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Discover Punta Cana’s White-Sand Coast

Blessed with one of the Caribbean region’s longest white sand coastlines–a whopping 48 kilometers (30 miles), punctuated with sky-reaching coconut palms–Punta Cana is the land of rest and relaxation by the sea. Here, where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean, from the northern tip at Uvero Alto to the southern at Cap Cana, all-inclusive resorts and boutique hideaways offer all the whims and comforts of modern beachfront living. Families enjoy miniature entertainment centers and water parks for children, while couples-only enclaves boast dream wedding locations, with secluded beachside lodging for an ultra-romantic stay. But it’s not only about fun in the sun, soft sand brushing against your toes, and iridescent, clear water to swim in, go fishing, or dive for underwater life and shipwrecks. 

Current Weather

75.2 °F - Clouds Min/Max: 73.02 °F / 75.2 °FFeels: 76.84 °F Humidity: 94%5 Day Forecast

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Description

Whether you’re looking for a second honeymoon, a family vacation or just some fun in the sun, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic has everything to become your perfect getaway. As the heart of tourism in the DR, Punta Cana is a place where one is never too far from white sand beaches and something to do or see. Punta Cana is one of the Caribbean’s premiere golf retreats, featuring dozens of courses, some of which were designed by the world’s most renowned PGA pros. After 18 holes, find refuge in one of Punta Cana’s many casinos for a beverage and a hand of cards. Families will love natural attractions bursting with distilled beauty of the Caribbean. Head South to explore Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park or the natural spring Hoyo Azul. With all of the great sights and spots near your resort, it can be easy to miss out on everything the Dominican Republic has to offer. Take some time to get lost in the culture and enjoy hand-rolled cigars, flavorful rum, and locally grown coffee.

Useful information

Population:

100,023

Currency:

Dominican Peso

Emergency Info:

911 or 112

Opening Hours:

Do & See

White sandy beach and turquoise waters

Bávaro Beach

Among the numerous beaches that Punta Cana is famous for, Bávaro Beach is probably one of the most popular ones for tourists who come to sunbathe on deck chairs or take a dip in the turquoise blue sea... Read More

Ocean Life - Couple of dolphins swimming in the blue water.

Dolphin Island Park

Swimming with dolphins is a dream for many looking to share an intense moment of tenderness with the animals. Here at Dolphin Island you will also have the possibility to interact with other animals s... Read More

Girl scuba diving blue ocean

El Tour Caribe

This company offers several marine tours for you to take time for yourself and relax aboard a luxury boat. You can choose between different activities such as Saona Dive and Snorkel, Punta Cana Scuba ... Read More

Active woman driving quadbike on dirt road by the sea in sunset.

Flintstones Buggy Adventure

If you are looking for a new way to explore the landscapes of the Dominican Republic, how about trying to ride the dunes of Bavaro in an eco-friendly buggy across off-road paths. Along the 10-kilomete... Read More

Girls horse riding tropical forest

HorsePlay Punta Cana

If you are looking for a different way to explore the lush vegetation of the Dominican Republic, consider riding a horse and discovering the outback of the island. On your way, a stop will be made for... Read More

Lagoon cave in the tropical forest

Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park

Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park is a private protected area owned and operated by Puntacana Ecological Foundation. About 1,500 acres of reserve await you in this tropical wonderland. Explore the sever... Read More

Palms on caribbean beach, Catalina island

Isla Catalina

The Isla Catalina is just a ferry ride away from Dominican Republic’s mainland, providing a personal luxury getaway or a diving or snorkeling trip to some of the best reefs of the region. Away from th... Read More

Wooden benches in church

Jesus Maestro Parish

The stunning Jesus Maestro Parish welcomes everyone who may want to attend mass in a different Catholic country or simply visit the church. The architecture is quite unique, with a crisp white exterio... Read More

Dining

Mexican fajitas

Agave

Agave is the ultimate Mexican dining experience at the Excellence Resort. Enjoy the buffet-style venue and a wide variety of authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes like burritos and fajitas, whether you... Read More

Fish steak with vegetables

Bamboo at Tortuga Bay

Dine at the AAA Four Diamond Award-winning Bamboo Restaurant and experience local cooking with an influence from Mediterranean flavors. Nestled at the exclusive Tortuga Bay, the setting was designed b... Read More

Restaurant on stilts

Blue Marlin

Dine beneath a palapa-shaded table on a pier overlooking the Caribbean's gentle waters with a very pleasant view over the ocean. The restaurant's small fleet of fishing boats traverses the waters for ... Read More

American type burger

Hard Rock Cafe Punta Cana

The Hard Rock Cafe, one of the favorites among tourists, is conveniently located in the Palma Real Shopping Village, an upscale mall in Bávaro. Enjoy its signature authentic rock atmosphere and great ... Read More

Salmon tartar

La Yola

The AAA Three Diamond Award-winning La Yola was named for the yola, or the small, local fishing boats from which their expert seafood is caught. The menu is a fusion of Mediterranean and Caribbean inf... Read More

Fried fish with potatoes

Little John

On the tiny outdoor terrace of Little John restaurant you can enjoy a great view of the sea while grabbing a quick bite. Classic bar food like pizzas and burgers are served as well as some local speci... Read More

Fine restaurant chef fish dish

Passion by Martin Berasategui

Winner of 7 Michelin stars, Passion at Paradisus Palma Real is one of the most recognized restaurants in Punta Cana. Martin Berasategui, a celebrated Spanish chef, developed fine courses for diners in... Read More

Restaurant on the beach

Playa Blanca Restaurant

The gorgeously casual ambiance of Playa Blanca is not to be underestimated, as guests are invited to taste fresh seafood while enjoying sweeping views of the white sand beach. The restaurant serves fr... Read More

Cafes

Bagel with orange juice

Brot Bagel Shop

For bagel and sandwich lovers, Brot Bagel offers a large choice of breakfast meals. Between two shopping sessions at Galerias de Punta Cana, take a break and enjoy fresh or hot beverages along with br... Read More

Pasta with shrimps

Huracán Café

The thatched-roofed palapa is the signature of Huracán Café. Enjoy a meal on the wooden deck in the sand with a wonderful view of the ocean or relax on a deck chair with a mojito or caipirinha in the ... Read More

Popsicle stand

JOY Nutritional Popsicle

JOY Nutritional Popsicle is a nice and cozy place to have breakfast, sweet or savory, or both lunch and dinner, as the menu teems with salads, burgers and sandwiches. A lot of vegetarian and vegan opt... Read More

Scrambles eggs with bacon

Kat's Corner

Kat's Corner is an open-air bar that serves breakfast meals like scrambled eggs with bacon and potato pancakes, but also Mexican specialties with its burrito breakfast and other kinds of quesadillas a... Read More

Cake and coffee

Las Leñas

For those looking for a place to have a snack, the old bakery of Las Leñas, one of the first in the Bavaro area, offers different kinds of pastries and breads for breakfast or brunch, as well as savor... Read More

Bars & Nightlife

Bartender is making cocktail at bar counter, toned image

Areito Disco

Located in the luxurious Caribe Club Princess, Areito Disco is decorated in an indigenous theme with aboriginal elements. Live shows and events are organized frequently but you can simply come to enjo... Read More

Guys toasting in a club

Drink Point

For a night of drinking and dancing with locals on any day of the week, Drink Point is one of the most reputed nightclubs in Punta Cana to head to for the purpose. To the sound of traditional Caribbea... Read More

high contrast image of casino roulette

Hard Rock Casino

Hard Rock Casino offers you more than a simple gambling experience. Indeed, in this incredible 45,000-square-foot setting, you will find more than 40 table games and 400 other kinds of roulettes and s... Read More

Glasses with cocktails held by happy friends at party

Imagine Punta Cana

If you are looking for a different way of partying and clubing, consider descending into a cave and dancing all night in this one of a kind setting. In this place built in the remains of a castle, be ... Read More

Couple dancing in a club

Mangu Disco

Mangu Disco is located at the Hotel Occidental Grand Punta Cana. This two-floor club booms with all kind of music styles, from electronic to merengue and bachata, salsa and even rock and Reggae. If yo... Read More

DJ in a club

ORO Nightclub

ORO is Hard Rock’s answer to the Punta Cana nightclubs. With guest shows by some of the top performers of today, theme nights and local and international DJs, you will experience Caribbean nightlife a... Read More

party, holidays, celebration, nightlife and people concept - smiling friends waving hands at concert in club

Pacha (RIU Resort Disco)

The Punta Cana installment of this internationally celebrated chain attracts both locals and visitors in near-equal proportion. Music played includes styles enjoyed locally alongside international top... Read More

Shopping

Cacao Pods

ChocoMuseo Punta Cana

If you want to discover true Dominican flavors and taste the finest chocolates from Central and South Americas, you will have the opportunity at this one of the kind museum. Here you can learn more ab... Read More

Cuban top cigars with lighter and cutter

Don Lucas Cigars

Come and visit the Don Lucas Cigars shop and discover the Dominican tradition of cigar making. This brand is very popular in the area and by visiting its factory, you will have the chance to learn abo... Read More

Female mannequins inside a fashion house, Color Effect

Galerias at Puntacana Village

The Galerias at Puntacana Village reside within the blossoming shopping, dining, and residential complex of Puntacana Resort & Club. After a day full of discovery and new experiences on the island, st... Read More

Woman trying wedding rings at a jeweller, focus on rings

Harrison’s Fine Caribbean Jewelers

Step into Harrison's Fine Caribbean Jewelers and discover the Dominican tradition of jewelry in one of the largest jewelry shop chains on the island. You will find a unique collection of rings, earrin... Read More

hand making cigars

La Perla Dominicana

La Perla Dominicana's cigars are entirely hand-rolled and made from the finest tobacco plants. Harvested on plantations from the top production areas for Dominican tobaccos, their cigars are an exclus... Read More

Caribbean music instruments in Dominican Republic tourist shop

Museo del Artesano

Located in the San Juan Shopping Center, Museo del Artesano is a complete souvenir shop. Find multitudes of gifts at great prices and of good quality. It's a must if you're looking for either common s... Read More

sale, shopping, tourism and happy people concept - beautiful woman with shopping bags in the ctiy

Palma Real Shopping Village

This is the premiere shopping destination in Punta Cana that is a must for you if you happen to be into substantial shopping sprees. Between two sunbathing sessions on the beach, you can come here to ... Read More

Traditional ceramic souvenirs in Dominican Republic

Plaza Bávaro

Go out and mingle with the locals at Plaza Bávaro. Wander around the shops, search for bargains or get souvenirs to bring home, such as cigars or crafts from local shops, and truly experience where ev... Read More

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

Best Time to Visit

There are two distinct tourist high seasons in the Dominican Republic: the summer months of July and August, mostly for northern-hemisphere travelers, and winter season between December and late Febru... Read More

Passport / Visa

Passport / Visa

The Dominican Republic allows nationals from eight countries to enter without a visa or a tourist entry tax (previously known as a tourist card, amounting to US$10). These eight countries are Argentin... Read More

Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)

Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)

Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is located in the heart of Punta Cana, only a short shuttle ride from your final destination. Taxis and buses are available at the airport and many resorts suppl... Read More

Public Transport

Public Transport

The public bus system covers both Punta Cana and Bavaro and is low cost, but navigating it can get tricky. Bus stops are not clearly marked and you can hail a minibus (Guacas) anywhere, that's why it ... Read More

Taxi

Taxi

Taxis and shuttles are commonplace and can be found almost everywhere you want to travel to. Don’t forget that many attractions will provide free transit if you call ahead or get your resort’s travel ... Read More

Electricity

Electricity

120 volts, 60 Hz American style two-pin plugs

Pharmacy

Pharmacy

Three are several pharmacies in Punta Cana. Pharmacia Estrella: Plaza Estrella Bavaro, Avenida España, Punta Cana +1 809 552 0344, 8am - 11pm Pharma 360: Primer Nivel 106, Punta Cana +1 809 455 1708, ... Read More

Post

Post

A post office is located at Punta Cana Airport, selling postcards and stamps. Dominica Republic's postal service is not renowned for its efficiency, and post can take a few months to reach its destina... Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Punta Cana is from December to April, during the dry season when the weather is pleasantly warm and rainfall is minimal. This period is ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

A stay of 4 to 7 days in Punta Cana is usually sufficient to enjoy its beautiful beaches, explore nearby attractions, and participate in various activities. This duration allows for relaxation and time to explore excursions such as visiting Saona Island or the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park.

Must-see attractions in Punta Cana include the pristine Bavaro Beach, the vibrant nightlife at Coco Bongo, and the serene Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park. For a cultural experience, visit Altos de Chavón, a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village, located nearby in La Romana.

In Punta Cana, try traditional Dominican dishes such as "mangu" (mashed plantains), "sancocho" (a hearty meat stew), and "mofongo" (fried plantains with garlic and pork). Seafood is also popular, with dishes like "pescado frito" (fried fish) and "camarones al ajillo" (garlic shrimp) being local favorites.

Transportation in Punta Cana includes taxis, car rentals, and local buses known as "guaguas." Taxis are convenient for short distances, while car rentals offer flexibility for exploring the area. Many resorts provide shuttle services to nearby attractions and the airport.

Punta Cana hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, including the Punta Cana Carnival in March, which features colorful parades and traditional music. The Dominican Republic Jazz Festival, held in November, is another highlight, attracting international musicians and jazz enthusiasts.

Recommended day trips from Punta Cana include a visit to Saona Island, known for its stunning beaches and clear waters, and a trip to Hoyo Azul, a natural cenote with turquoise waters. Another option is exploring the historic city of Santo Domingo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which offers a rich cultural experience.

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