Beach and swimming???

[Irina]

Hi, all.
I am planning a tropical vacation, and would like to know about the beaches in the DR.
Every resort/hotel has a swimming pool or 3 of them... Forgive me, but there are plenty of opportunity to bathe in chlorine, without going accross the world...
So, can someone tell me anything about the ocean floor, and the temperature of the water in March-April, let's say around Puerto Plata, and is it even allowed to swim in the ocean??

Thanks.
looking forward to any response...

[appleman]

You will find the beaches in the DR are some of the nicest in the world. Every beach is a little different, but wherever the tourist places are, you will find nice beaches. On the north coast, Cabarete beach is very nice because it is long and wide, and the ocean floor slopes very gently for a long way out from shore. The ocean floor is smooth and sandy all the way out. The waves are a little bigger in the afternoon. In Sosua, the beach is also nice, but it drops off a little quicker. Sosua is better for snorkeling. Other places on the north coast have nice beaches also. If you have a place in mind ask a specific question and someone will be able to give you an answer.

As for the water temperature, it is very warm in the ocean. In February the water is warm enough that you don't have to "ease in" unless you are living in the DR, then you might think it is cold since this is the "winter". Every time I have been in the DR the ocean and beaches were very inviting and lovely for swimming and relaxing. Nice beaches can also be found in the east at Punta Cana, and on Samana.

Search or browse the DR1 archives to get much more information.

[tired_boy]

Where are you staying exactly?

[XanaduRanch]

Originally Posted by Irina

... can someone tell me anything about the ocean floor, and the temperature of the water in March-April, let's say around Puerto Plata, and is it even allowed to swim in the ocean?

No.You are not alllowed to swim in the ocean without paying the Apple-Xanadu Tax. Two something-libres at the local beach bar just prior to depature from terra firma.

At that time of year expect water temperatures of 77F-79F. Very comfortable. Peak season in August, more like a bath, at 80F-82F along the North Coast. Expect 2F-3F degrees warmeralong the Caribbean side of the island to the south.

Tom aka XR The most effective way to remember your wife's birthday is to forget it once.

[Irina]

Thank you guys for the information.
Now that my fears are proven wrong, I have book a package to Victoria Resort near Puerto Plata for the 23rd of March.
Can't wait!