Punta Cana

Travel Guide

A marina with a white boat named 'Achina' docked, surrounded by palm trees and a building with a green roof.
An outdoor amphitheater with stone steps and a stage, surrounded by trees and a clear sky.
A beach with palm trees and people walking along the shore.
A beach with palm trees, a boat, and people relaxing.
Two people sitting on a bench at a sports field, one wearing a red shirt and the other a blue shirt with a number on the back.

Ivory-colored shorelines, aquamarine waters and luxurious resorts are Punta Cana’s best-known assets. But zoom in and you’ll find plenty of ways to experience stunning nature and Dominican food and culture.

Located on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is a postcard-perfect Caribbean resort, comprising nine districts including the small village also named Punta Cana. With miles of powdery beaches, clear waters and gently swaying palm trees hugging the coastline, it’s easy to see why this is one of the region’s hottest destinations. Many sun seekers visit Punta Cana for its glorious shorelines, the perfect backdrop to island-hopping, scuba diving and sailing. But venture beyond the beach to experience its impressive ecological wonders, rugged outdoor adventures and colorful Dominican festivals.

The best areas for accommodation in Punta Cana

Start by exploring hotels in the Bavaro district, one of the best places to stay for first-timers. Located on the region’s northerly strip of coastline, Bavaro is famous for its upscale resorts, most of which have private beach access with full-service clubs. Most of the region’s boat tours and excursions leave from Bavaro, too, making it a convenient base for your vacation.

Couples will be pleased to learn that there is an array of romantic, adults-only resorts throughout the region. One of the most tranquil places for couples to stay in Punta Cana is El Cortecito, a former fishing village adjacent to Bavaro’s main beach. Alternatively, the Cabeza de Toro neighborhood offers a selection of luxurious hotels and access to the Bavaro lagoon, a hot spot for hiking, kayaking and ecotours.

For families, the best places to stay in Punta Cana are in Uvero Alto, along the region’s northernmost coastline. Choose from a wide range of kid-friendly resorts, then enjoy thrilling water sports like paddleboarding, snorkeling, scuba diving and sailing. Planning to take the crew to Punta Cana’s famous Scape Park? Base yourself in Cap Cana, the region’s southernmost strip of shoreline offering several family-friendly accommodations and a picturesque marina. 

Best time to visit Punta Cana

  • Winter (December to February): Balmy weather, clear skies and lower humidity make this one of the best times to visit Punta Cana. Booking accommodations in advance is advisable, especially if you’re visiting around the holidays.
  • Spring (March to May): With thinner crowds, this is another great time to visit Punta Cana for a tranquil getaway. Just remember spring break in March and April can bring an increase in visitors. 
  • Summer (June to August): Punta Cana’s tourism winds down with the onset of hurricane season; check forecasts and local travel advice before you go. This time usually offers cheaper accommodation and quieter beaches.
  • Fall (September to November): Enjoy plenty of greenery during Punta Cana’s rainy season — also known as the “green season” for its abundance of lush foliage.

How many days to spend in Punta Cana

To get a flavor of Punta Cana’s beaches and explore nearby nature hot spots, around three to four days should be enough time to enjoy this stunning region. If you’re planning day trips to Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, or the islands of Saona and Catalina, aim for five to seven days.

The vibe of Punta Cana

Set your watch to island time when you visit Punta Cana. This classically Caribbean paradise moves at a delightfully unhurried pace, inviting you to relax on its sun-drenched beaches, piña colada in hand. When you’re ready to peel yourself away from the sand, there’s an array of outdoor activities to enjoy, from water sports to theme parks. In other words, every type of vacationer can find something to their liking in Punta Cana. And Dominican flavors are everywhere, from rum-based cocktails to local dishes like fried plantain and freshly caught seafood served in coconut sauce.

What is Punta Cana famous for?

Punta Cana is known for its spectacular shorelines, and Bavaro Beach is its most famous. Repeatedly voted one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, it’s a picture-perfect specimen right down to the fine, sugary sands and crystal-clear water. In a region filled with stunning swimming spots, Hoyo Azul at Scape Park is one of the best, known for its impossibly deep blue color. Reserva Ecologica Ojos Indigenas is another famous collection of 12 natural pools, a handful of which are open for swimming. After dark, Punta Cana transforms into a nightlife haven, where you’ll find everything from famous discos hosting circus-inspired shows to salsa bars and megaclubs.

Events in Punta Cana

Events in Punta Cana keep the excitement going year-round, especially during its dry season from December through April. The first notable event of the year is also one of the biggest: Carnaval Punta Cana. Held in late February or early March, it’s a lively festival with music, dancing and people parading through the streets. Sometimes it overlaps with Dominican Independence Day on February 27, which means double the celebrations. The dry season continues with Semana Santana (Holy Week) in spring, bringing an array of religious services and street processions. For Restoration Day in August, Punta Cana celebrates independence with a vibrant parade and traditional dishes such as mangu (mashed plantains).

Top attractions in Punta Cana

The best things to do in Punta Cana for first-timers revolve around its stunning beaches, including Bavaro and Macao. They’re an ideal jumping-off point for visiting nearby isles such as Saona Island, a picturesque tropical oasis best explored on a catamaran tour. Another quintessential experience is diving into the cool, clear water of a cenote (natural swimming hole), such as Hoyos del Salado and Reserva Ecologica Ojos Indigenas. 

There are plenty of romantic things for couples to do in Punta Cana. For beach-hopping and traditional seafood, seek out villages like El Cortecito or the pristine coastline of Uvero Alto. In the Bavaro region, spas offer couples treatments including massages, hot stone therapy and hydrotherapy. For a tranquil immersion in nature, take a day trip to visit Los Haitises National Park, home to green waters peppered with limestone islands and teeming with birdlife. 

Families with kids of all ages are catered for at Punta Cana’s beaches. For the littlest travelers, there are plenty of soft stretches of sand with shallow waters, such as Playa Blanca. Older kids will enjoy snorkeling tours of the coral reefs around Saona Island or Catalina Island. Another popular thing for families to do in Punta Cana is visit Scape Park, home to the famous Hoyo Azul cenote along with zip lines, caves and tunnels.

Enjoy long stretches of white-sand beaches, all-inclusive resorts and sunshine in abundance at one of the largest tourist destinations in the Caribbean region.

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 divingor snorkelingenvironment 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, sailingand 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 Chavónand explore the world’s first underwater museum atBayahibe. 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).

Where to stay in Punta Cana

Find the best Punta Cana areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Punta Cana
Learn more about Punta Cana

Bávaro

The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Bávaro. Make a stop by Bavaro Beach or Cocotal Golf and Country Club while you're exploring the area.

Uvero Alto

You'll love the stunning beaches in Uvero Alto, and you might want to stick around to check out Sirenis Aquagames Water Park, a top place to visit.

Cap Cana Marina

Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Cap Cana Marina. Make a stop by top sights like Punta Cana Beach while you're exploring the area.

Playa Bibijagua

Playa Bibijagua is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Bavaro Beach and Los Corales Beach, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Punta Cana.

Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort Spa & Casino - All Inclusive

Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort Spa & Casino - All Inclusive

5 out of 5
Playas de Bavaro Punta Cana La Altagracia
$332 nightly
The price is $425 total per night from Oct 1 to Oct 2
$425 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury property in Punta Cana. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (7,427 reviews)
"Asunto: Comentarios y queja formal sobre nuestra experiencia durante la estadía Estimado equipo de Gerencia, Quisiera compartirles nuestra preocupación por algunos aspectos de la atención que hemos recibido durante nuestra estadía. Somos un grupo de cinco habitaciones y, considerando el nivel y la ..."

Reviewed on Sep 9, 2026

Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort Spa & Casino - All Inclusive
Wyndham Alltra Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort

Wyndham Alltra Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort

4 out of 5
Playas Uvero Alto Punta Cana La Altagracia
$147 nightly
The price is $147 total per night from Sep 13 to Sep 14
$147 total
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach resort in Punta Cana. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,464 reviews)
"Excelente Hotel. Trato super amable. Restaurantes con muy buena comida y sabor. Piscinas bien limpias y super espaciosas. Fue una experiencia magnifica."

Reviewed on Sep 9, 2026

Wyndham Alltra Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort
Barceló Bávaro Palace - All Inclusive

Barceló Bávaro Palace - All Inclusive

4.5 out of 5
Carretera Bávaro Km. 1 Punta Cana La Altagracia
$218 nightly
The price is $279 total per night from Oct 1 to Oct 2
$279 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury property in Punta Cana. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
Barceló Bávaro Palace - All Inclusive
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Reserva Real by Harper

Reserva Real by Harper

4.5 out of 5
Avenida Alemania Punta Cana La Altagracia
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Punta Cana. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Bavaro Beach and Cocotal Golf ...
Reserva Real by Harper
Playa Palmera Beach Resort

Playa Palmera Beach Resort

5 out of 5
Blvrd Andi Las Vegas Numero 1 Uvero Alto Punta Cana La Altagracia
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Punta Cana. Enjoy free WiFi, free valet parking, and a private beach. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (348 reviews)
"It’s a great place to stay. Everything is inside this facility but you have to pay for everything. It’s not an All-Inclusive place."

Reviewed on Aug 19, 2026

Playa Palmera Beach Resort
Hotel Costa Love Aeropuerto PUJ

Hotel Costa Love Aeropuerto PUJ

4 out of 5
Av. Pastor Domingo de la Cruz Punta Cana La Altagracia
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Punta Cana. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and private pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (415 reviews)
"Todos excelente"

Reviewed on Sep 4, 2026

Hotel Costa Love Aeropuerto PUJ
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Punta Cana attractions

Things to do

Food in Punta Cana

Your introduction to Dominican food should be the national dish, la bandera dominicana, which translates to “the Dominican flag.” It’s a simple trifecta of white rice, red beans in tomato sauce and stewed meat (typically chicken or beef) with a range of seasonings, depending on who’s cooking. Around Punta Cana, fresh fish is on nearly every menu. Grouper and snapper are the most popular, but it’s a good idea to ask what’s fresh that day. For snacks, the go-to is tostones: smashed, fried and salted plantains, served like chips and sometimes accompanied by a little cilantro and garlic sauce. And don’t miss the chance to try a piña colada, made all the sweeter thanks to fresh local pineapple, coconut and rum.

Nightlife in Punta Cana

After the sun sets, Punta Cana heats up with dance clubs, beach bars and a few spots for late-night bites and sweets. Small bars playing everything from bachata, jazz and salsa abound, while most of the dance clubs, called “discos,” are around the bustling centers of Bavaro and Downtown Punta Cana. The most popular club, Coco Bongo, is also the biggest spectacle. Its hours-long shows feature dancers, acrobats, and even gymnasts alongside spectacular lights. Other lively venues range from multistoried discos to upmarket clubs with plenty of VIP areas. There’s even a nightclub housed in a sprawling natural cave.

Shopping in Punta Cana

From the artisan market stalls of El Cortecito to the BlueMall complex of luxury brands, Punta Cana has a range of shopping across its nine districts, with many spots open until 10 p.m. For an authentic Punta Cana shopping experience with plenty of local vendors, head to the open-air Plaza Bibijagua just off Bibijagua Beach. This charming market is a great place to pick up souvenirs like amber jewelry, wooden carvings and semi-precious gemstones. You’ll find Dominican rum, coffee and chocolate at specialty stores such as Mundo Autentico and Taino Gifts.

Best beaches in Punta Cana

Bavaro Beach is the region’s most notable shoreline, and it’s also one of the best swimming beaches in Punta Cana thanks to its calm, shallow waters. Home to upscale resorts and restaurants, Juanillo Beach is a quieter beach with great swimming conditions. If you’d prefer to splash about in the waves or even try some surfing, check out Macao Beach, a secluded cove with stronger waves and a nearby surf school.

For snorkeling, book an excursion to the islands just southwest of Punta Cana. Saona Island, part of the adjacent Parque Nacional Cotubanama, offers pretty stretches of sand ideal for shallow-water snorkeling. Some of its best snorkeling beaches include Playa Canto on the southern side and Playa del Gato on the western side. Catalina Island is an even more tranquil spot, known for its stunning coral reefs and peaceful beaches.

Getting around Punta Cana

It’s easy to get by without a car when traveling in Punta Cana, especially if you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort. Walking is one of the best ways to experience the unique districts, while cabs and ride shares are an easy way to travel between them. If you’re looking to explore national parks, cenotes and surrounding towns, it’s best to book a tour or rent a car.

Punta Cana currency and budget

The Dominican peso is the standard currency in Punta Cana, although some bars, restaurants and tour operators may list prices in U.S. dollars too. Budgeting around $150-$200 USD per day for accommodations, food and transportation is about right for a mid-range vacation, and staying at an all-inclusive resort may help you save even more. Here are some indicative prices of what you can expect to pay:

  • A meal at an inexpensive restaurant = $10.00 USD
  • A pint of domestic beer = $2.50 USD
  • A medium cappuccino = $2.50 USD
  • A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant = $50.00 USD

* Prices are provided for informational purposes and are subject to change.

Local greetings in Punta Cana

Spanish is the official language in the Dominican Republic, and a friendly “hola” (hello) or “buenos dias” (good morning) is a nice way to greet people each morning. “Por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you) are also handy for day-to-day interactions. When meeting someone for the first time, it’s usual to look the person in the eye as you shake hands.

Frequently asked questions

Is Punta Cana worth visiting?
Punta Cana is worth visiting for its beautiful beaches, such as Punta Cana Beach and Bavaro Beach, offering travelers great coastal experiences. The destination also features the distinct Bávaro neighborhood to explore and a diverse selection of European and Latin American dining options.
When is the best time to visit Punta Cana?
The best time to visit Punta Cana is from December through April, when the weather is typically pleasant and ideal for enjoying the outdoors. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of June through September are a good option, offering a more relaxed experience with warmer temperatures.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Punta Cana?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Punta Cana depend on what you want to see:


What is Punta Cana known for?
Punta Cana is known for its beautiful coastline, featuring popular spots like Punta Cana Beach, Bavaro Beach, and Macao Beach. Travelers can also enjoy a European food culture. This city in the Dominican Republic includes neighborhoods such as Bávaro, offering a diverse experience.
What is a good itinerary length for Punta Cana?
A good itinerary length for Punta Cana is three to four days to enjoy its beautiful beaches like Punta Cana Beach and Bavaro Beach, plus activities such as a trip to Saona Island. An extended stay of five to seven days lets travelers explore the Bávaro area, relax on Macao Beach, and try an Xtreme Buggy excursion. See Punta Cana Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Punta Cana?
Punta Cana offers beautiful beaches, island excursions, and exciting adventures for travelers to enjoy:

  • Visit Saona Island for a marvelous excursion.
  • Go on an Xtreme Buggy Excursion through the countryside.
  • Explore Punta Cana Beach, a popular natural area.
  • Enjoy a Party Boat experience in Punta Cana.

How do I plan a trip to Punta Cana?
To plan your trip to Punta Cana, search for places to stay in areas like Bávaro, which offers attractions such as Bavaro Beach. Book your flights, hotels, and popular activities like a Saona Island excursion or Xtreme Buggy tour in advance. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. Consider a rental car for exploring the region.
What cuisines can you find in Punta Cana?
In Punta Cana you can find Caribbean cuisine, with dishes like jerk chicken, rice and peas, and fresh seafood. Travelers also have options for Latin American flavors such as Mexican, along with European and Asian dishes, including Italian, Japanese, and Chinese. Steakhouses are also available.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Punta Cana?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Punta Cana by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Punta Cana with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Punta Cana trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Punta Cana?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Punta Cana can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Punta Cana trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Punta Cana trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Punta Cana trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Punta Cana trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Punta Cana?
If it's your first trip to Punta Cana, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Punta Cana hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Punta Cana hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Punta Cana

Other places like Punta Cana

Explore a world of travel with Expedia