Curator’s statement
Punta Cana is the definition of a tropical paradise. It’s the perfect trip for those seeking a break from the rigors of everyday life, where you can sip on margaritas and listen to the crash of the waves all day, every day. With plenty of resorts and fun activities, you’ll be sure to relax and get a much-needed reset. If you're up for more of an adventure, I'd recommend going off the resort and into town, where you can try local delights and meet the amazing people that live there. I had so many great interactions with locals who were happy to help me practice my Spanish, and it makes for an authentic experience if desired.
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Things to do in Punta Cana
Relax/play soccer on the beach: One of the main reasons to head here is to get a tan on or have fun dancing down the coastline—there are plenty of other people there to have a great time.
ATVs: Ride a four-wheeler deep in the countryside in Punta Cana and have a chance to sample the area’s local produce, coffee, and cocoa.
Snorkeling/scuba diving: Dive underwater right off the coast to explore the beautiful ocean, and get a glimpse of beach life in Punta Cana. There are a few different ways you can explore the water—through a standard snorkel, scuba diving, or a motorized suit that keeps your head out of the water, for my fellow glasses wearers.
Zip-lining: For the adventure seekers, you can zip down the line with a tropical view—just make sure to bring bug spray.
Whale watching: Get close to the majestic creatures of the sea on a whale watching tour.
Boat party: Get on a boat and light up the night with an unforgettable party with an amazing view.
Santo Domingo day trip: Take a day trip to the capital and check out the local life and history of the Dominican Republic. Things may also be a bit more affordable here.
Places to eat & drink in Punta Cana
La Tiendita By Abs Bávaro: Steakhouse restaurant with bar and terrace—I'd recommend the medium-rare sirloin.
La Yola Restaurant: Serves fresh Mediterranean cuisine and seafood in an elegant setting.
Playa Blanca: Tropical restaurant and bar serving fresh local seafood, grilled meats, and cocktails for lunch daily—that fish might've just been caught!
Brassa Restaurant: Grill that offers the best quality meats and freshest seafood from around the world—definitely not something I get in the Midwest.
Captain Cook Punta Cana: Quality seafood restaurant right on the beach—the waiter might even walk you over and let you select the exact fish you want!
Citrus Fusion Cuisine: From Creole dishes to sushi, this place offers a warm environment to enjoy a meal of your choice.
Cana Bay Beach Club: Provides a beachfront setting with a beach bar and restaurant serving Caribbean-inspired cocktails and food for an authentic taste of the area.
Need to know
Punta Cana is a perfect place for those who want a simple and easy-to-understand vacation in a warm climate. You can be driven from the airport to your gorgeous hotel and never have to think about a thing, other than which angle makes your picture look better. From amazing Hispanic food to great hospitality and stunning views, this location is a dream retreat destination. You've got to get in the water at some point, whether that's watching whales or dolphins or diving in the reefs, as it's a perfect spot for this. It's a good idea to know some basic Spanish and bring a good amount of cash if you leave the resort, but if you're just looking to catch some Zs with an ocean view, there's nothing to worry about except making sure you applied the sunscreen everywhere, because the sun can be very strong.
Travel Advisor
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Dominican Republic page.