Each person has a very different vision of what they would like to do on vacation. Whatever your pleasure, Punta Cana has something to offer for you.
Gorgeous Beaches
The beaches in Punta Cana are notoriously gorgeous and each one is unique in its own way. If you are looking for a secluded experience head to Macao Beach at the north edge of the Punta Cana area outside of the town of El Macao. There are no resorts on the beach so it is usually less populated than other beaches in the area, although it is popular with locals on the weekends.
If you are interested in trying out the waves look for the Macao Surf Camp where you can take lessons or rent boards. From locations farther south in Punta Cana, you can take a lovely walk along the beach to get there.
If you are interested in a more upscale experience, try Juanillo beach located next to Sanctuary Cap Cana Resorts. The beach is pristine and offers cocktail service and cabanas from the adjacent restaurant. For more options of beaches to explore during your trip click here.
Isla Saona
A very special beach destination that cannot be missed is Isla Saona. It is on an island off the southern coast of the Dominican Republic easily reached from Punta Cana. There are no hotels on the islands since it is part of a protected nature reserve (Parque Nacional del Este), so you will have to book a day trip.
Most tours include a catamaran trip out to the island which is slow enough to enjoy the surroundings and a cocktail, then a stop at a beautiful beach once you arrive. These tours can be found from several different operators in Bayahibe at various prices ranging from $50 – $100 (ask your hotel for booking details).
You can opt to add extras to your trip, like snorkeling or a hike around the islands or a lunch buffet. See this blog for an in-depth explanation of their tour experience.
Jeep Tour
If you are looking to get away from the beach for a day, try a jeep tour. There are many options for different types of tours and some include riding horses and ziplining. This tour includes a jeep ride past a sugar cane plantation, a horseback ride into the countryside, and a zip line ride.
This adventurous tour is a great way to get a taste of the Dominican countryside at a fast pace!
Hoyo Azul
For a freshwater dip, visit the sought-after Hoyo Azul (Blue Hole), a sinkhole containing fresh, cool water in which you can swim. You can either book a tour that leads you to Hoyo Azul via a hike through the forest and a cave exploration, or one that sends you on a zip line ride that will take you to enjoy its unmatched beauty.
What about the nightlife?
If you are looking for nightlife, check out the club Coco Bongo. The club offers a unique experience that combines a live show with video, acrobatics, and much more.
Don’t miss these either!
Taste some local flavor at the ChocoMuseo and Don Lucas’ Cigar Factory (located within a 10-minute drive of each other in downtown Punta Cana). At Don Lucas’ you can take a free tour of the factory, learning about the cigar making process and sampling their products.
At the ChocoMuseo, you can tour the factory and visit their museum for free, as well as attend chocolate-making workshops and bring home a handmade chocolate bar.
Whatever you choose, there is no doubt that you will enjoy your stay in Punta Cana!