Adventure. Beaches. Vibrant nightlife. And nature. This spot on the eastern shore of the Dominican Republic is calling.
With so many things to see and do in Punta Cana, how should you spend your time? Start with our five favourites and you’ll be well on your way to a dream holiday.
Punta Cana: A town for adventurers
Got an adventurous spirit? Want to discover new things? Then Punta Cana is for you. A trip to this Caribbean paradise is packed with things to get your senses tingling with adventure. Yes, there are beautiful beaches – some of the best in the Caribbean in fact. But that’s just the start.
You’ll dive into the bluest lagoons you’ve even seen, discover natural wonders and get the blood pumping with some water sports. If you want to walk on the wild side, you’ll never to be stuck for things to do in Punta Cana.
Things to do in Punta Cana
Hit the beach. Discover marine life with some snorkelling. Immerse yourself in nature. These are five of our favourite things to do in Punta Cana.
Adventure at Scape Park
Thrills and adventure
This 247-acre park is all about the best of nature and adventure. There’s zip lining, the chance to explore caves and to swim in crystal clear waters. Don’t miss Hoyo Azul (Blue Hole) to bathe in its turquoise waters – just get down early to avoid the crowds.
Visit Altos de Chavon
Travel back in time
This recreation of a 16th century Mediterranean village sits atop the Chavon River in Lo Romana. You’ll find a cultural centre, an archaeological museum and an amphitheater. Plus, there are art galleries, shopping and fantastic views.
Explore Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park
The best of nature
Designed to protect the natural habitats of the Dominican Republic’s animals and plants, this nature reserve has 12 lagoons, which the native Taino people called eyes. Each lagoon even has its own ecosystem. You can enjoy swimming in the lagoons, hiking through the park and learning more about the flora and fauna.
Take a Catamaran Cruise
Out on the water
Book a day out on the water on a catamaran cruise to explore Punta Cana’s coastline and take in the stunning Dominican scenery. Most tours include snorkelling and swimming out in the ocean and a stop at a secluded and pristine beach.
Lounge on Bavaro Beach
Best beach in Punta Cana
This white sand beach with its turquoise waters is one of the most popular in Punta Cana. Spend a day on Bavaro Beach exploring the ocean with a little snorkelling or testing your mettle with a range of water sports. The parasailing here is epic.
Where to visit in Punta Cana
Curious about what else you can do in Punta Cana? To get the best of the island hit up these villages, beaches and resort areas.
Cap Cana
Cap Cana
This exclusive resort community is recognised as one of the best in the Caribbean. The beaches are breath-taking, the golf is world-class (check out the Punta Espada Golf course), and the accommodation is all-out luxury. The Marina is bursting with super yachts, you can head out on a fishing expedition or go horseback riding. If you want luxury and an upscale experience in Punta Cana, visit Cap Cana.
Macao Beach
Macao Beach
Listed by UNESCO as one of the Caribbean’s best beaches, Macao Beach is known for clear waters, white sand and palm trees. Surfing and other water sports are popular here, plus you can hit the local bars and restaurants just off the sand for true authentic flavours. This is the spot for a laid-back beach holiday.
Juanillo Beach
Cap Cana
This small haven in Cap Cana is beachside paradise. It’s a beautiful stretch of white sand with turquoise waters. Stretch your toes and relax on the sand if you want a little rejuvenation. Or take to the water on a kayak or paddleboard for adrenaline-fuelled action. Whilst Macao Beach gets super busy, especially on weekends, Juanillo is a quieter alternative.
Manati Park
Bavaro-Punta Cana
This theme park stretches over 80 square miles and is home to at least 150 different tropical species, including birds, reptiles, dolphins, horses and more. With its petting zoo, playground, exhibits and shows, it’s the perfect family-friendly day out. Visit for the day to get any small inquisitive minds learning about the island’s natural habitat.
Punta Cana Village
Punta Cana Village
This vibrant residential and commercial community is home to La Cana Golf Course, Blue Mall Puntacana and a local cinema. You’ll also find shops, restaurants and entertainment options. Stroll around the colourful streets, catch a flick or grab a bite and simply join in modern life in the Dominican Republic.
El Cortecito
Punta Cana
El Cortecito blends tourist facilities with small town charm. This stretch of sand is bordered by an old fishing village and is famous for its beach front bars. The beach is everything you’d expect from the Coconut Coast. After dark things hot up in the bars and clubs. Head here to party Caribbean style.
Why Punta Cana is the spot for you
Punta Cana is a huge draw for Brits. The first thing is the weather – we’re talking a year-round tropical climate. June has the top temperatures, with an average of 82°F, but even a visit in winter promises warm temperatures for tanning on the sand with an average of 77°F in January. Ain’t no winter blues here.
So, why choose Punta Cana over anywhere else in the Dominican or the Caribbean? Yes, you’ll find all-inclusive 5-star luxury resorts and golf courses, but they don’t invade the beach too much. This means many of the beaches here still feel secluded and bring that dose of classic Caribbean charm without being overrun with tourists. The waters are peaceful, warm and ideal for snorkelling.
Culture is top of the agenda here. You can feel the streets thrum with Dominican vibes and you can test the water with a night in one of the clubs or beachfront bars. Dominicans love their music, and you will too.
Plus, if you want adventure, you’ll find it right here. There’s surfing, kayaking and parasailing. And as one of the top resorts in the Dominican Republic, you’ll find day trips to all the best sights on the island right on your doorstep.
With Punta Cana, you’ll always want to come back for more.
Punta Cana Hotels
Whether you want all-adult, luxury, family-friendly or beachside vibes, here’s the four best hotels in Punta Cana.
Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa
Adults only all-inclusive
This 5-star adults only resort is right on the white sand beach. There’s a spa, beauty salon, nightclub and fitness center.
Four Points by Sheraton, Puntacana Village
4-star beachfront
Enjoy beachfront views and a 4-star setting, just 10-minutes’ drive from its private beach and 2km from the airport.
Tropical Deluxe Princess
Beachside paradise
Three minutes from Arena Blanca Beach, this 4-star inclusive has three swimming pools, evening entertainment and a fitness center.
Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana
All out luxury
All out 5-star luxury right on Bavaro Beach, Dreams has seven restaurants, shows movies on the beach and has five swimming pools..
Punta Cana Price Guide
Punta Cana is around 35% cheaper than home. You can expect to pay:
Food: Around 500-1000 DOP (£6.50 – £14) per meal
Drinks: A local beer is around 100-200 DOP (£1.7 – £2.7), and cocktails about 300-500 DOP each (£4 – £7)
Transport: Taxi fares start at about 200 DOP and bus tickets are usually less than 50 DOP
Hotels: Budget hostels start around 1000 DOP (£13) per night, and luxury resorts from around 10,000 DOP (£130)
Punta Cana, yes please. With your Caribbean adventure you’ll tick off those picture-perfect beaches and palm trees. But Punta Cana is so much more. There’s the adventure, the culture, and the pure Dominican vibes. Punta Cana can’t wait to have you.
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