In the sun-drenched jewel of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana stretches its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters as far as the eye can see. A dazzling array of tropical wonders awaits you in this paradise at the end of the world. Here, palm trees dance to the rhythm of ocean breezes. There, the golden sands stretch out like an irresistible invitation to relaxation and adventure. Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, this enchanting destination promises much more than a simple seaside holiday. From dazzling to culturally rich, discover the 15 must-do things to do in Punta Cana.
1. The most beautiful beaches in Punta Cana
Between dream beaches and unspoilt nature, this Caribbean treasure is a veritable little paradise on Earth! Bavaro beach, one of the best-known, stretches over no less than 10 kilometers of unspoiled coastline. Initially reserved for resort employees, it quickly became a must-see meeting place for tourists and locals alike.
Another successful beach in this jewel of the Dominican Republic is macao Beach is popular with surfers for its magnificent waves. Just starting out? The Macao Surf Camp is the place to start! In a completely different style, Arena Gorda beach is more for relaxation. Fine sand, turquoise waters and gentle waves caress the shoreline. A real postcard setting!
2. Catamaran sailing in the Caribbean
The waters of the Caribbean are yours for the taking. Take a guided tour of Punta Cana and Cape Engaño. During the day, stops are organized for lunch and snorkeling dives to discover the marine flora and fauna near Cabo Engaño. In a more unusual style, you may be lucky enough to stop off at a floating bar at Sandbar Cove. Service providers such as Tropical Paradise Excursions organize all kinds of outings in the warm waters of the Caribbean. You can also book this glass-bottom boat trip including snorkeling and scuba diving right here!
3. Manati Park, the animal world made in the Caribbean
Kids will love Manati Park, a zoo and theme park located in Bavaro. Families can enjoy a variety of activities involving exotic animals, dolphins and sea lions. One of the most beautiful places to see is the dolphinarium, a promise of unforgettable moments. The zoo also organizes sea lion, dolphin and horse shows throughout the day, between your visits to the iguana breeding center and the small stores and restaurants. Among the animal species present, some are endemic to the Dominican Republic.
Good to know: transportation is available for residents of Punta Cana Bavaro's main hotels.
4. Monkeyland, meet the squirrel monkeys
An unusual adventure awaits you at Monkeyland. Book a guided tour, and set off to meet adorable, friendly saimiri monkeys. Bred and trained, they are accustomed to humans, but live in natural conditions, as close to nature as possible. During your visit, you'll interact directly with these adorable little monkeys, who won't hesitate to climb on your shoulders! Want to learn more about the local culture? You'll find a traditional Dominican house in the park. The park covers more than 2 hectares, making it an ideal experience for families on vacation in Punta Cana.
On this guided tour , you'll meet the little saïmiris at Monkeyland, visit a traditional Dominican house where you can learn more about the country's culture and way of life.
5. Scape Park, zip-line adventure
Halfway between idleness and a sporting vacation, Punta Cana offers a wide choice of activities. Fill up on adventure at Scape Park, the perfect place to have fun with family and friends. Let's face it, as is often the case in Punta Cana, admission isn't cheap. But there's plenty to do:
- zip-lining along the cliffs,
- exploring ancient caverns,
- swimming in underground caves,
- water zip lines.
Enjoy a day of adventure at Scape Park by booking this exclusive package that lets you combine an infinite number of activities by building your own day-long itinerary in the park.
The park also allows you to enjoy cultural experiences such as a visit to the Iguabonita cave, cultural itineraries and the discovery of rural life in El Rancho. Want more? You've got a sweet tooth, but at Scape Park, you can! Head for Iguanaland, Parrot Island or Monkey Island!
6. The Hoyo Azul chasm, a natural wonder
At Scape Park, you'll discover one of Punta Cana's most astonishing places: the Hoyo Azul chasm, also known as the Blue Hole or Blue Lagoon. This is a natural cenote, a water-filled abyss in which you can swim. Hoyo Azul is a rare example of this natural formation. Its bluish hue creates a magical, unreal atmosphere, giving you the impression of being transported to another dimension.
The chasm is reached after a pleasant walk through the jungle, accompanied by an experienced guide. From here, you enter the cave and descend wooden stairs to the bottom of the cenote.
7. Catalina Island, pirate haven
Catalina Island, the jewel of the Dominican Republic, is famous for its magnificent white sand beaches and coral reefs. In short, it's the ideal place for scuba diving! Diving enthusiasts, explore its rich marine fauna as well as... the remains of Captain Kidd's ship, located just a few meters deep around the island. Catalina has a rich history of piracy, dating back to the 15th century. In those days, pirates would hide close to the island to attack Spanish vessels.
Did you know? Some Pirates of the Caribbean films were shot not far from Catalina Island.
8. Visit a cigar factory
The Dominican Republic is the world's leading producer and exporter of cigars. So it's only natural that you should visit a tobacco plantation to find out how cigars are made. This cultural tour immerses you in a sometimes little-known artisanal process. Discover this traditional knowledge at a cigar factory such as Don Lucas Cigar.
The icing on the cake : you can also taste rum, coffee and chocolate during your visit!
9. Meet the dolphins in Punta Cana
Who hasn't dreamed of getting up close and personal with dolphins? In Punta Cana, it's possible! Even if you're going in January, which is a dead period in France, you can enjoy this kind of fun outing in the Dominican Republic. This unique experience, suitable for all ages, is available at Dolphin Discovery. An experienced team dispenses safety instructions beforehand, and then you're off for 40 minutes of pure bliss! From an underwater platform, you can easily interact with the dolphins. How about a little kiss on the hand?
10. Chocomuseo, a gourmet's paradise
Gourmet friends, here's an address to tantalize your taste buds! At Chocomuseo, a museum section explains the chocolate-making process. Of course, a tasting session is also available to round off this gourmet discovery. Best of all, you can make your own chocolate from local cocoa beans. While some may regret that the museum is smaller than the store, others will be delighted: you'll be stocking up on the good stuff!
11. Dune Buggy adventure
The Dune Buggy lets you explore Punta Cana through a variety of original excursions. For example, a guide will take you to visit an organic farm, where you can taste Dominican coffee and chocolate. Other buggy outings take you for a swim in a cenote, or to Macao Beach. In a more original style, it's also possible to take a Flintstones-themed excursion! One of the most popular Dune Buggy excursions, however, is to the Incredible River Cave. Get in touch with a guide, study all the options and enjoy! Click here to book your Punta Cana buggy tour .
12. Water parks, a family paradise
Two water parks stand out in Punta Cana: Splash Water Park and Aqua Games. Located within prestigious hotel complexes, they are also accessible to outsiders. Large waterslides, suitable for young and old alike, provide fun for the whole family. Travelling with young children? Consider every option carefully, as some slides may be too difficult for younger children.
Good to know: games for the little ones are available around the slides, at Splash Water Park, in the heart of the Riu Bambu club-hotel.
13. Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, tropical splendor
You're about to set foot in a veritable tropical paradise! Ojos Indígenas Ecological Park is a magnificent nature reserve set in a private complex. Superb hiking trails allow you to discover Punta Cana's deep nature in the most beautiful way. In the heart of the wilderness, you'll find yourself in the middle of a tropical rainforest: pure enchantment! In the heart of this spectacular landscape, discover 12 crystal-clear lagoons. Magnificent to observe, they transform your day into a pure enchantment when you dive in, offering you one of the most beautiful swims of your life.
14. Festivals in Punta Cana, immersion in local culture
While the majority of festivals are religious in origin, there are many other festivities throughout the year: music, art, song, sports activities and more. Among these festivities is the Festival of the Patron Saint of the Dominican Republic. Immerse yourself in pure local tradition! Celebrating Our Lady of Altagracia, she is traditionally celebrated on January 21.
Many other festivities are a must in Punta Cana, such as Carnival, which takes place at the beginning of March. To the rhythm of parades and local music, it's a pure moment of joy that you experience during your stay!
A little background information : don't be surprised to see some unusual masks during Carnival. Their purpose is to ward off evil spirits on this festive day.
Immerse yourself in Dominican traditions at the Merengue Festivalwhere this famous dance is given pride of place. Although originally from Santo Domingo, the festival extends as far as Punta Cana. Finally, don't miss the Higüey celebrations on August 14, near Playa Bávaro. This traditional national festival features bulls, horses and other animals in colorful festivities.
15. Local gastronomy in the spotlight
In Punta Cana, the festivities also take place in your mouth! The symphony of tastes begins with Bandera Dominicana, a rice-based dish with tender, juicy meat. Before that, a soup delights the taste buds: Sancocho, a symbol of sharing and love. A total of seven meats are accompanied by cassava and plantain. This plant is also given pride of place in the morning with Mangú, a green plantain purée accompanied by caramelized sautéed onions. A cousin of paella, we also invite you to try a very complete dish, Locrio.
In another style, you've probably already heard of Chimichurri. Yes, but in this case, it's not about the sauce! In the Dominican Republic, Chimichurri is a street sandwich made with grilled meat and cabbage. Finally, don't hesitate to try Pescado con coco, a fish cooked with coconut milk, tomatoes and garlic.
Where to stay in Punta Cana?
Treat yourself to a little farniente on a budget in one of Punta Cana's excellent value hotels! Prefer luxury? This pearl of the Caribbean also has its fair share of high-end addresses, turning your stay into a pure enchantment.
- The most luxurious
Luxury and pampering are the order of the day at Sanctuary Cap Cana, an upscale address located next to Playa Juanillo. Luxury spa, a variety of restaurants, swimming pools, private beach: your pleasure knows no bounds.
- The best location
A hotel suite with your feet in the sand - that's what awaits you at Whala! Bavaro, a beautiful establishment overlooking Bavaro beach. In addition to the pleasure of occupying a beautiful, bright room, there are excellent restaurants, swimming pools and a variety of sporting activities.
- A hotel combining relaxation and activity
Take advantage of the perfect mix of activities and a dream setting for your stay. The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club offers 5 swimming pools, numerous restaurants, a fitness room and much more. The children's club is an added bonus.
What to do in Punta Cana when it rains?
Between May and November, it can rain in the Punta Cana resort, but it doesn't have to! Wouldn't this be the ideal time to visit a cigar factory? Quietly guided by specialists, you'll discover an often little-known art form. The same goes for the Chocomuseo, where you can visit the museum and the chocolate store while waiting for the sun to return. Punta Cana is also home to some very fine spas, such as Spa Yhi, a beautiful address where gentle living and relaxation are the watchwords.
A rainy day in Punta Cana can also be an opportunity to visit some of Santo Domingo's sheltered spots. A visit to the Museo De Las Casas Reales is well worth considering!
What to do in Punta Cana with your family?
Embark on a family safari in the land of the monkeys! It's a day full of discoveries and emotions, to the delight of young and old alike. Of course, swimming and encounters with dolphins are also great outings for children. The experience is sure to leave a lasting impression on them. From Punta Cana, you can also take a whale-watching excursion.
And the adorable monkeys at Monkeyland offer families a day of fun. The same goes for the entire Scape Park and its zip lines, whose many activities appeal to children and parents alike. Travelling to Punta Cana with teenagers? You've found the perfect address!
Another daring idea: take a buggy trip to the Blue Lagoon Cenote. This astonishing blue hole in the middle of nature is a great family experience. Finally, treat yourself to a few hours of idleness on Bavaro Beach or Macao Beach, where the water is crystal-clear: true dream beaches!
Punta Cana is an ideal destination in November, during the May long weekends or even in winter during the Christmas vacations: make the most of it! You've been seduced? Expand your trip by discovering the 13 must-sees of the Dominican Republic, to discover as a couple or with your family. Pure wonder!
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