Things to do in Punta Cana: 10 must-do experiences

Punta Cana is much more than sun and pool. Here are the 10 experiences we recommend most to our guests, with practical tips from people who live here.

1. Saona Island

The most famous excursion in the Dominican Republic. The island is part of East National Park, a protected reserve, and tours usually stop at a shallow natural pool full of starfish. It is normally a full-day trip by catamaran or speedboat, with lunch included. Tip: bring reef-safe sunscreen and cash for tips.

2. Hoyo Azul (Blue Hole) at Scape Park

A cenote of crystal-clear turquoise water at the foot of a cliff around 75 meters high, inside Scape Park in Cap Cana. The park also has ziplines, trails and caves. Tip: go early to enjoy it with fewer people.

3. Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve

A private subtropical forest reserve inside Punta Cana Resort & Club with 12 freshwater lagoons, several of them open for swimming. Great for families and nature lovers, and very close to Playa Blanca.

4. Macao Beach

One of the most beautiful public beaches in the area, popular with locals, especially on Sundays. Golden sand, good waves for beginner surfers and beach shacks serving fried fish. Many buggy tours stop here.

5. Catamaran and snorkeling cruise

Departing from Bávaro and Los Corales: sail along the coast, snorkel the reef and finish with music at a natural pool. A perfect afternoon for groups and couples.

6. Buggy tour

Ride dirt roads, plantations and rural villages, visit a freshwater cave and taste Dominican coffee and cacao. Fun and muddy: wear old clothes!

7. Sunset at Juanillo Beach

In Cap Cana, this calm beach has beach clubs and waterfront restaurants. One of the best places to watch the sunset over dinner by the water.

8. World-class golf

Punta Cana has some of the best courses in the Caribbean, such as Punta Espada in Cap Cana and the Punta Cana Resort & Club courses, with holes along the ocean.

9. Altos de Chavón

A replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village above the Chavón River in La Romana, about an hour's drive away. It has an amphitheater, galleries, craft shops and spectacular views.

10. Beachfront dinner in Los Corales and El Cortecito

Fresh fish, lobster and cocktails with your feet in the sand. Restaurants like Jellyfish on Bávaro beach are a classic, and within walking distance of our Playa Coral apartments.

Plan your excursions with us

When you stay with Punta Cana Home Vacation, you get our digital welcome guide with recommended tours, restaurants and nearby places, and we help you book tours with trusted operators.

👉 See our villas and apartments and message us to plan your vacation.