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Feel the Beat: Discover Latin Social Dancing in Cabarete

Looking for fun and authentic things to do in Cabarete during your stay at Velero Beach Resort? Step beyond the beach and experience the vibrant Dominican culture through one of its most joyful traditions — Latin social dancing.

Cabarete is a special destination in the Dominican Republic, known not only for its beautiful beaches and watersports but also for its warm, artistic, and lively community. Dancing bachata, merengue, and salsa isn’t just entertainment here — it’s part of the local way of life.

Learn to Dance in Cabarete

Whether you’ve never danced before or already love to move to Latin rhythms, Cabarete has plenty of opportunities to learn and improve.
One of the best-known schools is Ninafrika Dance School, led by the talented Nina, who has been teaching in Cabarete for over 10 years. Her classes at Ojo Club Cabarete are filled with positive energy and are perfect for both beginners and experienced dancers.

Another great option is FlowDance School, offering bachata and Cuban salsa lessons at Arena Sol. These classes combine fun, fitness, and friendship — the perfect mix for a memorable vacation activity.

Cabarete Nightlife: Dance the Night Away

After learning a few steps, it’s time to join the locals on the dance floor!
Cabarete nightlife comes alive almost every night with social dancing events between Tuesday and Saturday at popular spots like Ojo Club, Bahía, and Arena Sol. These gatherings are welcoming to everyone — you don’t need to be a professional to join in the fun.

Every Friday night, Bahía hosts a special live performance by the Academia de Bachata, a community project that trains young local musicians and dancers while preserving traditional Dominican culture. Their shows are full of energy and passion — a must-see for anyone who wants to feel the real heart of the Dominican Republic.

Why You Should Try It

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family, dancing in Cabarete is an unforgettable experience. It’s not only fun but also a great way to connect with locals, make new friends, and discover the Dominican spirit beyond the beach.

Add Latin dancing to your vacation itinerary along with other must-see Cabarete attractions like:

  • The Cabarete caves and El Choco National Park 
  • Encuentro surfing beach
  • Monkey Jungle adventure park
  • Ocean World in nearby Puerto Plata

Our Velero Beach Resort reception team will be happy to help you with class schedules, social dance event recommendations, and directions to the best venues.

Feel the rhythm. Embrace the culture. Dance in Cabarete.

 

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News,  THINGS TO DO

New Copa Airlines Route Gets the World Even Closer to Puerto Plata

Exciting news for travelers dreaming of golden sand, turquoise waves, and authentic Dominican charm: Copa Airlines has officially announced a new route to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, beginning January 13, 2026. With this addition, Puerto Plata becomes the fourth Dominican destination served by Copa Airlines, alongside Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and Santiago de los Caballeros.

This expansion is a major step forward for the north coast of the Dominican Republic. As the birthplace of tourism in the country, the Puerto Plata region offers rich cultural experiences, incredible gastronomy, exciting watersports, and access to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the Caribbean. With direct connections now available three times a week from Panama, the region is more accessible than ever for international travelers.

Why Velero Beach Should Be Your First Stop in Cabarete

Just a short drive from Puerto Plata Airport, Cabarete has built an international reputation as the watersports capital of the Caribbean. With year-round sunshine, steady trade winds, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a paradise for kiteboarders, windsurfers, surfers, and paddleboarders. Beyond the beach, visitors enjoy a vibrant mix of international dining, wellness retreats, and outdoor adventures — all within a charming coastal town.

At the heart of it all is Velero Beach Resort, ready to welcome new arrivals with open arms — and ocean views.

Whether you’re traveling for business, relaxation, or adventure, Velero Beach offers the ideal setting for a comfortable and rejuvenating stay right on the water. Here’s what makes us the top choice for travelers coming to Cabarete:

 ✅ Oceanfront Rooms with Private Balconies – Wake up to the sound of waves and enjoy breathtaking sunsets each evening.
✅ Complimentary Breakfast at Sunset Grill – Choose from Dominican, American, French toast, and more — all served steps from the sea.
✅ On-Site Spa Services – Relax with a massage or body treatment without leaving the hotel.
✅ Relaxing Yoga by the Ocean – Restore balance in paradise with on-request gentle yoga sessions.
✅ Conference Room with Catering Services – Business travelers and event organizers will find everything they need for a productive gathering.
✅ Quiet, Comfortable Bedrooms for Quality Sleep – Recharge after your travels in serene surroundings.

From leisure getaways to work retreats, Velero Beach is prepared to offer every guest a seamless and satisfying stay.

Start Planning Your 2026 Getaway

With Copa Airlines now connecting Puerto Plata to a wider international network via Hub of the Americas® in Panama, getting to Cabarete has never been easier. Whether you’re a returning visitor or planning your first trip, Velero Beach Resort is ready to welcome you home — just steps from the sand, with everything you need for an unforgettable Caribbean experience.

📅 Book your stay now and be among the first to enjoy this new level of accessibility and comfort.

 

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News,  THINGS TO DO

🎷 Jazz Under the Stars: Dominican Republic Jazz Festival Returns to Cabarete – June 20–21 🎶

This June, Cabarete sets the stage for one of the Dominican Republic’s most anticipated cultural events — the Dominican Republic Jazz Festival, returning on June 20–21, 2025. With its vibrant energy and world-class performances, the festival brings together music lovers from around the globe to celebrate jazz in all its forms.

New Venue for 2025: Pampilonia Garden 🌿
This year, the festival moves to a beautiful new location — Pampilonia Garden — offering a more intimate and curated concert experience surrounded by lush tropical scenery. Unlike previous years, the event will not take place in the town center, so please plan accordingly.

Tickets Required 🎟️
To attend the performances at Pampilonia Garden, visitors will need to purchase tickets in advance via the official DR Jazz Festival website. Don’t wait — this is one of the most sought-after weekends of the summer!

The Perfect Stay at Velero Beach Resort 🌴
Just a few minutes from the festival venue, Velero Beach Resort offers the ideal retreat for jazz lovers. Wake up to stunning ocean views, enjoy breakfast on the terrace, and end your day with a peaceful night’s rest after dancing under the stars.

With rooms starting from $115 USD per night (including breakfast for two), Velero is your home base for a relaxed, music-filled weekend by the sea. Our beachfront restaurant, Sunset Grill, will be serving delicious meals and cocktails throughout the weekend — the perfect pre-show dinner or post-concert wind-down.

🎶 Join us for an unforgettable jazz-filled escape in Cabarete.
Book your room today and get ready to experience music, magic, and Caribbean charm — all in one unforgettable weekend.

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News,  THINGS TO DO

Introducing the New Sushi Menu at Sunset Grill

At Velero Beach Hotel, we are always striving to enhance the dining experiences for our guests, and we are thrilled to introduce our new culinary leader, Chef Leandro Valdez, at Sunset Grill. With his passion for gastronomy and extensive experience, Chef Leandro brings a fresh and innovative approach to our kitchen, ensuring every dish is crafted with creativity and precision.

Meet Chef Leandro Valdez 

Chef Leandro Valdez joins us with a wealth of experience and a deep love for the culinary arts. His journey in the kitchen began at a young age, inspired by the rich flavors of Dominican cuisine. Over the years, he has honed his skills in various esteemed kitchens, both in the Sosua/Cabarete area and in Santo Domingo, mastering a range of culinary techniques and styles. Chef Leandro’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, combined with his innovative flair, promises to elevate the dining experience at Sunset Grill to new heights.

Introducing Sushi Nights: Try the Best Sushi in Cabarete

In addition to our diverse menu, we are excited to announce the launch of our new sushi menu, available every Wednesday and Thursday from 3pm at Sunset Grill. Chef Leandro has carefully curated a selection of sushi dishes that blend traditional techniques with modern twists, ensuring a delightful experience for sushi enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Our sushi menu features an array of options, from classic rolls to creative combinations that highlight the freshest seafood and vibrant flavors. Whether you prefer something light and refreshing like a simple nigiri, or something more adventurous like our specialty rolls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You can check the full sushi menu on our restaurant page. 

Sushi Nights at Sunset Grill offer more than just a meal—they provide an opportunity to savor exquisite dishes in a stunning beachfront setting. Imagine indulging in expertly crafted sushi in Cabarete while watching the sunset over the ocean, with the gentle sound of waves creating the perfect ambiance. It’s an experience that combines the best of food and nature, making your evenings truly unforgettable.

Make sure to reserve your table for our upcoming Sushi Nights every Wednesday and Thursday, and be among the first to experience this exciting new addition to our menu.

We look forward to welcoming you to Sunset Grill and sharing the culinary talents of Chef Leandro Valdez with you!

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Cabarete Life,  News

Flights from Bogota to Puerto Plata Are a Reality

Puerto Plata Province continues its expansion into new markets and solidifies its status as a premier tourist destination. At the recent Tourism Fair ANATO 2024 in Bogota, Colombia, exciting developments were unveiled.

Arajet, the Dominican airline company, will inaugurate direct flights between Bogota and Puerto Plata from June to December 2024. This marks a historic moment as Puerto Plata has never before welcomed direct flights from Colombia. Colombian travelers rank third in frequency to the Dominican Republic, following only US and Canadian citizens. With this new connection, thousands of Colombians will have the opportunity to explore the wonders of our region, including our charming town of Cabarete.

Moreover, the significance of this new route extends beyond Colombia, as it links Puerto Plata to the entire Latin American continent. Bogota serves as a major international travel hub, providing seamless access to travelers from across the region. Gone are the days of arduous layovers and lengthy travel times – this direct route promises efficiency and convenience for those eager to experience our destination.

In addition, Wingo, the Colombian low-cost carrier, is also considering adding direct flights on the POP-Bogota route. The hospitality, tourism, and service sectors stand to benefit from increased visitor numbers and spending. Furthermore, the exchange of ideas and resources between the Dominican Republic and Colombia holds the potential to ignite innovation and collaboration across industries, fostering economic growth and prosperity.

In conclusion, the introduction of direct flights represents a significant milestone for the economy of Puerto Plata Province. These flights bring unprecedented accessibility, opening doors for smaller establishments to thrive in the burgeoning tourism landscape. At Velero Beach Hotel, we are thrilled to welcome new guests and help them discover all the wonders of our small coastal town. If you’re planning a trip to Cabarete, our oceanfront rooms will be a great base for your Caribbean adventure. Please check our online calendar or send us an email to check the availability and rates for your dates.

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News,  THINGS TO DO

Yoga Classes at Velero Beach Hotel

We constantly look for more ways to make our guests’ stay at our hotel even more comfortable and enjoyable. This time we’re happy to introduce yoga group and private classes.

The instructor Kathi will be glad to welcome you to her Vinyasa, Yin Yoga or VinYin classes that will take place at our garden just in front of the ocean in the open air.

Kathi is a Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance (RYT 200 hrs). She has proved trainings in Ashtanga, Vinyasa and Yin Yoga as well as meditation and breathing techniques. 

All her classes take around 75 minutes and start with a nice grounding meditation and some breath work /pranayama. Then you would flow through the practice of asanas (physical poses) and end with a long nice conscious relaxation with either energetic cleansing with white sage or aromatherapy with essential oils to enhance the experience of deep relaxation.

Her classes are open to all pubic and levels, mats and props are provided. Classes can be also tailored to special needs and requests. The cost starts from US$25/per person depending on the group. Private classes are from US$50. Packages are available too and can be negotiated with Kathi directly. 

If you’re interested to sign up, please feel free to ask the reception for more details or do it directly from our website. Classes are open to the general public too. So even if you’re not staying at our hotel, please feel free to join us for a relaxing routine.

 

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Cultural event,  News,  THINGS TO DO

Dominican Carnival Traditions Come to Cabarete

Have you ever heard of the Dominican Carnival? Every time you hear talk about carnivals, you must immediately think of Brazil. However, Carnival or “Carnaval” in Spanish and Portuguese are not only characteristic of Brazil. The truth is that having large celebrations at the end of winter are common for most Latin American countries.

This tradition has deep religious roots. Thus carnivals are usually celebrated before Easter and, most importantly, before Lent, period of repentance and abstinence from all earthly sins. During the Spanish conquest when Carnival traditions came from Europe to Latin America, African descendants gave the celebration a distinctive touch with dances and masks.

And the Dominican Republic isn’t an exception.

The Dominican carnival traditions definitely have their own twist but they carry an incredible vibe and upbeat energy!

Every Sunday during the month of February, colorful parades take place in every major city and region around the country. La Vega Carnival is considered the oldest, largest, and most popular of all. Each area has its own distinct costumes, masks, and mystical characters inspired by the Dominican folkloric traditions and beliefs. There are some common characters that you will find in any parade: El Diablo Cojuelo, Roba La Gallina, Los Taimáscaros, etc

You will have a chance to meet these and other Dominican carnival characters in Cabarete on March 25. This colorful event filled with music, dances, art, history and joy of life will take place on the main Cabarete beach. Besides, Cabarete carnival is the only show of all Dominican carnivals that takes place on a beach. You can find more details on Cabarete carnival main website. 

If you plan to join the show and look for an accommodation, Velero Beach will be happy to welcome you. Please check our booking engine for price and availability. Or contact our manager Rusbel Acosta at reservations@velerobeach.com

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Cultural event,  Inspire DR,  News,  THINGS TO DO

Support InspireDR For a Future Community Center

This coming Saturday February 4 at Goddess Beach Club, you have a chance to participate in a fundraising event by the local non-profit organization InspireDR and contribute to the construction of a future Cabarete Community Center.

InspireDR provides free after-school and summer programs to teach boys practical life skills and instill positive values. Since 2015, they have helped more than 100 boys on their path toward being responsible men, husbands, and fathers.

Every year before the pandemic they organized a fundraising event to collect money towards more programming & course materials as well as new workshops and community events. 2 years after the last InspireDR fiesta, everyone is now invited to the new Carnival edition 2023.

This year’s goal is to raise necessary funds to build a community center in Cabarete. It’s expected to become a key element for the organization. Since it will bring the community together by sustaining a space for educational and cultural purposes.

Besides making a meaningful impact on the noble cause, all guests will enjoy live music (Concón Quemao), tasty food and drinks, silent and live auctions, raffles, carnival & dance performances, fire show, and much more.

To get more details and buy tickets, please click the link. And hope to see you there on Saturday, it will be fun!

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Sunset Grill permit from Public Health
News

Sunset Grill Gets an Official Public Health Permit

This 2023 year started with great news for Velero Beach Resort. Following a scrupulous inspection, our restaurant Sunset Grill obtained an official restaurant permit from the Dominican Public Health Department.

All food and beverage establishments are required to have this permit to operate as an official proof of their good practices. To obtain this permit, Sunset Grill has to demonstrate the compliance with all food safety and hygiene regulations.

Besides, we were asked to present a certification of compliance with tax obligations issued by the General Directorate of Internal Taxes, stating that the restaurant is up to date in the declaration or payment of all corresponding taxes. Moreover, the up-to-date balance sheet certification from the Social Security Treasury (TSS) is also on the list of requirements.

As a result of several comprehensive inspections, we’re proud to announce that our restaurant was officially recognized to be compliant with all current regulations. That’s why we’re happy to invite you to check our menu and visit us any day between 8am and 10pm. We’re open to public and we receive table reservations by phone +1 (809)-571-9727 or through our social media Fb and Ig.

Looking forward to welcoming you!

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Merry Christmas Velero Beach Resort Cabarete
News

Christmas Holidays at Velero Beach

Christmas is a magic time of the year. It’s not simply a holiday but also a time to reflect and give thanks to all people around us.

So we at Velero Beach Resort decided to join the Christmas celebrations and express our gratitude to our amazing and dedicated team. After all, it’s our staff that makes our guests experience at the hotel so remarkable and exceptional.

All our employees received a Christmas basket as a sign of appreciation for their effort and hard work. Besides, we also organized a Christmas sweepstakes so some members of the Velero Beach family got extra prizes, like a blender, fan, toaster oven and alike. Afterwards the team was invited to a special Christmas lunch.

It was such a joy to see everyone’s happy and grateful smile. Special thanks to our general manager Ebony Rodriguez who organized and coordinated this event.

And thanks to all our guests who chose to stay at Velero Beach this year. You’re our motivation and reason to keep working to higher quality and comfort standards.

Happy Holidays!

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