How to move around Cabarete: all the options plus local tips!
- Surfbreak Cabarete
- Feb 4
- 5 min read
This complete guide to getting around Cabarete explains all the main transportation options, how they work, typical prices, and their pros and cons. You’ll also learn why Surfbreak Cabarete is one of the best places to stay in Cabarete if you want easy access to town and consistent morning surf.
Public Transportation:
🚌 Guaguas
Guaguas are one of the most popular forms of local transportation in the Dominican Republic, including Cabarete. They are shared vans that run along the main road, connecting key towns. In this area, guaguas travel between Puerto Plata and Río San Juan, with Sosúa and Cabarete located between both cities.
⚙️ How it works
Guaguas don't have a fixed schedule. You can flag one down anywhere along the main road. You can also jump off at any point. Just let the driver know where you are heading. When you are close to your destination call "parada" out loud and the driver will stop for you. You pay when you get off.
💰Cost
Usually around RD $30 to RD $50 Dominican Pesos (about USD $0.50 to $1) when going either to Sosúa or to Cabarete. They will only accept local money and consider taking small change with you for a smoother experience.
✅ Pros
Cheapest way to move around Cabarete.
Frequent departures during the day.
Great for short trips within town or to nearby beaches.
⚠️ Cons
Can get crowded, especially during peak hours.
Not the most comfortable option for long rides.
Limited service late at night.
If you want to experience local life and save money, the guagua is a good choice. Just be ready for a bit of a squeeze and a lively ride.
Extra tip: You can get to Las Terrenas and Samaná by guagua. These do have a fix schedule. Check out the schedule here!
🚙 Carritos
Carritos are shared taxis that run along the main roads. They can look like regular taxis but carry multiple passengers going the same way. You can flag them down anywhere on the route as guaguas. They cost a bit more than guaguas but less than private taxis, and are a convenient option in the evening when guaguas run less often.
⚙️ How it works
You share the ride with other passengers, and people get on and off along the way, it’s normal and part of the local system.
💰Cost
Around RD $100 to get to Cabarete during the day, RD $200 at night.
✅ Pros
You can stop them down from almost anywhere along the main road.
Cheaper than private taxis.
Often available later than guaguas.
⚠️ Cons
You will travel with other passengers.
Cash only, small bills recommended.
They only operate along the main roads.
Overall, carritos are a practical and budget-friendly way to get around, especially in the evening, a simple and local option that sits right between guaguas and private taxis.
Private Transportation:
🏍️ Motoconchos (Motorcycle Taxis)
Motoconchos are motorcycle taxis and one of the fastest ways to travel short distances locally. They are very common and useful for quick point-to-point trips.
⚙️ How it works
Drivers usually wait at busy corners and popular spots. You can also save a driver’s number and call them directly. You ride as a passenger on the back of the motorcycle. They can fit two passengers.
💰Cost
Typically around RD $150–200 (about USD $2.5–4) depending on distance and prices can always vary.
✅ Pros
Very fast for short distances.
Easy to find.
Cheaper than taxis.
⚠️ Cons
Less safe and less comfortable than cars. No helmet provided.
Not ideal at night or in bad weather.
Not suitable with luggage or surfboards.
Motoconchos are a fast and affordable way to get around short distances — best when you’re traveling light and want the quickest local option.
🚕 Taxis
Taxis are widely available and offer the most comfortable and private way to get around Cabarete and it's surroundings. They are ideal for longer distances, airport transfers, getting around at night, or when traveling with luggage, and are especially practical for families or friends traveling together who prefer a direct and easy ride.
⚙️ How it works
Taxis can be stopped on the street, found at taxi stands, or booked by phone or WhatsApp through local drivers. Many hotels can also help arrange one for you.
💰Cost
Rides within town typically cost around RD $700–800 (about USD $11–12) depending on distance and time of day.
✅ Pros
Private and direct transportation.
Available day and night.
Best option with luggage or surf gear.
⚠️ Cons
More expensive than guaguas and carritos.
No fixed meter in most cases.
Price should be agreed before the ride.
Taxis can be convenient in Cabarete, but bear in mind that rates are not quite regulated so street taxis may sometimes quote higher prices to travelers unfamiliar with local rates. Using a trusted driver or booking through your hotel helps ensure fair rates and a smoother experience.
🚘 Car and Scooter Rentals
Renting a car or scooter gives you full freedom to explore Cabarete and the surrounding region at your own rhythm.
⚙️ How it works
Several rental agencies operate in Cabarete. You can rent vehicles usually for a minimum of 2 days on. A valid driver’s license and your passport are needed.
💰Cost
Car rentals start around USD $40 per day, while scooters can be rented for about USD $20 per day.
✅ Pros
Complete control over your schedule and destinations.
Ideal for visiting places that are far apart from the main road, or hidden beaches.
Scooters are easy to park and maneuver in town.
⚠️ Cons
Roads can be challenging for inexperienced drivers.
Traffic rules are not always strictly followed.
Parking can be limited in busy areas.
Renting is perfect if you want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots or if you prefer privacy and convenience.
Why Surfbreak Cabarete is the perfect base
Surfbreak Cabarete is ideally located to make moving around easy and enjoyable. It is located a few steps away from Encuentro Beach, so you can walk to the water in minutes every morning. At the same time, it is close to the main road that leads to other popular destinations like Kite Beach, downtown Cabarete, beautiful beaches in Sosúa and local restaurants.
😉 Only Pros
Walking distance to the surf, and all the basics, then hop on local transport to go anywhere else.
Perfectly located between Cabarete’s vibrant scene and Sosúa’s beautiful beaches.
Far enough from the noise, close enough to everything, only 10 minutes away!
Moving around Cabarete: Extra tips
Always carry small bills and coins for guaguas and motoconchos.
Ask your accommodation for trusted taxi contacts.
Confirm prices before starting any ride.
If renting a vehicle, check insurance coverage carefully.
Knowing these tips will help you navigate Cabarete smoothly and safely.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need more details or any other piece of advice.
At Surfbreak Cabarete we are always happy to help :)
If you don't have a reservation yet, check availability and prices here!
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