Punta Cana’s Best Excursions and Beaches

When you’re planning a visit to Punta Cana, don’t simply keep on with 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’ll be able to 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 may undoubtedly be price your whereas.

Whether or not you need to hire a automobile and discover by yourself or be part of an thrilling group tour, I’ve acquired some nice ideas beneath.

Right here is an outline:

Punta Cana’s most lovely seashores

With a number of the most lovely seashores on this planet, this tropical paradise is a must-see for anybody who loves solar, sand, and surf.

Be sure that to decide on a hotel at the beach, however make certain to additionally discover the opposite prime seashores.

Uncover the secluded Playa Esmeralda

In search of 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 likely one of 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 arduous to consider that such magnificence exists so shut by.

In actual fact, this breathtaking stretch has been acknowledged as one of many prime ten most lovely seashores within the DR!

However if you happen to’re planning to go to quickly – act quick! All-inclusive resorts shall be constructed right here within the coming years.

If renting a automobile isn’t your factor, don’t fear – there are at all times helicopter rides accessible at surprisingly inexpensive costs that embrace visits to Salto de la Jalda; the very best waterfall in all of Dominican territory.

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 greatest 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 Seaside akin to Bibijagua, Jellyfish, Corales, Cortecito, Area Blanca and Area 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 nice 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!

get there: Lots of the motels 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 will not be one thing you’re going to discover all over the place within the Caribbean.

Macao Seaside

When you’re on the lookout 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 provides one thing completely different from the everyday touristy seashores. You received’t discover large motels 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 take pleasure in this lovely stretch of shoreline – so count on some crowds and noise! However if you happen to 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 may 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 robust currents!

get there: From most motels in Punta Cana, it’s simply accessible by taxi or automobile in about 20-Half-hour.
Prices: There is no such thing as a cost for this Punta Cana seashore.
Good to know: Macao Seaside is likely one of the most lovely seashores in all of Punta Cana.

Cap Cana

When you’re on the lookout for 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 arduous to see why – two beautiful seashores await you: Playa Blanca and Playa Juanillo, each with a number of the whitest sand on this planet.

However that’s not all – because of its shallow waters, Cap Cana additionally boasts vibrant turquoise hues which can be certain to take your breath away.

So in case you are on the lookout for an unforgettable trip expertise in a paradise-like setting, you’ll want to try this wonderful vacation spot in your subsequent journey!

get there: Cap Cana is greatest reached by renting a automobile.
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 with the intention to achieve entry to them. And it’s price it.
Good to know: Cap Cana is the place to be if you happen to’re within the life-style of the wealthy and well-known and need to see pristine white seashores.

Prime excursions from Punta Cana

Discover the peninsula of Samaná

When you’re in your approach to Los Haitises Nationwide Park (see beneath), why not make a pit cease on the beautiful Samaná Peninsula? It’s probably the most lovely areas of the Dominican Republic and properly price 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 totally immerse your self in all that Samaná has to supply.

There are numerous sights to see on the peninsula akin 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 automobile can 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

When you’re on the lookout for 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 because of its beautiful natural world.

The most effective half? You’ll be able to expertise Los Haitises Nationwide Park as an thrilling day journey and even as a cushty in a single day keep – there’s one thing for everybody! As somebody who likes to journey, I extremely suggest renting a automobile (~) and testing the Eco-Lodge contained in the park (charges and reserving hyperlink beneath). This distinctive lodging possibility provides unparalleled views of pure swimming pools shaped by dammed rivers that result in lovely waterfalls.

Not solely will you’ve got entry to breathtaking surroundings throughout your keep, but in addition 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?

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 hire a automobile and drive about 2 hours northwest on excellent roads (besides the final 10km).

Prices: Day journeys from Punta Cana beginning at 100 euros per particular person, automobile 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 likely one of the most lovely pure points of interest in Punta Cana and the encompassing 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 crammed with crystal clear water.

It’s advisable to reach early as it may be very talked-about. And don’t overlook 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 provides a wide ranging panorama. There may be additionally a platform from which you’ll take pleasure in a spectacular view of the encompassing space.

The water at Hoyo Azul is so clear that you could see all the best way to the underside – a snorkeler’s paradise!

Scape Park additionally provides different actions akin to zip lining and horseback driving. However if you happen to’re on the lookout for a quiet oasis, you’ll want to go to Hoyo Azul. A couple of hours right here will assist you 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 ft deep and lots of prefer 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 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 varied chook species akin to toucans and parrots. It’s a paradise for nature photographers!

When you’re desirous about tradition, you’ll want to make a journey to the indigenous village. The locals are completely happy to indicate you their conventional lifestyle in addition to their handicrafts akin to weaving or carving.

All in all, Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve provides an ideal alternative to calm down in lovely nature and be taught concerning the native ecology and tradition – undoubtedly price a go to!

Discover UNESCO World Heritage Santo Domingo

When 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 may take you again in time and fill your coronary heart with Dominican allure. You received’t need to miss out on exploring this residing open-air museum of traditionally invaluable 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 inform you how greatest to discover Santo Domingo: reserving an organized tour will be the best, but it surely leaves little room to delve into the small print – as a substitute, hop on a bus or hire a automobile (if the site visitors isn’t an excessive amount of of a problem) and take two days off at one of many charming historic motels situated proper within the Zona Colonial itself.

Belief us once we say that slightly 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 – 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 particular person. When you resolve to arrange it your self, count on to pay about US$10 per particular person every approach for the bus and US$30-40 per particular person 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 amazing 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 completely happy to know that there are about ten completely different waterfall areas 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 among its longest hikes.

However if you happen to’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 mountaineering isn’t your factor altogether then contemplate testing spots like Salto Socoa or Salto Alto de Bayaguana the place parking heaps sit conveniently near their respective falls.

get there: The easiest way is by rental automobile 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

When you’re on the lookout for a extra laid-back and off-the-beaten-path Punta Cana expertise, Boca de Yuma is the right 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 below are the small eating places perched excessive on the cliffs, the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in 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 picket boat to discover secluded seashores or hike by way of lush forests to seek out crystal-clear lagoons; locals are completely happy to behave as your guides for a small tip.

get there: The easiest way is by rental automobile, 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 allure.

Ziplining in Punta Cana

Why not keep on with ziplining in Punta Cana for now?

There are such a lot of thrilling cover adventures to discover on the japanese 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 probably the most spectacular choices, it’s actually not your solely selection. For households on the lookout for a extra kid-friendly possibility, Bavaro Journey Park provides an exhilarating suspension bridge and fun-filled expertise. In the meantime, these on the lookout 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 completely different aspects that make up this lovely nation – however regardless of which one you select, relaxation assured that all of them promise action-packed pleasure all through your time right here!

get there: All Punta Cana zipline excursions embrace resort transfers.
Prices: Beginning at 50 euros per particular person
Good to know: It’s a distinctive expertise to see Punta Cana from the air.

Catamaran tour in Punta Cana

In search of a ship tour that showcases the breathtaking great 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, guide a catamaran tour from Punta Cana.

Though there are not any main points of interest within the space (apart from the underwhelming pure pool), cruising the Caribbean waters is an expertise you received’t quickly overlook.

For individuals who are on the lookout for one thing slightly extra upscale, we suggest choosing greater high quality excursions, as a number of the cheaper choices are typically get together and booze cruises. So contemplate properly, if you wish to lower your expenses right here or not.

get there: Excursions normally depart straight from motels in Punta Cana.
Prices: Beginning at 50 euros per particular person.
Good to know: Expertise the Caribbean with out having to go to Saona or Catinaccio.

Diving in Punta Cana

When you’d prefer 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 guide a dive with one of many many respected faculties. Scuba diving is certainly one of many prime 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 may maintain divers entertained for 2-3 days straight. And if you happen to’re on the lookout for slightly extra selection than what Punta Cana has to supply, don’t overlook about Bayahibe – one other incredible space to take a look at!

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 fanatics mustn’t miss the chance to get the Dominican Republic of their diving guide.

Whale and dolphin watching within the Dominican Republic

When you’re on the lookout for an thrilling journey in Punta Cana, whale and dolphin watching in Samaná is a should!

These excursions have turn out to be extremely standard and at all times draw crowds. It’s no surprise – from January to March yearly, humpback whales come to the Bay of Samaná to provide start and feed their younger. Hundreds of tourists flock right here every year because it is likely one of 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 could be reached from the mainland in addition to from Punta Cana? When you head to Miches (simply over an hour away), you’ll be able to embark on probably the most thrilling experiences in Punta Cana – whale watching!

The excellent news is that it’s virtually sure that you simply’ll see them.

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 do you have to go there? If you wish to get away from the vacationer crowds, you can see 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 right 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 quite a lot of marine life.

One more reason to go to Saona Island is its genuine Caribbean aptitude. There are not any giant resort complexes or eating places right here – as a substitute you can see small seashore bars and grill stands serving recent fish and tropical cocktails.

To get to the island, you’ll be able to 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 in case you are on the lookout for peace and leisure in the course of untouched nature and need to expertise the actual 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 very talked-about with American guests. The Dune Buggy Excursions are particularly standard and supply a variety of enjoyable for these staying in all-inclusive motels.

However in case you are on the lookout 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 in addition provide you with an opportunity to expertise the actual Dominican Republic, which could be arduous to seek out within the midst of touristy areas like Punta Cana.

The completely 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 best way! If Land & Individuals’s choices appear boring or uninspiring – try our really helpful buggy adventures!

get there: The excursions at all times embrace choosing 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 result of smaller teams, actual VW engines and customized consideration.
Good to know: Choose a buggy tour that take you to locations you’ll be able to’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 provides 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 on the lookout for pleasure or leisure, 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!