Best 11 Things to Do in Punta Cana and More

Are you looking for the best things to do in Punta Cana? Then, you have come to the right place. Here, we will guide you step-by-step on how to make the most of your trip to this beautiful city in the Dominican Republic. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and lush tropical landscapes stand out. In addition, this town has many hidden gems, such as lagoons inside its thick forests. You will also find many non-touristy activities to do here.

While Punta Cana might be a bit more expensive than the other tourist destinations in the Dominican Republic, it also offers many budget-friendly experiences. Still, you can expect to spend $200 to $500 on weekly activities in this city. You can cut expenses by choosing cheaper hotels, transport options, and dining. But those not restricted by finances can enjoy everything Punta Cana offers.

Find Things To Do In Playa Macao

Address: Playa Macao, Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic; Google Map
Opening Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free Entry

We are starting our list with the iconic Playa Macao. Nestled on the northern end of Punta Cana, this beach is known for its swells and trade winds. Hence, it is also a surfer’s favorite destination. This public beach is picturesque with its pristine sands, abundant palm trees, clear turquoise waters, and natural scenic beauty. You won’t regret visiting this place at all.

In addition to surfing, visitors can explore other watersports such as snorkeling, swimming, and diving. They can also book an ATV and get the ultimate 4×4 ATV experience riding through the tropical wilderness. Travelers can also include a quick trip to the Water Cave on their ATV expedition. This underground cave offers a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters.

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Explore Macao Beach Tours And Activities

Go For A Private Tour In Saona Island

Address: 23000, Dominican Republic; Google Map
Opening Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free Entry

Include a short trip to Saona Island on your Punta Cana Itinerary. You can reach the island on a ferry within an hour and a half. Or, you can travel to the island via Speedboat if you are pressed for time. Speedboats are fast and usually only take 30 minutes. Besides them, there are many other private transport options.

Isla Saona is located in the southeastern region of the Dominican Republic and is only accessible by boat. This picturesque location features beautiful white beaches, turquoise waters, and scenic beauty. It also offers sanctuary to numerous unique birds and sea creatures. Also, did you know the Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed on Saona Island? If you enjoyed the movie, you know what to expect in this land.

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See Saona Island Tours

Experience Snorkeling On Catalina Island

Address: 22000, Dominican Republic; Google Map
Opening Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
Things To Do: Snorkeling, Diving, Swimming

You must have heard about Catalina Island in California. However, did you know there is a beach with the same name in the Dominican Republic? Isla Catalina is a tropical island paradise located near La Romana. Although only 9.6 km, it provides a sanctuary for diverse species of marine animals and birds. This place also has many reefs, dunes, and mangroves.

Isla Catalina’s history dates back to the 17th century when pirates resided there. In 2007, the infamous Captain William Kidd’s 1699 Quedagh Merchant shipwreck was found 70 meters off the island. It was nominated as a Living Museum in the Sea. The ship’s one of twenty-six cannons is displayed at National Geographic: Treasures of the Earth.

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Sign Up For An Eco-Safari Tour In Higuey

Address: 23000 Dominican Republic; Google Map
Famous Destinations: Monkeyland, Basilica Nuestra Senora De La Altagracia, Museo de la Altagracia Alejandro E. Grullón E.
Things To Do: Cultural Tour, Food Tour, Sightseeing

Next, we have the beautiful city of Higuey in the eastern La Altagracia Province. It is the eighth-largest Dominican Republic city and 32 miles from Punta Cana. This city is best known for its historic monument, Basilica Nuestra Senora De La Altagracia. This cathedral is dedicated to Our Lady of Altagracia, whose image is displayed inside. More than 800,000 people visit to see the painting.

This cathedral is perfect for enjoying a cultural tour. You will learn about the monument’s history and significance in local people’s culture. Afterward, explore the nearby eateries and try local delicacies and classic Caribbean cuisine. Other Higuey attractions include Museo de la Altagracia Alejandro E. Grullon E, Rancho Cocory, Parroquia de San Dionisio, and La Estancia Cigars Factory.

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Explore Higuey Tours, Tickets, And Activities

Get A Nice Tan On Bavaro Beach

Address: 23000 Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; Google Map
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Things To Do: Snorkeling, Parasailing, Shark Encounter

If Playa Macao is a surfer’s paradise, Playa Bavaro is best for snorkeling. Board a private catamaran and embark on a half-day or full-day expedition to this beautiful beach. You can snorkel midway in a barrier reef surrounded by tropical fish. Or, you can try parasailing during your trip to Bavaro Beach. In addition, you can swim with stingrays and nurse sharks.

This Punta Cana beach is the most developed section of the town, with white sands, stunning landscapes, and crystal-clear waters. It houses many resorts and hotels where you can book a room. Furthermore, visitors can explore its diverse dining options during their stay. This beach is not overly crowded, and you can find less populated areas to enjoy a relaxing beach day.

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Ride Thrilling Zip Lines At Bavaro Amusement Park

Address: Blvd. Turístico del Este KM 8.5, Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic; Google Map
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 6 PM
Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Since you are already headed to Bavaro, explore the nearby attraction, Bavaro Adventure Park. It offers many family-friendly activities such as horseback riding, buggy rides, zorbing, ziplining, and more. If thrilling zip lines are not your forte, try exploring the park’s natural trails, which stretch for 3.4 miles. You will also find many rest areas, photo spots, and souvenir stores on the premises.

This open-air theme park offers many single activities, such as Splash of Emotions, Zip Line Mega Splash, Horseback Riding VIP, and Polaris VIP. Check out their super and mega combo packages if you want to save money. They include Buggy & Zip Line, Polaris & Zip Line, Super Combo Buggy Ride, Zip Line Mega Splash and Horses, Super Combo Polaris Adventure, Zip Line Mega Splash and Horses, and Mega Combo Full Access.

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Snap Beautiful Shots Of Monkeys On Monkeyland

Address: 6980833, -68.67011111111111, Higüey, Dominican Republic; Google Map
Opening Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
Nearby Attractions: La Hacienda Park, Higuey, Playa Macao

Did you know there is a Monkeyland in Higuey? This tourist attraction is spread across 5 acres of beautiful land, where many squirrel monkeys reside. It is a 45-minute drive from the center of Punta Cana and is inaccessible by private vehicles. Hence, you better book a guided tour and enjoy a fun-filled day in this natural jungle habitat.

Visitors can watch squirrel monkeys in their natural environment and interact with them nearby. These furry creatures are adorable and often seek petting and human interaction. In addition, travelers can stroll through the colorful and lush botanical garden in the park and learn about medicinal plants, flowers, and fruit trees. Afterward, you can visit the local coffee and cacao plantations for tastings.

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Dance The Night Away At Coco Bongo Punta Cana

Address: JJM3+XW3, Centro Comercial Downtown Punta Cana, Carretera Barcelo (Verón Esquina El Boulevard, cruce Coco Loco Bávaro, Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic; Google Map
Opening Hours: 8 PM – 2 AM
Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Are you looking to explore something different from theme parks and beaches in Punta Cana? If so, visit the legendary Coco Bongo Punta Cana in Downtown Mall Punta Cana. It is conveniently located between Punta Cana International Airport and the Bavaro Resort Area. This nightclub is known for its impressive acrobatic shows and vibrant nightlife scene.

Visitors can watch various shows, such as Samba, Queen, The Mask, 300, Moulin Rouge, and Mad Max. Movies/musicals/shows of the same name inspired the last four. Queen is a spectacular tribute to the rock band Queen. Likewise, Samba is a popular Brazilian dance that creates a joyous and party atmosphere in the club.

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Try 7 Unique Activities Of La Hacienda Park

Address: Higuey 23000, Dominican Republic; Google Map
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

We are adding another adventure park to our list of the best things to do in Punta Cana. La Hacienda Park is a must-visit destination in Higuey, Dominican Republic. This private park offers seven exciting activities that will satisfy your adrenaline-chasing soul. It also provides a delicious Dominican buffet, hotel pickups, and round-trip transportation.

Let’s start with the thrilling 2.4 km Zipline, which travels 70km per hour and crosses five platforms. You will enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Anamuya jungle. Next, the only chairlift in the Dominican Republic includes the 800-meter panoramic journey. Other attractions include a 20-meter quick jump, horseback riding, a buggy ride, refreshing Anamuya River bathing, and a cultural safari.

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Enjoy A Half-Day Tour With A Marinarium Snorkeling Cruise

Price: $115~
Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

Ratings ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We have listed a Civitatis tour as one of the best things to do in Punta Cana. This Marinarium Snorkeling Cruise is perfect for those looking forward to enjoying snorkeling and cruising through the Caribbean Sea. Marinarium Parks offers this 3.5-hour tour with hotel pickup and drop-off options. You will travel in an air-conditioned bus before boarding a glass-bottom catamaran.

During the journey, visitors will snorkel with sharks and manta rays in the Marinarium and visit a natural pool with a floating bar. In addition, passengers are provided unlimited drinks such as rum, beer, vodka, orange juice, and soft drinks. On board, they will munch on ham and cheese sandwiches and wholemeal bread cheese sandwiches.

Explore The Magnificent National Park of the East

Address: 23000, Dominican Republic; Google Map
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: $2.20

Go for a peaceful retreat at the National Park of the East, Parque Nacional del Este. This beautiful landmark is located in the southeast of the Dominican Republic. Of its 161.75 sq miles total area, 120.63 sq miles are on the peninsula, while 41.12 sq miles are on Saona Island. This park includes tropical forests, rich biodiversity, sandy beaches, and limestone landscapes.

Parque Nacional del Este houses over 500 flora species and hundreds of birds, fish, and insects. It also has over 400 caves, which hikers often explore during expeditions. Visitors will also find traces of the Taino Indians’ civilization throughout the park, including many human remains, historical artifacts, and cave art.

Check Out This Handpicked Activity:

Saona Island, Natural pool Starfish, Fast boat, Catamaran +Dances

Where To Stay In Punta Cana?

Sanctuary Resort Punta Cana — Book a room in our handpicked Punta Cana hotels, including Sanctuary Cap Cana.

Punta Cana is a famous tourist destination worldwide. As such, you can expect many luxurious and all-inclusive accommodations in the city. These properties vary based on prices, amenities, locations, and dining options. However, you can expect impressive hospitality in each one of them. So, check out some of the best resorts/hotels in this region:

Sanctuary Cap Cana, All-Inclusive Adult Resort: Boulevard Zona Hotelera, Punta Cana 23302; Check Price
Hard Rock Hotel, Punta Cana: Boulevard Turistico del Este Km 28 #74, Bavaro, 23302 Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; Check Price
Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana: Arena Gorda – Macao, Section Baigua. Higuey; Check Price
Occidental Punta Cana: Avenida España, Playa El Cortecito, Bavaro, 23301 Punta Cana; Check Price
Catalonia Punta Cana: Playas de Bavaro, Cabeza de Toro, 23000 Punta Cana; Check Price
Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa: Blvd. Zona Hotelera, Playa Juanillo, Cap Cana, 51101 Punta Cana; Check Price
Villas Tropical Los Corales Beach & Spa: Calle Los Corales Villas Tropical, Bavaro, 23000 Punta Cana; Check Price
Caraibico Studios Beach Club & Pool: Calle Aruba, Bavaro, 23000 Punta Cana; Check Price

See Punta Cana Tours, Tickets, And Activities

What is there to do in Punta Cana? As you can see, the options are limitless. This city is perfect for summer vacation, as you can indulge in as many watersports activities as you want. Even if you travel in the off-season, you will find many things to do here. For instance, going on a food tour, learning about local culture, visiting museums and indoor attractions, and more.

Many of you must be wondering if Punta Cana is safe. The answer is yes. This city is one of the safest tourist destinations in the Dominican Republic. The tourist police are on patrol 24/7, providing security to visitors at every hour. Still, practicing caution, especially at night, is advisable. Avoid wandering alone or exploring the beaten path after the sun goes down.