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Travel guide to Punta Cana

Here is everything you need to know about one of the most popular travel destinations in the Caribbean. Famous for its stunning white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and a wide range of world-class resorts: Discover Punta Cana!

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Information

Mobility

Itineraries

Cuisine

History and culture

Although Punta Cana is largely famous for its luxury resorts and tourism, it also has a fascinating history and extensive cultural wealth. Before the arrival of European colonisers, the region was inhabited by the Taíno Indians who left a legacy of their own art and mythology.

Over time, the mixture of Spanish, African and Taino cultures has given rise to a rich cultural tradition that is reflected in local music, dance, cuisine and customs. This diversity is one of the charms that make Punta Cana a unique destination.

Practical information

Although you can visit at any time, the ideal time depends on travellers’ preferences, whether you want to enjoy the high season with less rain and a livelier atmosphere, or the low season with more accessible prices and greater peace and quiet.

The weather in Punta Cana is warm and tropical all year round, making it a perfect destination for a beach vacation at any time of year. Temperatures usually range between 25°C and 30°C, with sunny days and refreshing ocean breezes. However, the best time to visit Punta Cana is from December to April, when the weather is dryer and there is less chance of rain. In summer, the clear skies and pleasant temperatures create the ideal environment for enjoying yourself to the full.

To plan your trip to Punta Cana, it’s important to bear in mind a few practical details. The official currency is the Dominican peso (DOP), although many establishments accept US dollars and credit cards. The predominant language is Spanish, but in tourist areas many locals speak English. Electricity in Punta Cana uses type A and B plugs with 110V voltage. We also recommend you bring insect repellent, sunscreen and bottled water to keep you comfortable and safe during your stay.

How to get to Punta Cana

Getting to Punta Cana is quite easy thanks to the international airport with easy access to destinations all over the world. Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean, with direct flights from North America, Europe and Latin America.

On arrival, you’ll see numerous transport options from the airport to your hotel and a choice of different ways of getting around in the region. This section provides all the details required to make your arrival as comfortable as possible.

Local transport options

Getting around Punta Cana is quite easy thanks to a wide range of local transport. Taxis and private transport services are the most comfortable ways to get between resorts, beaches and attractions.

You can also rent a car if you prefer more independence for exploring more remote destinations. Local buses and motoconchos (motorcycle taxi) are affordable options, although less popular with tourists. Many resorts offer free transport to get around the resort or visit nearby beaches.

Flights to Punta Cana

a black suv parked on brick road with palm trees in the background

an aerial view of a beach with umbrellas and chairs

Punta Cana International Airport is the main gateway for tourists to the region. It offers a wide range of flights to major cities all over the world, from New York and Miami to Madrid and Frankfurt. Several low-cost and flagship airlines operate direct flights, making it easy to find accessible options for your trip. We recommend you book in advance, especially if you plan to travel in high season to get the best rates and schedule options.

Once you land at Punta Cana International Airport, there are several transport options to your accommodation. Many resorts, such as Meliá hotels, offer private transfer services to ensure a hassle-free arrival. You can also take taxis with fixed rates depending on the distance you have to travel, or rent a car to explore the region at your own pace. We recommend you look at these options before you travel so you can plan your trip better and anticipate all the expenses.

Where to stay in Punta Cana

The accommodation choice in Punta Cana is extensive and varied, from luxury resorts to cheaper options. The region is known for its impressive all-inclusive resorts, which offer direct beach access and a wide range of activities and dining options. Whether you are traveling with your family, partner or friends, there is a hotel that will meet your needs.

Meliá provides ideal accommodation options for families and adults only. Meliá Caribe Beach Resort is perfect for family vacations, and Meliá Punta Cana Beach provides an exclusive experience for adults only. For guests seeking a five-star resort, Paradisus Grand Cana combines exclusivity and entertainment for the whole family, while Paradisus Palma Real, alongside the sea, has an exclusive adults-only area. Another alternative is Zel Punta Cana, your Mediterranean home in the Caribbean.

Accommodation options

Punta Cana offers a wide range of accommodation options for all types of travellers, from family resorts full of activities to refuges reserved for adults only. With a focus on superior comfort and luxury, the hotels and resorts in the area offer personalized experiences adapted both for travelers seeking family adventures and for those seeking relaxation in a more intimate setting.

These resorts are usually located alongside the beach, with infinity pools, gourmet restaurants and a wide variety of activities for the whole family. Zel Punta Cana is one of the best examples of this, with facilities and services designed to guarantee maximum comfort and fun for adults and children alike. The perfect place for a relaxing holiday under the Caribbean sun.

If you are looking for a more exclusive and peaceful experience, Punta Cana has luxury hotels designed to encourage relaxation in sophisticated environments. Meliá Punta Cana Beach is an adults-only resort that combines luxury and well-being, offering personalized services and an ideal environment in which to rest. With elegant rooms and direct beach access, it is the perfect place for couples or groups of friends seeking a holiday focused on relaxation and well-being.

a pool with palm trees and a straw umbrella

Punta Cana is an ideal destination for families thanks to a safe environment and a variety of activities for all ages. Meliá Caribe Beach Resort provides extensive facilities, including children's clubs, swimming pools with slides and games areas. It also offers entertainment programs designed to entertain both children and adults. With spacious family rooms and childcare services, this resort is one of the best options for a family holiday.

Punta Cana also offers a luxurious experience with the best all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean. Paradisus Palma Real and Paradisus Grand Cana are exceptional options with spacious suites, gourmet restaurants and personalized services. These resorts combine elegance and comfort, offering direct access to private beach areas and a range of exclusive activities. From premium-quality spas to golf courses such as Cocotal Golf & Country Club, and direct access to private pools, these options take your stay to a higher level.

a table and chairs on a balcony overlooking a pool

What to see in Punta Cana

Not only are there stunning beaches in Punta Cana, there are also numerous tourist attractions that are worth exploring. From nature reserves to theme and cultural parks, there’s so much to see and do beyond just relaxing on the beach. Nature lovers will find paradise in the eco-parks, while guests with an interest in local history can discover the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Here is a guide to the best attractions you must not miss during your stay.

Tourist attractions

For adventure seekers, Punta Cana offers several theme parks that offer unforgettable experiences. Scape Park in Cap Cana combines nature and adrenaline as you can zip-line, explore underground caves or swim in cenote pools with crystal-clear waters. Another great place is the Dolphin Explorer, an area where you can interact with dolphins and other marine life in a controlled environment. These parks are ideal for families and groups of friends seeking a day full of excitement.

a woman in a white garment in a pool with palm trees

Although Punta Cana is famous for its resorts and beaches, it also offers a rich cultural experience that is well worth exploring. Near the city, you can visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia, an important religious and cultural monument dedicated to the patron saint of the Dominican Republic. You can also discover more about the Taíno past at nearby archaeological sites or visit local markets selling handicrafts and traditional products. Discovering the history and culture of the region adds an new dimension to your holiday in Punta Cana.

Punta Cana beaches

The beaches in Punta Cana are definitely its biggest attraction. The famous Bávaro Beach, with its crystal-clear waters and soft sand, is perfect for swimming, water sports or relaxing in the sun. Other beaches, such as Macao Beach, are ideal for more intrepid travelers and have excellent conditions for surfing. All the beaches in the region are accessible and offer a wide range of services for tourists, from sunshade rental to beach bars where you can enjoy a refreshing drink.

In addition to its spectacular beaches, Punta Cana also offers a choice of tourist attractions for travelers seeking more than just the sun and sea. The Ojos Indígenas Ecological Park is one of the hidden treasures in the region, with natural lagoons where you can swim surrounded by lush jungle. You can also visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia in Higüey, an important pilgrimage center and cultural icon in the Dominican Republic. These attractions provide a different perspective of the destination beyond the typical beach photos.

Punta Cana is much more than just a sun and beach destination, it is a Caribbean paradise that offers unique experiences for every type of traveller. From dream beaches to theme parks and nature reserves, this corner of the Dominican Republic provides something special for everyone who visits. Its rich culture, history and hospitality add to the charm of a place that not only promises a memorable holiday, but also an immersive and enriching experience.

The content on this page has been created by Artificial Intelligence and reviewed to complete your journey.

By Virginia Menacho

Journalist specializing in creating content related to tourism, hotels and travel. Graduate from the Complutense University of Madrid with experience in the media.