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About this guide
Punta Cana, Spanish for “Tip of the White Cane Palms", has the perfect blend of Dominican culture, decadent relaxation, and outdoor adventure. Known for its stunning beaches and warm hospitality, Punta Cana invites travelers to book a tranquil retreat or action-packed getaway. From luxury resorts to cultural tours, there’s a place that caters to every traveler's needs. Visitors get to explore its Afro-Dominican heritage, savor delicious local cuisine, and dance to the lively rhythms of merengue and bachata. The beautiful island landscape beckons travelers looking for cultural immersion and an authentic Caribbean experience.
- Best time to travel: December to March (peak season), April to September (off season), October to November (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST)
- Currency: Dominican Peso (DOP) and USD ($)
- Language: Spanish, English
- Noteworthy: Punta Cana Carnaval (February), SSN Lifestyle Punta Cana Music Festival (May), Merengue Festival (July to August), Afro Fest Punta Cana (December)
- Best for: Affordable Beach Getaways, Luxury Relaxation, Outdoor Adventures, Music and Nightlife
Get Away: Getting To And Around Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
By Air
The easiest way to reach Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, is flying directly into Punta Cana International Airport. There are numerous international flights from major cities around the world on a daily basis. Check for non-stop flights from any departure city for the quickest and most direct route. The airport is a conveniently short drive to popular resorts and beaches, making it a stress-free Caribbean getaway.Â
By Car
Renting a car in Punta Cana offers flexibility to get to and from popular attractions and accommodation in the area. Major car rental companies are available at Punta Cana International Airport and throughout the area, making it easy to pick up and drop off vehicles. Be sure to learn the local driving rules and consider using a GPS or map app for smoother navigation and safer travel.
By Public Transit
Getting around Punta Cana can be both affordable and efficient with local buses, known as "guaguas," connecting major areas. While the routes may not always be clearly marked, friendly locals are often willing to help with directions. For a quicker option, consider using shared minibuses or taxis, both readily available as a comfortable way to explore the region.
Explore Punta Cana, Dominican Republic On Foot
Taking time to explore Punta Cana on foot means being close to the beach with easy access to popular and off-the-beaten-path treasures. Strolls the beautiful Caribbean beaches with the most amazing views, plus all-inclusive resorts and private villas right on the water. Many popular spots, including local shops, restaurants, and beachfront paths, are pedestrian-friendly with a vibrant local community. For longer distances, combine walking with other transportation options to fully enjoy all that Punta Cana has to offer.
Quick facts
Atlantic Standard Time (AST)
Dominican Peso (DOP) and USD ($)
Spanish, English
Good For
Affordable Beach Getaways
Luxury Relaxation
Outdoor Adventures
Music and Nightlife
Keep in mind
- Punta Cana Carnaval (February)
- SSN Lifestyle Punta Cana Music Festival (May)
- Merengue Festival (July to August)
- Afro Fest Punta Cana (December)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Dine on the terrace at La Tiendita By ABS Bávaro with gourmet dishes of high-quality meats and decadent desserts. The steakhouse menu features elevated culinary recipes like slow-cooked Short Ribs and Linguini Frutti Di Mare.
The Caribbean-inspired cuisine at Castaways Restaurant serves Chef Lubin’s recipe of fresh seafood and local delicacies with Dominican flair. The menu includes Dominican sancocho, coconut shrimp, fried grouper sandwich, grilled ribeye, and vanilla key lime pie.
Dine at Jellyfish Beach Restaurant, one of the Caribbean's top beach clubs, with island architecture and palm-shaded views. Exquisite dishes like Mahi Mahi carpaccio, Caribbean lobster bisque, and paella perfectly complement the hand-crafted cocktails.
Guests can relax at Pearl Beach Club with an infinity pool, cocktails by the ocean, and live music at sunset. This luxurious beachfront restaurant offers Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Asian fusion with seasonal ingredients.Â
Citrus Fusion Cuisine serves a mix of international flavors, from Peruvian to Japanese sushi to Mediterranean dishes like ceviches, sushi rolls, and burgers. Guests relax in a cozy atmosphere with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menu options.Â
Noah Restaurant serves a variety of cuisines, from traditional Dominican dishes to international favorites. The fresh seasonal ingredient menu features everything from pizza to rock shrimp tacos to poke bowls to surf and turf.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
This half-day buggy tour to the stunning water cave and Macao Beach explores the Dominican countryside with a local guide. This thrilling off-road adventure has individual buggies that go to an organic farm to sample local treats.
The Oliver Rum Tasting And Pairing Experience immerses guests in the richness of Dominican culture while learning the history and production of fine rums. Guided by an expert host, guests taste a curated selection of rums paired with chocolates and cheeses.
Don’t miss the chance to master Bachata—a quintessential part of Dominican culture—with a professional instructor in just one hour. Singles, couples, and groups learn basic techniques, practice with partners, and personal tips in this fun experience.
Book the Taino Gourmet Cooking Lab for a farmer’s market trip and culinary adventure into traditional Dominican ingredients. Afterward, guests take a hands-on cooking class with a fun tasting contest while dancing to Dominican rhythms.
The Monkeyland and Plantation Safari Tour takes visitors into a natural jungle habitat to interact with playful squirrel monkeys. Enjoy the added bonus of visiting botanical gardens and organic coffee and cacao plantations with convenient hotel transport.
Take private surf lessons at Macao Beach with tailored experiences for beginners or advanced surfers. Enjoy personalized instruction with a 1:1 student-to-instructor ratio, convenient hotel pickup, and a video/photo package option to capture the moment.
Explore scenic trails on the Bayahibe E-Bike Tour and discover cenotes with beautiful marine life. Take a refreshing swim in Cotubanamá National Park’s Padre Nuestro cave and taste a classic banana merienda before returning to Dominicus.
This small group half-day Dominican Republic Cultural Tour explores the country’s Afro-Caribbean history and culture beyond the popular resort areas. From Higüey’s Basilica to Dominican Market, visitors learn about Dominican society before unwinding with a swim and natural slide at Anamuya River.
