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Plan Your Trip to Punta Cana: Best of Punta Cana Tourism

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Trust the postcards—Punta Cana really is as amazing as it looks. For top-tier R&R, go all-inclusive: You’ll spend your days lounging by the pool, dining at five-star restaurants, and getting pampered at the spa. When you’ve had your fill of piña coladas and beachside cabanas, venture beyond the resort to some of the island’s best natural gems. Go ziplining, explore underground caves, and take a dip in the cenotes at Scape Park in Capa Cana. You can also cool off in the freshwater lagoons at Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park or hop over to Saona Island for an untouched (and less crowded) piece of paradise. If you can squeeze in a game of golf, head to Punta Espada for a quick 18 with sweeping views of the ocean. There’s so much more to do, and we’ve got all the best recs below.

Essential Punta Cana

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Travel Advice

The perfect 3 days in Punta Cana

Beach breakfasts, boat tours, and club vibes
Read on

An outdoor adventure guide to Punta Cana

Sitting still is not an option for me, so I’m always on the lookout for adrenaline-filled experiences when I travel, and Punta Cana seriously delivers. There are so many activities to try—from sailing to surfing, caving to horseback riding—that you’ll never do the same thing twice (unless you want to).
  • Punta Cana Dune Buggy Adventure and Amazing Water Cave
    2,661
    I brought the kids along for this adventure and it was a blast. Exploring on a dune buggy let us see the countryside in a fun and interactive way (versus from the inside of a tour bus). Plus, we were able to sample coffee (me) and chocolate (the kids) at a farm stop and meet plenty of locals. Another highlight: After muddy off-roading, we got to clean off with a swim in a river cave.
  • Punta Cana Scape Park and Blue Hole Full Day Admission Ticket
    952
    When I’m exploring somewhere new, it’s nice to have multiple activities in one place for one-stop-adventure-shopping. Scape Park is ideal for a day out since it has a zipline, caves to check out, and cool cenotes for swimming—meaning I can explore both on land and in the water all in one location. Bliss.
  • Bavaro Adventure Park
    2,462
    I’ve done so many ropes courses on my trips over the years I can’t keep track anymore. But Bavaro Adventure Park really stands out for its challenging climbing workout that rewards determination with amazing tropical scenery. (Note: You’re probably going to skip this one if you don’t like heights.)
  • Macao Surf Camp
    819
    Surfing is not something I’m especially good at, but I like to give it a go when I’m in Punta Cana. At Macao Surf Camp, the warm water, light currents, and attentive instructors all made it seem perfectly okay when I fell off the board (which happened a lot). If you manage to stand up (even for a few seconds), you’ll be rewarded with action shots taken by staff photographers.
  • Punta Cana Beach Horseback Riding
    770
    Sure, horseback riding in general is a super fun vacay activity, and riding on the sand is always memorable. But lean in and I’ll tell you a secret: A ride along the stunning Punta Cana coastline, on horseback, at sunset, with your partner, is the epitome of a romantic vacation. Trust me on this one.
  • Small-Group Cruising and Snorkeling Catamaran Tour
    2,063
    I love being in the water, so anytime I can do a snorkel cruise, I’m in. This catamaran tour to Cabeza de Toro Natural Reserve is a favorite. After getting your fill of the technicolor marine life and coral below, you get unlimited drinks and net hammocks for relaxing back on the boat.
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Punta Cana Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Punta Cana

Writer2828

Wear plenty of sunscreen — it gets particularly hot between noon and 4 p.m., and some beaches don't have much shade.

Writer2828

Don't drink the tap water, and stick to bottled water to brush your teeth with.

SlyGuy23

I typically take a lot of $1 for tipping.

Writer2828

Beach-hopping is a bona fide activity on this coast, but there's also plenty of nature, from cenotes to ancient Taino caves, to explore, along with shopping spots and restaurants outside of the resorts.

Writer2828

Bask in the sun for days, beach hop from Bavaro to Macao, and don't miss escaping into the lush interior, including at Parque Nacional del Este and Laguna Bavaro.

Angela A

Punta Cana is a perfect beach destination for families.

What is the best way to get there?

flying

Most travelers fly into Punta Cana International Airport, where shuttle buses and taxis will take you into the city. It’s also possible to arrive at La Romana airport, about 45 minutes away.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Punta Cana from overseas, use the government’s Visa Wizard to see if you need a visa.

When is the best time to visit?

Summertime is peak season in the Dominican Republic, when the warm waters are ideal for swimming and daily temperatures often hit 86°F (30°C). To avoid the crowds, plan your trip for the shoulder months of April or May. Temperatures are pretty consistent year-round, but be aware that June to November is hurricane season.

Get around

walking

Punta Cana is easy to get around on foot and most hotels are within walking distance of the beach.

taxis

Taxis and motoconchos (motorcycle taxis) are easy to find, but be sure to agree on a fare before you set off. Flagging down a taxi on the street or walking to a local taxi stand away from your resort will probably get you the best price.

ridesharing

Although Uber and Cabify are available in some Dominican Republic cities, they are not currently available in Punta Cana.

On the ground

What is the timezone?

Atlantic Standard Time.

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in the Dominican Republic is 120 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. The plug has two flat parallel pins.

What is the currency?

Dominican peso (DOP). US dollars are often also accepted, especially at larger hotels and restaurants.

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Yes.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, but it’s still worth carrying some cash.

How much do I tip?

Tipping is common practice in the Dominican Republic, although opinions differ on how much.

How much do I tip?

Restaurant

A service charge is often added to the bill.

Housekeeper

It is customary to leave a $1-2 US each day for the housekeeper.

Tour guide

10-20% will be appreciated.

Are there local customs I should know?

Drinking

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Keep your clothes on!

Topless sunbathing is actually against the law in the Dominican Republic and while you may find it’s tolerated at some private resorts, it’s best to do as the locals do and keep covered.

Try to speak the language

English is widely spoken in establishments frequented by travelers, but learning a few Spanish phrases will be appreciated. If you plan on venturing further afield, a basic knowledge of Spanish will go a long way.

Expect relaxed timekeeping

Locals tend to be laid-back about timekeeping, so don’t get too worried if your taxi shows up five minutes late or your tour itinerary is more of a “guideline.” Leave yourself a little extra time for airport transfers to account for this.

Punta Cana travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travelers ask in the forums.

Resort Variety and Amenities

According to forum posts, travelers have diverse preferences for resorts in Punta Cana. For those seeking lively environments, CHIC, Breathless, and RIU Republica are recommended. For a romantic and luxurious honeymoon experience, the TRS Turquesa and Majestic Elegance are frequently mentioned, with the latter offering a club level for added exclusivity.

Family and Teen-Friendly Options

For families traveling with teenagers, specific resorts have not been directly recommended, but users suggest considering resorts based on available activities, beach conditions, and an overall atmosphere suitable for teens.

Adults-Only and Luxury Preferences

Travelers have called out adults-only options like the TRS Turquesa for those seeking tranquility and exclusivity. The Excellence Punta Cana and Excellence El Carmen are highlighted for their luxury offerings and beachfront locations, providing a mix of romance and quality amenities.

Non-All-Inclusive Options

For those preferring non-all-inclusive resorts, the Westin in Punta Cana is suggested, known for arranging spa visits and providing a high-quality experience without the all-inclusive format.

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Car Rental Companies

Several major rental car companies operate out of Punta Cana, including Avis, Hertz, Dollar, Budget, and Europcar. Travelers have noted that while these companies are conveniently located at the Punta Cana International Airport, the service quality and charges can vary, with some reporting overcharges and issues with the reservation of vehicles.

Local Rental Options

Some travelers have recommended using local car rental services such as Tropicana Car Rental, which is noted for being cost-effective compared to airport rental companies. Tropicana Car Rental offers services like airport pickup and provides vehicles suitable for larger groups, such as minivans.

Customer Experiences

Customer experiences with car rentals in Punta Cana have been mixed. Issues cited include overcharging, especially with companies like Alamo, and inconsistent service quality across even well-known rental brands. However, Europcar has received some positive feedback for its reliability.

Recommendations

When renting a car in Punta Cana, it may be beneficial to consider both international and local rental companies, compare their reviews and prices, and prepare for potential inconsistencies in service. Booking in advance and confirming reservations can help avoid some common issues encountered by travelers.

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Understanding E-Tickets

For travelers heading to Punta Cana, an E-Ticket is a mandatory online document required both for entry and exit. It's essential to fill this out before your travel, and it can be done as soon as you have your flight details. Some travelers mentioned completing it months in advance without issues.

Official Website Caution

It's crucial to use the official website for the E-Ticket application to avoid unnecessary charges. Some users reported encountering fraudulent sites trying to charge for the otherwise free E-Ticket. The official site is https://eticket.migracion.gob.do/.

Application Code

The E-Ticket process may require an application code, particularly if you need to retrieve or modify your ticket. This code is provided at the beginning of the application process and is necessary if you need to access your form again.

Practical Tips

Travelers have suggested taking screenshots or printing the E-Ticket for backup, even though it is linked to your passport and typically scanned automatically by immigration authorities. It is recommended to complete the E-Ticket at least 72 hours before travel, aligning with health questionnaires that might be part of the process.

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Whale Watching Locations

According to forum posts, while Punta Cana itself does not offer close proximity whale watching, nearby Samana Bay is a popular location for this activity. Some travelers mentioned that they have occasionally seen whales off the coast of Punta Cana, but these sightings are rare and the whales are usually far out.

Excursion Options

Travelers have recommended specific operators for whale watching excursions, such as Whale Samana with Kim Beddall, who is noted as an expert in the field. Tours typically involve early morning departures and include transportation from Punta Cana to Samana. Another operator mentioned was Mike Fisher Tours, which offers tours departing from Miches, closer to Punta Cana, reducing travel time.

Considerations

It was noted that the waters can be rough, which might affect those who are prone to seasickness. Therefore, travelers looking to book whale watching tours should be prepared for potentially bumpy rides on the water.

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Transfer Companies

Some travelers have recommended using private transfer services from Punta Cana airport to various destinations. Companies frequently mentioned include Dominican Airport Transfers, Punta Cana Mike, and eTransfers Punta Cana. These services are noted for their reliability and the convenience of pre-booking online.

User Experiences

According to forum posts, many users have had positive experiences with these transfer services, citing timely pickups and professional service. However, some travelers called out instances where pre-booked services did not show up, leading them to opt for readily available taxis instead.

Taxi Services

For those looking for immediate transport upon arrival without prior booking, taxis are readily available at the airport. Travelers have called out the ease of finding taxis, though prices can vary and some have experienced fare discrepancies upon reaching their destination.

Alternative Options

A few users have suggested using Uber as a cost-effective alternative, although there were mentions of certain resorts not allowing Uber pickups on their properties. This could affect the convenience of using such services depending on the accommodation.

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Currency Preference

According to forum posts, most travelers recommend using US dollars (USD) for transactions in Punta Cana, especially for tipping at resorts and for general expenditures on the resort. USD is widely accepted and convenient for most visitors.

Local Currency Use

For those planning to spend time off the resort or interact more with local shops and services, some users suggested exchanging a portion of USD to Dominican Pesos (DOP). This might yield better value for purchases outside of tourist areas.

Currency Exchange Tips

Travelers have advised against exchanging currency at airports or hotels due to poor exchange rates. Instead, using banks or local casas de cambio (exchange houses) is recommended for getting a more favorable exchange rate.

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General Weather Overview

According to forum posts, Punta Cana generally experiences warm weather with temperatures ranging from 23°C at night to around 30°C during the day in February. The summer months are hotter and more humid.

Rainfall and Seasonal Changes

Some travelers said that while Punta Cana does have a rainy season, the rain is usually short-lived and occurs overnight. Hurricane season spans from June to November, but direct hits are rare, and any storms typically move away quickly.

Comparison with Other Seasons

Travelers have called out that the weather in May is very nice, not too humid, and generally sunny. In contrast, February weather is cooler than the summer months but still pleasantly warm and breezy.

Temperature Variations

For many users, the temperature during winter months can feel slightly cooler in the evenings, suggesting that a light jacket might be useful then. The difference in temperature throughout the year is about 10 degrees, with warmer days from late spring to early fall.

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General Feedback

According to forum posts, Dreams Onyx in Punta Cana is generally well-received by guests. Some travelers highlighted the resort's beautiful beach and very good food options. The adults-only Preferred Club area is particularly praised for its amenities and swim-out rooms.

Guest Preferences and Concerns

However, some users expressed concerns over additional costs for specific amenities, such as renting Bali beds in the pool area, which left a negative impression. Additionally, while some guests preferred dining at the neighboring Breathless resort, others found the food at Dreams Onyx satisfactory, with varied options including Italian, steakhouse, and Mexican cuisines.

Access to Neighboring Resorts

Dreams Onyx also offers access to the lively adults-only Breathless resort next door, which is considered a bonus by many guests, providing additional dining and entertainment options.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Punta Cana



Punta Cana is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:


If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Punta Cana between June and August, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between December and February.