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Top things to do in Punta Cana in 2025
Soak up the sun, chase a little adventure, and maybe sip a few too many piña coladas — Punta Cana is calling, and it’s got plans for you!
Punta Cana, a jewel of the Dominican Republic, is where lazy beach days meet wild adventures. It’s a place for sipping rum by turquoise waters, zip-lining through jungles, and dancing like nobody’s watching.
From fresh seafood to sunburns you’ll wear proudly, this slice of paradise has everything you need for a trip that’s anything but boring.
Let’s dive into all the fun waiting for you!
Explore Punta Cana without limits
Punta Cana Activities : Relax on the beaches
Grab your flip-flops — we’ve got beaches to conquer! With white sand, crystal-clear water, and plenty of spots to chill, Punta Cana’s shores are pure bliss. Let’s find your perfect spot.
Bávaro Beach
- How to get there: From Punta Cana International Airport, a taxi ride takes about 25 minutes and costs $30-$35 USD, while a private shuttle offers a safer, pre-booked option. For budget travelers, the public bus (Guagua) costs around €2 but takes over an hour. Already in the area? Use public access points like Bibijagua or Cortecito to walk straight onto the sand.
- Facilities: Water sports like kayaking and snorkeling, beach loungers and cabanas, and beachfront dining with fresh seafood.
- Things to know: Adults-only areas at Barceló Bávaro Beach, calm waters ideal for swimming, and some areas require resort access.
Bávaro Beach is ranked among the top 10 beaches in the world, and it’s easy to see why.
Whether you’re up for a peaceful morning walk on soft sands or looking for adrenaline with paddleboarding or snorkeling, this beach offers it all.
Want to explore further? Dive into the vibrant nearby coral reefs, or hop on a catamaran cruise for breathtaking sunset views. Staying at Barceló Bávaro Beach?
Enjoy exclusive access to quieter spots — perfect for unwinding before you dive back into the action.
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Macao Beach
- How to get there: A taxi from Punta Cana Airport takes about 30 minutes and costs $12-$15. Renting a car offers flexibility, with fuel costing $2-$3 for the trip. Many organized tours also include transportation for added convenience.
- Facilities: Water park with slides and a lazy river, gourmet à la carte dining, and multiple pools, including family and adults-only options.
- Things to know: Family friendly with kid and teen clubs, an unlimited luxury resort experience, and some water sports and activities may have additional costs.
Macao Beach offers a refreshing contrast to Punta Cana’s resort-lined shores. One of the few public beaches in the area, it’s known for its natural beauty and local charm.
Its dramatic cliffs, golden sand, and turquoise waters create a stunning and untamed backdrop. The waves are stronger here, making it a hotspot for surfers of all levels. Local surf schools along the shore offer lessons, adding to the beach’s laid-back vibe.
Juanillo Beach
- How to get there: Rent a car for a 30-minute drive from Punta Cana, with fuel costing $2-$3 and parking fees ranging from $5-$10. Taxis cost $20-$30 one way. At the Cap Cana gate, present your ID for access. There might be a $20 entrance fee.
- Facilities: Beach clubs with dining and loungers, water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, and beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood and Dominican dishes.
- Things to know: Located in Cap Cana’s gated community, ID is required for entry, uncrowded on weekdays, and live music events are common on weekends.
Juanillo Beach, nestled within the gated Cap Cana community, is a tropical paradise known for its exclusivity and tranquility.
Visitors must stay at a Cap Cana resort, such as Secrets Cap Cana, or present a valid ID at the gate to access the beach.
This exclusivity ensures a quieter atmosphere, perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking peace.
With shallow, family-friendly waters, upscale beachfront restaurants, and tropical greenery, Juanillo Beach is the perfect spot to unwind.
Arena Gorda Beach
- How to get there: A 30-minute ride from Punta Cana Airport, with taxis costing around $38 or private transfers starting at $31 for added comfort. On a budget? Hop on a bus and finish with a taxi for about $16–$20.
- Facilities: Water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding, beach loungers, cabanas, and beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood and cocktails.
- Things to know: Public access is limited through resorts, lifeguards are on duty during peak hours, and occasional seaweed may appear but resort staff clear it.
Arena Gorda Beach, named for its “fat sand,” boasts a wide shoreline ideal for swimming, leisurely walks, and beach activities.
Lined with towering palm trees for natural shade, this tropical escape also holds the prestigious Blue Flag certification, indicating high environmental and quality standards.
Explore Punta Cana’s natural wonders
Beaches are great, but there’s so much more to discover. Imagine hidden cenotes, lush rainforests, and caves straight out of an adventure movie. Ready to swap your flip-flops for an explorer hat?
| 💡 Tip: Looking for inspiration on where to go beyond Punta Cana’s beaches? Our guide to the top things to do in the Dominican Republic has you covered. |
Hoyo Azul
- How to get there: A 30-minute taxi ride from Punta Cana Airport costs $20-$30 one way. Renting a car is an option, with fuel costing $2-$3. Local buses from Punta Cana/Bávaro are budget-friendly. Parking fees may apply.
- Facilities: Lifejackets for swimmers, a scenic walking trail through botanical gardens, and full access with Scape Park tickets.
- Things to know: This 40-foot-deep lagoon is accessible via a 15-minute trail and is part of Scape Park’s adventure offerings, including ziplining and cave tours.
Hoyo Azul, or the “Blue Hole,” is a stunning cenote in Scape Park, known for its vibrant turquoise water created by a natural phenomenon called a halocline.
Surrounded by tropical lowland jungle, its crystal-clear waters reveal the rocky floor, making it a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of the Dominican Republic.
Entry to Scape Park costs $129 per person and includes Hoyo Azul alongside other attractions like zip-lining, cave exploration, cultural trails, and more.
The park operates daily from 9:00 AM, with attractions closing at 3:30 PM on weekdays and 4:30 PM on weekends.
For adventure seekers, Scape Park combines natural beauty with excitement — zip-line through the trees, explore caves, or walk cultural trails for an unforgettable day.
Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park
- How to get there: A 15-minute drive from Punta Cana Airport. Taxis cost $40 during the day or $60 at night, while Uber averages $100. Private transfers offer added comfort, starting at $200.
- Facilities: Shaded walking trails, crystal-clear lagoons for swimming, and nearby amenities at the Sustainability Center, including bathrooms.
- Things to know: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Entry costs $50 for general visitors, with discounts for resort guests and residents. Eco-friendly mosquito repellent and biodegradable sunscreen are recommended.
Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, located within the Puntacana Resort & Club, is a 1,500-acre private reserve highlighting the Dominican Republic’s natural beauty and cultural history.
Named after the Taino word for “eyes,” it features 12 freshwater lagoons surrounded by lush subtropical forests and rich biodiversity, including over 500 plant species, 36% of which are native to the region.
Fed by the underground Yauya River, the lagoons are exceptionally clear and perfect for swimming. Each lagoon has a Taino name, preserving the cultural heritage of the island’s first inhabitants.
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Cave Oleg Bat House
- How to get there: A 30–40 minute drive from Punta Cana Airport. Taxis cost $1.50 as a base fare plus $0.60 per kilometer. Hotel-organized transport is also an option.
- Facilities: Guided tours, safety gear (helmets and life jackets), and a natural pool for swimming.
- Things to know: Accessible through adventure tours like buggy or ATV excursions, mornings are less crowded, so bring swimwear and water shoes.
Oleg Shevchuk discovered the Cave Oleg Bat House in 2009. This limestone cave features striated walls, potholed ceilings, and fascinating fossils, including those of extinct animals like the Cuban crocodile.
Harmless bats roost inside, while its crystal-clear underwater cave system teems with shrimp, worms, and other unique creatures.
Organized tours, particularly buggy excursions, provide access to this remote cave, where visitors can swim in cool waters and explore its captivating depths.
Los Haitises National Park
- How to get there: Located about 2.5 hours (218 km/135 miles) from Punta Cana, the easiest way to visit is through a full-day tour, typically including round-trip transportation.
- Facilities: Boat tours, guided hikes, kayaking, and some tours include lunch and transportation.
- Things to know: Tours range from $80–$170 depending on the itinerary, lasting about 10 hours. Book in advance as the park limits visitors. The dry season (December–April) provides the best conditions.
Los Haitises National Park, about 20 miles west of Miches, is a 1,600-square-kilometer protected area showcasing the Dominican Republic’s natural beauty and rich history.
Its name, meaning “highlands” in the Taino language, reflects the park’s dramatic landscapes — limestone karst hills, sinkholes, mangroves, and ancient caves covered in Taino carvings.
Explore San Lorenzo Bay, dotted with picturesque islets, or explore mangrove canals by boat. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including the endangered Hispaniolan hutia, solenodon, pelicans, and frigatebirds.
Adventure options include hiking through rainforests, kayaking clear waters, and visiting caves like Cueva de la Arena, where ancient carvings share the stories of the island’s first inhabitants.
Day trip to nearby islands
Why stick to the mainland when tropical islands are just a boat ride away? A day trip offers postcard-worthy views and a taste of the Dominican Republic’s local charm.
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Isla Saona
- How to get there: Join an organized tour ($59-$75) or book a private trip ($710+). Travel includes a bus to Bayahibe and a boat ride — 45–60 minutes by catamaran or 30 minutes by speedboat. Most tours offer hotel pickup, meals, and stops at natural pools.
- Facilities: Organized tours with boat rides, snorkeling gear, buffet lunches, and rest areas. Some tours offer VIP options with private experiences.
- Things to know: Tours cost $70–$150, often including snorkeling and stops at the famous Blue Lagoon.
Saona Island is your tropical dream come true. Known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and untouched natural beauty, this 110 square kilometer island is part of Parque Nacional Cotubanamá, so everything here stays pristine and protected.
Getting there is part of the fun. From Bayahibe, a 45-minute boat ride will take you past crystal-clear natural pools (starfish spotting, anyone?) before reaching the island.
Once there, you can snorkel vibrant coral reefs, sunbathe on some of the Caribbean’s best beaches, or visit Mano Juan’s Sea Turtle Recovery Center.
Look out for dolphins, rhinoceros iguanas, and pelicans, all part of the island’s diverse wildlife. Soana is solar-powered, so your visit supports sustainable tourism.
If you’ve seen Pirates of the Caribbean, you might recognize the views — scenes were filmed right here!
Cayo Levantado
- How to get there: From Punta Cana, join a full-day guided tour ($140 per adult) that includes transportation, lunch, and activities, or book a private transfer starting at $299 for up to seven passengers (6+ hours travel). If you’re in Samaná, take a 15-minute ferry ride for $9–$10 per person. Advance booking is recommended.
- Facilities: Luxurious private resort, public beaches, dining options, and complimentary water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- Things to know: Located 3 miles off the coast of Samaná, it requires a 10-minute boat ride to reach. Tours from Punta Cana last around 7 hours, with prices varying based on package inclusions.
Cayo Levantado, or “Bacardi Island,” is a tropical escape offering pristine beaches, clear waters, and a touch of luxury. It’s split into two areas: the exclusive Cayo Levantado Resort and a public beach.
For five-star luxury, the resort offers gourmet dining, yoga classes, and private beaches. On the public side, enjoy a laid-back beach with breathtaking views and the warm Caribbean vibes that made this spot famous in a Bacardi ad.
Catalina Island
- How to get there: The easiest way is a catamaran tour from Punta Cana ($65–$89 per adult), which includes hotel pickup, snorkeling, and lunch. For a budget-friendly option, take a 45-minute public ferry from La Romana.
- Facilities: Guided tours with snorkeling gear, buffet lunches, and boat rides. Some excursions include stops at Altos de Chavón, a Mediterranean-style village nearby.
- Things to know: Full-day tours from Punta Cana typically cost $65–$89 for adults, with children’s tickets (ages 5-10) priced around $40.
Catalina Island, or Isla Catalina, is just 1.5 miles off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic.
Part of Cotubanamá National Park, this uninhabited island is known for its three main beaches — East, West, and North. The West Beach is the most popular spot for sunbathing and relaxing.
The island’s diverse ecosystem, including mangroves, dunes, and dry tropical forests, offers plenty for nature lovers.
Snorkeling and diving are highlights, with “The Wall” reef teeming with tropical fish and the shipwreck of Captain William Kidd’s 17th-century vessel just 20 feet below the surface. Not into diving? Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or a scenic hike.
Cayo Arena
- How to get there: From Punta Rucia, take a 20-minute speedboat ride for about $14 per person. Starting from Puerto Plata or Cabarete requires 2–3 hours of road travel and a speedboat transfer.
- Facilities: Guided tours include snorkeling gear, boat rides, and Dominican buffet lunches.
- Things to know: Accessible only by boat, tours cost $80–$150 per person. It’s about a 7-hour drive from Punta Cana to Punta Rucia.
Cayo Arena, also known as Paradise Island, is a dreamlike sandbar near Punta Rucia on the northwest coast of the Dominican Republic.
Surrounded by shallow turquoise waters and vibrant reefs, this tiny islet is a haven for snorkeling and relaxation.
The reef system teems with marine life, including Sergeant Majors, Angel Fish, and Yellow Tail Snappers. With crystal-clear waters, you’ll feel as if you’re in a natural aquarium, spotting schools of fish, octopuses, and crabs among the coral.
Most tours depart from Punta Rucia, passing through mangrove forests alive with birds like pelicans and herons.
This scenic route is an adventure in itself, immersing you in the region’s ecosystems before arriving at the island.
| 💡 Tip: Planning to explore Punta Cana’s hidden gems? From lush rainforests to cenotes, you’ll want to check out the top things to do in the Dominican Republic for a full itinerary upgrade. |
Experience the nightlife
When the sun sets in Punta Cana, the laid-back beach vibes transform into vibrant nightlife.
Whether you’re swaying to live merengue, dancing under the stars at a beachfront club, or sipping cocktails at a chic lounge, there are many things to do in punta cana at night.
Coco Bongo
- How to get there: Most tickets include round-trip transportation from Punta Cana resorts and nearby areas like Bávaro, Cap Cana, and Bayahibe, with pick-up starting around 6:15 PM.
- Cost: Tickets range from $70 (Drink Pack) to $190 (Front Row), offering open bars, snacks, and premium seating.
- Things to know: Guests must be 18+ to enter. Dress smart casual — no flip-flops or beachwear. Shows run from 10:30 PM to 3:30 AM.
Coco Bongo is a high-energy fusion of live performances, acrobatics, and music, often compared to a Vegas show in the heart of the Caribbean.
Known as a must-visit nightlife destination, it features over 40 performers, including dancers, acrobats, and impersonators paying tribute to global stars like Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Queen.
The interactive atmosphere, complete with confetti explosions, balloons, and fog machines, turns the crowd into part of the show.
With a multi-level design and capacity for 1,000 partygoers, Coco Bongo ensures everyone has a great view — whether dancing on the floor or enjoying the action from VIP seating.
ORO nightclub
- How to get there: Located in the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, ORO is a 25–30 minute drive from Punta Cana Airport. Taxi fares range from $25–$30, while shuttles cost $11–$65. Guests at the Hard Rock Hotel can walk or use resort transport.
- Cost: Entry fees start at $30–$50. VIP tables with bottle service range from $300 to over $1,000, depending on location.
- Things to know: Open Saturdays from 11 PM to 4 AM, ORO is only for guests aged 18 and above. The dress code is smart casual. VIP tables sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons, so book in advance.
ORO Nightclub brings Vegas-style glamour to Punta Cana.
Set in the Hard Rock Hotel, this two-level club combines luxury and cutting-edge technology, featuring a two-story LED wall with over 300 screens and an infinity-edge bar.
With space for 1,000 partygoers, ORO delivers unforgettable nights with world-class DJs, acrobatic performances, and high-energy music from reggaeton to house.
The 33 exclusive VIP tables offer bottle service and the best views of the action, making ORO the ultimate nightlife destination in Punta Cana.
HImagine Nightclub
- How to get there: Hotel shuttles ($10 round-trip) provide convenient transport. Confirm your pickup zone (e.g., Bávaro Central, Uvero Alto) with the club. Pre-arrange transportation, especially during peak times.
- Cost: Entry starts at $50, including two drinks. Upgrade to the open bar package for $129. VIP group access starts at $450.
- Things to know: Open from 11 PM to 3 AM for guests 18 and older. Most packages include complimentary round-trip shuttle services.
Step into a party unlike any other — inside a real cave. Imagine Nightclub takes nightlife to the next level, literally underground.
It’s an experience where natural rock formations meet flashing lights, pounding beats, and an electrifying crowd. Whether you’re here for Latin grooves, EDM, or hip-hop, Imagine’s different cave rooms deliver a night to remember.
The acoustics in these caves are insane, amplifying every beat to perfection. Want to switch it up? Move to another cave with a completely different vibe—it’s like having multiple clubs under one roof.
Add the energy of a buzzing crowd, drinks flowing, and surprise performances, and you’ve got the ultimate nightlife adventure.
Drink Point
- How to get there: Located about 20 minutes from most Punta Cana resorts, taxis cost $20-$25 round-trip. Party bus tours include transportation, drinks, and entry, making them a fun and convenient option.
- Cost: Beers start at $3, cocktails at $5, and VIP packages with bottle service from $150. Hookah services are available for $150 with unlimited refills.
- Things to know: Open to guests aged 18+, with no strict dress code.
Drink Point, an open-air nightclub in Bávaro, offers an authentic Dominican nightlife experience. Popular with both locals and tourists, the venue features bachata, reggaeton, and merengue alongside international hits, creating a diverse and lively party scene.
Enjoy themed nights like karaoke, Latin music specials, and performances from international DJs.
With a laid-back vibe, welcoming staff, and affordable prices, Drink Point is perfect to let loose without the fuss of a formal club setting.
Our takeaway on the best things to do in Punta Cana
Punta Cana offers the perfect mix of stunning beaches, thrilling water sports, and rich cultural experiences.
Relax on pristine sands at Bávaro Beach, snorkel vibrant coral reefs at Catalina Island, or uncover hidden gems like Hoyo Azul. The nightlife is equally exciting, with world-class venues offering unforgettable evenings.
To make the most of your trip, staying connected is essential. Whether you’re booking tours, navigating to remote beaches, or sharing your adventures in real time, Holafly’s eSIM for Dominican Republic offers unlimited data.
You can customize your plan based on the number of days (any number between 1 and 90) it will be active. The plans start at $7.90 for 1 day and reach as low as $2.61 per day for 90 days.
Plus, you can enjoy 500mb per day of Hotspot to share with others. Holafly connects to Claro Network and keeps you connected in cities like Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, Cabarete and tourist areas of Dominican Republic.
Explore Punta Cana without limits
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Detroit native, foothills and lakes of North Carolina raised, Barcelona-based writer and creator. Sam lives and loves by the phrase: words create worlds. An international lifestyle matched with a background in psychology, business, and creative writing has allowed Sam to create content for a range of artists, entrepreneurs, and fashion and lifestyle brands across the globe. Sam's an avid water sports athlete with a passion for fashion, well-being, and adventure.
