Ultimate Guide to Sosua Dominican Republic
UPDATE 4/14/2026: Sosua is still dead in the water. Our fingers are crossed that our favorite worst kept secret comes back to life. We have articles posted on the Daily Blog and at the bottom of this page, stay tuned for more updates!
Google Maps Link - all of our group recommended hotels, bars, restaurants and points of interest.
W&R Latin America What’s App Chat Group
SOSUA IMOL RANKINGS
Difficulty Level 8/10
GFE Level 5/10
Concerns: Petty theft, political/police corruption, poverty level, inadequate infrastructure , low English literacy rate, high hustle factor.
Why we go there: Beautiful Dominican and Haitian women congregated in large numbers every night along Pedro Clisante, all looking for foreign men.
Getting to Sosua
Airport Proximity: The nearest airport to Sosua is Puerto Plata Airport (POP), situated just ten minutes from downtown Sosua. Santiago Airport (STI) is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes away, while Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ) is a five-hour drive. Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) is located eight hours from Sosua.
For stays lasting less than 30 days, visas are required but you will need an official E-ticket on both arrival and departure. Please use the official website for the Department of Migracion Dominican Republic when filling out your E-ticket. There is NO CHARGE for the E-Ticket, beware of fraudulent websites trying to charge for the E-Ticket. If a payment screen comes up you are on the wrong site.
You can stay in the Dominican Republic for thirty days before being accessed an overstay fee. . If you fall in love and decide to stay longer it’s no big deal. Just pay the overstay fee at the airport and you’ll be free and clear to return to the country.
Overstay fees:
1 day – 3 months RD $2500, 3 – 9 months RD $4000, 9 – 12 months RD $5000, 12 – 18 months RD $6500, 18 – 24 months RD $8000, 24 – 30 months RD $9500, 30 – 36 months RD $11 000
Factor in the cost of r/t ground transportation from the various airports before purchasing your tickets. Hispaniola is a big island!
Our group taxi driver “Fernando” can be reached via WhatsApp at 1-829-889-4032
Ground Transportation from POP to Sosua - $35.00
Ground Transportation from STI to Sosua - $100.00
Ground Transportation from SDQ to Sosua - $175.00
Ground Transportation from PJU to Sosua - +$250.00
You’ll read on various websites that the taxi fare from POP to Sosua should be no more than $8.00. This is bad intel, $25.00 -$35.00 is the current range - look for the price sign located at each official taxi stand in town and at the airport.
Caribe Tours operates modern coach busses between Sosua and Santiago/Santo Domingo. Buses depart from their station in Charamicos on an hourly basis. No advance purchase is necessary or even possible, the booking option on their website hasn't worked in years.
For travelers who have arrived into either STI or SDQ airports Caribe Tours provides an economical method of reaching the North Coast.
From SDQ grab an uber and head to the Caribe Tours station located next to Zone Colonial. It will take roughly 30 minutes depending on traffic. Once at the bus terminal just go to the ticket window and purchase a ticket to Sosua. The buses leave once per hour. They also offer express buses up to five times a day, those buses skip Santiago and make the trip in just under four hours. Unfortunately the times for those buses changes constantly and there isn't a reliable source. Just check the timetable when you arrive and if the express is an option, grab it.
From STI, take a taxi or Uber to the Santiago Caribe Tour station. It will take 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Buses depart hourly until 7pm.
Take a sweater, the bus will be cold due to the AC. The buses are modern coaches and some even have wifi.
Five quick tips:
All travelers must fill out the Dominican E-Ticket before flying in or out of the country. The E-Ticket is free of charge and available on the government tourism website.
There are Official Taxi stands located outside of arrivals at each of the airports. Look for the sign and the guys wearing matching polo shirts. Adjacent to each of the stands is signage clearly listing the exact fare from the airport to various destinations. Beware of people posing as official taxi drivers or guys trying to help you with your bags.
Petty theft is rampant in the Dominican Republic. Pick pockets, phone theft and scams are prevalent. Protect yourself by using the hotel room safe and only carrying a limited amount of cash on your person.
ATM phishing is also a major problem. Avoid using stand alone machines. Try to use only the ATM's that are attached to physical bank locations. Check the machine for any signs of tampering.
Negotiate the price for everything before accepting the product or service. Always negotiate in Pesos not Dollars.
Sosua Overview:
Sosua stands as a coastal town on the North Shore of the Dominican Republic, a nation situated on the eastern side of the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean, sharing its landmass with Haiti. The second largest island in the Caribbean basin Hispaniola and the Dominican Republic also hosts the tallest mountain range - Pico Duarte elevation 10,174ft. Traveling from the Santo Domingo on the south coast of the island to Sosua on the north coast can take over five hours. A trip from Punta Cana on the east coast of the island to Sosua can exceed eight hours.
With a current population of around 15 million based on the latest United Nations data projections, the Dominican Republic grapples with persistent challenges despite economic advancements in the past decade. Poverty remains a significant issue, and the country lags behind globally in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, holding lower rankings in these areas. Sosua gained prominence in the early 2000s as a destination for men's travel, a reputation associated with the legality and widespread practice of prostitution in the Dominican Republic.
Sosua witnessed a downturn starting in 2012, primarily attributed to prevalent issues such as widespread prostitution, governmental corruption, and inadequate infrastructure. The impact on Sosua was further exacerbated during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Historically, the relationship between the Dominican Republic and Haiti has been complex, marked by periods of tension and cooperation. The two countries share the island of Hispaniola and a long history of political, economic, and social interactions. There is a large population of Haitians living in the Dominican Republic. Massive deportations are a common occurrence and single Haitian women are often singled out by the police in Sosua. It is not uncommon for a Haitian woman to quickly grab the hand of a foreign man when the police drive by.
Without trying to cast stereotypes and fully acknowledging our subjective perspective, most of our members have observed that individuals from Haiti often demonstrate higher educational levels, greater fluency in English, a more affable disposition, and a perceived higher level of trustworthiness compared to their counterparts from the Dominican Republic. If you are looking for a long term relationship your odds of success are probably higher with a Haitian than a Dominican - there we said it.
Incidents of crime in Sosua predominantly involve petty theft, extortion, and instances of domestic violence. Tourists should exercise caution regarding organized pickpocket networks that operate in the area. It is advisable to refrain from displaying expensive jewelry and carrying excessive amounts of currency.
Keeping valuable belongings securely locked within the hotel room safe when hosting overnight guests is highly recommended. We call the “Chica Proofing” your room. Lock up or hide all of your valuable BEFORE you head out for the evening.
To enhance personal safety, it is wise to avoid walking alone on poorly lit streets during the evening hours. When using ATMs, opt for machines located at bank branches with armed security guards for added security. Banco Popular next to the Sosua Inn / Baliees is recommended.
In the event of arrest or requiring police assistance, it is recommended to request the presence of a CESTURE police officer. CESTURE officers, serving as the tourist police, are known for their tourist-friendly approach compared to local police. For emergency assistance, dial 911.
Hotels and Accommodations in Sosua
Best Hotels in Sosua, based on W&R pro member reviews. ALL are guest friendly
Owned by a friend of the group, Frank.
Centrally located yet offers peaceful rooms away from the street noise.
Upscale setting with a swimming pool, on-site restaurant/bar, night security, and in-room safe.
A close runner-up for the best hotel.
Upscale setting in the downtown area with secure premises.
Features a swimming pool, on-site restaurant/bar (Bailee's), rooftop club, night security, and in-room safe.
A lively atmosphere with individuals around day and night.
One of the newer hotels, meeting essential criteria.
Downtown location, secure property, swimming pool, on-site restaurant/bar, night security, and in-room safe.
Despite the name, not directly on the beach but in close proximity.
100 yards from Playa Alicia and a short stroll from Sosua's red-light district.
Offers security, in-room safes, swimming pool, and a restaurant.
Located in the red-light district, this hotel caters to a specific clientele.
Secure location, restaurant, and a significant number of "guests" coming in and out.
Close to Playa Alicia and the center of Sosua.
Secure property with comfortable rooms (opt for a rear room to reduce road noise).
On-site bar and restaurant.
Collection of studios and one-bedroom condos, four blocks from the red-light district.
Clean and well-maintained complex with night security, gated access, and a pool.
Guest-friendly but with a focus on maintaining a respectful atmosphere.
Smaller complex located on David Stern
Excellent bar and restaurant on site.
Very clean facilities.
We have two members who own AirBnB rentals in Sosua. Frank’s condo is located inside Club Residential right downtown. Eric’s AirBnB villa is located up the hill from Casa Valeria and offers a quieter upscale experience - message Danny via WhatsApp for their private contacts.
Family-Friendly Options:
Casa Marina, Infiniti Blu, The Marriott, and high-end hotels in Cabarete.
Verify guest policies before booking at these family oriented businesses.
Short Time - the “Cabana’s”
Rented by the hour, known as "Cabana's" in the Dominican Republic. Popular options include Dulce Secreto which is located in the Playa Chiquita district just down from the casino. Bar Central located ob the strip in downtown Sosua also has short time rooms available. Price range is 700 - 1000 pesos for three hours. These types of facilities exist across the entire country and are frequented by Dominicans and foreigners alike.
Not only does Bar Central offer short time rooms on Pedro Clisante, they also have decent budget friendly long term rooms which can be rented by the week/month. They have a swimming pool in the back plus generator back up power. Reserve a room via airbnb $250.00 per week
Using the Cabana’s or short time rooms are advantageous for many reasons. It’s a great way to spend time with a girl without inviting her back to your hotel room. Do not be embarrassed about using these facilities, it’s actually kind of fun. Especially Dulce Secreto and the garage doors…you’ll see.
Rental Villas:
The residential side of Sosua has changed dramatically over the last four years. Communities like Residential Hispaniola and Casa Linda which used to be primarily short term villa rentals have evolved into full blown residential communities with full time family's residing in them. Most of those families are from North America, Europe and Russia. Point being, five years ago you could rent a villa and party until sunrise without a single complaint. Those days are gone. Renting a villa these days is like playing Russian roulette, especially if you are intent on hosting late night guests and having any amount of fun. Get the wrong villa with the wrong neighbor and you'll have security at your door before your bags are unpacked. Make sure your host or landlord provides the villa rules, community policies and deposit requirements in writing.
We may have missed the glory days but you can still have fun in Sosua. Continue reading this page… we’ll get you there.
Exchanging Money and Banking in Sosua
When it comes to accessing cash in Sosua, Banco Popular on ALEJO MARTINEZ street, next to Sosua Inn and Captain Bailees restaurant, hosts thest widely used ATM in the area. It's important to note that this ATM can occasionally run out of money, especially during busy weekends.
Another option is La Nacional Bank, located across the street from Playero, offering the highest withdrawal limit in Sosua at 20,000 pesos. Note: It's crucial to inform your financial institution about your international travel plans.
*** Use only the bank located ATM's. Those that are physically attached to the financial institution. Check the machine carefully for tampering before using.
Quite a few of us have opened accounts with Charles Schwab Bank.
When you open a Schwab Bank checking account and get the linked debit card. No monthly fees and no foreign transaction / atm fees.
Major airports also have ATMs for your convenience. At Puerto Plata airport (POP), you can find an ATM to the left of the exit doors. Santo Domingo airport (SDQ) has a bank of ATMs next to Burger King after exiting baggage claim. Santiago Airport (STI) has an ATM at the far end of the terminal.
Currency exchange is conveniently available at exchange booths located along Pedro Clisante. For private exchanges, you can contact Mr. Marpecho via WhatsApp at 1 (809) 491-3024. Additionally, a group of trustworthy Dominican men in front of El Conde restaurant offers favorable rates. Avoid using airport currency exchanges, known for unfavorable rates and high fees.
Western Union offers both online and in-person money transfer services. Cash can be collected worldwide at any Western Union agent location by providing the 10-digit MTCN (Money Transfer Control Number) and identification. For cost efficiency, consider sending funds USD to USD upon receipt. Western Union is located downtown Sosua across the street from Playero Super Market on Rt 5
Prostitution in the Dominican Republic
The worlds oldest profession takes a distinct form compared to North American prostitution. Unlike in North America, the majority of women involved in prostitution in the Dominican Republic are not drug addicts, and they operate independently. Many of these women, typically younger, engage in this activity on weekends to supplement their income by forming relationships with foreign men. The legal status of prostitution in the Dominican Republic is somewhat ambiguous; it is neither explicitly legal nor illegal, as there is no specific law addressing it in the constitution. However, laws against pimping, soliciting, or advertising on behalf of prostitutes are in place, along with strict regulations against child prostitution.
Dominican prostitutes consider themselves as self-employed, asserting control over their choices, clients, time allocation, and pricing. They maintain autonomy, as long as their actions do not infringe upon the rights of others.
Historically, women coming to Sosua were college-aged individuals looking to earn extra income on weekends. They would travel from Santo Domingo and Santiago, conducting their interactions discreetly inside nightclubs like Classico's and the old Rhumba bar. However, the old, more discreet version of Sosua and those types of women are no longer prevalent. Presently, prostitution in Sosua has acquired a negative reputation even among the local population. Most Dominican women residing outside of Sosua decline to visit, and those who do often keep it a secret from friends and family. Today, street-level prostitution is common in Sosua, and the women involved often adopt a more overtly provocative appearance.
Pro Tip: Chica Proof your room before you go out for the night. Secure all valuables in the hotel safe, hide anything that you don’t want to go missing. This includes clothing, cologne, jewelry, electronics..
Pro Tip: Confirm age through valid ID, do not take her if she does not have ID - this is a non-negotiable.
Always negotiate in Pesos not Dollars. Its also not a bad idea to verify the terms in writing via Google Translate, save a copy of the translation. Any disputes are best handled by resolving them quickly and calmly. Involving the police will almost always complicate issues. We use the term “Pay them to go away”. Simply put, give her some money, ask her to leave and continue on with your holiday.
Short-time hotel rooms as discussed above are suggested for brief sexual encounters or for vetting new relationships in Sosua. Dulce Secreto in Playa Chiquita and Bar Central on Pedro Clisante in downtown Sosua are our recommended short-time hotel options.
HOLD THE LINE~ The cost for a short-term encounter with a girl in Sosua typically ranges from 1500.00 to 3000.00 pesos for one hour. Feel free to include a "propina" (tip) and payment for her motoconcho (50-100 pesos depending on distance). Paying more than 3000.00 pesos for short-time encounters is discouraged.
For a long-time or overnight experience with a girl in Sosua, the cost ranges from 2500.00 to 6000.00 pesos, depending on the individual. You’ll have to make the decision based on the girl as to what you are willing to pay. A good tactic is to start out with a short time and if everything goes offer additional money to spend the entire evening with you.
Be warned, some of these girls can be very difficult to deal with after you get them back to the room. Asking for more money, rushing you through the experience. Don’t get discouraged if you start having a bad experience with a girl. Chalk it up as a loss, pay her to go away and then start your search over.
Pro tip: Never tell the girls that this it is your first trip to Sosua. They will assume that you will be easy to take advantage of..
Some of the girls will highball on the first quote asking for 5,000 pesos for short time. They are feeling you out. Just roll your eyes and walk away! She will re-engage and when she does offer her a reasonable amount in pesos - see above. If she declines walk away again, they almost always follow.
The term "happy hour" refers to a three way with two women and one male. These can be a lot of fun, they can also be problematic. Our advice is to find one girl that you like, feel her out, if you think she is semi dependable ask her to find a a friend for Happy Hour. Just be warned there have been noted instances of organized theft occurring during one of these sessions. Make sure your valuables are locked up.
Where can you find a prostitute in Sosua?
The highest concentration of "chicas" (prostitutes) in Sosua is along Pedro Clisante (the Strip) near King's Sports Bar and Bar Central . This is a high traffic zone with the girls at night. You will see them standing along the street and walking from bar to bar looking for customers. It is literally like fishing in a barrel.
During the day girls can be found on Playa Sosua walking along the first section of beach. Dominic’s Bar is a great spot to grab a table and watch the girls. Note: there is a redevelopment project currently underway on Playa Sosua. All of the beach bars will eventually be removed. Enjoy it while it lasts boys.
Captain Bailee's Restaurant at the Sosua Inn Hotel is another high volume location for those seeking companionship. Morning, noon and evening you will see girls milling about in front of Bailee’s and in the park across the street.
Late at night, girls and prostitutes gather at the Playa Chiquita Casino/Disco, go in after 11pm.
Walking down Pedro Clisante after 8pm can be challenging due to the amount of girls on the street. You will not have an issue finding companionship in Sosua.
The Haitian difference. - It is our opinion that the Haitian girls circulating around town are much easier to deal with than the Dominican's. Most of the Haitian girls speak English, are usually more trustworthy and are in general terms, less problematic. The odds of having a true GFE experience are also much higher with the Haitian girls. Bar Central, Cheers and Smiley's are good spots to hang out if you're looking to meet a beautiful Haitian girl.
Over the last few years there has been a marked increase in the number of Ladyboys operating along Pedro Clisante in the evening hours. These men dressed as women often use deceptive practices to lure unsuspecting males into sexual encounters. Unlike Thailand, the Dominican Ladyboys are usually very easy to spot.
GFE - girlfriend experience.
Relationships between Dominicans and foreigners in Sosua have a very low success rate due to the many cultural differences. This is especially true for anyone who mistakingly falls in love with a street girl. Simply put, this is not the place to fall in love with a prostitute. The dating apps are also problematic, more on that below. IF you are seriously looking for a relationship we would strongly advise looking for a girl who is currently employed. Waitresses, bartenders, hotel employees etc. Your odds go up even more if the girl is of Haitian decent.
The term "Sanky Panky" is used to describe Dominican men taking financial advantage of foreign women, a phenomenon that is very common. Gringa’s ( foreign women ) get conned and hustled almost as much as the guys. Especially in Cabarete where most of the foreign girls hang out.
The Dating Apps
Every site discussing Sosua will inevitably have affiliate links to the various Latin America dating sites, not us. The truth is that the “dating” site are not used for dating. 95% of the women on them are NOT looking for boyfriends, they are looking for short time paid hook ups. Especially any girl with the word Sosua in her bio or as her location. If you are seriously looking for a girlfriend, try a different country.
Now that you know that, fire away with those profiles and messaging. A few safety tips.
Profile pics are bait, ask for a video chat to confirm before engaging in long messaging campaigns.
Send zero money before meeting them in person. No honey, No money!
The Caribe bus from Santo Domingo to Sosua costs less than 800 pesos
Never commit to anything over 24hrs for an initial meeting. You can always ask to extend if everything goes well.
Read rule #2
Rental vehicles + driving in the Dominican Republic
Sosua boasts the convenience of being a pedestrian town, making it an excellent feature. Most hotels are within easy walking distance of both beaches and the vibrant nightlife. While you might choose a moto concho ride back to your accommodations later in the evening, there's generally little necessity for a rental vehicle.
Driving is not recommended in the Dominican Republic due to high fatality rates and potential liability issues. Foreigners are often deemed immediately at fault for accidents and expected to cover damages and injuries out of pocket. If you get into an accident the locals will use it as an opportunity to scam you for money. There is no such thing as honesty and integrity in the Dominican Republic.
There is also a known scam involving rental agencies holding passports for extortion, claiming damage to the vehicle. Never leave your passport with a rental agency, and document the vehicle through photographs or videos before accepting the keys.
OK Motors stands out as the most recommended car rental service in Sosua. Enterprise Car Rental at the airport has been getting positive reviews also.
Insurance on Rental Vehicles is a must have but beware, most of the rental companies will demand payment in cash for any damages regardless of insurance. Be sure to take a video of the rental vehicle noting any dings, scratches or problems before signing the contract and leaving the lot. Have all of the imperfections noted on your contract.
Buggy and ATV rentals are available through Alberto Tours on the entry road to Playa Sosua. Lorenzo's Tours also offers buggy tours and rentals; they can be contacted on WhatsApp at 1-786-853-3332.
Motorcycle, ATV and scooter rentals are offered throughout town. Dominican law requires the operator of the vehicle to wear a helmet. This law is unevenly enforced with foreigners most often targeted for infractions.
Drinking in the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic boasts Presidente as its most favored beer, with an average cost of 180 pesos per bottle. Another popular local brew is Bohemia. A Dominican beer-drinking tradition involves serving the beverage ice-cold, often with bottles adorned in a layer of frost, affectionately termed a "Dominican Wedding Dress." Beers are available in various sizes, with "Pequina" representing the standard bottle size, while "Grande" and "Jumbo's" cater to those seeking larger options.
When it comes to rum, the Dominican Republic proudly houses two major players, Brugal and Barcelo. Both brands enjoy widespread acclaim for their quality and are considered excellent choices for rum enthusiasts.
Mamajuana is a traditional and popular drink in the Dominican Republic. It is often referred to as a Dominican Viagra. The beverage is typically made by steeping a combination of various herbs, bark, roots, and honey in a mixture of rum, red wine, and honey. The specific recipe for Mamajuana can vary, families, individuals and establishments may have their own unique variations.
Since COVID the price of beer in the Dominican Republic has been steadily rising. Most notably the cost of a bottle of Presidente. The day's of 50 peso beer have long past. Most establishments are now charging at least 180 pesos per beer. The former New York Yankee, Texas Ranger and Seattle Mariner Alex Rodriguez became the new chairman and co-owner of Presidente in 2019... coincidence?
Pro tip: Keep a close eye on your tab when drinking in Sosua.
Communication:
Spanish is essential for effective communication outside the main tourist zones, where most Dominicans do not speak English. Having Google Translate on your phone is crucial. Either download Spanish into the app (works when no data is available ) or make sure you have international roaming or a Dominican SIM card.
Altice and Claro are the primary cellular services, and most U.S. phones will function if International Roaming is activated through your carrier. Having cellular data is essential in the Dominican Republic. Relying on WiFi access can be problematic. Free wifi zones in the DR are not widespread.
Essential Phone Apps: WhatsApp is the most common messaging app. Google Maps is great for directions and works well in the Dominican Republic. Tinder and Dominican Cupid are common dating Apps. Be sure to get live video verification before interacting with anyone on the dating apps.
Key phrases and words in Spanish: The easiest is Hello; Hola!
What is your name: Como es tu nombre
Please: Por favor
Thank You: Gracias
How much: ¿Cuánto cuesta? (for asking about the price)
No Thank You: No, gracias
I do not understand: No entiendo
Where: ¿Dónde?
I would like a cold beer: Me gustaría una cerveza fría.
Rum and Coke: Cuba libre
Pro Tip: The key to Sosua is finding the bar that fits your personality. Grab a seat, enjoy a cold beverage, strike up a conversation and let the girls come to you. It won't take long.
What is a “Simp”? You’ll inevitably hear this word associated in conversations regarding Sosua. Lets take a moment to explain.
"Simp" is an internet slang term referring to someone overly sympathetic or attentive, often over pursuing affection or a sexual relationship. This behavior, known as simping, is generally discouraged. We talk a lot about “Simps” in the chat groups and Sosua is a Mecca for them. Be wary about any and all financial requests coming out of the DR. “I’m in the hospital”, “My child is sick”, “I need money for food” - are almost always lies. Don’t fall for it.
Relationships between Dominicans and foreigners in Sosua have a low success rate due to cultural differences. This is not the place to fall in love with a street girl.
The term "Sanky Panky" is used to describe Dominican men taking financial advantage of foreign women, a phenomenon that is unfortunately also common.
While some travelers may visit the Dominican Republic seeking sexual services, many prostitutes and hustlers assume that any tourist can be easily convinced to engage in such transactions. Travelers not interested in sex work have reported persistent harassment, sometimes even physical, by hustlers and prostitutes during the nighttime. If approached by a prostitute, a firm "No" and walking away are usually sufficient. Avoiding the downtown "strip" in Sosua during evening hours is recommended to steer clear of prostitution.
Over the recent years we have seen a trend of guys coming into Sosua and putting the girls up on a pedestal. This needs to stop. Never let the girls control the conversation or think they have the upper hand. This always equates into paying too much and/or bad behavior from the girls. Be polite, be a gentleman but be clear about your expectations and the amount of compensation. Any hesitation, generosity or compassion on your part will be viewed as a weakness and preyed upon.
Bars and Nightlife in Sosua
Discovering the vibrant scene in Sosua is a must. The designated red light district in Sosua is commonly referred to as the "strip," a relatively compact area within downtown Sosua. Its starting point is at the intersection of Pedro Clisante Street and Dr. Rosen Blvd, extending for three blocks down Pedro Clisante street and concluding near Duarte street, close to the Coral Reef Casino. This particular section of town is infamous for its vibrant nightlife and the prevalence of prostitution.
Update: Classico’s on Pedro Clisante is reopening in late June of this year. The building is currently undergoing a major renovation. Closed in 2018 - Classico’s reopening could dramatically change things on the strip. Stay tuned…
Establishments along the strip include King's "Rhumba" Sports Bar where you can watch the big game or watch the street life. Good food, great service and cold beer. Fat Jesse's American BBQ is also located directly on the strip. Great ribs, brisket and burgers.
MJ’s on Pedro Clisante (pictured above) is owned by one of our group members. Make sure to stop in and say hello! Cold beer, great food, sports on the TV’s and always a good conversation. This bar was formerly known as Matteos.
Captain Baliee's is a Sosua institution. Good food, drinks and service plus a constant parade of girls looking for guys. Most afternoons you will find girls sitting inside Bailees slowly sipping on a beer or soft drink while they look for customers.
Sliced is a new rooftop pizza bar located above Chez Montreal overlooking Pedro Clisante. - Great viewpoint for surveying the strip!
Bar Central located across the street from Kings has a mixture of European and North American cliental hanging around the bar. City Lights which is half a block up Pedro Clisante is known as the Haitian girl dance spot. Stop by later in the evenings to catch the girls doing their thing.
Coco Loco's, Jolly Roger, Matteos, and Chez Montreal along with various smaller bars, restaurants, and cafes fill out the rest of the strip.
Blue Ice is a small club located just around the corner on Dr. Rosen Blvd. Airconditioned, beautiful Latina servers, DJ and good quality drinks. If you are looking for something a bit more sophisticated than the sports bars, Blue Ice might be it. FYI, the girls working in here are usually quite open to late night room calls.
Flip Flops is renowned for his taco’s, YouTube videos and his bar is a great spot to watch a game!
Venturing farther down Pedro Clisante and away from the strip you will find a wide assortment of EXPAT and Dominican owned bars.
Ramona's located at Hotel Europa is a great spot for a cold beer or a quick meal. She has both an airconditioned restaurant and an outside bar on the premises, the later is great for people / chica watching.
Smiley's and Cheers sit opposite of each other on Pedro Clisante. Both bars feature live music and both have their share of beautiful latin women strolling in and out.
Pro Tip: Smiley’s is one of our favorite bars in town. Beautiful girls tending bar and it tends to have a more discerning assortment of freelance girls hanging around after 8pm. (pictured below)
The Copacabana is a 24hr bar which operates off of a side street near Margot’s. (it’s listed on our Google Maps or ask any moto driver). Walk into this place AFTER 1am, you’ll find a wide assortment of expats, tourists, prostitutes, drug dealers etc. All drinking together at the bar - it’s completely safe and they serve food.
Patience is key when it comes to dining in the Dominican Republic. Do not expect the same level of service that we enjoy in North America. You should expect to experience longer wait times, the occasional incorrect order and a general lack of urgency amongst most of the staff. That said, the food is usually delicious once it makes it to the table.
The following restaurants are some of our favorites in Sosua and have garnered popularity among our Whiskey & Rum Pro members.
Hard Rock Cafe: Believe it or not, Sosua is getting a brand new Hard Rock Cafe and it is opening soon. Located in the plaza directly across from Banco Popular.
Casa Veintiuno: Tucked away in a neighborhood directly across the street from Playa Sosua. Most tourists have never heard of this amazing boutique hotel and restaurant. We have gone to great lengths to keep it that way.. Looking for a chill dining experience next to a beautiful swimming pool, an incredible steak or a fresh bowl of handmade pasta? This is the spot. (This is not the place to roll in with six hookers from the street.)
El Paraiso Restaurant: Located up the hill past Residential Hispaniola. This is another well kept secret. Amazing view, fantastic food and excellent service. 10 minutes from downtown Sosua but high enough up that you'll feel the difference.
Mango's: This Andre's restaurant (former GM of Hispaniola Diners Club) and it is located downtown next to El Conde. Killer steaks, seafood and pasta. Impressive service and really strong drinks.
Hispaniola's Diners Club: Connected to Residential Hispaniola this is one of our favorite restaurants in Sosua. Great view, atmosphere and incredible food.
Margot: Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Steaks, burgers, pizza this restaurant does everything and it does it well. Hands down the best sushi in Sosua.
El Conde: Located at the end of Dr. Rosen Street. Look at the picture of the hamburgers. Do we need to say more?
The Waterfront and Steven Cafe, both situated on Playa Alicia, great choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and a breathtaking oceanfront view. We tie these two together because we can never decide which one we like better.
Captain Bailees: nestled in the Sosua Inn hotel complex, not only serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner but also features a sports bar and rooftop bar (currently closed). Note that prostitutes often gather outside Bailees, they can actually get kind of annoying.
Ramona's at the Europa Hotel. She actually has three spots at the Europa, patio bar out in front of the lobby, pool bar (when it's open) inside the complex and an air-conditioned restaurant connected to the main building. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night snacks.
Bollywood List: A new Indian restaurant located across from New Garden Hotel.
Dolci e Sapori: located one block north of the strip on Pedro Clisante, is renowned for serving the best breakfast in town. This cafe is so nice you wonder how it came to be in Sosua.
Sosua has two incredible BBQ joints. Crazy Ranch and Fat Jesse's: Crazy Ranch is situated between Sosua and Cabarete, smoked brisket, ribs, chicken and wings, — 5-minute cab ride to reach this spot and it is well worth it. Fat Jesse's on located directly on the strip. Two American brothers from Atlanta own it and they know what they are doing. Killer ribs, wings, chicken and a view of the strip.
Best seafood: It's found on Playa Sosúa, where Dominics, El Velero, and Mofongo King are solid choices for grilled lobster and fried whole snapper.
Best pizza: Try Margot's, Osteria Toscana, and New Garden Hotel. Satisfy late-night cravings with Call A Pizza.
Best Mexican: Flip Flop Taco Shop, located inside the plaza above Playa Sosúa, is your go-to for Mexican delights, including tacos and burritos, coupled with a lively sports bar atmosphere.
Osteria Toscana located just just above Playa Sosua opposite of Flip Flop Tacos. Great Italian food and wood fired pizza
Best off the grid: Hotel Voramar in Playa Chiquita boasts a fantastic restaurant and poolside cabana bar, drawing in European tourists.
If you are willing to venture outside of Sosua: La Catalina Restaurant sits perched up on a mountain overlooking the entire North Coast. Twenty minute drive and worth every minute. Make sure you go in time to catch sunset… this is one of the nicest restaurants in the entire Dominican Republic.
Be aware that this place gets busy on the weekends. Live music and lots of affluent Dominicans from Santiago. The BMW's, Mercedes and Range Rovers in the parking lot will let you know that you are in the correct place. FYI: the helicopter pad just got repaved.
Cabarete
Cabarete is town located just 10 miles up the coast from Sosua. It’s a small coastal city with a strong surfer vibe, in fact Encuentro Beach is one of the best surfing destinations in the entire Caribbean. Cabarete is also a favorite destination for Europeans and French Canadians. You’ll find a lot of cafe’s, beach front restaurants and even a few late night clubs along Cabarete Beach.
Kiteboarding and windsurfing are huge in Cabarete. You’ll see hundreds of them out in the water every afternoon. If you're looking for nicer accommodations and more relaxed atmosphere - Cabarete is your spot. Just note, you’ll need to go into Sosua if you're looking for companionship.
Black Beards Adult Resort:
Located in Costambar, Black Beards is just a few clicks outside of Puerto Plata. Think of this place like a Best Western hotel, only with a full time staff of prostitutes. There are usually 15-20 girls sitting beside the swimming pool from 10am until 10pm. It’s literally point and click. All of the girls rates are clearly posted, there is even a menu card in the rooms listing the fees.
Bar and restaurant on the premises and a nice beach just a short walk away. The great thing about Black Beards is the fact that there is no negotiation, and no nonsense. This is a great place to get your feet wet before jumping into Sosua. That said, it can get a little boring, believe that or not. We recommend three days at Black Beards and then continuing your vacation at a hotel in Sosua. Don’t even think about taking one of the girls from Black Beards into Sosua with you… sand to the beach.
Excursions:
Monkey Jungle - hand feed Monkeys, zip lines, shooting range and an incredible view.
27 Waterfalls of Damajagua - 27 waterfalls is located just 20 minutes from Puerto Plata. Arrange your own transportation (taxi) and pay for a guide at the tour center. Much cheaper than using the commercial tour companies.
One Buggy & ATV Sosua - jump in a dune buggy or ATV and follow the guides back into the jungle river basin or down to a remote beach. Contact Lorenzo on WhatsApp 786-853-3332
Scuba Diving - Pablo at Aqua Adventures located at the entrance to Playa Sosua. We strongly recommend doing the shipwreck dive, it is absolutely the best dive on the North Coast.
If you're not yet in the know about Sosúa's Copa Cabana bar, consider this your wake-up call—it's a rite of passage for anyone chasing the SU’s wilder side.