swim-up bar.

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