Punta Cana’s Finest Excursions and Seashores
For those who’re planning a visit to Punta Cana, don’t simply persist with the lodge 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 lodge. However severely, you may 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 improbable actions and seashores to discover, that may positively be value your whereas.
Whether or not you need to hire a automotive and discover by yourself or be a part of an thrilling group tour, I’ve received some nice recommendations beneath.
Right here is an summary:
Punta Cana’s most lovely seashores
With a few of the most lovely seashores on this planet, this tropical paradise is a must-see for anybody who loves solar, sand, and surf.
Make certain to decide on a lodge on the seashore, however ensure to additionally discover the opposite prime seashores.
Uncover the secluded Playa Esmeralda
On the lookout 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 among 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 onerous to consider that such magnificence exists so shut by.
The truth is, this breathtaking stretch has been acknowledged as one of many prime ten most lovely seashores within the DR!
However in case you’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 accessible at surprisingly inexpensive costs that embrace visits to Salto de la Jalda; the best waterfall in all of Dominican territory.
Easy methods 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 gorgeous seashore.
Bavaro Seashore – Punta Cana’s longest seashore
Bavaro Seashore 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 few 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 totally different areas alongside Bavaro Seashore resembling Bibijagua, Jellyfish, Corales, Cortecito, Area Blanca and Area Gorda.
The width of Bavaro Seashore makes it a sight to behold; particularly close to Melía Caribe Punta Cana or Secrets and techniques Royal Seashore the place the superb 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 potential to stroll as much as 20 kilometers with out leaving the comfortable grains behind.
As you stroll additional down in the direction of Macau, take within the breathtaking views of turquoise waters lapping towards towering palm bushes!
For these staying at all-inclusive resorts situated proper on its shores, Bavaro Seashore is simply steps away out of your room, making sunbathing classes extra handy than ever!
Easy methods to get there: Lots of the lodges are situated proper on the seashore at Bavaro.
Price: 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 in every single place within the Caribbean.
Macao Seashore
For those who’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 affords one thing totally different from the standard touristy seashores. You received’t discover large lodges right here (aside from Goals Macao Seashore), however as a substitute native meals distributors promoting freshly grilled fish proper on the sand.
On weekends, issues can get fairly energetic as locals come out to take pleasure in this lovely stretch of shoreline – so anticipate some crowds and noise! However in case you desire peace and quiet throughout your seashore time, weekdays are excellent for absorbing the pure tranquility of Macao Seashore.
Past the laid-back ambiance, nonetheless, lies a pure magnificence that may take your breath away. The bay itself is stunningly picturesque; it makes for a formidable backdrop as you lounge round or catch waves, relying on the wind circumstances – though watch out when swimming as there are sturdy currents!
Easy methods to get there: From most lodges 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 Seashore is among the most lovely seashores in all of Punta Cana.
Cap Cana
For those who’re searching for an opulent 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 onerous to see why – two gorgeous seashores await you: Playa Blanca and Playa Juanillo, each with a few of the whitest sand on this planet.
However that’s not all – due to its shallow waters, Cap Cana additionally boasts vibrant turquoise hues which can be certain to take your breath away.
So in case you are searching for an unforgettable trip expertise in a paradise-like setting, be sure you take a look at this superb vacation spot in your subsequent journey!
Easy methods to get there: Cap Cana is greatest reached by renting a automotive.
Price: The seashores of Punta Cana are freed from cost. Although a few of the seashores might require you to eat one thing on the native seashore golf equipment with a purpose to achieve entry to them. And it’s value it.
Good to know: Cap Cana is the place to be in case you’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
For those who’re in your technique to Los Haitises Nationwide Park (see beneath), why not make a pit cease on the gorgeous Samaná Peninsula? It’s probably the most lovely areas of the Dominican Republic and nicely value exploring.
Whereas day journeys from Punta Cana by bus + boat or airplane are potential, we advocate that you simply plan for a number of days to completely immerse your self in all that Samaná has to supply.
There are various sights to see on the peninsula resembling 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 be an possibility with nicely developed roads making it solely about 4 hours away from Punta Cana.
Lodging can be found in a wide range of value ranges so there’s one thing for everybody!
Los Haitises Nationwide Park
For those who’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 nicely definitely worth the go to due to its gorgeous wildlife.
The perfect half? You possibly can 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 advocate renting a automotive (~) and testing the Eco-Lodge contained in the park (charges and reserving hyperlink beneath). This distinctive lodging possibility affords unparalleled views of pure swimming pools fashioned by dammed rivers that result in lovely waterfalls.
Not solely will you’ve gotten entry to breathtaking surroundings throughout your keep, but additionally some scrumptious meals – simply keep 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?
Easy methods to get there: The beginning of the Los Haitises excursions is instantly from the lodge in Punta Cana. If you wish to discover the park by yourself, it’s best to hire a automotive and drive about 2 hours northwest on excellent 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 among the most lovely pure sights in Punta Cana and the encompassing 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 appeal to 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 very talked-about. And don’t overlook to deliver a washing go well with 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 affords a wide ranging panorama. There’s additionally a platform from which you’ll be able to take pleasure in a spectacular view of the encompassing space.
The water at Hoyo Azul is so clear which you can see all the best way to the underside – a snorkeler’s paradise!
Scape Park additionally affords different actions resembling zip lining and horseback using. However in case you’re searching for a quiet oasis, be sure you go to Hoyo Azul. A couple of hours right here will assist you 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 realm 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 plenty of wish to dive from the platform – actually one thing in your digicam.
The park employees is dedicated to defending and preserving the pure setting. They’ve applied a sustainable administration program that ensures the forest stays wholesome and its biodiversity is preserved. Guests can be a part of guided excursions or hike on their very own.
Along with the lagoons, the park is residence to a wide range of wildlife, together with monkeys, iguanas, and varied fowl species resembling toucans and parrots. It’s a paradise for nature photographers!
For those who’re fascinated with tradition, be sure you make a journey to the indigenous village. The locals are blissful to indicate you their conventional lifestyle in addition to their handicrafts resembling weaving or carving.
All in all, Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve affords an ideal alternative to chill out in lovely nature and be taught in regards to the native ecology and tradition – positively value a go to!
Discover UNESCO World Heritage Santo Domingo
For those who’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 attraction. You received’t need to miss out on exploring this residing open-air museum of traditionally useful buildings, colourful facades, small cafes and outlets galore; it’s really 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 greatest to discover Santo Domingo: reserving an organized tour stands out as the best, however it leaves little room to delve into the main points – as a substitute, hop on a bus or hire 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 lodges situated proper within the Zona Colonial itself.
Belief us once we say that a bit of 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 – the easiest way to journey is by public bus or on a guided tour.
Price: The price of a tour information from Punta Cana is roughly 90 euros per individual. For those who determine to prepare it your self, anticipate to pay about US$10 per individual every manner for the bus and US$30-40 per individual in a double room in a small however good colonial lodge.
Good to know: Santo Domingo is the center of the Dominican Republic, a melting pot of cultures and an ideal place to be taught 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 provide loads of exploration alternatives.
You’ll be blissful to know that there are about ten totally different waterfall places 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 considered one of its longest hikes.
However in case you’re not up for touring fairly thus far 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 think about testing spots like Salto Socoa or Salto Alto de Bayaguana the place parking tons sit conveniently near their respective falls.
Easy methods to get there: The easiest way 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 often have all of them to your self.
Half day tour to the Boca de Yuma space
For those who’re searching 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 ambiance. The actual gem listed here are the small eating places perched excessive on the cliffs, the place you may take pleasure in a few 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 can too hop aboard a wood boat to discover secluded seashores or hike by way of lush forests to search out crystal-clear lagoons; locals are blissful to behave as your guides for a small tip.
Easy methods to get there: The easiest way 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 could be very commercialized, however in Boca de Yuma time appears to face nonetheless, which is its particular attraction.
Ziplining in Punta Cana
Why not persist 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 totally 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 alternative. For households searching for a extra kid-friendly possibility, Bavaro Journey Park affords 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 considered one of these excursions, you’ll have loads of alternatives to find the totally 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!
Easy methods to get there: All Punta Cana zipline excursions embrace lodge 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
On the lookout for a ship tour that showcases the breathtaking great thing about Isla Saona and Isla Catalina? Look no additional than Punta Cana!
Whereas these excursions will be prolonged, taking as much as 10 hours together with bus transfers to Bayahibe or La Romana, there’s another. As a substitute, ebook a catamaran tour from Punta Cana.
Though there are not any main sights within the space (apart from the underwhelming pure pool), cruising the Caribbean waters is an expertise you received’t quickly overlook.
For many who are searching for one thing a bit of extra upscale, we advocate choosing larger high quality excursions, as a few of the cheaper choices are typically social gathering and booze cruises. So think about correctly, if you wish to get monetary savings right here or not.
Easy methods to get there: Excursions often depart instantly from lodges 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
For those who’d wish to discover the depths of Punta Cana’s oceans, however need to absorb all of the gorgeous sights underwater, don’t fear!
You possibly can simply ebook a dive with one of many many respected colleges. Scuba diving is unquestionably one of many prime 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 may hold divers entertained for 2-3 days straight. And in case you’re searching for a bit of extra selection than what Punta Cana has to supply, don’t overlook about Bayahibe – one other improbable space to take a look at!
Easy methods to get there: There are quite a few dive colleges alongside the Punta Cana seashore resorts.
Prices: Diving in Punta Cana often prices between 35 and 50 euros.
Good to know: Diving fanatics mustn’t miss the chance to get the Dominican Republic of their diving ebook.
Whale and dolphin watching within the Dominican Republic
For those who’re searching for an thrilling journey in Punta Cana, whale and dolphin watching in Samaná is a should!
These excursions have turn out to be extremely in style and all the time draw crowds. It’s no surprise – from January to March yearly, humpback whales come to the Bay of Samaná to provide delivery and feed their younger. Hundreds of tourists flock right here every year because it is among 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 will be reached from the mainland in addition to from Punta Cana? For those who head to Miches (simply over an hour away), you may 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.
Easy methods to get there: Punta Cana Whale Watching all the time picks you up at your lodge.
Price: 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 must you go there? If you wish to get away from the vacationer crowds, one can find paradise on Saona Island. The island is a federally protected nature reserve and a part of the East Nationwide Park. Wildlife is in every single place on the island, from birds to a seashore stuffed with starfish. Throughout the nesting season, sea turtles will be seen laying their eggs. The seashores on Saona Island are breathtakingly lovely and supply the right backdrop for a soothing day by the ocean. The crystal clear waters are excellent for snorkeling with colourful fish and coral reefs. The island can be a preferred vacation spot for scuba divers who can observe a wide range of marine life.
Another excuse to go to Saona Island is its genuine Caribbean aptitude. There are not any giant lodge complexes or eating places right here – as a substitute one can find small seashore bars and grill stands serving recent fish and tropical cocktails.
To get to the island, you may be a part of a ship tour or hire 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 midst of untouched nature and need to expertise the true Caribbean feeling, it’s best to positively 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 in style and supply loads of enjoyable for these staying in all-inclusive lodges.
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 provide senseless racing, but additionally offer you an opportunity to expertise the true Dominican Republic, which will be onerous to search out within the midst of touristy areas like Punta Cana.
The totally different Buggy Excursions are really a considered one of a form exercise, as they take guests by way of secluded seashores, gorgeous riversides and genuine villages that showcase native life up shut. The excursions often additionally embrace a number of stops alongside the best way! If Land & Folks’s choices appear boring or uninspiring – take a look at our really helpful buggy adventures!
Easy methods to get there: The excursions all the time embrace selecting up out of your lodging or from the resort.
Price: Commonplace buggy excursions in Punta Cana begin at 35 euros, some buggy excursions are dearer on account of smaller teams, actual VW engines and customized consideration.
Good to know: Select a buggy tour that take you to locations you may’t go as a traditional vacationer.
Conclusion
Punta Cana is a paradise for seashore lovers and journey seekers alike. With its gorgeous shoreline, there’s no scarcity of seashores to go well with each style.
However that’s not all – the area additionally affords an abundance of actions to go well with 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 really has one thing for everybody. So why wait? Come absorb the Caribbean solar and expertise all that Punta Cana has to supply!