Post in Puerto Plata, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Hola! Am hoping to get out of England to the DR for a few months with my boyfriend. I'm currently helping to look after my grandma but as soon as I am no longer needed, we want to set off! I want to stay in Puerto Plata for a bit after Santo Domingo, to check out the city (and an affordable beachy guesthouse if anyone knows of a good one?), but I don't know how long we should stay there - eg a few days/a week. What things can we do, apart from museums (which we like)? We'll also be wanting to check out local food and some bars, and any beautiful natural sights nearby. Sorry for such a broad question!

I also wondered how rainy it is in September in Puerto Plata? It won't put me off, I just want to know what to expect! As far as I can see online, Sept isn't too bad for PP. Is it usually very cloudy? Would also love to speak to some people who live in the city and it would be fun to meet up and go for a drink at a local place or go see a sight together, if anyone's up for it!

Thanks SO much to anyone who replies.

Cheers, Kat x