Destination Guide

Punta Cana

The DR's resort capital — 35km of Caribbean beach, warm water year-round, and an all-inclusive infrastructure built for relaxation. The most-visited destination in the country by a wide margin.

Why visit

Punta Cana works because it delivers exactly what it promises: great beaches, warm weather, and effortless vacations. The all-inclusive model is well-developed here, and the water sports, excursions, and resort facilities are genuinely good. If you want to unplug completely, this is the place to do it.

Best for

✓Beach vacations and sun seekers
✓Honeymooners and couples
✓Families with children
✓All-inclusive resort travellers

What to do

Playa Bávaro

The main beach strip — 35km of white sand and turquoise water lined with resorts. Most visitors never leave this stretch, and honestly don't need to. Water is calm and warm year-round.

Hoyo Azul

A stunning natural cenote (sinkhole lake) with vivid blue water inside Scape Park. Swim in it, photograph it, then walk the surrounding trails. One of the most memorable stops in the region.

Scape Park

An adventure and eco-park near Cap Cana with zip lines, cenotes, caves, and a zip-over-the-ocean experience. A solid day trip if you need a break from the resort.

Deep-sea fishing

Punta Cana waters are productive for marlin, mahi-mahi, and wahoo. Half- and full-day charters depart from Cap Cana marina. Book in advance during peak season.

Catamaran tours

Day sails to snorkel spots and natural pools are popular and well-run. Most include lunch and open bar. Saona Island day tours depart from here too.

Getting there

Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is the busiest airport in the DR, with direct flights from the US, Canada, and Europe. The Bávaro resort zone is approximately 20 minutes from the terminal.

PUJ airport guide →

Where to stay

Bávaro

The main resort zone. Hundreds of all-inclusive properties from budget to premium. Most new arrivals stay here. Bávaro Shopping Center is nearby for essentials and restaurants.

Cap Cana

Gated luxury development south of Bávaro. Marina, golf courses, high-end villas and resorts. Quieter and more upscale. Scape Park and Hoyo Azul are located here.

Uvero Alto

Northern end of the resort zone. Fewer crowds, quieter beaches, and slightly lower prices. Better for travellers who want to avoid the busiest stretches of Bávaro.

Food highlights

Fresh seafood

Catch-of-the-day restaurants near the beach serve grilled lobster, mahi-mahi, and shrimp at reasonable prices — especially away from resort grounds.

Beachside bars

Mamajuana cocktails, Presidente beer, and fresh fruit juices are staples. Look for spots outside resort gates for local pricing.

Resort buffets vs local spots

All-inclusive buffets are convenient but formulaic. For something more authentic, venture into Bávaro town for comedores and local Dominican plates.

Travel tips

✓Book airport transfers in advance — taxis at PUJ are expensive and negotiation is common. A pre-arranged shuttle is easier.
✓USD is widely accepted at resorts, shops, and most restaurants. You won't need to exchange currency unless you leave the tourist zone.
✓Bávaro Shopping Center (Palma Real and La Sirena nearby) covers anything you forgot to pack.
✓Resort bracelet culture means everything is included — but leaving the resort even once usually produces a better meal.
✓Hurricane season runs June–November. Travel insurance with storm coverage is worth it if you're visiting during those months.
✓PUJ airport is about 20 minutes from the Bávaro resort zone with no traffic.