In case you’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 severely, you possibly can 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 incredible actions and seashores to discover, that can undoubtedly be price your whereas.
Whether or not you wish to lease a automotive and discover by yourself or be part of an thrilling group tour, I’ve obtained some nice options beneath.
Right here is an outline:
Punta Cana’s most lovely seashores
With a number of the most lovely seashores on the planet, this tropical paradise is a must-see for anybody who loves solar, sand, and surf.
Be certain to decide on a resort on the seashore, however make sure that to additionally discover the opposite high seashores.
Uncover the secluded Playa Esmeralda
Searching 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 without doubt one of the most pristine seashores you’ll discover anyplace within the Dominican Republic. With its crystal clear waters stretching almost 4 kilometers with out one other soul in sight, it’s arduous to imagine that such magnificence exists so shut by.
In actual fact, 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 can be constructed right here within the coming years.
If renting a automotive isn’t your factor, don’t fear – there are all the time helicopter rides obtainable at surprisingly reasonably priced costs that embrace visits to Salto de la Jalda; the best waterfall in all of Dominican territory.
The way 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 Seaside – Punta Cana’s longest seashore
Bavaro Seaside 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 a number of 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 totally different areas alongside Bavaro Seaside equivalent to Bibijagua, Jellyfish, Corales, Cortecito, Enviornment Blanca and Enviornment Gorda.
The width of Bavaro Seaside makes it a sight to behold; particularly close to Melía Caribe Punta Cana or Secrets and techniques Royal Seaside the place the tremendous 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 tender grains behind.
As you stroll additional down in direction of Macau, take within the breathtaking views of turquoise waters lapping in opposition to towering palm bushes!
For these staying at all-inclusive resorts situated proper on its shores, Bavaro Seaside is simply steps away out of your room, making sunbathing classes extra handy than ever!
The way to get there: Lots of the accommodations 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 isn’t one thing you’re going to discover all over the place within the Caribbean.
Macao Seaside
In case you’re searching for 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 gives one thing totally different from the standard touristy seashores. You gained’t discover big accommodations right here (aside from Desires Macao Seaside), however as a substitute native meals distributors promoting freshly grilled fish proper on the sand.
On weekends, issues can get fairly vigorous as locals come out to get pleasure from this lovely stretch of shoreline – so anticipate some crowds and noise! However for those who favor peace and quiet throughout your seashore time, weekdays are excellent for absorbing the pure tranquility of Macao Seaside.
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 circumstances – though watch out when swimming as there are sturdy currents!
The way to get there: From most accommodations in Punta Cana, it’s simply accessible by taxi or automotive in about 20-Half-hour.
Prices: There isn’t any cost for this Punta Cana seashore.
Good to know: Macao Seaside is without doubt one of the most lovely seashores in all of Punta Cana.
Cap Cana
In case you’re searching for an expensive seashore getaway in Punta Cana, Cap Cana is the place to be!
This southern a part of town attracts many celebrities and excessive rollers with its posh villas and upscale resorts. And it’s not arduous to see why – two beautiful seashores await you: Playa Blanca and Playa Juanillo, each with a number of 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 certain to take your breath away.
So in case you are searching for an unforgettable trip expertise in a paradise-like setting, you’ll want to take a look at this superb vacation spot in your subsequent journey!
The way to get there: Cap Cana is finest reached by renting a automotive.
Value: The seashores of Punta Cana are freed from cost. Although a number of the seashores might require you to devour one thing on the native seashore golf equipment as a way to acquire entry to them. And it’s price it.
Good to know: Cap Cana is the place to be for those who’re within the way of life of the wealthy and well-known and wish to see pristine white seashores.
High excursions from Punta Cana
Discover the peninsula of Samaná
In case you’re in your strategy to Los Haitises Nationwide Park (see beneath), why not make a pit cease on the beautiful Samaná Peninsula? It’s one of the crucial lovely areas of the Dominican Republic and properly price exploring.
Whereas day journeys from Punta Cana by bus + boat or airplane are attainable, we suggest that you just plan for a number of days to totally immerse your self in all that Samaná has to supply.
There are a lot of sights to see on the peninsula equivalent to 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 also be an possibility with properly developed roads making it solely about 4 hours away from Punta Cana.
Lodging can be found in quite a lot of value ranges so there’s one thing for everybody!
Los Haitises Nationwide Park
In case you’re searching for a must-see attraction in Punta Cana, look no additional than Los Haitises Nationwide Park. Whereas it might 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 wildlife.
The perfect half? You may 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 beneath). This distinctive lodging possibility gives unparalleled views of pure swimming pools shaped by dammed rivers that result in lovely waterfalls.
Not solely will you’ve entry to breathtaking surroundings throughout your keep, but additionally some scrumptious meals – simply bear 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?
The way to get there: The beginning of the Los Haitises excursions is straight from the resort in Punta Cana. If you wish to discover the park by yourself, it’s best to lease a automotive and drive about 2 hours northwest on superb 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 without doubt one of the most lovely pure sights in Punta Cana and the encircling space with its islands, caves, wildlife.
Hoyo Azul
Hoyo Azul is a cave (cenote) that is a crucial a part of Scape Park and is hidden on the foot of a 75 meter cliff.
Its turquoise waters entice many guests. Hoyo Azul (Blue Gap) is a pure phenomenon full of crystal clear water.
It’s advisable to reach early as it may be extremely popular. And don’t neglect to deliver 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 gives a panoramic panorama. There may be additionally a platform from which you’ll get pleasure from a spectacular view of the encircling space.
The water at Hoyo Azul is so clear you can see all the way in which to the underside – a snorkeler’s paradise!
Scape Park additionally gives different actions equivalent to zip lining and horseback driving. However for those who’re searching for a quiet oasis, you’ll want to go to Hoyo Azul. A couple of hours right here will show you how 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 world 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 to your digicam.
The park employees is dedicated to defending and preserving the pure setting. They’ve carried out 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 house to quite a lot of wildlife, together with monkeys, iguanas, and numerous chicken species equivalent to toucans and parrots. It’s a paradise for nature photographers!
In case you’re excited by 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 equivalent to weaving or carving.
All in all, Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve gives an ideal alternative to calm down in lovely nature and study in regards to the native ecology and tradition – undoubtedly price a go to!
Discover UNESCO World Heritage Santo Domingo
In case you’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 wish to miss out on exploring this dwelling open-air museum of traditionally worthwhile buildings, colourful facades, small cafes and retailers galore; it’s actually 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 let you know how finest to discover Santo Domingo: reserving an organized tour could be the best, but it surely leaves little room to delve into the main points – as a substitute, hop on a bus or lease a automotive (if the visitors isn’t an excessive amount of of a trouble) and take two days off at one of many charming historic accommodations situated proper within the Zona Colonial itself.
Belief us once we say that a bit of further 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 – one of the simplest ways 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. In case you resolve to prepare 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 guts of the Dominican Republic, a melting pot of cultures and an excellent place to study in regards to 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 totally different waterfall areas inside three hours’ attain from Punta Cana! One such location is Salto de la Jalda, which boasts each being the best Dominican Republic waterfall in addition to one among its longest hikes.
However for those who’re not up for touring fairly to date out, no downside 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 climbing isn’t your factor altogether then contemplate trying out spots like Salto Socoa or Salto Alto de Bayaguana the place parking heaps sit conveniently near their respective falls.
The way to get there: One of the simplest ways is by rental automotive to the totally 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
In case you’re searching for 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 true gem listed here are the small eating places perched excessive on the cliffs, the place you possibly can get pleasure from a number of 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 too can hop aboard a wood boat to discover secluded seashores or hike by way of lush forests to search out crystal-clear lagoons; locals are comfortable to behave as your guides for a small tip.
The way to get there: One of the simplest 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 may 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 japanese aspect of the Dominican Republic. There are round 5 totally different zipline experiences in Punta Cana alone!
Whereas the breathtaking zipline at Scape Park Cap Cana could also be one of the crucial spectacular choices, it’s actually not your solely selection. For households searching for a extra kid-friendly possibility, Bavaro Journey Park gives an exhilarating suspension bridge and fun-filled expertise. In the meantime, these searching for lush greenery will love exploring Bavaro Runners’ tropical vegetation-focused journey.
By reserving one among these excursions, you’ll have loads of alternatives to find the totally different aspects 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!
The way 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
Searching for a ship tour that showcases the breathtaking fantastic thing about Isla Saona and Isla Catalina? Look no additional than Punta Cana!
Whereas these excursions could be prolonged, taking as much as 10 hours together with bus transfers to Bayahibe or La Romana, there’s another. As an alternative, ebook a catamaran tour from Punta Cana.
Though there aren’t any main sights within the space (other than the underwhelming pure pool), cruising the Caribbean waters is an expertise you gained’t quickly neglect.
For individuals who are searching for one thing a bit of extra upscale, we suggest choosing greater high quality excursions, as a number of the cheaper choices are usually get together and booze cruises. So contemplate correctly, if you wish to lower your expenses right here or not.
The way to get there: Excursions normally depart straight from accommodations 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
In case you’d wish to discover the depths of Punta Cana’s oceans, however wish to soak up all of the beautiful sights underwater, don’t fear!
You may simply ebook a dive with one of many many respected colleges. Scuba diving is certainly one of many high issues to do when visiting this lovely vacation spot within the Dominican Republic.
Whereas it is probably not as well-known for diving as different spots across the globe, there are nonetheless some superb wrecks and reefs that can maintain divers entertained for 2-3 days straight. And for those who’re searching for a bit of extra selection than what Punta Cana has to supply, don’t neglect about Bayahibe – one other incredible space to take a look at!
The way to get there: There are quite a few dive colleges 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 ebook.
Whale and dolphin watching within the Dominican Republic
In case you’re searching for an thrilling journey in Punta Cana, whale and dolphin watching in Samaná is a should!
These excursions have develop into extremely fashionable and all the time draw crowds. It’s no surprise – from January to March yearly, humpback whales come to the Bay of Samaná to offer beginning and feed their younger. 1000’s of tourists flock right here every year because it is without doubt one of the best sights the Dominican Republic has to supply.
And what makes this expertise much more particular is that these magnificent creatures adjust to naturalist laws whereas enchanting vacationers!
Do you know that the Bay of Samana could be reached from the mainland in addition to from Punta Cana? In case you head to Miches (simply over an hour away), you possibly can embark on one of the crucial thrilling experiences in Punta Cana – whale watching!
The excellent news is that it’s nearly sure that you just’ll see them.
The way to get there: Punta Cana Whale Watching all the time 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 nearly 100% assure that you will note big humpback whales – the place else can you discover that?
Saona Island
Saona Island is an unspoiled island off the coast of Punta Cana.
Why do you have to 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 stuffed with starfish. Throughout the nesting season, sea turtles could 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 also be a preferred vacation spot for scuba divers who can observe quite a lot of marine life.
Another excuse to go to Saona Island is its genuine Caribbean aptitude. There aren’t any giant resort complexes or eating places right here – as a substitute you will discover small seashore bars and grill stands serving recent fish and tropical cocktails.
To get to the island, you possibly can be part of a ship tour or lease a non-public 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 in case you are searching for peace and rest in the course of untouched nature and wish to expertise the true Caribbean feeling, it is best to undoubtedly make a journey to the paradise island of Saona!
Punta Cana Buggy Tour
Buggy excursions are a should in Punta Cana. It’s extremely popular with American guests. The Dune Buggy Excursions are particularly fashionable and supply a number of enjoyable for these staying in all-inclusive accommodations.
However in case you are searching for 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 additionally provide you with an opportunity to expertise the true Dominican Republic, which could be arduous to search out within the midst of touristy areas like Punta Cana.
The totally different Buggy Excursions are actually a one among a sort exercise, as they take guests by way 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 boring or uninspiring – take a look at our really useful buggy adventures!
The way to get there: The excursions all the time embrace selecting up out of your lodging or from the resort.
Value: Normal buggy excursions in Punta Cana begin at 35 euros, some buggy excursions are costlier as a consequence of smaller teams, actual VW engines and personalised consideration.
Good to know: Select a buggy tour that take you to locations you possibly can’t go as a traditional 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 gives an abundance of actions to swimsuit each curiosity. From snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal clear waters to zip lining by way of lush forests or exploring on ATV excursions, Punta Cana has all of it!
Whether or not you’re searching for pleasure or rest, this tropical vacation spot actually has one thing for everybody. So why wait? Come absorb the Caribbean solar and expertise all that Punta Cana has to supply!
