Punta Cana
Punta Cana, on the east coast of the Dominican Republic, is renowned for its miles of white-sand beaches lined by coconut palms and aquamarine waters. The name Punta Cana is often used when referring to the region that encompasses areas such as Cabeza de Toro, Arena Gorda and Uvero Alto.
Punta Cana is primarily made up of large all-inclusive resorts that cater for families and couples. Many have their own private stretches of beach and are designed to provide guests with everything they need for their stay, including restaurants, nightclubs and sporting activities.
The main attractions of Punta Cana are, of course, the sand and the sea. The unforgettable beaches of this region are sheltered by an immense offshore reef, 18 miles (29 kilometers) in length. The shallow water makes it a good diving or snorkeling environment for beginners. Most of the all-inclusive resorts have their own dive schools and equipment shops. There are also other water activities on offer such as surfing, sailing and parasailing.
Outside the resorts, you’ll have the chance to explore some of the Dominican Republic’s other attractions. See the replica Mediterranean village built on a cliff at Altos de Chavón and explore the world’s first underwater museum at Bayahibe. Visit Higüey and its Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia, a large cathedral built to honor the patron saint of the Dominican Republic. Take a guided tour of the jungle at the Punta Cana Ecological Reserve.
There are a number of ways to get around Punta Cana. For the majority of visitors, who spend their time either in their resorts or at beaches nearby, the simplest way is on foot. Local buses known as ”guaguas” are the cheapest options if you plan to travel farther afield. Taxis and car rentals are also available.
Blue skies and sunshine are fixtures for most of the year in Punta Cana. In summer the temperature is an average of 88 F (31 C).
For more details on interesting local attractions and activities, check out our things to do in Punta Cana page.