For those who’re planning a visit to Punta Cana, don’t simply follow the resort seashore! 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 critically, you’ll be able to discover a lot extra. Discover a few of Punta Cana’s most stunning spots by yourself or with a information who’ll make it even higher.
There are tons of unbelievable actions and seashores to discover, that can undoubtedly be price your whereas.
Whether or not you need to hire a automotive and discover by yourself or be part of an thrilling group tour, I’ve bought some nice ideas under.
Right here is an summary:
Punta Cana’s most stunning seashores
With a few of the most stunning seashores on this planet, this tropical paradise is a must-see for anybody who loves solar, sand, and surf.
Ensure to decide on the best Punta Cana resort, greatest proper on the seashore, however be certain that to additionally discover the opposite high seashores.
Uncover the secluded Playa Esmeralda
Searching for a quiet and secluded seashore in Punta Cana? Look no additional than Playa Esmeralda!
This hidden gem, situated simply an hour away from the hustle and bustle of Punta Cana’s vacationer trade, is without doubt one of 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 laborious to imagine that such magnificence exists so shut by.
The truth is, this breathtaking stretch has been acknowledged as one of many high ten most stunning 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 out there at surprisingly reasonably priced costs that embody visits to Salto de la Jalda; the best waterfall in all of Dominican territory.
The way to get there: About an hour’s drive from Punta Cana.
Prices: Entry to the seashore is free, and a helicopter tour prices about $250.
Good to know: Simply an hour from Punta Cana, a secluded and beautiful seashore.
Bavaro Seaside – Punta Cana’s longest seashore
Bavaro Seaside is an absolute should for seashore lovers in Punta Cana. It’s the longest and hottest stretch of sand round, with some sections being hailed as a few of the greatest seashores within the Dominican Republic!
The sheer dimension of this 20 kilometer stretch will go away 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 Seaside comparable to Bibijagua, Jellyfish, Corales, Cortecito, Area Blanca and Area Gorda.
The width of Bavaro Seaside makes it a sight to behold; particularly close to Melía Caribe Punta Cana or Secrets and techniques Royal Seaside the place the effective sand is solely breathtaking!
If strolling alongside the sandy shores sounds interesting, then seize your flip-flops, as a result of right here it’s potential to stroll as much as 20 kilometers with out leaving the smooth grains behind.
As you stroll additional down in direction of Macau, take within the breathtaking views of turquoise waters lapping in opposition to towering palm bushes!
For these staying at all-inclusive resorts situated proper on its shores, Bavaro Seaside is simply steps away out of your room, making sunbathing periods extra handy than ever!
The way to get there: Lots of the resorts are situated proper on the seashore at Bavaro.
Price: Entry to the seashores of Punta Cana is freed from cost.
Good to know: A 20-kilometer-long seashore isn’t one thing you’re going to discover in all places within the Caribbean.
Macao Seaside
For those who’re searching for a chill seashore expertise in Punta Cana, Macao is the place to go.
It’s a fast 20-minute drive from most all-inclusive resorts and affords one thing totally different from the everyday touristy seashores. You gained’t discover big resorts right here (apart from Goals Macao Seaside), however as an alternative native meals distributors promoting freshly grilled fish proper on the sand.
On weekends, issues can get fairly full of life as locals come out to take pleasure in this stunning stretch of shoreline – so count on some crowds and noise! However should you favor peace and quiet throughout your seashore time, weekdays are good for absorbing the pure tranquility of Macao Seaside.
Past the laid-back environment, nonetheless, lies a pure magnificence that can take your breath away. The bay itself is stunningly picturesque; it makes for a formidable backdrop as you lounge round or catch waves, relying on the wind situations – though watch out when swimming as there are robust currents!
The way to get there: From most resorts in Punta Cana, it’s simply accessible by taxi or automotive in about 20-Half-hour.
Prices: There is no such thing as a cost for this Punta Cana seashore.
Good to know: Macao Seaside is without doubt one of the most stunning seashores in all of Punta Cana.
Cap Cana
For those who’re searching for an opulent seashore 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 laborious to see why – two beautiful seashores await you: Playa Blanca and Playa Juanillo, each with a few of the whitest sand on this planet.
However that’s not all – because of its shallow waters, Cap Cana additionally boasts vibrant turquoise hues which are certain to take your breath away.
So if you’re searching for an unforgettable trip expertise in a paradise-like setting, be sure you take a look at this wonderful vacation spot in your subsequent journey!
The way to get there: Cap Cana is greatest reached by renting a automotive.
Price: The seashores of Punta Cana are freed from cost. Although a few of the seashores could require you to devour one thing on the native seashore golf equipment as a way to acquire entry to them. And it’s price it.
Good to know: Cap Cana is the place to be should you’re within the way of life of the wealthy and well-known and need to see pristine white seashores.
High excursions from Punta Cana
Discover the peninsula of Samaná
For those who’re in your strategy to Los Haitises Nationwide Park (see under), why not make a pit cease on the beautiful Samaná Peninsula? It’s some of the stunning areas of the Dominican Republic and properly price exploring.
Whereas day journeys from Punta Cana by bus + boat or airplane are potential, we advocate that you just plan for a number of days to totally immerse your self in all that Samaná has to supply.
There are various sights to see on the peninsula comparable 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 possibility with properly developed roads making it solely about 4 hours away from Punta Cana.
Lodging can be found in a wide range of worth ranges so there’s one thing for everybody!
Los Haitises Nationwide Park
For those who’re searching 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 properly well worth the go to because of its beautiful wildlife.
The most effective 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 testing the Eco-Lodge contained in the park (charges and reserving hyperlink under). This distinctive lodging possibility affords unparalleled views of pure swimming pools shaped by dammed rivers that result in stunning waterfalls.
Not solely will you may have 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?
The way to get there: The beginning of the Los Haitises excursions is immediately from the resort in Punta Cana. If you wish to discover the park by yourself, it’s best to hire a automotive and drive about 2 hours northwest on excellent 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 without doubt one of the most stunning pure points of interest in Punta Cana and the encompassing 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 stuffed with crystal clear water.
It’s advisable to reach early as it may be very talked-about. And don’t neglect to carry a washing go well with 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 affords a panoramic panorama. There may be additionally a platform from which you’ll be able to take pleasure in a spectacular view of the encompassing space.
The water at Hoyo Azul is so clear which you could see all the way in which to the underside – a snorkeler’s paradise!
Scape Park additionally affords different actions comparable to zip lining and horseback using. However should you’re searching for a quiet oasis, be sure you go to Hoyo Azul. A number of hours right here will enable you 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 world 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 plenty of wish to dive from the platform – definitely one thing in your digicam.
The park employees is dedicated to defending and preserving the pure surroundings. 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 house to a wide range of wildlife, together with monkeys, iguanas, and numerous hen species comparable to toucans and parrots. It’s a paradise for nature photographers!
For those who’re considering tradition, be sure you make a journey to the indigenous village. The locals are completely happy to indicate you their conventional lifestyle in addition to their handicrafts comparable to weaving or carving.
All in all, Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve affords an ideal alternative to chill out in stunning nature and be taught concerning the native ecology and tradition – undoubtedly price a go to!
Discover UNESCO World Heritage Santo Domingo
For those who’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 can take you again in time and fill your coronary heart with Dominican allure. You gained’t need to miss out on exploring this residing 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 often is the best, but it surely leaves little room to delve into the main points – as an alternative, hop on a bus or hire 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 resorts situated proper within the Zona Colonial itself.
Belief us after we say that a bit of further 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 – the easiest way 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. For those who resolve to prepare it your self, count on to pay about US$10 per individual every means 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 guts of the Dominican Republic, a melting pot of cultures and an important place to be taught concerning 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 places inside three hours’ attain from Punta Cana! One such location is Salto de la Jalda, which boasts each being the best Dominican Republic waterfall in addition to one in every of its longest hikes.
However should you’re not up for touring fairly to date out, no downside 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 mountaineering isn’t your factor altogether then take into account testing spots like Salto Socoa or Salto Alto de Bayaguana the place parking tons sit conveniently near their respective falls.
The way to get there: One of the simplest ways 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
For those who’re searching 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 environment. The actual gem listed below are the small eating places perched excessive on the cliffs, the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in a few of 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!
You too can hop aboard a wood boat to discover secluded seashores or hike via lush forests to search out crystal-clear lagoons; locals are completely happy to behave as your guides for a small tip.
The way to get there: One of the simplest ways 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 allure.
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 jap facet 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 some of the spectacular choices, it’s definitely not your solely selection. For households searching for a extra kid-friendly possibility, Bavaro Journey Park affords an exhilarating suspension bridge and fun-filled expertise. In the meantime, these searching for lush greenery will love exploring Bavaro Runners’ tropical vegetation-focused journey.
By reserving one in every of these excursions, you’ll have loads of alternatives to find the totally different aspects that make up this stunning nation – however regardless of which one you select, relaxation assured that all of them promise action-packed pleasure all through your time right here!
The way to get there: All Punta Cana zipline excursions embody 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
Searching for a ship tour that showcases the breathtaking great 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 a substitute, e-book a catamaran tour from Punta Cana.
Though there aren’t any main points of interest within the space (apart from the underwhelming pure pool), cruising the Caribbean waters is an expertise you gained’t quickly neglect.
For many who are searching for one thing a bit of extra upscale, we advocate choosing greater high quality excursions, as a few of the cheaper choices are typically celebration and booze cruises. So take into account properly, if you wish to get monetary savings right here or not.
The way to get there: Excursions often depart immediately from resorts 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
For those who’d wish to discover the depths of Punta Cana’s oceans, however need to soak up all of the beautiful sights underwater, don’t fear!
You’ll be able to simply e-book a dive with one of many many respected colleges. Scuba diving is certainly one of many high issues to do when visiting this stunning vacation spot within the Dominican Republic.
Whereas it might not be as well-known for diving as different spots across the globe, there are nonetheless some wonderful wrecks and reefs that can hold divers entertained for 2-3 days straight. And should you’re searching for a bit of extra selection than what Punta Cana has to supply, don’t neglect about Bayahibe – one other unbelievable space to take a look at!
The way to get there: There are quite a few dive colleges alongside the Punta Cana seashore resorts.
Prices: Diving in Punta Cana often prices between 35 and 50 euros.
Good to know: Diving fanatics mustn’t miss the chance to get the Dominican Republic of their diving e-book.
Whale and dolphin watching within the Dominican Republic
For those who’re searching for an thrilling journey in Punta Cana, whale and dolphin watching in Samaná is a should!
These excursions have grow to be extremely well-liked and at all times draw crowds. It’s no surprise – from January to March yearly, humpback whales come to the Bay of Samaná to provide delivery and feed their younger. Hundreds of holiday makers flock right here annually because it is without doubt one of the best points of interest the Dominican Republic has to supply.
And what makes this expertise much more particular is that these magnificent creatures adjust to naturalist laws whereas enchanting vacationers!
Do you know that the Bay of Samana may be reached from the mainland in addition to from Punta Cana? For those who head to Miches (simply over an hour away), you’ll be able to embark on some of the thrilling experiences in Punta Cana – whale watching!
The excellent news is that it’s nearly sure that you just’ll see them.
The way 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 nearly 100% assure that you will note big 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 seashore stuffed with starfish. In the course of the nesting season, sea turtles may be seen laying their eggs. The seashores on Saona Island are breathtakingly stunning and supply the right backdrop for a soothing day by the ocean. The crystal clear waters are good for snorkeling with colourful fish and coral reefs. The island can also be a well-liked vacation spot for scuba divers who can observe a wide range 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 seashore 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 hire a non-public boat. Some excursions embody a cease at a fishing village on the coast of Bayahibe to get a style of life away from the vacationer crowds.
So if you’re searching for peace and rest in the midst of untouched nature and need to expertise the true Caribbean feeling, it is best to undoubtedly make a journey to the paradise island of Saona!
Punta Cana Buggy Tour
Buggy excursions are a should in Punta Cana. It’s very talked-about with American guests. The Dune Buggy Excursions are particularly well-liked and supply numerous enjoyable for these staying in all-inclusive resorts.
However if you’re searching 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 offer you an opportunity to expertise the true Dominican Republic, which may be laborious to search out within the midst of touristy areas like Punta Cana.
The totally different Buggy Excursions are actually a one in every of a form exercise, as they take guests via secluded seashores, beautiful riversides and genuine villages that showcase native life up shut. The excursions often additionally embody a number of stops alongside the way in which! If Land & Folks’s choices appear boring or uninspiring – take a look at our really useful buggy adventures!
The way to get there: The excursions at all times embody selecting up out of your lodging or from the resort.
Price: Normal 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 seashore lovers and journey seekers alike. With its beautiful shoreline, there’s no scarcity of seashores to go well with each style.
However that’s not all – the area additionally affords an abundance of actions to go well with each curiosity. From snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal clear waters to zip lining via lush forests or exploring on ATV excursions, Punta Cana has all of it!
Whether or not you’re searching for pleasure or rest, this tropical vacation spot actually has one thing for everybody. So why wait? Come absorb the Caribbean solar and expertise all that Punta Cana has to supply!
