Complete Guide to Taino Bay in Puerto Plata - Map, Attractions, Menus, Info & More
Puerto Plata, a coastal city in the Dominican Republic, has become a popular destination for travelers seeking tropical beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. At the heart of this appeal is Taino Bay, a state-of-the-art cruise port resort area designed to provide cruise passengers with an exceptional on-shore experience. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, enjoy a delicious meal, or explore the historic city of Puerto Plata, Taino Bay offers a convenient and enjoyable starting point for your adventure. With its modern amenities and thoughtful design, this destination has quickly gained recognition as one of the top cruise ports in the Caribbean.
About Taino Bay
Taino Bay is a 20-acre resort-style cruise port located in the bustling city of Puerto Plata. Opened in 2021, the port was designed to provide cruise passengers with an all-in-one destination to relax, shop, dine, and explore without leaving the port area. It features two large pools, a lazy river, beach-themed lounges, and a variety of attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. With its tropical landscaping and carefully planned layout, Taino Bay makes it easy for visitors to enjoy their time ashore, whether they’re spending the day at the port or heading out on excursions.
The port area is secured and exclusively accessible to cruise passengers, ensuring a safe and controlled environment. The general public is not allowed into Taino Bay, making it a private and tranquil space for visitors arriving by ship.
Taino Bay’s infrastructure can accommodate several large cruise ships, including two Oasis-class vessels at once, making it one of the most important and busiest cruise hubs in the Dominican Republic. It is located close to Puerto Plata’s historic district, allowing visitors to conveniently explore the city’s attractions, shops, and cultural sites.
Taino Bay also serves as a gateway to the broader Puerto Plata region, offering a wide range of shore excursions and activities that highlight the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area. Whether you prefer lounging by the pool or taking a guided tour of the city, Taino Bay provides a seamless blend of comfort and access to local adventures.
Taino Bay Port Map
Is It Free to Go to Taino Bay?
Access to Taino Bay is free for cruise passengers, as the area is exclusive to those whose ships dock at the port. Within Taino Bay, many amenities such as the pools, lazy river, and beach lounge are free of charge. However, dining, shopping, and select attractions do come with additional costs.
It’s important to note that Taino Bay is independent from the cruise lines, so your cruise card cannot be used for purchases. Most vendors accept USD in cash or credit cards, though international transaction fees may apply. If you have Dominican pesos, they are also accepted at most locations.
Getting to Taino Bay
Upon disembarking from your cruise ship, you’ll make your way to the Taino Bay Welcome Center. The center is about 750 feet from the pier, and you can either enjoy a short scenic walk or take advantage of the complimentary rickshaws for a quick and comfortable ride. The Welcome Center is an open-air hub that offers a lively introduction to Taino Bay. It features:
Keloke Bar: A great spot for a refreshing drink as you start or end your day.
Duty-Free Shopping: Including Diamonds International and the Dufry Duty-Free Shop.
Excursion Desks: For booking local tours or meeting guides for pre-arranged excursions.
Amenities: Restrooms, Wi-Fi, ATMs, and wheelchair access.
From the Welcome Center, visitors pass through the duty-free shop to enter the main resort area.
Attractions at Taino Bay
Taino Bay offers a variety of attractions, including two large pools, a lazy river with swim-up bars, beach-themed lounging areas, and interactive experiences like the FlowRider Surf Simulator, Monkey Island, and exotic bird aviaries.
Dahao Swimming Pool (Free)
The larger of Taino Bay’s two pools, this central attraction is perfect for cooling off and relaxing. The Dom Dom Pool Bar, a poolside bar with swim-up access, is located here.
Lazy River (Free)
The Lazy River is a winding water feature that offers a relaxing way to float and enjoy the tropical surroundings. It wraps around the central pool area, making it a unique and enjoyable addition to the port’s amenities.
Lazy River Pool (Free)
At the center of the lazy river lies a serene pool with direct swim-up access to the Tiki Tiki Pool Bar, making it the perfect spot to unwind while enjoying refreshing drinks.
Beach Lounge (Free)
Although there’s no ocean access, this beach-themed lounge area offers hammocks and loungers shaded by palm trees, providing a relaxing escape.
Taino Bay Surf Simulator ($)
The FlowRider Surf Simulator offers the thrill of surfing in a safe, controlled environment. Suitable for all skill levels, this attraction provides an exciting challenge for adventurers.
Monkey Island ($)
For $25, visitors can engage with lively squirrel monkeys in a fun, interactive experience. Feed the monkeys, take photos, and enjoy their playful antics in this popular attraction.
Taino Bay Aviaries ($)
These aviaries feature exotic tropical birds, with guided tours offering insights into their lives and habits. Visitors can enjoy interactive feeding sessions with these colorful creatures.
Shopping & Retail ($)
Taino Bay’s shopping areas feature everything from high-end jewelry and duty-free goods to local crafts and souvenirs. Whether you’re looking for luxury items or unique gifts, you’ll find a wide variety of options.
Spa Wellness Retreat ($)
The Spa Wellness Retreat offers massages in serene beach cabanas, providing the ultimate tranquil escape for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Dining at Taino Bay
The dining options at Taino Bay range from Latin-inspired dishes at Cantina Latina to casual tacos at Taco Lover, alongside several other restaurants offering Caribbean and international flavors to suit all tastes.
Cantina Latina
This spacious restaurant serves Latin-inspired dishes in a relaxed, family-friendly setting with both indoor and outdoor seating.
Mexican Grill
Located near the pools and beach, this eatery offers authentic Mexican cuisine perfect for a midday meal.
Blue Parrot
The largest dining venue at Taino Bay, offering Caribbean and international dishes in an open-air environment.
Taco Lover
This casual spot near the Lazy River Pool serves quick and delicious tacos, ideal for a light meal.
The Grill
A beachside eatery offering quick bites and cold drinks for those relaxing at the Port Beach Lounge.
IceKery
An ice cream shop located in the shopping area, perfect for a refreshing treat.
Bars at Taino Bay
Visitors can enjoy a variety of bars at Taino Bay, including swim-up options like Dom Dom Pool Bar and Tiki Tiki Pool Bar, as well as laid-back spots like Huracán Lounge Bar and the Margarita Bar.
Keloke Bar
Located in the Welcome Center, this vibrant bar is a great spot for a first or last drink during your visit.
The Coffee Factory
This bar serves expertly crafted lattes, cappuccinos, and bakery treats for coffee enthusiasts.
Margarita Bar
A tranquil bar in the shopping area, offering a wide selection of margaritas in a relaxing setting.
Mojito Bar
Situated between the pools, this bar specializes in refreshing Caribbean cocktails.
Rum Rum Bar
A cozy bar in the shopping area featuring local rums and Dominican cigars.
Dom Dom Pool Bar
Located at the Dahao Swimming Pool, this poolside and swim-up bar offers drinks in a lively atmosphere.
Huracán Lounge Bar
Known for its relaxed vibe and beanbag seating, this lounge bar provides live music, great drinks, and scenic views.
The Boat Bar
Located along the Lazy River, this quirky bar features fun lounge seating and delicious drinks.
Tiki Tiki Pool Bar
Situated in the Lazy River Pool, this swim-up bar offers refreshing beverages with scenic views of the resort.
Shore Excursions in Puerto Plata
Cruise Line Excursions
If you’ve booked a shore excursion through your cruise line, your meeting point will be at the Taino Bay Welcome Center. These pre-arranged tours are a convenient option, as they include transportation and are coordinated to ensure on-time return to your ship. Popular excursions include:
27 Waterfalls of Damajagua: Hike, swim, and jump through this stunning series of natural cascades.
Puerto Plata City Tours: Explore landmarks such as the San Felipe Fortress and Paseo de Doña Blanca.
Beach Excursions: Relax at nearby beaches like Sosúa or Playa Dorada.
Booking Through the Welcome Center
For more flexibility, you can book excursions through local operators at the Welcome Center. Options range from cultural experiences like cigar and rum factory tours to adventurous activities like ATV rides, horseback riding, and catamaran cruises.
FAQs
Where is Taino Bay located? Taino Bay is in Puerto Plata, the Dominican Republic’s third-largest city.
Can I visit Taino Bay without arriving by cruise ship? No, Taino Bay is exclusively for cruise passengers.
Is Taino Bay safe? Yes, the port is secure and accessible only to cruise passengers and staff. Exercise standard caution if venturing into town.
Can I pay with my cruise card at Taino Bay? No, Taino Bay is independent from the cruise lines. You’ll need cash (USD or Dominican pesos) or a credit card for purchases.
How far is Taino Bay from Puerto Plata’s historic district? The port is within walking distance of the city center and its landmarks.
Which cruises visit Taino Bay? Major cruise lines such as Norwegian, Celebrity, Virgin Voyages, Royal Caribbean, and MSC Cruises dock at Taino Bay.
Conclusion
Taino Bay offers cruise passengers a unique blend of relaxation, entertainment, and cultural immersion. With its two pools, a lazy river, vibrant dining options, and seamless access to Puerto Plata’s best excursions, it’s a destination you’ll remember long after your ship sails. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or exploring the charm of Puerto Plata, Taino Bay is the perfect gateway to the Dominican Republic.
