Hotels in Cabarete, what to look for?
We all love to take a vacation. Finding the “perfect hotel”, however, is another matter. There are many hotels in Cabarete that meet different needs and budgets. When choosing your ideal hotel in Cabarete, you may want to consider the following:
- Why do you want to come to Cabarete?
- Are you interested in water sports? What kind(s) of water sports?
- Are you interested in the vibrant night life and restaurants Cabarete has to offer?
- Are you looking for luxurious hotels, beach or oceanfront hotels, budget hotels, all inclusive resorts or are you looking for condos or apartments?
- What do you consider as necessities? Internet, 24/7 electricity, hot water, air conditioning, etc.?
Below is some general advice based on your needs and interests:
- The Dominican Republic is a third world country. One cannot assume that internet, 24/7 electricity, hot water and air conditioning are offered by all Cabarete hotels. If some things are important to you, be sure to ask specific questions and you won’t be surprised.
- For kiteboarders and kitesurfers, Kite Beach is world renowned for its consistent and superb on-shore wind conditions. There are several oceanfront hotels, condos and apartments located directly on Kite Beach. Kiteboarders and kitesurfers should look for accommodations on Kite Beach.
- For surfers, there are a few hotels, condos and apartments located on Encuentro Beach. This is the spot where local surfers go. Many folks surf in the morning and kite in the afternoon. You can travel between Encuentro Beach and Kite Beach using moto concho (Spanish for motor bike taxi) or guagua (Spanish for mini-van taxi). The fare each way is less than $1 US (usually about 40 pesos for one way).
- For windsurfers and those who enjoy the vibrant Cabarete night life and want to be within walking distance to all the bars and restaurants, there are many hotels and apartments located on or close by the Cabarete main beach. If you choose these locations, however, be aware that there will be loud music and loud noises from vehicles all night long.
- Be aware that credit cards are not widely used in Cabarete. All hotels, restaurants and stores that take credit card will charge up to 26% total taxes and there will be no discount on merchandise. Most restaurants will charge 26% taxes even if you pay in cash. Some hotels in Cabarete will offer a cash discount or waive taxes if you pay in cash. So, be sure to ask.
- For budget minded travelers, you can find basic accommodations off the beach, in areas where local Dominicans live, for as low as USD $10 per night. Cabarete hotels in this price range will have no air conditioning, no hot water, no internet and spotty electricity service.
- You can find hotel rooms with air conditioning right on the beach for as low as USD $50 per night. Some Cabarete hotels also offer discounted long term rental rates. The best thing to do is to send a bunch of inquiry e-mails or just walk along the beaches, visit each hotel and ask for their rates.
I would be more than happy to help and answer any other questions you may have. Please feel free to contact me.
Lucy
Owner, Kite Beach Inn