When many people plan their trip to the Dominican Republic, they find themselves confused about what the difference is between Bavaro, Punta Cana, and even Uvero Alto. Simply put, Bavaro is an area that is close to Punta Cana. It only takes 20 to 30 minutes to get from one place to the other.
Punta Cana is the nearest city to Bavaro Beach. Both areas offer similar attractions to tourists, including resorts, beaches, and shopping so you can choose to visit whichever appeals to you the most.
Furthermore, Uvero Alto is an area a little more secluded beyond Bavaro but hotels use the name “Punta Cana” in all three locations indifferently.
To sum up, when someone says “Punta Cana” they could be referring to Bavaro, Uvero Alto, or the city of Punta Cana itself. Check out these suggestions about where to stay and what to do in these three areas.
Where to Stay
Barceló Bávaro Palace
Carretera Bávaro, 1, Avenida Barceló, Bávaro, Higuey 23000, Dominican Republic
This 5-star resort, located right beside Bávaro Beach, offers guests a taste of luxury. It has 11 restaurants, Wi-Fi, opportunities for water sports and countless other amenities.
Occidental Punta Cana
Avenida España 3, Punta Cana 23301, Dominican Republic
With multiple pools, seven à la carte restaurants, and the Mangú Night Club, this hotel would be the right match for those who want an action-packed vacation. The natural setting makes for a relaxing one, with entertainment day and night.
Sunscape Bávaro Beach
Alemania A-B 108, El Cortecito, Bavaro Punta Cana, DR, Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic
A 4-star all-inclusive resort that is right on the beach. How relaxing! With clubs for kids and teens, a spa and unlimited drinks, there is something here for the whole family. You can even specifically request a room with a tropical, pool or ocean view.
Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa
Playas Uvero Alto, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
An all-inclusive resort with unique features, such as the Flamingo Lake and free-form swimming pool, Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa is an ideal place to stay. Take part in activities such as Spanish lessons, sports competitions, and Rum tastings, and get away from it all.
Where to Play
Palma Real Shopping Village
Get your retail fix on at Palma Real Shopping Village. Shop until you drop and pick up some bargains at the chain retailers and souvenir shops. There are even grocery stores and restaurants in the complex, so grab a bite when hunger strikes.
Bávaro Beach
Enjoy a day on the beach. Jump in the water, walk along the white sand or people watch. Bávaro Beach is the ideal place to soak up your time in paradise.
Scape Park
Get the experience of the lifetime and swim in an underground cenote, zip line and horseback ride all in one place. Make sure to budget for pictures to make sure you remember the experience forever at Scape Park.
ChocoMuseo Punta Cana
After spending so many days on the beach and at the resort, you might want to take an afternoon to do something different. Go to ChocoMuseo and visit the museum, taste some chocolate and take a class.
You can even register to make your own chocolate bar straight from the bean. Chocolate lovers could spend at least an hour here.
Whether you choose to stay Bávaro or Punta Cana, you will be able to soak up the sun and have a fun-filled vacation.
