Tour operators warn that the circulation of jeeps, motorcycles and four wheels puts children and tourists at risk, in addition to causing environmental damage in one of the main surfing destinations in the Caribbean
SANTO DOMINGO – Surf schools and businesses located on Playa Encuentro in Cabarete, Puerto Plata, denounced the traffic and parking of motor vehicles within the protected coastal strip of that beach and requested the urgent intervention of the authorities to prevent accidents, stop environmental deterioration and preserve one of the main sports tourism destinations in the country.
The request was addressed to the Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources, Tourist Police (Politur), the Cabarete Municipal District Council and the Specialized Prosecutor's Office for the Defense of the Environment.
The complainants maintain that the entry of jeeps, motorcycles, four wheels and other vehicles has become a frequent practice in Playa Encuentro, despite the fact that it is a space used daily by children, tourists, surfers and instructors.
Warnings issued for risks to children and athletes
In the communication sent to the authorities, representatives of surf schools and commercial establishments stated that the main concern is the safety of visitors, especially children who receive surf lessons on the beach.
"There have already been incidents and dangerous situations that could have ended in tragedy," the signatories stated, demanding preventative measures before a fatal accident occurs.
The letter was signed by representatives of Exodus Surf School, Vibe Surf School & Bonsai Restaurant, Cabarete Surf Co., Buena Onda Surf School & Bar, Dominican Surf School, Buena Vida Restaurant, Exodus Surf Shop, Exodus Café and Surf Soul Surf School.
They allege environmental damage and violations of regulations
Tour operators also reported that vehicle traffic on the sand and dunes accelerates coastal erosion, affects vegetation regeneration, and disrupts sensitive ecosystems in the area.
They also argued that this practice contradicts current regulations, including Resolution 68-2005 of the Ministry of Tourism and Resolution 26-2025 of the Ministry of Environment, which prohibit the circulation of vehicles within the protected coastal strip.
They are requesting permanent controls at Playa Encuentro
Among the measures requested are the effective prohibition of vehicle entry and parking on the beach, the installation of signage and physical barriers, the creation of parking areas outside the protected area, and the establishment of a working group between authorities, tour operators, and community representatives.
"The rules exist. The authorities have jurisdiction. The risks are visible. Environmental degradation is happening," concludes the communication sent to the institutions.
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