To the east of Puerto Plata is Sosua, a small village with a cosmopolitan character, which offers a superb crescent-shaped beach and numerous cafes, bars and restaurants. The town was developed by a group of approximately 600 Jewish refugees from Europe who settled here in 1940 and founded the now-thriving dairy industry for which the village is noted. The original synagogue built by this expatriate community is still standing and features a museum dedicated to the history of the community. Near to Sosua is a major family holiday attraction, the Columbus Aquapark, offering plenty of watery diversions.