Punta Cana

Dominican Republic

Caribbean

Destinations

The resort town of Punta Cana is located in the Dominican Republic, on the eastern coast of La Altagracia Province. It is one of the fastest-growing international resort areas, famous for its 20 miles of soft, white, sandy beaches, its luxurious resorts, and its affordability.

The resort town of Punta Cana is located in the Dominican Republic, on the eastern coast of La Altagracia Province. It is one of the fastest-growing international resort areas, famous for its 20 miles of soft, white, sandy beaches, its luxurious resorts, and its affordability. The year-round warm temperatures hover around 80 degrees with an average humidity of 80% most of the year. October is its rainiest month. Punta Cana’s coastline touches both the Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea. Visitors may find special room rates and smaller crowds during the offseason, between May and June, and from September to October.
<h2>1. Golfer’s Paradise</h2>
The Dominican Republic is quickly becoming a top vacation destination for golfers. A variety of travel and resort packages offer special features including passes to some of the best courses in Punta Cana. Travelers who prefer the total resort experience, including professionally designed golf courses with breathtaking views of the Caribbean, will find a variety of choices to the north of the airport. Those who prefer a five-star hotel, personal golf stands, and less populated beaches should consider one of the golf-resort communities to the south. Experience La Cana, designed by legendary golf course designer Pete Dye. Or, head over to the exclusive resort area of Cap Cana, and try the Punta Espada, a course created by golfing legend Jack Nicklaus.

[caption id="attachment_1029695" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029695" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-182762961-1-1024x685.jpg" alt="Punta Espada Golf Course, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic" width="1024" height="685" /> BCWH / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Isla Saona</h2>
This government-protected nature reserve, located just off the southeastern coast, is one of the most picturesque sites in Punta Cana. There are no bridges or roads to the island, so visitors arrive by boat. The Isla Saona offers serene beaches, lush coconut palms, and caves to explore. The clear, turquoise-blue waters are ideal for swimming and scuba diving. The island is a sanctuary for more than 112 different species of birds. Visit the only town on the island, Mano Juan, a fishing village and center for local artisans.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1029696" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_302526791-1-1024x646.jpg" alt=" Beautiful caribbean beach on Saona island, Dominican Republic" width="1024" height="646" />


<h2>3. Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve</h2>
Open from dawn to dusk; the Reserva Ecologica Ojos Indigenas is 1500 acres of lowland, subtropical forest with 12 freshwater lakes. The name of the island comes from its former inhabitants, the Taino Indians, who referred to the lakes as “eyes” or “ojos” due to their distinctive shape. Wildlife fans can visit an iguana habitat and learn about the conservation efforts and ongoing research on the island. Swim in one of the five swimming holes, or visit one of the many cultural exhibits, including a petting zoo.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1029697" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_561539014-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>4. Bountiful Fishing</h2>
The waters surrounding Punta Cana are on the migratory route for numerous species of popular game fish, making it one of the best places to fish in the Caribbean. The fishing season begins in May and runs through August. Mahi Mahi and Wahoo thrive in the crystal-clear waters within a couple of miles from the coast. Snappers, Jacks, Barracudas, and Triggerfish swim in the protected waters near the coastline. Grab a rod for shore fishing along the Cap Cana channel or Cabo Engano. For those seeking more adventurous method of sports fishing, head to the remote, but beautiful, Laguna de Nisibon to fish for Tarpon. Or, book a seaworthy vessel and troll for Blue or White Marlin. No additional license required!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1029699" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1298813179.jpg" alt="Exotic Beach boat in Dominican Republic, Punta Cana" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>5. Shopping in Punta Cana</h2>
Head to the Bi2JH2O Artisanal Shopping Plaza to shop for hand-crafted items, cigars, handmade musical instruments, sculptures, coral jewelry, and more in this colorful, bazaar-like atmosphere. The locals pronounce the name as “bibijagua.” Located on Bavaro Beach, the shops are fun to browse and easy to find. Those with more upscale shopping requirements should check out the high-end, Mediterranean-inspired, Palma Real Shopping Village on Avenida Alemania. The semi-open shopping center offers an excellent selection of designer clothing and souvenirs, an exchange bank, a supermarket, a movie theater, and a pharmacy. A great place to spend a rainy day.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1029700" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_198194372-1-1024x759.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="759" />


<h2>6. Monkeyland</h2>
Set in the lush green of the Punta Cana countryside, Monkeyland is a five-acre habitat for squirrel monkeys, open for tours and human visitors. The monkeys are incredibly friendly. When they see humans arriving, they climb out of the trees to greet them. Visitors are not only able to feed the monkeys but photograph them as well. It’s a perfect opportunity for some special selfies. Observe families of squirrel monkeys interact with each other in their own habitat. Knowledgeable guides and amazing outdoor surroundings make it a worthwhile trip, especially for families.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1029701" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1390969898.jpg" alt="spider monkey dominican republic punta cana " width="1000" height="662" />


<h2>7. Bavaro Beach</h2>
Punta Cana’s most popular beach is home to parasailers, boaters, and sunbathers. With the continual loading and unloading of tour boats, don’t expect quiet relaxation here. Swimmers will appreciate the option of the safer, roped-off areas along the beach. Bavaro Beach offers 35 miles of clean, powdery white sand, perfect for long strolls. Travelers will love the excellent food selection from restaurants in Bavaro Beach area, such as Toc Beach Bar and Restaurant, which serves a Caribbean, Latin, Fusion, and Contemporary menu.

[caption id="attachment_1029702" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029702" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/melisa-popanicic-1395208-unsplash-1-1024x575.jpg" alt="Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic" width="1024" height="575" /> Photo by Melisa Popanicic on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>8. Manati Park</h2>
Enjoy animal shows featuring sea lions, horses and other animals, visit a recreated Taino village, and enjoy the kid-friendly attractions at Manati Park, the first theme park in the Dominican Republic. Book a 30-minute encounter with a dolphin. Explore the colorful, tropical gardens featuring more than 150 species of Caribbean flora and fauna. Guided tours are available. The park prioritizes the preservation of the area’s animal species and is recognized as the main reproduction center for the endangered Rhinoceros Iguana.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1029703" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_791442472.jpg" alt="Aerial view of caribbean resort" width="1000" height="666" />


<h2>9. Party at Coco Bongo Show &amp; Disco</h2>
Trapeze artists, acrobats, amazing light shows, and an eclectic selection of music make Congo Bongo one of the hottest nightlife spots in the Dominican Republic. Enjoy an open bar, offering drinks with or without alcohol. The atmosphere is energetic, loud, and exciting, creating a full-on party arena experience. VIP tables are available and the establishment is a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties. Coco Bongo is located in downtown Punta Cana, and some tours offer hotel pickup and delivery to this well-known destination.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1029704" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1087390166-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Explosive confetti at an entertainment party concert" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>10. Adults-Only Resorts</h2>
Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway with someone special or prefer the company of adults rather than children, Punta Cana offers a wide array of adults-only resorts. Most of these resorts are all-inclusive. Choose between luxury suites or villas. Some resorts offer around-the-clock room, concierge, and butler services. The Iberostar Grand Bavaro earns high marks from guests for its full-service spa and selection of seven kid-free restaurants serving a variety of international cuisines.

[caption id="attachment_1029705" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029705" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/justin-aikin-644844-unsplash-1-1024x576.jpg" alt="Majestic Elegance Punta Cana, Bávaro - Provincia La Altagracia, Dominican Republic" width="1024" height="576" /> Photo by Justin Aikin on Unsplash[/caption]

The Best Things to Do in Punta Cana

The Dominican Republic lies on the second largest island in the Greater Antilles, Hispaniola. It occupies two-thirds of the island, with Haiti occupying the western third. More than 5 million tourists visit the Dominican Republic each year, and it is a popular pick for destination weddings and honeymoons.

The Dominican Republic lies on the second largest island in the Greater Antilles, Hispaniola. It occupies two-thirds of the island, with Haiti occupying the western third. The Atlantic Ocean is on its north side and the Caribbean Sea on its south. There is a welcoming, hospitable culture in the Dominican Republic. Its soft-sanded beaches, warm waters, and a mixture of historical and cultural sites add to its charm. More than 5 million tourists visit the Dominican Republic each year, and it is a popular pick for destination weddings and honeymoons.
<h2>1. Santo Domingo: La Capital</h2>
The Dominican national capital, Santo Domingo, sits on the southeastern coast of the island. Its historic district, the Zona Colonial encompasses 16 square blocks located in the heart of the city and home to architecturally significant buildings dating back to the 16th century. Despite its rich historical heritage, Santo Domingo is a thriving, modern center for Dominican culture, with an array of art galleries, shopping malls, restaurants, sidewalk cafes, and nightclubs. Guides are available for walking tours. Bike rentals allow you to experience the city of Santo Domingo on your own. Families will enjoy a tour via the Chu Chu Colonial train, a 45-minute tour of monuments, parks, colonial homes, and churches in Santo Domingo.

[caption id="attachment_1022383" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/109718180-1024x701.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/109718180-1024x701.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/109718180-300x205.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/109718180-768x525.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/109718180.jpg 1200w" alt="street santo domingo" width="1024" height="701" /> narvikk / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Archaeological Sites</h2>
With the island of Hispaniola dating back about 10,000 years, there are extensive archaeological resources to see. Visit the Regional Museum of Archaeology at Altos de Chavon to see a collection of 3000 pre-Columbian artifacts discovered in the Chavon River area. Locals say a visit here helps visitors understand the historical and archaeological significance of Santo Domingo. Several tours to landmarks, sacred and religious locations, and architectural sites are available throughout the Dominican Republic.

[caption id="attachment_1022384" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/462181035-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/462181035-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/462181035-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/462181035-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/462181035.jpg 1200w" alt="altos chavon amphitheater" width="1024" height="683" /> pashapixel / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Golfing at its Best</h2>
Many golfers consider the 30 courses located in the Dominican Republic to be the best in the Caribbean. Premiere resorts operate most of the golf courses. They also offer air-conditioned, plush rooms or rental houses with multiple bedrooms, private pools, and breakfast and lunch buffets. The Casa de Campo has two golf courses designed by Pete Dye, a legend in golf course creation and construction. Many people believe that one of these courses, Teeth of the Dog, is Dye’s masterpiece. It features a precise and challenging 18-hole championship course and breathtaking views of the ocean. If you need a break from your golf game, book a fishing expedition or relax in one of the beautiful spas.

[caption id="attachment_1022385" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/472175163-1024x671.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/472175163-1024x671.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/472175163-300x197.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/472175163-768x503.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/472175163.jpg 1200w" alt="golf course ocean" width="1024" height="671" /> ImagineGolf / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Baseball: Favorite Sport of the Dominicans</h2>
If you plan to travel to the Dominican Republic between the months of October and January, take in one of the 50 Winter League baseball games. Not only does this league serve as a developmental testing ground for young players, but it is also a popular destination for major league baseball stars who want to sharpen their skills. Baseball in the Dominican Republic is a national passion. The first team on the island was Santo Domingo’s Tigres del Licey, founded in 1907. The professional team still competes today.

[caption id="attachment_1022386" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/514516032-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/514516032-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/514516032-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/514516032-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/514516032.jpg 1200w" alt="dominican republic skyline" width="1024" height="683" /> peeterv / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Hoyo Azul</h2>
One of the most popular tourist destinations in the Dominican Republic is the Hoyo Azul (or “Blue Hole” in English), a cenote located in Scape Park in the Cap Cana area and near Punta Cana. Cool, turquoise-blue spring waters fill this natural swimming hole, which lies at the foot of a 246-foot limestone cliff. Visitors reach the water hole using a timber staircase and footbridge. Family-friendly tours also explore the surrounding rain forests, cliffs, and caves. For those seeking more of an adrenaline rush, try the Hoyo Azul Zip Line, a course with 8 zip lines, some of which reach heights of 250 feet above the forests. Experienced professionals guide you through the course, but children must be over the age of six to participate.

[caption id="attachment_1022387" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1082247538-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1082247538-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1082247538-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1082247538-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1082247538.jpg 1200w" alt="hoyo azul swimming hole" width="1024" height="683" /> inacioluc / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Nightlife in the Dominican Republic</h2>
You’ll find all types of live music and dancing across the Dominican Republic, in local clubs, parks, and public spaces. Many people consider Santo Domingo to be a hub for nightlife. Every Friday and Saturday night, experience live cultural music on the Plaza de Espana or sample a regional craft beer at one of the popular craft brew establishments. Punta Cana is a great party destination for any budget, offering a wide array of music genres in its many discotheques, concert sites, bars, or restaurants.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1022413" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_304077989.jpg" alt="punta cana resort" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>7. The Amber Coast</h2>
Home to the finest amber in the world, the Dominican Republic has deep cultural and economic ties to this fossilized resin. The amber mined in Cordillera Septentrional, a mountain range in Santiago, is between 30 and 40 million years old and contains fossilized plant and animal remains. To learn more about amber and its history in the Dominican Republic, visit the Amber Museum in Santo Domingo’s Villa Bentz. The museum’s shop offers an extensive array of impressive amber jewelry for sale. Or, hunt for amber yourself on the beach in Cabarete. Peak opportunities occur after it rains when sea waves wash the amber up from the seabeds and leave it behind in the seaweed along the shore.

[caption id="attachment_1022389" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/177301800-1024x620.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/177301800-1024x620.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/177301800-300x182.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/177301800-768x465.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/177301800.jpg 1200w" alt="cabarete beach amber" width="1024" height="620" /> DonFord1 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Wildlife Experiences</h2>
If you are an animal lover, you’ll find many tours and wildlife areas in the Dominican Republic. For bird watching, visit Cachote, a protected cloud forest area and home to 45 different species of birds. If you’ve dreamed of swimming with dolphins, head to Punta Cana for a half-hour experience including feeding, playing ball, and touching them. The aquarium option usually means a crowd will be watching your dolphin encounter. An ocean swim with one of these magnificent sea mammals is more private. While you’re in Punta Cana, explore the Monkey Land sanctuary where you can choose to have a 45-minute interaction and pose for selfies with intelligent, friendly squirrel monkeys.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1022414" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_432684364.jpg" alt="Beautiful gazebo on the tropical white sandy beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic " width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>9. Food and Spirits</h2>
The Dominican Republic has more restaurants than any other country in the Caribbean. Its culinary style draws inspiration from a diverse number of cultures but dominated by Spanish cuisine. The biggest meal of the day is lunch. Many restaurants serve sancocho, a rustic stew made with smoked ham, chicken, top round beef, or beef short ribs, and a selection of root vegetables and starches. Roadside vendors sell coffees, smoothies, coconut water or milk, and a popular local drink called Malta Morena, a non-alcoholic beverage made with corn semolina, hops, sugar, and malted barley. Rum is the spirit of choice in the Dominican Republic. Bermudez was first rum distillery, founded in 1852. It is located in Santiago de los Caballeros and still run by the Bermudez family who produces delicious varieties of Dominican rum.

[caption id="attachment_1022391" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1060817072-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1060817072-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1060817072-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1060817072-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1060817072.jpg 1200w" alt="sancocho stew spanish" width="1024" height="683" /> Stephen Ackerman / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Romance in the Dominican Republic</h2>
Spending time with your special someone on one of the many exquisite beaches in the Dominican Republic may sound romantic, but there is so much more for couples to experience in this island paradise. Consider booking a day excursion on a private yacht from Punta Cana to Saona Island, one of the idyllic spots in the Caribbean, inhabited with sea turtles, whales, and other sea life. Eat a tasty fish and rice dish in one of the thatched-hut restaurants on the pristine white-sand beaches. Or, spend time with the rich and famous at La Romana. Go diving, horseback riding, or attend a polo match. If you prefer more action-packed adventures, consider kitesurfing in Cabarete. Or celebrating with fellow travelers in the open air bars in Boca Chica.

[caption id="attachment_1022392" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/669451880-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/669451880-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/669451880-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/669451880-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/669451880.jpg 1200w" alt="romantic sunset beach" width="1024" height="683" /> steinphoto / Getty Images[/caption]

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The Best Things to Do in Punta Cana

Some of the Best Things to Do in the Dominican Republic