- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Punta Cana
Punta Cana's story began in 1969 when developers saw potential in its remote jungle. Before resorts, the Taíno people thrived here. Today, modern hotel design dominates, but you can see local influence in the thatched 'palapa' roofs. Nearby, the Basilica of Higüey's concrete arches offer a striking contrast. This blend of new and old is key to understanding the area's identity.
Beyond the 32 km of white-sand beaches, you'll find Ojos Indígenas Ecological Reserve, home to 12 freshwater lagoons. When visiting Punta Cana, explore cenotes like Hoyo Azul in Scape Park, formed by collapsed limestone caves. From January to March, Samaná Bay becomes a nursery for thousands of humpback whales, a truly unique sight.
To taste the real Dominican Republic, venture beyond your resort. Try 'La Bandera Dominicana,' our national lunch dish, or a rich 'Sancocho' stew. Look for roadside stands selling fresh coconut water. A must-try local drink is Mamajuana, a unique concoction of rum, red wine, and honey soaked in tree bark and herbs. It is more than a drink, it's a tradition.
- Punta CanaDominican Republic
- Punta CanaDominican Republic
- Punta CanaDominican Republic
- Punta CanaDominican Republic
Quick Travel Essentials
- Dec-Aprideal weather, peak tourist season
- May-Aughot, limited crowds, occasional rain
- Sep-Novwarm, hurricane season, fewer tourists
- #Swimwear
- #Sunscreen
- #LightClothing
- #ComfortableShoes
- #InsectRepellent
- #PowerAdapterTypeB
- 4-5 days for highlights
- 7-10 days with beaches & excursions
- Dominican Peso (RD$)
- Spanish
- English widely spoken in tourist areas
- #BavaroBeach
- #PuntaCanaVillage
- #CatalinaIsland
- #SaonaIsland
- #IslaSaonaNationalPark
- #HoyoAzul
- #CapCana
- Relax on Bavaro Beach
- Snorkel at Catalina Island
- Explore Hoyo Azul
- Take a boat tour to Saona Island
- Visit Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park
- Enjoy local cuisine at a beach shack
Recommended Hotels in Punta Cana by Experience
Things to do in Punta Cana
Discover
When exploring Punta Cana, you'll find stunning natural landscapes. Discover the white sands of Bávaro Beach, the turquoise cenote of Hoyo Azul, and the freshwater lagoons within the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve.
Experience
Snorkel at Catalina Island, zipline through the jungle canopy, or sail on a catamaran. Experience local culture by tasting Mamajuana, dancing to merengue music, or joining a cigar rolling workshop for a hands-on Dominican tradition.
Bávaro Beach
Famous white-sand beach with clear waters for swimming.
Hoyo Azul Cenote
Stunning hidden cenote with turquoise waters for swimming.
Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park
Nature reserve with 12 freshwater lagoons for swimming.
Saona Island Excursion
Boat trip to a protected island with pristine beaches.
Macao Beach
Public beach popular for surfing and its scenic cliffs.
Higüey Basilica
Modernist Catholic basilica, an important pilgrimage site.
Ziplining Adventure
Adventure activity flying over the dense jungle canopy.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Most visitors arrive at Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). To get from the airport to resort areas, pre-booked taxis cost ~$40 (20-40 min). A shared Punta Cana shuttle bus is a more affordable choice. No train service operates here.
Getting Around
Taxis are widely available; always confirm the fare beforehand. For authentic public transport in Punta Cana, try 'guaguas' (local buses). Motoconchos (motorcycle taxis) offer quick trips. Car rental in Punta Cana is another popular option.
Local Essentials
If driving in Punta Cana, be cautious of erratic traffic. U.S. dollars are widely accepted, so carry small bills. A key detail when you plan a trip to Punta Cana is that ride-sharing apps are limited; use official hotel taxis instead.
Where to Stay in Punta Cana
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Punta Cana beyond the resorts. Taste rich sancocho stew or fresh fried fish with tostones. Locals often enjoy a large, leisurely lunch as the main meal of the day, a perfect time to eat and connect.
Enjoy
For the best restaurants in Punta Cana, try La Yola's elegant vibe, reserve ahead. Sip cocktails at Pearl Beach Club's energetic scene, consider cabana rental. Grab coffee at Dalia's Cafe & Bakery's cozy spot, avoid morning rush.
La Yola Restaurant
Upscale seafood dining on a pier. Reserve for views.
Jellyfish Beach Restaurant
Fresh seafood in a stunning beachfront setting. Book for sunset.
Passion by Martin Berasategui
Avant-garde tasting menus from a famed chef. Pricey but unique.
Captain Cook Restaurant
A classic spot for fresh, locally caught seafood. Busy spot.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Punta Cana's heritage through its must-see religious festivals and folk traditions. The Day of Our Lady of Altagracia in January sees pilgrimages to the Higüey Basilica, while February's Carnival features parades with iconic "Diablos Cojuelos."
Enjoy
Discover modern Punta Cana attractions with a creative scene full of energy. Things to do include open-air concerts and music festivals that blend merengue, bachata, and electronic beats, showcasing both local and international artists.
Punta Cana Carnival
February celebration with vibrant parades, music, and masks.
Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia
January 21 religious pilgrimage to the Higüey Basilica.
Independence Day
February 27 features military parades and festive events.
Isle of Light Festival
Indie and electronic music festival in nearby Santo Domingo.
Merengue Festival
July/August event in Santo Domingo celebrating Dominican music.
Festival Presidente
Major Latin music event held every two years in Santo Domingo.
A Perfect Escape
Punta Cana is just beautiful, a perfect spot to unplug. The beaches are the main draw, especially Bávaro Beach with its soft white sand and clear water. It's a place built for total relaxation. The resorts have everything you need, and the people are super welcoming.
Effortless Vacation
What a great place to just forget about everything. The all-inclusive resort life is so easy. We spent most days by the pool or on the beach. Tried some of the local drink, Mamajuana, which was interesting! It's the ideal destination for a proper do-nothing vacation.
More Than Just Beaches
Punta Cana has more to do than just sit on the sand. We took a trip to see the Hoyo Azul cenote and swimming in that incredibly blue water was a highlight. There are lots of tours and things to see if you want to get out of the resort for a day.
Postcard Views
The natural scenery is stunning. A day trip out to Saona Island is a must-do. The boat ride was fun, and the island itself looks exactly like a postcard. The water is so many different shades of blue. It was very peaceful and picturesque.
World-Class Beaches
The beaches here are just top-tier. We spent some time at Macao Beach, which was great for surfing and had a more local feel. The water is warm and perfect for swimming. Lots of options for watersports right from the shore.
Great Family Trip
This was a fantastic spot for a family trip. Very safe and everything is convenient. The kids loved the ocean. Found a great local spot and tried Mofongo for the first time; it was delicious! A really easy and fun place to travel with children.