10+ Things to do in Monte Cristi
San Fernando de Monte Cristi, or Monte Cristi as it is commonly called, is not your typical tourist destination. Nevertheless, it is packed with things to do. Many of the things to do in Monte Cristi are low or no cost. If you are looking for a low budget Dominican vacation or a destination in the Dominican Republic that won’t blow your budget. Add Monte Cristi to you vacation bucket list. It’s a must visit destination.
Here is our list of 10+ things to do in Monte Cristi, Dominican Republic.
Aquatic Activities
1. Tour the Mangroves, Swim in the Natural Pools and Picnic on Isla Cabra
First, you tour leisurely through Monte Cristi’s mangrove forest. Then, you arrive at the natural pools for a refreshing swim. At the pools you’ll find its unique sand that’s perfect for exfoliating your skin. Afterwords, your final destination is Isla Cabra where you can explore the island, swim, snorkel and have a quite lunch on the beach.
2. Scuba Diving/Snorkeling
Monte Cristi has a multitude of places to scuba dive and snorkel. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, Monte Cristi Bay has something for you. Monte Cristi bay is known as the “ship graveyard of the Caribbean.” It is the final resting place of over 450 sunken galleons and shipwrecks.
The Monte Cristi barrier reef is the largest reef formation in the Dominican Republic. It is nearly 40 miles (64.2 km) of barrier reef. The bay contains nearly 90% of all the country’s live coral reef. You’ll find more than 700 species of coral in the reef beds.
There is not a better place in the Dominican Republic to scuba diving or snorkeling than Monte Cristi. Scuba diving and snorkeling in Monte Crisiti is a paradise for reef and wreck seekers.
3. Fishing
Bountiful coral reef make Monte Cristi’s waters are a great place for sport and deep sea fishing. Some of the species commonly caught inshore are barracuda, blue runner, and sea bass. Offshore species commonly caught are bonito, mahi mahi, Snapper, blue marlin, sailfish and wahoo.
4. Kayaking
Explore the Monte Cristi National Park or navigate down the Yaque river in a kayak. A guided kayaking tour is an unobtrusive way to explore the magnificent costal estuaries and observe Monte Cristi’s abundant wildlife.
Ecological/Outdoor Activities
5. Birdwatching
Monte Cristi is a coastal town with many natural estuaries. Moreover, it is warm year-round. These conditions are perfect for endemic and migratory birds. Consequently, Monte Cristi is very attractive for birdwatching. Late April to early September are the best times to see nesting seabirds. You will find Brown Noddy, Sooty Tern and Bridled Tern nesting on the Cayos Siete Hermanos during these months.
Laguna Saladilla is also a popular birding area. Many wintering duck arrive beginning from mid-January to late March.
6. Climbing the Morro
Experience Monte Cristi in an unique way. The Morro has two hills that can be hiked. As a matter of fact, each hill offers stunning views of the city and the ocean. Each is perfect for stargazing.
7a. Camping
Camping is a popular outdoor activity everyone can enjoy. Camp on Isla Cabra, the Morro or one of the local beaches. Without a doubt, camping in Monte Cristi is one of the best ways to enjoy the city at night.
7b. Stargazing
Here’s a bonus activity to do while camping, stargazing. These are two great guides to the sky websites to help you identify the stars and planets in the night sky, In the Sky and The Sky Live. When you visit the sites, set your location to get a star map of the night sky.
8. Relaxing on the beach
There is nothing better than spending time relaxing on a beautiful beach! Monte Cristi has a coastline lined with beaches. El Morro beach is the most famous beach. However, there are several other great beaches along coastline that you can enjoy. Playa Juan de Bolaños is a beach on the Malecon. While La Playita is a small beach in front of el Morro Hotel. In addition, there are two beaches in Costa Verde. The first beach is in front of El Cayito. The second, the beach is at the end of the road. Finally, Don’t forget La Granja! It’s a secluded beach on the eastern side of the Morro.
Cultural/Historical Activities
9. Museums
Monte Cristi has a rich and varied history. Its history began before the arrival of Christopher Columbus and it continues. Taino indians, pirates, revolution and shipwrecks are some of the interesting aspects of Monte Cristi’s history.
First, visit the Maximo Gomez Museum, then visit the Salt Interpretation Center. After that, visit the Maritime Archeological Museum to learn about Monte Cristi’s wonderful history.
10. Historical Homes
Monte Cristi’ has the highest density of historical homes of any city in the Dominican Republic. Many of the homes from the late 19th and early 20th century are still standing. Leisurely stroll the city’s streets to see different styles of Victorian and Neo-classical architecture.
Conclusion
All in all, there are more things to do in Monte Cristi than meets the eye. You can find many aquatic, ecological and cultural and historical activities to enjoy. Come to Monte Cristi. Experience it! Explore it today!
For more ideas for things to do in Monte Cristi and popular attractions to see, check out our Things to do and the Attractions pages or read 10 Things to do in Monte Cristi Province to get more ideas of things to do in the province.
Did we miss anything? Do you have ideas of things to do in Monte Cristi? Share your ideas with us. We’d love to hear from you. Comment below or email us.