SCUBA DIVING & SNORKELING The best diving on the North Coast of the island takes a little time getting to. There are a number of shallow water reef systems, however in Sosua, about 20 minutes from Puerto Plata, you will find reefs, canyons, shipwrecks, and gardens. Average water temperatures are about 80 degrees, and dive depths are usually 50 to 130 feet. The area of Playa Grande, about an hour and a half away, also features the Gri Gri lagoon for snorkeling. A colorful historical story of one shipwreck is the Concepción. The North Coast tossed this Spanish galleon into the Silver Banks about 60 nautical miles from Puerto Plata. The ship carried a cargo of freshly minted silver coins. An American with British support recovered about 69,000 pounds of it in 1689. It was not until 1979 that an American teamed up with the Dominican government to recover tons of silver that remained (they split the findings 50/50). All the larger hotels in Puerto Plata are able to help with diving and snorkeling. GOLF Playa Dorada is home to the famous Robert Trent Jones Golf Course. Located in the Playa Dorada Resort Complex in Puerto Plata, this course is situated amongst 14 hotels providing easy accessibility. Aslo it's listed as one of the top 100 golf courses in the world. Serious golfers may want to make a trip outside of Puerto Plata to another Robert Trent Jones creation, Playa Grande, considered to be one of the best courses in the Caribbean. Other Golf courses in Puerto Plata: - Hacienda Golf Course - Pair 68-2 x 9 holes - Cofresi - "Los Mangos" - Costambar Golf Course - Pair 32 - 9 holes WINDSURFING One of the biggest sports on the North Coast is windsurfing. The major windsurfing spot is Cabarete, and there are more than a dozen specialty shops renting boards, with prices being about the same each. The price is about US$20-30 per hour, with lessons available. These establishments also offer equipment storage for a set fee. KITEBOARDING Cabarete also hosts the World Kiteboarding Championships every year. The area is well known as a world class kiteboarding destination and has been ranked as the world's best. The natural conditions make Cabarete a preferred beach by kitesurfers the world over. Several kiteboarding schools are located right on the beach for those who want to perfect their skills or take up this extreme sport. DEEP SEA FISHING Puerto Plata is the ideal location for a great sport fishing vacation. Deep sea fishing, great boats, great gear and great service from friendly English speaking crews is what you'll find here. The catch: Blue Marlin July - September, White Marlin April - June, Mahi Mahi October - March, Wahoo October - January, Sailfish October - March. Half day private charters start about US$590 including round trip transportation from the hotel, drinks, taxes and all the gear.