Both Punta Cana and Puerto Plata are popular beach destinations in the Dominican Republic, but these two vacation spots are actually very different.
Punta Cana is located on the east coast of the Dominican Republic and offers calm and serene beaches, while Puerto Plata is located on the Atlantic north coast of the country and is best known for activities such as windsurfing and diving.
Where you should go on vacation will largely depend on what you are looking for in a beach vacation. Both beach destinations are tropical and offer a multitude of activities to explore, but the beaches in Punta Cana are generally much calmer than those in Puerto Plata.
To learn more about the differences in Punta Cana and Puerto Plata, continue reading.
The Beaches
Punta Cana’s beaches are known for their sparkling blue water, soft sand, and picturesque landscapes. The water is serene and calm, which is perfect for a quiet and relaxing day at the beach. You can also walk barefoot in the sand without having to worry about stepping on sharp rocks or shells.
The beaches in Puerto Plata are typically rockier, so shoes may be required. The water is also more temperamental and the waves are rougher. Windsurfing is a popular activity in Puerto Plata, as the rough sea is ideal for this sailing sport.
The Activities
Both tropical destinations offer a variety of fun activities. Punta Cana offers recreation such as golfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, zip-lining, cave exploration, and swimming with sharks. Relaxing on the beach and enjoying the crystal blue waters are obviously popular activities in Punta Cana as well.
The activities in Puerto Plata are also abundant. Water sports such as diving and windsurfing are especially favored. Kitesurfing, swimming with dolphins and sharks, parasailing, deep sea fishing, hiking, waterskiing, and jet skiing are also popular activities.
The temperamental waters in Puerto Plata make this destination an excellent place to explore water activities and there is no shortage of recreation on the beaches of this vacation spot.
The Nightlife
While there is an active nightlife in both Punta Cana and Puerto Plata, the nightlife scene in Puerto Plata tends to be a little more lively and offers more of a selection.
Puerto Plata is a more party-oriented destination and there are a variety of bars and clubs to choose from, while Punta Cana also has hotels and nightclubs but is best known for being a relaxing beach destination.
The Prices
One of the biggest differences with Punta Cana and Puerto Plata is the price. Punta Cana is a newer tourist destination and is generally more expensive. The prices of hotels, restaurants, spa treatments, and recreational activities can often be comparable to upscale American resort prices.
Of course, the time of year you visit and the quality of hotel you stay in will also determine prices.
Puerto Plata is an older beach destination and generally offers lower rates for vacation packages and hotels. You can also save money on accommodations by choosing hotel rooms that are near the garden instead of the beach.
If you are looking for a tropical beach vacation with a lot of fun activities, both Punta Cana and Puerto Plata will be good choices. The main differences lie in the activities you wish you partake in and the type of beaches you prefer.
Punta Cana is ideal for the traveler who wants a relaxing and scenic vacation at the beach. Puerto Plata is more suitable for those who wish to partake in water sports such as windsurfing, diving, and parasailing. Both places offer beautiful beaches, and you are sure to enjoy your stay at either destination.
