The undisputed windsurfing and kiteboarding capital of the Caribbean, Cabarete, Dominican Republic, a pleasant and vibrant north-coast resort, is also the Dominican Republic's liveliest resort by night. It draws a more eclectic crowd than other resorts, including a large contingent of backpackers and budget travelers.
Dozens of laid-back bars and restaurants spill shoulder to shoulder onto the main beach, which is one of four. Many hotels are dedicated to the extreme sports trade, and there are comparatively few all-inclusive resorts. The town is famous for its nightlife, but suffered greatly following passage of an executive order forcing most bars to close at midnight. The law was later rescinded, but the damage was done.
Parque El Choco, immediately inland of Cabarete, is centered on Laguna Cabarete and offers nature hikes, fabulous birding and caverns with pre-Columbian pictographs. To the visit the caves, a guide can be hired on-site for about RD$900. The Cordillera Septentrional mountains, inland, offer opportunities for mountain biking and other active adventures.
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