The Dominican Republic’s easternmost tip is known for spectacular beaches and lavish resorts. Here are the top 10 things to do in Punta Cana!
Popular things to do in Punta Cana
When you hear the words “Punta Cana”, several things come to mind. Most people think of spring breakers, fancy resorts, and breathtaking beaches.
While it’s certainly true that this bustling town in the Dominican Republic is one of the most popular Caribbean destinations for college students to enjoy some wild escapades before heading back to class, it’s also a great place for families, friends, and lovers to relax and enjoy overwhelmingly gorgeous beaches and tropical scenery.
In addition, Punta Cana is known for being a great place to experience water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing.
And if staying on the beach all day isn’t your thing, the city has places to zipline and enjoy some exciting tropical jungle adventures. Also, it might surprise you to know that Punta Cana is one of the best golf destinations in the world!
That being said, here are the top 10 things to do in Punta Cana. Go ahead, add a few to your bucket list! (And don’t wait too long to check them off…)
1. Sail to Saona Island
Saona Island is an undeveloped island off the coast of Punta Cana. It’s part of the East National Park, a government-protected nature reserve. Rated the number-one experience in Punta Cana on TripAdvisor, this idyllic deserted slice of paradise can only be reached by boat. While there, you can lounge on the perfect beach, or snorkel the crystal clear waters to see some tropical marine life. During peak tourist season, go early or in the late afternoon to avoid crowds.
2. Snorkel at Bavaro Beach
You didn’t book your ticket to Punta Cana to stay away from the ocean– so here’s your best bet if you want to spend all day and every day on the beach. White sand, turquoise waters, and a cool breeze– what more do we need?
Also, the snorkeling at Bavaro is top notch, since the water is so clear. But the beach’s main claim to fame is that it’s so long, you can walk along the water’s edge for miles.
And if you’re still not convinced, here’s one more thing you should know– users of TripAdvisor have ranked this beach #1 for the category “Best of the Best”!
3. Swim the lagoons of Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park
This 1,500 acre nature reserve is a subtropical forest area dedicated to scientific research and conservation. Visitors can swim in five of its twelve natural freshwater lagoons. These strikingly blue-green lagoons were referred to by the islands indigenous inhabitants as “eyes”, hence the park’s peculiar name.
4. Bask at Macao Beach
The water is clear, the sand is pure, the breeze is light. Macao is the picture of what a Caribbean beach should be. Also, Macao is one of the best beaches for surfing in Punta Cana, so how could you go wrong?
Besides basking on the soft, white sands, there’s plenty to do at this popular beach. Try a dune buggy excursion, surf the waves, or take a picture with the monkeys and iguanas carried around by vendors!
5. Go from “bean to bar” at ChocoMuseo
ChocoMuseo is an artisanal chocolate factory, as well as a museum showcasing the history of chocolate in the Caribbean.
It’s free to visit, in order to see how chocolate is produced from bean to bar. In addition, you can book a two-hour workshop to learn how to prepare handmade chocolate from cacao beans.
6. Live it up at Coco Bongo
The famous Coco Bongo is a nightclub in Punta Cana specializing in extravagant shows, unlimited drinks, and Vegas-style partying. It’s perfect for those who want to bring out their wild side and dance the night away, Caribbean.
This legendary club also has locations in Cancún and Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The bar opened in 2014 in Punta Cana, and has since held thousands of shows, most of which are imitations of popular acts such as Moulin Rouge, Chicago, and the Phantom of the Opera. In addition, the lineup often features celebrities, or celebrity impersonators.
7. Go cave swimming at Scape Park
Scape Park is a natural adventure Park with zip lining, cave exploration tours, and a beautiful beach. Additionally, there’s a horse and pony ranch, a cultural walking tour, an island inhabited by monkeys, a mysterious sinkhole with blue water to swim in, a morning cruise, and a restaurant. Plan to spend the whole day there (and about $150 USD for the admission fee, although discounts are available on the park’s official website.
8. Go whale watching in Samana Bay
During certain months of the year, you can observe humpback whales in their mating and calving grounds in Samana Bay. Tours are available from varying companies between the beginning of January and the end of March.
Check whale tour websites like this one for more information.
9. Take a sunrise hot air balloon ride
Book a sunrise flight in a hot air balloon for 360 views of Punta Cana and surrounding towns! This activity is definitely one for the bucket list. It’s ideal for couples or small groups, especially when celebrating a special occasion! Make sure you book your tickets in advance, because hot air balloon excursions tend to sell out fast.
10. Go parasailing
Parasailing in Punta Cana is a no-brainer, seeing that there are so many tour agencies that provide this activity, and the Caribbean Sea is so gorgeous, you’ll want to see it from all angles! As one of the top 10 things to do in Punta Cana, parasailing tours can sell out fast, so make sure you book yours ahead of time. We recommend a combined snorkeling and parasailing tour that includes a trip on a party boat with an open bar.
With Key Caribe, you’ll always find the perfect accommodations for your needs! Book your dream vacation at one of these luxurious villas in Punta Cana.
Main image via El Universal.
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