The Dominican Republic is an exotic island in the Caribbean, famous for its beaches, amongst many other things and we’re here to talk about the very best things to do in Punta Cana. The Dominican Republic may be famous for its pristine beaches but you’re sure to find so many other things to do, promising memories that you will cherish forever. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, lounge by the pool at a luxury all-inclusive hotel kind of person, or a foodie, you’re guaranteed to find it in Punta Cana.
We have compiled a list of the ultimate must-see places and the 10 best things to do in Punta Cana.
10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUNTA CANA
1. BAVARO BEACH
Bavaro is a stunning exotic beach located in the easternmost part of Punta Cana. It is a dreamy beach with powder white sand, clear emerald waters, and towering palm trees.
We had one of those pinch-me moments when we visited Bavaro and if you’re a beach bum like us, you’ll get goosebumps as soon as you get sight of it. There are many hotels located right on the beach taking up space with sunbeds. With that said, Bavaro is a public beach so you will have no problem finding a free spot to lay your towel.
Bavaro is the perfect place to swim, snorkel, or simply take a walk at its wonderful coastline. It is one of the best things to do in Punta Cana; we cannot recommend it enough.
2. TRY WATER SPORTS AT MACAO BEACH
If you’re a thrill-seeker, then you’ll find your fix at Macao beach. This beautiful coastline is located only 30 minutes from Bavaro beach and it appeals to the more adventurous crowds. The wind conditions make Macao beach the ultimate destination to try exciting water sports such as windsurfing and parasailing. Have you always dreamed of learning how to surf? No better place to take up your first surfing lessons than at this amazing Caribbean island. If you’re looking for calm waters to enjoy a relaxing swim, then Macao beach is likely not for you.
Macao is also famous for those who are looking for an action-packed cultural safari with 4×4 or buggies. There are various tours to choose from that offer the opportunity to see the lush landscape of the Dominican Republic.
3. HORSEBACK RIDING IN UVERO ALTO
Horseback riding was on my bucket list for many years and I am so grateful that I finally experienced it in Punta Cana. Uvero Alto is a fantastic place to try horseback riding, especially if you are a beginner. If you’re staying at a hotel nearby, it is worth checking with them if they offer this experience. Alternatively, you can book a group or a solo tour here. I can’t imagine a more breathtaking place to try horseback riding for the first time than the stunning shores of Uvero Alto beach.
Be sure to book your slot during the sunset when the soft pastel colors that bathe the shore create a heavenly ambiance. It is an awesome experience and undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Punta Cana.
READ ALSO: LUXURY STAY, ZOETRY AGUA PUNTA CANA
4. VISIT RESERVA ECOLÓGICA OJOS INDÍGENAS
Reserva Ecológica Ojos Indígenas is located inside the Punta Cana Resort & Club complex. It is a lush oasis, home to a lot of bird species and flora. What we loved most about this place was the wonderful lagoons with the dazzling turquoise waters. We had a wonderful time and we’re sure you’ll have a blast too, that’s why we’ve included it in this list of the best things to do in Punta Cana
The entrance used to be free a few years ago but not anymore; now you have to pay 50 dollars per person. To take full advantage of the ecological reserve, pack a lunch so you can have a picnic, start early your day, and do not forget your swimsuit. This is one of the top attractions to visit in Punta Cana that you don’t want to miss.
5. SPEND A DAY AT PUNTA CANA RESORT & CLUB
Whilst you’re in the area, why not spend a few hours exploring the prestigious Punta Cana Resort & Club? In its 15,000-acre land, you will find luxury hotels and residencies, championship golf courses, and a spectacular beach. You can test your golfing skills or spend a few lazy hours by the beach, whatever you choose to do, you’re guaranteed to have a fabulous time.
Since we’re speaking of the best things to do in Punta Cana, our advice is to keep an eye on the Punta Cana village’s upcoming events calendar as they usually organize many cool events and activities to do. You can savor authentic local food at its beautiful farmers market, listen to live music, or sip mouth-watering cocktails during happy hour.
A FEW MORE AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN PUNTA CANA
6. SHOP AT BLUEMALL PUNTA CANA
Okay, we understand that when visiting an exotic island, the last thing to do is go shopping. Hear us out before you snob it and skip to number 7 in this list of the best things to do in Punta Cana.
If you’re staying only for a few days on the island, then our advice is to skip this. However, if you have a few days to spare, then a visit to BlueMall truly is one of the best things to do in Punta Cana.
BlueMall Punta Cana is one of the largest shopping malls in the Caribbean, offering an abundance of stores such as Zara, Levi’s, and Aldo amongst many others. If you get hungry, you can eat to your heart’s content at one of the many restaurants (Hard Rock Cafe has the meanest burgers!). You will also find plenty of activities for the adults and the little ones alike, so everyone is happy.
7. TAKE A STROLL AT ALTOS DE CHAVON
A visit to Altos de Chavon is one of our go-to recommendations when we’re asked “what are the best things to do in Punta Cana?”. The vision of those involved in building Altos de Chavon essentially was to transform the countryside of La Romana and create a feeling of a 16th-century Mediterranean village. Each and every detail of this spectacular quaint village will have you in awe. As the scenery slowly unfolds in front of you, we strongly suggest that you observe the extraordinary craftsmanship that has been used. The most distinctive spots are the stone pathways, decorative ironwork, and architecture.
Be sure to book a knowledgeable tour guide that will walk you through the history of Altos de Chavon. This will make the experience not only enjoyable but also educational.
ADVICE: Due to the current situation, the park may have altered its opening hours or have limited access to the public. We recommend that you contact them directly to check entry regulations.
8. SPEND A DAY AT SAONA ISLAND
If you’re an outdoorsy person, we can’t think of a more perfect outdoor activity to do in Punta Cana, than spending a day at Saona island. Imagine a picture-perfect exotic island with gin-clear emerald waters, white soft sand, and swaying palm trees; that’s Saona island. The best way to reach it is by boat tour which allows you to take in the views and enough time to explore the island. We recommend this awesome full-day tour which includes a Visit Saona Island, the reef at Catuano, and the Las Palmillas natural swimming pool.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to spend a day on Saona Island during your visit to the Dominican Republic as this is one of the best outdoor activities to do in Punta Cana.
9. TAKE A WALKING TOUR IN SANTO DOMINGO
Spending time by the beach is naturally the first thing that you want to do when you’re visiting an exotic island. However, we suggest that you also explore other parts of this wonderful island such as its capital, Santo Domingo. The most remarkable area of the capital is Zona Colonial which is the oldest part of the city. The best way to explore it is by booking a walking tour, so you can get an insight into the history of the city and the architecture of the beautiful buildings. The tour guide comes with one more advantage, they know which are the best restaurants and bars to try out.
Many tourists wonder if Santo Domingo is safe. Our take on it is that, while Zona Colonial is quite safe to explore on your own, the rest of the city needs extra caution. We always recommend that you play it safe and you avoid walking alone at night and leave any valuables at your hotel.
10. HAVE A FUN DAY AT SCAPE PARK, PUNTA CANA
This is hands down one of the best things to do in Punta Cana with family. Scape Park is a massive fun park offering a plethora of cool activities to do for the entire family. Ziplining, swimming in underground caves, snorkeling, or simply relaxing by the beach sipping cocktails, you name it, Scape Park has it! Be sure to book in advance and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime
CONCLUSION
Here they are, our top 10 best things to do in Punta Cana. We had a blast in the Dominican Republic and the island is packed with awesome things to do. You’ll need at least a week in the Dominican Republic to cover all of the above but if you don’t manage the first time around, then you’ll have a good excuse to visit again. Something tells us that you will.
