Should you’re planning a visit to Punta Cana, don’t simply stick with the lodge 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 lodge. However severely, you possibly can 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 incredible actions and seashores to discover, that may undoubtedly be value your whereas.
Whether or not you wish to hire a automobile and discover by yourself or be part of an thrilling group tour, I’ve obtained some nice solutions beneath.
Right here is an summary:
Punta Cana’s most stunning seashores
With among the most stunning seashores on this planet, this tropical paradise is a must-see for anybody who loves solar, sand, and surf.
Make sure that to decide on a lodge on the seaside, however make sure that to additionally discover the opposite high 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, situated simply an hour away from the hustle and bustle of Punta Cana’s vacationer trade, is among the most pristine seashores you’ll discover wherever within the Dominican Republic. With its crystal clear waters stretching practically 4 kilometers with out one other soul in sight, it’s exhausting to consider that such magnificence exists so shut by.
Actually, this breathtaking stretch has been acknowledged as one of many high ten most stunning seashores within the DR!
However in the event you’re planning to go to quickly – act quick! All-inclusive resorts can be constructed right here within the coming years.
If renting a automobile isn’t your factor, don’t fear – there are at all times helicopter rides obtainable at surprisingly inexpensive costs that embody visits to Salto de la Jalda; the best waterfall in all of Dominican territory.
Learn 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 finest seashores within the Dominican Republic!
The sheer measurement 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 completely different areas alongside Bavaro Seashore reminiscent of 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 high quality 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 doable to stroll as much as 20 kilometers with out leaving the gentle 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 timber!
For these staying at all-inclusive resorts situated proper on its shores, Bavaro Seashore is simply steps away out of your room, making sunbathing classes extra handy than ever!
Learn how to get there: Lots of the resorts are situated proper on the seaside at Bavaro.Value: Entry to the seashores of Punta Cana is freed from cost.Good to know: A 20-kilometer-long seaside shouldn’t be one thing you’ll discover in every single place within the Caribbean.
Macao Seashore
Should 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 completely different from the standard touristy seashores. You gained’t discover enormous resorts right here (aside from Desires Macao Seashore), however as a substitute native meals distributors promoting freshly grilled fish proper on the sand.
On weekends, issues can get fairly energetic as locals come out to get pleasure from this stunning stretch of shoreline – so count on some crowds and noise! However in the event you want peace and quiet throughout your seaside time, weekdays are excellent for absorbing the pure tranquility of Macao Seashore.
Past the laid-back environment, nonetheless, lies a pure magnificence that may 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 circumstances – though watch out when swimming as there are sturdy currents!
Learn how to get there: From most resorts in Punta Cana, it’s simply accessible by taxi or automobile in about 20-Half-hour.Prices: There isn’t a cost for this Punta Cana seaside.Good to know: Macao Seashore is among the most stunning seashores in all of Punta Cana.
Cap Cana
Should you’re on the lookout for an opulent 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 this planet.
However that’s not all – because of its shallow waters, Cap Cana additionally boasts vibrant turquoise hues which might be certain to take your breath away.
So in case you are on the lookout for an unforgettable trip expertise in a paradise-like setting, you’ll want to take a look at this superb vacation spot in your subsequent journey!
Learn how to get there: Cap Cana is finest reached by renting a automobile. Value: The seashores of Punta Cana are freed from cost. Although among the seashores might require you to eat one thing on the native seaside golf equipment so as to acquire entry to them. And it’s value it.Good to know: Cap Cana is the place to be in the event you’re within the way of life of the wealthy and well-known and wish to see pristine white seashores.
Prime excursions from Punta Cana
Discover the peninsula of Samaná
Should 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 one of the vital stunning areas of the Dominican Republic and properly value exploring.
Whereas day journeys from Punta Cana by bus + boat or airplane are doable, 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 reminiscent of 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 automobile can 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
Should you’re on the lookout for a must-see attraction in Punta Cana, look no additional than Los Haitises Nationwide Park. Whereas it could 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 gorgeous wildlife.
One of the best half? You possibly can 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 automobile (~) and trying out the Eco-Lodge contained in the park (charges and reserving hyperlink beneath). This distinctive lodging possibility gives unparalleled views of pure swimming pools shaped by dammed rivers that result in stunning waterfalls.
Not solely will you have got 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?
Learn how to get there: The beginning of the Los Haitises excursions is straight from the lodge in Punta Cana. If you wish to discover the park by yourself, it’s best to hire a automobile and drive about 2 hours northwest on superb roads (besides the final 10km).
Prices: Day journeys from Punta Cana beginning at 100 euros per particular person, automobile 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 stunning pure sights in Punta Cana and the encompassing space with its islands, caves, wildlife.
Hoyo Azul
Hoyo Azul is a cave (cenote) that is a vital a part of Scape Park and is hidden on the foot of a 75 meter cliff.
Its turquoise waters entice many guests. Hoyo Azul (Blue Gap) is a pure phenomenon full of crystal clear water.
It’s advisable to reach early as it may be very talked-about. And don’t neglect to convey a showering 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 panoramic panorama. There may be additionally a platform from which you’ll get pleasure from a spectacular view of the encompassing space.
The water at Hoyo Azul is so clear that you could see all the best way to the underside – a snorkeler’s paradise!
Scape Park additionally gives different actions reminiscent of zip lining and horseback using. However in the event you’re on the lookout for a quiet oasis, you’ll want to go to Hoyo Azul. Just a few hours right here will allow 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 prefer to dive from the platform – actually one thing to your digital camera.
The park employees 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 dwelling to a wide range of wildlife, together with monkeys, iguanas, and varied hen species reminiscent of toucans and parrots. It’s a paradise for nature photographers!
Should you’re fascinated with tradition, you’ll want to make a journey to the indigenous village. The locals are pleased to point out you their conventional lifestyle in addition to their handicrafts reminiscent of weaving or carving.
All in all, Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve gives an ideal alternative to loosen up in stunning nature and study in regards to the native ecology and tradition – undoubtedly value a go to!
Discover UNESCO World Heritage Santo Domingo
Should 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 allure. You gained’t wish to miss out on exploring this residing open-air museum of traditionally worthwhile buildings, colourful facades, small cafes and outlets 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 finest to discover Santo Domingo: reserving an organized tour stands out as the best, but it surely leaves little room to delve into the main points – as a substitute, hop on a bus or hire a automobile (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 once 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.Value: The price of a tour information from Punta Cana is roughly 90 euros per particular person. Should you determine to prepare it your self, count on to pay about US$10 per particular person every means for the bus and US$30-40 per particular person in a double room in a small however good colonial lodge.Good to know: Santo Domingo is the center of the Dominican Republic, a melting pot of cultures and an amazing 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 supply loads of exploration alternatives.
You’ll be pleased to know that there are about ten completely 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 in the event 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 mountaineering isn’t your factor altogether then take into account trying out spots like Salto Socoa or Salto Alto de Bayaguana the place parking tons sit conveniently near their respective falls.
Learn how to get there: One of the best ways is by rental automobile to the completely different beginning factors of the walks, which take between 1 and three hours.Prices: Usually noneGood 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
Should you’re on the lookout for a extra laid-back and off-the-beaten-path Punta Cana expertise, Boca de Yuma is the proper getaway.
This charming fishing village is simply an hour’s drive from Punta Cana, however feels worlds away with its sleepy environment. The true gem listed here are the small eating places perched excessive on the cliffs, the place you possibly can 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!
You can even hop aboard a wood boat to discover secluded seashores or hike by lush forests to seek out crystal-clear lagoons; locals are pleased to behave as your guides for a small tip.
Learn how to get there: One of the best ways is by rental automobile, about an hour from Punta Cana.Prices: Automobile 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 stick with ziplining in Punta Cana for now?
There are such a lot of thrilling cover adventures to discover on the japanese facet of the Dominican Republic. There are round 5 completely different zipline experiences in Punta Cana alone!
Whereas the breathtaking zipline at Scape Park Cap Cana could also be one of the vital spectacular choices, it’s actually not your solely alternative. For households on the lookout for a extra kid-friendly possibility, 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 in every of these excursions, you’ll have loads of alternatives to find the completely different sides that make up this stunning nation – however irrespective of which one you select, relaxation assured that all of them promise action-packed pleasure all through your time right here!
Learn how to get there: All Punta Cana zipline excursions embody lodge transfers.Prices: Beginning at 50 euros per personGood 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 great thing about Isla Saona and Isla Catalina? Look no additional than Punta Cana!
Whereas these excursions might be prolonged, taking as much as 10 hours together with bus transfers to Bayahibe or La Romana, there’s another. As an alternative, e-book a catamaran tour from Punta Cana.
Though there aren’t any main sights within the space (other than the underwhelming pure pool), cruising the Caribbean waters is an expertise you gained’t quickly neglect.
For many who are on the lookout for one thing a bit of extra upscale, we advocate choosing larger high quality excursions, as among the cheaper choices are usually social gathering and booze cruises. So take into account properly, if you wish to get monetary savings right here or not.
Learn how to get there: Excursions often depart straight from resorts in Punta Cana.Prices: Beginning at 50 euros per particular person.Good to know: Expertise the Caribbean with out having to go to Saona or Catinaccio.
Diving in Punta Cana
Should you’d prefer to discover the depths of Punta Cana’s oceans, however wish to soak up all of the gorgeous sights underwater, don’t fear!
You possibly can 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 is probably not as well-known for diving as different spots across the globe, there are nonetheless some superb wrecks and reefs that may preserve divers entertained for 2-3 days straight. And in the event you’re on the lookout for a bit of extra selection than what Punta Cana has to supply, don’t neglect about Bayahibe – one other incredible space to take a look at!
Learn how to get there: There are quite a few dive colleges alongside the Punta Cana seaside resorts.Prices: Diving in Punta Cana often prices between 35 and 50 euros.Good to know: Diving lovers mustn’t miss the chance to get the Dominican Republic of their diving e-book.
Whale and dolphin watching within the Dominican Republic
Should 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 into extremely fashionable and at all times draw crowds. It’s no surprise – from January to March yearly, humpback whales come to the Bay of Samaná to offer start and feed their younger. Hundreds of tourists 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 might be reached from the mainland in addition to from Punta Cana? Should you head to Miches (simply over an hour away), you possibly can embark on one of the vital thrilling experiences in Punta Cana – whale watching!
The excellent news is that it’s nearly sure that you just’ll see them.
Learn how to get there: Punta Cana Whale Watching at all times picks you up at your lodge.Value: 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 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 do you have to go there? If you wish to get away from the vacationer crowds, you 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 every single place on the island, from birds to a seaside stuffed with starfish. Throughout the nesting season, sea turtles might be seen laying their eggs. The seashores on Saona Island are breathtakingly stunning and supply the proper 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 be a well-liked vacation spot for scuba divers who can observe a wide range of marine life.
Another excuse to go to Saona Island is its genuine Caribbean aptitude. There aren’t any giant lodge complexes or eating places right here – as a substitute you can find small seaside bars and grill stands serving contemporary fish and tropical cocktails.
To get to the island, you possibly can be part of a ship tour or hire a personal 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 in case you are on the lookout for peace and rest in the course of untouched nature and wish to expertise the true Caribbean feeling, it’s 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 fashionable and supply a whole lot of enjoyable for these staying in all-inclusive resorts.
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 supply senseless racing, but additionally offer you an opportunity to expertise the true Dominican Republic, which might be exhausting to seek out within the midst of touristy areas like Punta Cana.
The completely different Buggy Excursions are actually a one in every of a sort exercise, as they take guests by secluded seashores, gorgeous riversides and genuine villages that showcase native life up shut. The excursions often additionally embody a number of stops alongside the best way! If Land & Individuals’s choices appear boring or uninspiring – take a look at our really useful buggy adventures!
Learn how to get there: The excursions at all times embody choosing up out of your lodging or from the resort.Value: Customary buggy excursions in Punta Cana begin at 35 euros, some buggy excursions are dearer on account of smaller teams, actual VW engines and customized consideration.Good to know: Select a buggy tour that take you to locations you possibly can’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 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!