If you happen to’re planning a visit to Punta Cana, don’t simply follow the resort seashore! 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 resort. However critically, you may discover a lot extra. Discover a few of Punta Cana’s most lovely spots by yourself or with a information who’ll make it even higher.
There are tons of improbable actions and seashores to discover, that can positively be value your whereas.
Whether or not you need to hire a automotive and discover by yourself or be part of an thrilling group tour, I’ve obtained some nice recommendations under.
Right here is an summary:
Punta Cana’s most lovely seashores
With among the most lovely seashores on the planet, this tropical paradise is a must-see for anybody who loves solar, sand, and surf.
Make sure that to decide on a resort on the seashore, however be certain that to additionally discover the opposite high seashores.
Uncover the secluded Playa Esmeralda
On the lookout for a quiet and secluded seashore 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 almost 4 kilometers with out one other soul in sight, it’s exhausting to imagine that such magnificence exists so shut by.
In truth, this breathtaking stretch has been acknowledged as one of many high ten most lovely seashores within the DR!
However for those who’re planning to go to quickly – act quick! All-inclusive resorts will probably be constructed right here within the coming years.
If renting a automotive isn’t your factor, don’t fear – there are at all times helicopter rides accessible at surprisingly reasonably priced costs that embrace visits to Salto de la Jalda; the very best waterfall in all of Dominican territory.
Methods to get there: About an hour’s drive from Punta Cana.
Prices: Entry to the seashore is free, and a helicopter tour prices about $250.
Good to know: Simply an hour from Punta Cana, a secluded and beautiful seashore.
Bavaro Seashore – Punta Cana’s longest seashore
Bavaro Seashore is an absolute should for seashore 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 superb sand is just breathtaking!
If strolling alongside the sandy shores sounds interesting, then seize your flip-flops, as a result of right here it’s attainable to stroll as much as 20 kilometers with out leaving the smooth grains behind.
As you stroll additional down in the 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 periods extra handy than ever!
Methods to get there: Lots of the resorts are situated proper on the seashore at Bavaro.
Value: Entry to the seashores of Punta Cana is freed from cost.
Good to know: A 20-kilometer-long seashore just isn’t one thing you’re going to discover all over the place within the Caribbean.
Macao Seashore
If you happen to’re in search of a chill seashore expertise in Punta Cana, Macao is the place to go.
It’s a fast 20-minute drive from most all-inclusive resorts and affords one thing completely different from the standard touristy seashores. You gained’t discover large resorts right here (apart from Desires Macao Seashore), however as an alternative native meals distributors promoting freshly grilled fish proper on the sand.
On weekends, issues can get fairly full of life as locals come out to take pleasure in this lovely stretch of shoreline – so anticipate some crowds and noise! However for those who desire peace and quiet throughout your seashore time, weekdays are excellent for absorbing the pure tranquility of Macao Seashore.
Past the laid-back environment, nonetheless, lies a pure magnificence that can take your breath away. The bay itself is stunningly picturesque; it makes for a powerful backdrop as you lounge round or catch waves, relying on the wind situations – though watch out when swimming as there are sturdy currents!
Methods to get there: From most resorts in Punta Cana, it’s simply accessible by taxi or automotive in about 20-Half-hour.
Prices: There is no such thing as a cost for this Punta Cana seashore.
Good to know: Macao Seashore is among the most lovely seashores in all of Punta Cana.
Cap Cana
If you happen to’re in search of an expensive seashore getaway in Punta Cana, Cap Cana is the place to be!
This southern a part of the town attracts many celebrities and excessive rollers with its posh villas and upscale resorts. And it’s not exhausting to see why – two beautiful seashores await you: Playa Blanca and Playa Juanillo, each with among the whitest sand on the planet.
However that’s not all – due to its shallow waters, Cap Cana additionally boasts vibrant turquoise hues which are positive to take your breath away.
So if you’re in search of an unforgettable trip expertise in a paradise-like setting, you’ll want to try this wonderful vacation spot in your subsequent journey!
Methods to get there: Cap Cana is finest reached by renting a automotive.
Value: The seashores of Punta Cana are freed from cost. Although among the seashores might require you to devour one thing on the native seashore golf equipment to be able to achieve entry to them. And it’s value it.
Good to know: Cap Cana is the place to be for those who’re within the life-style of the wealthy and well-known and need to see pristine white seashores.
High excursions from Punta Cana
Discover the peninsula of Samaná
If you happen to’re in your option to Los Haitises Nationwide Park (see under), why not make a pit cease on the beautiful Samaná Peninsula? It’s one of the vital lovely areas of the Dominican Republic and properly value exploring.
Whereas day journeys from Punta Cana by bus + boat or aircraft are attainable, we suggest that you simply plan for a number of days to completely immerse your self in all that Samaná has to supply.
There are numerous 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 automotive 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 value ranges so there’s one thing for everybody!
Los Haitises Nationwide Park
If you happen to’re in search of 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 due to its beautiful natural world.
One of the best half? You’ll be able to 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 suggest renting a automotive (~) and trying out the Eco-Lodge contained in the park (charges and reserving hyperlink under). This distinctive lodging possibility affords unparalleled views of pure swimming pools shaped by dammed rivers that result in lovely waterfalls.
Not solely will you will have entry to breathtaking surroundings throughout your keep, but in addition 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?
Methods to get there: The beginning of the Los Haitises excursions is immediately from the resort in Punta Cana. If you wish to discover the park by yourself, it’s best to hire a automotive and drive about 2 hours northwest on excellent roads (besides the final 10km).
Prices: Day journeys from Punta Cana beginning at 100 euros per individual, automotive 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 lovely pure points of interest in Punta Cana and the encircling space with its islands, caves, natural world.
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 appeal to many guests. Hoyo Azul (Blue Gap) is a pure phenomenon stuffed with crystal clear water.
It’s advisable to reach early as it may be very fashionable. And don’t overlook to convey a washing 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 affords a wide ranging panorama. There may be additionally a platform from which you’ll be able to take pleasure in a spectacular view of the encircling space.
The water at Hoyo Azul is so clear you could see all the way in which to the underside – a snorkeler’s paradise!
Scape Park additionally affords different actions reminiscent of zip lining and horseback driving. However for those who’re in search of a quiet oasis, you’ll want to go to Hoyo Azul. A couple of hours right here will provide help 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 realm 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 wish to dive from the platform – actually one thing in your digicam.
The park employees is dedicated to defending and preserving the pure surroundings. They’ve applied 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 residence to a wide range of wildlife, together with monkeys, iguanas, and varied chicken species reminiscent of toucans and parrots. It’s a paradise for nature photographers!
If you happen to’re fascinated with tradition, you’ll want to make a journey to the indigenous village. The locals are comfortable 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 affords an ideal alternative to loosen up in lovely nature and be taught concerning the native ecology and tradition – positively value a go to!
Discover UNESCO World Heritage Santo Domingo
If you happen to’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 can take you again in time and fill your coronary heart with Dominican attraction. You gained’t need to miss out on exploring this dwelling open-air museum of traditionally priceless buildings, colourful facades, small cafes and outlets galore; it’s really 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 inform you how finest to discover Santo Domingo: reserving an organized tour stands out as the best, however it leaves little room to delve into the main points – as an alternative, hop on a bus or hire a automotive (if the site visitors isn’t an excessive amount of of a problem) and take two days off at one of many charming historic resorts situated proper within the Zona Colonial itself.
Belief us after we say that a bit of additional 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 individual. If you happen to determine to arrange it your self, anticipate to pay about US$10 per individual every approach for the bus and US$30-40 per individual in a double room in a small however good colonial resort.
Good to know: Santo Domingo is the center of the Dominican Republic, a melting pot of cultures and an important place to be taught concerning 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 comfortable 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 very best Dominican Republic waterfall in addition to one in every of its longest hikes.
However for those who’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 think about trying out spots like Salto Socoa or Salto Alto de Bayaguana the place parking tons sit conveniently near their respective falls.
Methods to get there: One of the best ways is by rental automotive to the completely different beginning factors of the walks, which take between 1 and three hours.
Prices: Usually none
Good to know: Waterfalls are quintessential tropical vegetation and also you normally have all of them to your self.
Half day tour to the Boca de Yuma space
If you happen to’re in search of 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 actual gem listed here are the small eating places perched excessive on the cliffs, the place you may take pleasure in 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 too hop aboard a picket boat to discover secluded seashores or hike by means of lush forests to search out crystal-clear lagoons; locals are comfortable to behave as your guides for a small tip.
Methods to get there: One of the best ways is by rental automotive, 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 attraction.
Ziplining in Punta Cana
Why not follow ziplining in Punta Cana for now?
There are such a lot of thrilling cover adventures to discover on the jap 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 in search of a extra kid-friendly possibility, Bavaro Journey Park affords an exhilarating suspension bridge and fun-filled expertise. In the meantime, these in search of 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 lovely nation – however irrespective of which one you select, relaxation assured that all of them promise action-packed pleasure all through your time right here!
Methods to get there: All Punta Cana zipline excursions embrace resort transfers.
Prices: Beginning at 50 euros per individual
Good 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 may be prolonged, taking as much as 10 hours together with bus transfers to Bayahibe or La Romana, there’s another. As a substitute, e-book a catamaran tour from Punta Cana.
Though there aren’t any main points of interest within the space (except for the underwhelming pure pool), cruising the Caribbean waters is an expertise you gained’t quickly overlook.
For individuals who are in search of one thing a bit of extra upscale, we suggest choosing increased high quality excursions, as among the cheaper choices are usually celebration and booze cruises. So think about correctly, if you wish to get monetary savings right here or not.
Methods to get there: Excursions normally depart immediately from resorts in Punta Cana.
Prices: Beginning at 50 euros per individual.
Good to know: Expertise the Caribbean with out having to go to Saona or Catinaccio.
Diving in Punta Cana
If you happen to’d wish to discover the depths of Punta Cana’s oceans, however need to soak up all of the beautiful sights underwater, don’t fear!
You’ll be able to simply e-book a dive with one of many many respected faculties. Scuba diving is unquestionably one of many high issues to do when visiting this lovely vacation spot within the Dominican Republic.
Whereas it will not be as well-known for diving as different spots across the globe, there are nonetheless some wonderful wrecks and reefs that can maintain divers entertained for 2-3 days straight. And for those who’re in search of a bit of extra selection than what Punta Cana has to supply, don’t overlook about Bayahibe – one other improbable space to take a look at!
Methods to get there: There are quite a few dive faculties alongside the Punta Cana seashore resorts.
Prices: Diving in Punta Cana normally prices between 35 and 50 euros.
Good to know: Diving fans mustn’t miss the chance to get the Dominican Republic of their diving e-book.
Whale and dolphin watching within the Dominican Republic
If you happen to’re in search of an thrilling journey in Punta Cana, whale and dolphin watching in Samaná is a should!
These excursions have turn out to be extremely widespread 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 holiday makers flock right here every year because it is among the best points of interest 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 may be reached from the mainland in addition to from Punta Cana? If you happen to head to Miches (simply over an hour away), you may embark on one of the vital thrilling experiences in Punta Cana – whale watching!
The excellent news is that it’s virtually sure that you simply’ll see them.
Methods to get there: Punta Cana Whale Watching at all times picks you up at your resort.
Value: The price of the whale watching tour is between 120 and 160 euros.
Good to know: A Caribbean tour with an virtually 100% assure that you will note large humpback whales – the place else can you discover that?
Saona Island
Saona Island is an unspoiled island off the coast of Punta Cana.
Why must you go there? If you wish to get away from the vacationer crowds, you will discover paradise on Saona Island. The island is a federally protected nature reserve and a part of the East Nationwide Park. Wildlife is all over the place on the island, from birds to a seashore filled with starfish. Throughout the nesting season, sea turtles may be seen laying their eggs. The seashores on Saona Island are breathtakingly lovely 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.
One more reason to go to Saona Island is its genuine Caribbean aptitude. There aren’t any massive resort complexes or eating places right here – as an alternative you will discover small seashore bars and grill stands serving contemporary fish and tropical cocktails.
To get to the island, you may be part of a ship tour or hire a personal boat. Some excursions embrace a cease at a fishing village on the coast of Bayahibe to get a style of life away from the vacationer crowds.
So if you’re in search of peace and leisure in the course of untouched nature and need to expertise the actual Caribbean feeling, you must positively make a journey to the paradise island of Saona!
Punta Cana Buggy Tour
Buggy excursions are a should in Punta Cana. It’s very fashionable with American guests. The Dune Buggy Excursions are particularly widespread and supply a variety of enjoyable for these staying in all-inclusive resorts.
However if you’re in search of 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 in addition provide you with an opportunity to expertise the actual Dominican Republic, which may be exhausting to search out within the midst of touristy areas like Punta Cana.
The completely different Buggy Excursions are really a one in every of a form exercise, as they take guests by means of secluded seashores, beautiful riversides and genuine villages that showcase native life up shut. The excursions normally additionally embrace a number of stops alongside the way in which! If Land & Folks’s choices appear uninteresting or uninspiring – try our really helpful buggy adventures!
Methods to get there: The excursions at all times embrace selecting up out of your lodging or from the resort.
Value: Customary buggy excursions in Punta Cana begin at 35 euros, some buggy excursions are costlier on account of smaller teams, actual VW engines and personalised consideration.
Good to know: Select a buggy tour that take you to locations you may’t go as a standard vacationer.
Conclusion
Punta Cana is a paradise for seashore lovers and journey seekers alike. With its beautiful shoreline, there’s no scarcity of seashores to swimsuit each style.
However that’s not all – the area additionally affords an abundance of actions to swimsuit each curiosity. From snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal clear waters to zip lining by means of lush forests or exploring on ATV excursions, Punta Cana has all of it!
Whether or not you’re in search of pleasure or leisure, this tropical vacation spot really has one thing for everybody. So why wait? Come take in the Caribbean solar and expertise all that Punta Cana has to supply!
