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Cofresi Beach

Cofresi beach in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic is one of those postcard-perfect vacation spots that still feel pristine, despite being surrounded by resort areas. More famous worldwide for the Lifestyles Resorts, and hilltop villas, this beach has a lot more to offer than its tropical waters and swaying palms.

Set inside the bay in the town of Cofresi, this tourist destination got its name from famous pirate Roberto Cofresi (1791-1825), who during the 1800`s preyed upon ships between the islands of Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.

When Puerto Plata became the first all-inclusive tourist destination of the DR, towns like Cofresi drew attention from investors who started to develop hotels, private villas in the hilltop lands, restaurants and later a marine park with its own yacht marina, casino, and restaurant ( Ocean World ).

Cofresi Beach Photo Gallery:

The Beach

Cofresi Beach is set inside a bay and has plenty of corals and small fish, its sand of a light golden hue. To the East there’s a cluster of resorts that include the Lifestyles Holidays resorts, Crown & Royal Villas, and the Cofresi Palm Beach & Spa Resort with its many restaurants, bars, beach club, and VIP amenities.

To the outside world overseas, most people know Cofresi due to these resorts. Almost half of the beach faces the resorts, and the other half is used by the general public that visits Cofresi (locals and foreigners). Several restaurants deliver to the beach and there’s a nice, spacious green area where visitors can relax.

The low depth areas make it an ideal beach for children, and it is common to see families any day of the week. Nearby Ocean World Marine Park is right next, no need to drive and enjoy a swim with the dolphins, the seal show, bird cage and other shows.

Lifestyles Cofresi Map

Map of the Resorts in Cofresi beach. Click for the interactive version.

Cofresi Beach Restaurants

A great gastronomic experience awaits visitors who want to have a fine taste of local and international dishes. Landmark restaurants such as Chris & Maddy (American) located right across the center of the beach, great spot and delivers to the chaise lounges by the sand.

Mexican foodies will find Charros Caribemex the best of its kind, within walking distance from the center of the beach. Guest of the Lifestyle resorts can enjoy fine Mexican dining at Trapiche, which is located inside the resort area. The Terrace at Ocean World is perfect for more casual dining and plenty of drinks with friends.

Outside by the main road there’s a path that leads to an iconic French restaurant called Le Papillon ( the butterfly), which offers seafood, vegan and international dishes, highly recommended. There are more restaurants you can find in the Cofresi Beach website restaurants page.

Cofresi Beach Video:

The Villa Rentals

Cofresi villa rentals have grown at the same pace as the vacation rental market, and now the number of rental villas have more than doubled in the past 10 years. The ones in the beach resorts are inside the Lifestyles area, available to members and non members.

The ones in the hill are available via several rental websites easily found online doing a simple web search. Almost all of Cofresi villas are family friendly, off limits to wild parties, bachelor parties, something good to know before selecting any villa.

Cofresi is considered a romantic destination for couples, due to the resorts advertising. Ocean view condos near the beach are also available as rentals, and for sale through realtors such as Golden Treasures.

The Ocean World Marina

The Marina in Cofresi Puerto Plata is part of the complex housing the Marine Park, Restaurants, Casino, Shopping areas and other amenities. It is the most important marina in the North Dominican Republic, with slips for vessels up to 230ft LOA – max draft 12ft. It is a strategic refueling stop for boats traveling from North to South America through the Caribbean.

Cofresi Tours & Amenities

Other amenities that can be enjoyed near Cofresi are horseback riding, diving, snorkeling, sports fishing, and literally the whole catalog of tours available in Puerto Plata, Sosua, Costambar, and Cabarete.

Nearby golf course of Los Mangos can be reached in under 10 minutes driving, and Playa Dorada Golf in less than 30 minutes by car.

Nearby Amber Cove Cruise Ship Port allows cruise travelers to visit Cofresi during the day time and enjoy its many amenities, also the other towns nearby. The Schedule for the port can be seen here.

On Google Maps: