Overview

The Dominican Republic is one of the Caribbean's top travel destinations, with Punta Cana being its most popular resort town, drawing millions of visitors every year. Situated on the island's eastern tip, 131 miles east of the capital, Santo Domingo, Punta Cana boasts some of the most significant vacation developments. While the area itself is relatively remote, its close proximity to other resort hubs like Bávaro and Uvero Alto further solidifies its status as a premier Caribbean getaway.

If you're in search of pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, blue lagoons, coconut-filled palm trees, coral reefs, and a vibrant atmosphere, Punta Cana is a must-visit. Stay at one of its stunning all-inclusive resorts and indulge your adventurous spirit with a wide variety of excursions. This destination offers the perfect blend of romance, fun, and adventure.

Things to See & Do

One of the best reasons to visit Punta Cana is to relax on its beautiful beaches. The clear turquoise water and thousands of swaying palms that provide necessary shade on the crystal sands are what bring so many visitors to this area. Once you get to your accommodations, grab your bathing suit and hit the pool or beach. There are a few stand-out stretches of sand in Punta Cana, beginning with Juanillo, Macao, and Playa Bavaro, just to name a few. Your hotel will most likely have a private beach. Absorb the relaxed atmosphere of Punta Cana and take in the stunning waters.

Explore Hoya Azul, also known as the Blue Hole, in a cenote (or a natural swimming hole usually found in limestone caves) located at the foot of a cliff. We recommend going early to avoid the crowds. And don’t forget to bring a swimsuit - jumping in is so refreshing.

The cenote sits within Scape Park Cap Cana, a natural theme park located within the resort. Tours of the swimming hole are offered through the theme park and include transportation to and from any Punta Cana or Bavaro hotels, a brief hike, and swimming in the turquoise waters.

Another option here is to take a zip line tour of the cenote on the Farallon Zipline course, which includes 16 platforms and 8 lines that travel above cliffs, trees, and finally into the cenote itself.

Book an excursion to Saona Island to swim in some of the clearest water around. Have lunch here and explore the village of Mano Juan, visit a sea turtle nursery, take a swim in a natural pool, snap selfies with starfish, and walk on the white sand beach of Canto Beach. The time in Saona can be very relaxing or packed with fun, depending on your preference.

Go on a Jeep Safari! Hop into a Jeep and take an adrenaline-pumping ride through Punta Cana’s stunning scenery. Check out the beautiful Macao Beach, traverse the sugar cane and rice fields, spot exotic plants, and learn how coffee and cocoa beans are harvested.

Try some windsurfing at Macao Beach, the best place to do it! If you are a little more experienced, Cabarete Beach is a perfect spot. Surf camps are available that can teach you to surf the waves. If you want to try something different, stand-up paddle boards are available also.

Take a relaxing boat ride. This is a great way to admire Punta Cana’s beautiful white beaches from a different perspective. Many private companies offer these excursions that are often paired with a snorkeling experience too. This gives you a chance to see the tropical fish from the glass bottom of the boat.

Visit the underwater museum! This is the perfect snorkeling destination where you’ll discover submerged sculptures, embodying important symbols of the native Taino culture. Corals have been strategically planted around these Taino sculptures, so you’ll find some beautiful varieties of fish while viewing these surreal and wonderful underwater exhibits.

Go Horseback Riding on the beach. Ride along the beach, visit a ranch or enjoy the Dominican countryside and learn about the area from a friendly guide, there are many tours available.

Nightlife

This small piece of land offers plenty to do when it comes to night entertainment. The Nightlife of Punta Cana is outstanding and there is no doubt about that! We highly recommend checking out the Coco Bongo, a household name in Central America. If you are looking for an unforgettable evening in Punta Cana, Coco Bongo is the place to be. It is in fact one of the most popular nightclubs on the island. This is due to its unique concept, a combination of live performances and clubbing. You can reserve spots through the website. Just like a concert, you have various options here. Drinks are also included. With over 40 performers in one night, you’ll experience an eclectic mix of entertainment, including everything from movie skits, acrobats, dancers and trapeze artists - and with mainstream dance music as your background, you’ll dance the night away.

Day Trips

Take a day trip to Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic and the oldest city in America. It goes without saying that this place contains a lot of history. The city is only three hours away from Punta Cana. While here, take a guided tour through the Colonial Zone and visit the 1st Cathedral of America, the Alcázar de Colón, the National Pantheon, El Faro a Colón. Take in the beautiful architectural gems from the past and soak up the Caribbean atmosphere.

Los Haitises National Park & Montaña Redonda. Drive through the Oriental Mountain Range and enjoy the panoramic mountain views while swinging on the edge of Redonda Mountain. Jump on a catamaran through mangroves and waterfront caverns to a secluded beach followed by lunch at a waterfall.