In the event you’re planning a visit to Punta Cana, don’t simply follow the resort seaside! The Dominican Republic has a lot extra to supply.
Many select to remain within the Dominican Republic by specializing in staying in an all-inclusive resort. However significantly, you’ll be able to discover a lot extra. Discover a few of Punta Cana’s most lovely spots by yourself or with a information who’ll make it even higher.
There are tons of improbable actions and seashores to discover, that may positively be value your whereas.
Whether or not you wish to lease a automotive and discover by yourself or be part of an thrilling group tour, I’ve obtained some nice recommendations beneath.
Right here is an summary:
Punta Cana’s most lovely seashores
With among the most lovely seashores on the planet, this tropical paradise is a must-see for anybody who loves solar, sand, and surf.
Make sure that to decide on a resort on the seaside, however be sure to additionally discover the opposite prime seashores.
Uncover the secluded Playa Esmeralda
On the lookout for a quiet and secluded seaside in Punta Cana? Look no additional than Playa Esmeralda!
This hidden gem, positioned simply an hour away from the hustle and bustle of Punta Cana’s vacationer business, is among the most pristine seashores you’ll discover wherever within the Dominican Republic. With its crystal clear waters stretching almost 4 kilometers with out one other soul in sight, it’s exhausting to imagine that such magnificence exists so shut by.
The truth is, this breathtaking stretch has been acknowledged as one of many prime ten most lovely seashores within the DR!
However should you’re planning to go to quickly – act quick! All-inclusive resorts might be constructed right here within the coming years.
If renting a automotive isn’t your factor, don’t fear – there are at all times helicopter rides obtainable at surprisingly inexpensive costs that embrace visits to Salto de la Jalda; the very best waterfall in all of Dominican territory.
Tips on how to get there: About an hour’s drive from Punta Cana.
Prices: Entry to the seaside is free, and a helicopter tour prices about $250.
Good to know: Simply an hour from Punta Cana, a secluded and gorgeous seaside.
Bavaro Seashore – Punta Cana’s longest seaside
Bavaro Seashore is an absolute should for seaside lovers in Punta Cana. It’s the longest and hottest stretch of sand round, with some sections being hailed as among the greatest seashores within the Dominican Republic!
The sheer measurement of this 20 kilometer stretch will depart you in awe – it stretches from Cabeza de Toro on the Barceló Resort to Macau. You’ll discover a number of totally different areas alongside Bavaro Seashore equivalent to Bibijagua, Jellyfish, Corales, Cortecito, Area Blanca and Area Gorda.
The width of Bavaro Seashore makes it a sight to behold; particularly close to Melía Caribe Punta Cana or Secrets and techniques Royal Seashore the place the effective sand is just breathtaking!
If strolling alongside the sandy shores sounds interesting, then seize your flip-flops, as a result of right here it’s attainable to stroll as much as 20 kilometers with out leaving the gentle grains behind.
As you stroll additional down in the direction of Macau, take within the breathtaking views of turquoise waters lapping in opposition to towering palm timber!
For these staying at all-inclusive resorts positioned proper on its shores, Bavaro Seashore is simply steps away out of your room, making sunbathing periods extra handy than ever!
Tips on how to get there: Most of the lodges are positioned proper on the seaside at Bavaro.
Price: Entry to the seashores of Punta Cana is freed from cost.
Good to know: A 20-kilometer-long seaside will not be one thing you’ll discover in all places within the Caribbean.
Macao Seashore
In the event you’re on the lookout for a chill seaside expertise in Punta Cana, Macao is the place to go.
It’s a fast 20-minute drive from most all-inclusive resorts and gives one thing totally different from the everyday touristy seashores. You gained’t discover enormous lodges right here (apart from Desires Macao Seashore), however as an alternative native meals distributors promoting freshly grilled fish proper on the sand.
On weekends, issues can get fairly vigorous as locals come out to get pleasure from this lovely stretch of shoreline – so count on some crowds and noise! However should you favor peace and quiet throughout your seaside time, weekdays are excellent for absorbing the pure tranquility of Macao Seashore.
Past the laid-back ambiance, nonetheless, lies a pure magnificence that may take your breath away. The bay itself is stunningly picturesque; it makes for a powerful backdrop as you lounge round or catch waves, relying on the wind circumstances – though watch out when swimming as there are robust currents!
Tips on how to get there: From most lodges in Punta Cana, it’s simply accessible by taxi or automotive in about 20-Half-hour.
Prices: There isn’t any cost for this Punta Cana seaside.
Good to know: Macao Seashore is among the most lovely seashores in all of Punta Cana.
Cap Cana
In the event you’re on the lookout for an expensive seaside getaway in Punta Cana, Cap Cana is the place to be!
This southern a part of town attracts many celebrities and excessive rollers with its posh villas and upscale resorts. And it’s not exhausting to see why – two gorgeous seashores await you: Playa Blanca and Playa Juanillo, each with among the whitest sand on the planet.
However that’s not all – because of its shallow waters, Cap Cana additionally boasts vibrant turquoise hues which might be positive to take your breath away.
So in case you are on the lookout for an unforgettable trip expertise in a paradise-like setting, you should definitely take a look at this superb vacation spot in your subsequent journey!
Tips on how to get there: Cap Cana is greatest reached by renting a automotive.
Price: The seashores of Punta Cana are freed from cost. Although among the seashores might require you to devour one thing on the native seaside golf equipment with a purpose to acquire entry to them. And it’s value it.
Good to know: Cap Cana is the place to be should you’re within the life-style of the wealthy and well-known and wish to see pristine white seashores.
Prime excursions from Punta Cana
Discover the peninsula of Samaná
In the event you’re in your technique to Los Haitises Nationwide Park (see beneath), why not make a pit cease on the gorgeous Samaná Peninsula? It’s probably the most lovely areas of the Dominican Republic and nicely value exploring.
Whereas day journeys from Punta Cana by bus + boat or airplane are attainable, we advocate that you just plan for a number of days to completely immerse your self in all that Samaná has to supply.
There are lots of sights to see on the peninsula equivalent to Salto El Limón Waterfall, Bacardi Island Cayo Levantado and numerous unspoiled seashores together with Playa Cosón, Playa Lanza del Norte, Playa Las Canas, Playa Ermitano and Playa Rincon.
Renting a automotive can also be an choice with nicely developed roads making it solely about 4 hours away from Punta Cana.
Lodging can be found in quite a lot of worth ranges so there’s one thing for everybody!
Los Haitises Nationwide Park
In the event you’re on the lookout for a must-see attraction in Punta Cana, look no additional than Los Haitises Nationwide Park. Whereas it might be a little bit of a hike at 2.5 hours away, this nationwide park is nicely definitely worth the go to because of its gorgeous wildlife.
The very best half? You’ll be able to expertise Los Haitises Nationwide Park as an thrilling day journey and even as a snug in a single day keep – there’s one thing for everybody! As somebody who likes to journey, I extremely advocate renting a automotive (~) and trying out the Eco-Lodge contained in the park (charges and reserving hyperlink beneath). This distinctive lodging choice gives unparalleled views of pure swimming pools fashioned by dammed rivers that result in lovely waterfalls.
Not solely will you’ve entry to breathtaking surroundings throughout your keep, but additionally some scrumptious meals – simply keep in mind, good issues come to those that wait! So why not make your subsequent trip unforgettable by exploring all that Los Haitises has to supply?
Tips on how to get there: The beginning of the Los Haitises excursions is straight from the resort in Punta Cana. If you wish to discover the park by yourself, it’s best to lease a automotive and drive about 2 hours northwest on superb roads (besides the final 10km).
Prices: Day journeys from Punta Cana beginning at 100 euros per individual, automotive rental beginning at 50 euros, in a single day keep within the park beginning at 70 euros.
It’s depraved as a result of: The Los Haitises Nationwide Park is among the most lovely pure sights in Punta Cana and the encircling space with its islands, caves, wildlife.
Hoyo Azul
Hoyo Azul is a cave (cenote) that is a crucial a part of Scape Park and is hidden on the foot of a 75 meter cliff.
Its turquoise waters appeal to many guests. Hoyo Azul (Blue Gap) is a pure phenomenon crammed with crystal clear water.
It’s advisable to reach early as it may be very fashionable. And don’t neglect to convey a washing swimsuit to swim within the water, because the water temperature stays fixed all year long. This makes it an ideal place for swimming.
The cave is surrounded by lush vegetation and gives a wide ranging panorama. There’s additionally a platform from which you’ll get pleasure from a spectacular view of the encircling space.
The water at Hoyo Azul is so clear that you could see all the way in which to the underside – a snorkeler’s paradise!
Scape Park additionally gives different actions equivalent to zip lining and horseback driving. However should you’re on the lookout for a quiet oasis, you should definitely go to Hoyo Azul. A couple of hours right here will make it easier to unwind from the stress of on a regular basis life and recharge your batteries.
So pack your swimsuit and prepare for an unforgettable day within the turquoise waters of Hoyo Azul!
Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve
Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve is an ecopark and reserve of 1,500 hectares of subtropical forest. The realm is privately owned however devoted to conservation and scientific analysis.
Guests can benefit from the 12 freshwater lagoons, 5 of that are open for swimming.
The Guama Lagoon is as much as 26 toes deep and lots of wish to dive from the platform – actually one thing on your digicam.
The park workers is dedicated to defending and preserving the pure atmosphere. They’ve carried out a sustainable administration program that ensures the forest stays wholesome and its biodiversity is preserved. Guests can be part of guided excursions or hike on their very own.
Along with the lagoons, the park is residence to quite a lot of wildlife, together with monkeys, iguanas, and numerous chicken species equivalent to toucans and parrots. It’s a paradise for nature photographers!
In the event you’re interested by tradition, you should definitely make a journey to the indigenous village. The locals are completely happy to point out you their conventional lifestyle in addition to their handicrafts equivalent to weaving or carving.
All in all, Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve gives an ideal alternative to calm down in lovely nature and study in regards to the native ecology and tradition – positively value a go to!
Discover UNESCO World Heritage Santo Domingo
In the event you’re extra into cultural experiences than nature, Punta Cana is for you!
Only a 2.5-hour drive from most all-inclusive resorts, Santo Domingo is the capital metropolis with an unbeatable colonial district that may take you again in time and fill your coronary heart with Dominican appeal. You gained’t wish to miss out on exploring this dwelling open-air museum of traditionally helpful buildings, colourful facades, small cafes and retailers galore; it’s actually distinctive!
And if people-watching is your factor, look no additional, as a result of there’s no higher place to do it than right here.
Now let me let you know how greatest to discover Santo Domingo: reserving an organized tour would be the best, however it leaves little room to delve into the small print – as an alternative, hop on a bus or lease a automotive (if the site visitors isn’t an excessive amount of of a trouble) and take two days off at one of many charming historic lodges positioned proper within the Zona Colonial itself.
Belief us after we say that slightly additional time will make all of the distinction between seeing issues and actually experiencing them!
Getting there: Santo Domingo is about 2.5 to three hours away from Punta Cana – one of the best ways to journey is by public bus or on a guided tour.
Price: The price of a tour information from Punta Cana is roughly 90 euros per individual. In the event you resolve to prepare it your self, count on to pay about US$10 per individual every manner for the bus and US$30-40 per individual in a double room in a small however good colonial resort.
Good to know: Santo Domingo is the center of the Dominican Republic, a melting pot of cultures and an awesome place to study in regards to the nation.
Exploring Punta Cana’s waterfalls
Though Punta Cana itself doesn’t have any pure waterfalls, don’t fear – the close by mountains are only a fast 45-minute drive away and provide loads of exploration alternatives.
You’ll be completely happy to know that there are about ten totally different waterfall areas inside three hours’ attain from Punta Cana! One such location is Salto de la Jalda, which boasts each being the very best Dominican Republic waterfall in addition to one among its longest hikes.
However should you’re not up for touring fairly to date out, no drawback in any respect! Cascada Blanca or La Copa can simply be reached on foot in solely an hour or two. And even higher but? If climbing isn’t your factor altogether then think about trying out spots like Salto Socoa or Salto Alto de Bayaguana the place parking heaps sit conveniently near their respective falls.
Tips on how to get there: The easiest way is by rental automotive to the totally different beginning factors of the walks, which take between 1 and three hours.
Prices: Usually none
Good to know: Waterfalls are quintessential tropical vegetation and also you often have all of them to your self.
Half day tour to the Boca de Yuma space
In the event you’re on the lookout for a extra laid-back and off-the-beaten-path Punta Cana expertise, Boca de Yuma is the right getaway.
This charming fishing village is simply an hour’s drive from Punta Cana, however feels worlds away with its sleepy ambiance. The actual gem listed below are the small eating places perched excessive on the cliffs, the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from among the freshest fish within the area whereas taking in breathtaking views of the ocean – all in a country and genuine setting, as organized tourism has but to take maintain right here!
It’s also possible to hop aboard a picket boat to discover secluded seashores or hike by means of lush forests to seek out crystal-clear lagoons; locals are completely happy to behave as your guides for a small tip.
Tips on how to get there: The easiest way is by rental automotive, about an hour from Punta Cana.
Prices: Automotive rental about €50 per day, fish lunch in Boca de Yuma about €10.
Good to know: Tourism in Punta Cana could be very commercialized, however in Boca de Yuma time appears to face nonetheless, which is its particular appeal.
Ziplining in Punta Cana
Why not follow ziplining in Punta Cana for now?
There are such a lot of thrilling cover adventures to discover on the japanese aspect of the Dominican Republic. There are round 5 totally different zipline experiences in Punta Cana alone!
Whereas the breathtaking zipline at Scape Park Cap Cana could also be probably the most spectacular choices, it’s actually not your solely alternative. For households on the lookout for a extra kid-friendly choice, Bavaro Journey Park gives an exhilarating suspension bridge and fun-filled expertise. In the meantime, these on the lookout for lush greenery will love exploring Bavaro Runners’ tropical vegetation-focused journey.
By reserving one among these excursions, you’ll have loads of alternatives to find the totally different aspects that make up this lovely nation – however irrespective of which one you select, relaxation assured that all of them promise action-packed pleasure all through your time right here!
Tips on how to get there: All Punta Cana zipline excursions embrace resort transfers.
Prices: Beginning at 50 euros per individual
Good to know: It’s a distinctive expertise to see Punta Cana from the air.
Catamaran tour in Punta Cana
On the lookout for a ship tour that showcases the breathtaking fantastic thing about Isla Saona and Isla Catalina? Look no additional than Punta Cana!
Whereas these excursions may be prolonged, taking as much as 10 hours together with bus transfers to Bayahibe or La Romana, there’s an alternate. As an alternative, e book a catamaran tour from Punta Cana.
Though there aren’t any main sights within the space (apart from the underwhelming pure pool), cruising the Caribbean waters is an expertise you gained’t quickly neglect.
For individuals who are on the lookout for one thing slightly extra upscale, we advocate choosing increased high quality excursions, as among the cheaper choices are usually social gathering and booze cruises. So think about properly, if you wish to lower your expenses right here or not.
Tips on how to get there: Excursions often depart straight from lodges in Punta Cana.
Prices: Beginning at 50 euros per individual.
Good to know: Expertise the Caribbean with out having to go to Saona or Catinaccio.
Diving in Punta Cana
In the event you’d wish to discover the depths of Punta Cana’s oceans, however wish to absorb all of the gorgeous sights underwater, don’t fear!
You’ll be able to simply e book a dive with one of many many respected faculties. Scuba diving is unquestionably one of many prime issues to do when visiting this lovely vacation spot within the Dominican Republic.
Whereas it will not be as well-known for diving as different spots across the globe, there are nonetheless some superb wrecks and reefs that may hold divers entertained for 2-3 days straight. And should you’re on the lookout for slightly extra selection than what Punta Cana has to supply, don’t neglect about Bayahibe – one other improbable space to take a look at!
Tips on how to get there: There are quite a few dive faculties alongside the Punta Cana seaside resorts.
Prices: Diving in Punta Cana often prices between 35 and 50 euros.
Good to know: Diving fans shouldn’t miss the chance to get the Dominican Republic of their diving e book.
Whale and dolphin watching within the Dominican Republic
In the event you’re on the lookout for an thrilling journey in Punta Cana, whale and dolphin watching in Samaná is a should!
These excursions have turn out to be extremely standard and at all times draw crowds. It’s no marvel – from January to March yearly, humpback whales come to the Bay of Samaná to present start and feed their younger. Hundreds of holiday makers flock right here every year because it is among the biggest sights the Dominican Republic has to supply.
And what makes this expertise much more particular is that these magnificent creatures adjust to naturalist rules whereas enchanting vacationers!
Do you know that the Bay of Samana may be reached from the mainland in addition to from Punta Cana? In the event you head to Miches (simply over an hour away), you’ll be able to embark on probably the most thrilling experiences in Punta Cana – whale watching!
The excellent news is that it’s virtually sure that you just’ll see them.
Tips on how to get there: Punta Cana Whale Watching at all times picks you up at your resort.
Price: The price of the whale watching tour is between 120 and 160 euros.
Good to know: A Caribbean tour with an virtually 100% assure that you will notice enormous humpback whales – the place else can you discover that?
Saona Island
Saona Island is an unspoiled island off the coast of Punta Cana.
Why must you go there? If you wish to get away from the vacationer crowds, one can find paradise on Saona Island. The island is a federally protected nature reserve and a part of the East Nationwide Park. Wildlife is in all places on the island, from birds to a seaside filled with starfish. Through the nesting season, sea turtles may be seen laying their eggs. The seashores on Saona Island are breathtakingly lovely and supply the right backdrop for a calming day by the ocean. The crystal clear waters are excellent for snorkeling with colourful fish and coral reefs. The island can also be a well-liked vacation spot for scuba divers who can observe quite a lot of marine life.
One more reason to go to Saona Island is its genuine Caribbean aptitude. There aren’t any massive resort complexes or eating places right here – as an alternative one can find small seaside bars and grill stands serving contemporary fish and tropical cocktails.
To get to the island, you’ll be able to be part of a ship tour or lease a personal boat. Some excursions embrace a cease at a fishing village on the coast of Bayahibe to get a style of life away from the vacationer crowds.
So in case you are on the lookout for peace and rest in the course of untouched nature and wish to expertise the actual Caribbean feeling, it’s best to positively make a journey to the paradise island of Saona!
Punta Cana Buggy Tour
Buggy excursions are a should in Punta Cana. It’s very fashionable with American guests. The Dune Buggy Excursions are particularly standard and supply a number of enjoyable for these staying in all-inclusive lodges.
However in case you are on the lookout for extra pleasure and journey, select a Buggy Tour, which present you a bit extra from the area. These excursions not solely provide senseless racing, but additionally provide you with an opportunity to expertise the actual Dominican Republic, which may be exhausting to seek out within the midst of touristy areas like Punta Cana.
The totally different Buggy Excursions are actually a one among a form exercise, as they take guests by means of secluded seashores, gorgeous riversides and genuine villages that showcase native life up shut. The excursions often additionally embrace a number of stops alongside the way in which! If Land & Folks’s choices appear boring or uninspiring – take a look at our advisable buggy adventures!
Tips on how to get there: The excursions at all times embrace choosing up out of your lodging or from the resort.
Price: Commonplace buggy excursions in Punta Cana begin at 35 euros, some buggy excursions are dearer resulting from smaller teams, actual VW engines and customized consideration.
Good to know: Select a buggy tour that take you to locations you’ll be able to’t go as a traditional vacationer.
Conclusion
Punta Cana is a paradise for seaside lovers and journey seekers alike. With its gorgeous shoreline, there’s no scarcity of seashores to swimsuit each style.
However that’s not all – the area additionally gives an abundance of actions to swimsuit each curiosity. From snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal clear waters to zip lining by means of lush forests or exploring on ATV excursions, Punta Cana has all of it!
Whether or not you’re on the lookout for pleasure or rest, this tropical vacation spot actually has one thing for everybody. So why wait? Come take in the Caribbean solar and expertise all that Punta Cana has to supply!
