Looking for things to do in Punta Cana? Blessed with pure white sand beaches and crystal blue waters, Punta Cana offers a list of unforgettable activities unmatched by any other place in the Caribbean.

With traditionally fun activities to do in family, like splashing around the entertaining, state-of-the-art waterparks, to new activities like deep sea fishing, or a romantic horseback riding into the sunset with your partner for a slice of island paradise – there’s something for everyone!

Cultural lovers will enjoy ample opportunities to dig deeper into the local lifestyle, with impressive sites like the Mediterranean village; Altos de Chavón, or learning about the agricultural practices for cigars and other crops.

Chocolate lover? Get a sweet experience visiting cacao plantations, tantalizing your tastebuds with the most natural form of chocolate.

Visit local animal sanctuaries, see vast national parks that boast mysterious cave networks and lush plantations on their grounds, enjoy world-famous Dominican beaches – there are so many fun activities in Punta Cana that to check them all off in one visit would be impossible.

Read on and uncover what’s happening best in the breathtaking destination.

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Punta Cana tours

1 – Take a catamaran tour

Punta Cana catamaran tour

Of the numerous things to do in Punta Cana, one of the first ones you need to consider is a catamaran tour to one of the gorgeous islands that surround this tropical paradise, like Saona Island and Catalina Island.

Along the way, enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, or parasailing. Don’t forget to take pictures of the stingrays and sharks in the water!

Choose between a three or four-hour tour, or there are also full-day options (including a stopover at a secret beach). Pick your poison.

boat tours in Punta Cana

2 – Discover the breathtaking Macao Beach

Macao Beach, Punta Cana

Surf’s up! Macao Beach is the perfect spot to grab a board and hit the waves. Whether you’ve been surfing before or you’re looking to learn how to do it, there are tons of activities just waiting for you.

There are also walking tours, dune buggy adventures, and caves to explore.

Or, of course, you could always just lie on the sand and soak up the Dominican sun!

Its long golden sands seem to stretch on forever, lined with tall palms, and you’ll find Playa Macao on the north side, away from the mega-resorts.

Macao Beach tours

3 – Find cigars, rum, coffee, cacao & local souvenirs on a shopping tour

souvenirs in Punta Cana

The Dominican Republic is famous for its tobacco and cacao plantations, as well as its rum production and fruity drinks, and delicious food.

That’s why you won’t want to leave this tropical paradise without going on a full-blown shopping tour. Let the local experts show you to the very best cigars, rum, chocolate, coffee, and jewelry.

Visit a chocolate factory and stock up on all sorts from the Bella Mare Store, from organic cosmetics to ceramics.

shopping tours in Punta Cana

4 – Take a day trip to Santo Domingo City

Santo Domingo City day trip from Punta Cana

While you’re in Punta Cana, consider taking a day trip to the nearby city of Santo Domingo, which was the first city ever founded in what would eventually become America.

See America’s first cathedral, Diego Colon’s palace, and the National Pantheon.

Founded in 1498 after the arrival of Christopher Columbus, the historic center (Zona Colonial) is the perfect place to start exploring. Veer further out of town to the magical Three Eyes National Park.

Learn about the unique local heritage through a number of city tours organized by experienced local experts.

Santo Domingo tours

5 – Get a taste of the local flavors at the best restaurants

The Jellyfish Restaurant, Punta Cana

Punta Cana’s Jellyfish Restaurant is so much more than just a delicious eatery. It’s a luxury beachfront hotel that offers swimming pools, a gym, a game room, and anything else you could possibly need to make your vacation as perfect as possible.

Directly facing the ocean and boasting an open-air setting, order a Spritz and ceviche from Playa Blanca – although any of its Caribbean / seafood fare is scrumptious. It’s the perfect spot for lunch after a long day on the beach, paired with lively music and friendly staff.

Stepping inside Citrus Fusion Cuisine is like traveling back in time to old-school South America fused with tropical Caribbean flair. Food pops with color and find global favorites, including a few Italian dishes.

6 – Relax at Saona Island

Saona Island, Dominican Republic

Once you’ve made your way to Saona Island, take your time and enjoy the palm trees and gorgeous beach sands.

While you’re there, enjoy incredible local food and drinks, visit a cacao plantation, and learn about the island’s history from local experts.

Or, just sit in the sun and tan for a few hours. There’s certainly nobody here who will judge you! The only way to reach the island is via boat, giving it a serious deserted tropical island vibe.

Saona Island day trip

7 – Go on a snorkeling expedition

snorkeling in Punta Cana

There’s nothing like hitting the open water of the gorgeous Caribbean Sea on a luxury catamaran, only to take the time to dive into that water for some snorkeling.

You’ll be able to see sharks, stingrays, and plenty of other exotic plants and animals as you get acquainted with the ocean floor.

You’ll be perfectly safe the entire time as your expert guides and instructors make sure that you’re well fed, well taken care of, and having the time of your life.

snorkeling in Punta Cana

8 – See the rivers and mountains in Los Haitises National Park

Los Haitises National Park, Dominican Republic

Los Haitises is another gorgeous national park complete with incredible rock formations, sunny skies, and exotic wildlife.

Uncover ancient Taíno (indigenous people of the Caribbean) rock paintings, caverns, mangroves and rainforests.

Avid bird-watchers, there are over 200 species that call the national park home.

A tour of this island paradise takes you right from your hotel on a luxury bus through the mountains and rivers of Montana Redonda and Cano Hondo.

Enjoy local snacks and fruity drinks to whet your touristic appetite!

Los Haitises National Park tours

9 – Hop in a speed boat and guide yourself along the Caribbean Sea

speed boat tour in Punta Cana

Renting a speed boat is one of the cheapest and easiest things to do in Punta Cana, and it’s a great way to spend an afternoon.

Speed out to a secluded spot for a day of snorkeling or scuba diving.

There are also lots of gorgeous beaches to visit like Macao Beach and Bavaro.

Alternatively, join an all-inclusive speedboat excursion for the day and let someone else guide the way, visiting Saona Island, for example.

speed boats in Punta Cana

10 – Embark on a pirate adventure on the Hispaniola ship

pirate ship cruise in Punta Cana

Have you been dreaming of an authentic pirate experience, complete with timbers to be shivered?

The pirate ship Hispaniola will set sail for an adventure full of snorkeling, great food, sharks and adventure.

There’s even a full on treasure hunt complete with rival pirates looking to find that booty first!

Typically three hours, you’ll anchor around thriving coral reefs, pit stop over at Shark Island and even battle the crew in a sword fight!

11 – Soak in the sun on Bavaro Beach

Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana

There are so many amazing beaches in Punta Cana that to visit only one would be doing yourself an injustice.

Bavaro Beach is one of the top 10 beaches in the world, and it’s also home to an incredible resort.

Get a view of the natural biodiversity at Bavaro Lagoon, a 25-minute drive from Bavaro Beach where the sight of mangroves, amphibians, reptiles, and varieties of fish fill the landscape of the protected natural area right before you.

Soak in the sun, grab a swim, and enjoy a fruity tropical drink.

Directions in Google Maps

12 – Experience a dune buggy adventure

buggy tour in Punta Cana

If you’re looking for a real thrill, it’s hard to beat taking a ride in a dune buggy.

Hit the sand on Macao beach, visit a local coffee plantation, or embark on a day-long eco-tour.

You’ll even be able to go through caves on a Flintstones-themed adventure…But don’t worry, these buggies run on electricity, not feet!

Packages are available to experience the full-fledged fun at La Hacienda, with hotel pickup, lunch, and safety equipment included to enjoy with comfort all the refreshing fun at the natural rivers, horseback riding adventures, and even zip lining up above the sea of green jungle.

buggy tours in Punta Cana

13 – Go deep into the jungle to see Monkeyland

Monkeyland, Punta Cana

Monkeyland is an animal sanctuary located deep in the Punta Cana jungle.

A group of adorable squirrel monkeys calls this safe haven home and they’ve been trained to be safe and interactive around humans.

Don’t be surprised if one hops onto your shoulders to say hello! Or watch them eating their fruit bowls from a distance — either way, the intelligent mammals are super cute and friendly.

You’ll also be able to see the local coffee plantation and sample the world-famous Dominican coffee and hot chocolate.

Monkeyland day trip

14 – Go horseback riding into the sunset

sunset horse riding in Punta Cana

One of the most romantic things to do in Punta Cana is to go horseback riding into the sunset.

Saddle up and make your way to the beach (like Macao Beach), passing local villages, some even trotting by the Maimon River, or canter around a 1,000-acre cattle ranch (great for beginner riders).

Add to the fun by combining your horseback ride with a bounce along the beach in a dune buggy or a quick zip line over the jungle trees.

There are even private tours available to make sure that nobody interrupts your time with that special someone.

horse riding in Punta Cana

15 – Squeeze in a round of golf while you’re visiting

golfing in Punta Cana

Surprisingly, golf is one of the easiest to find things to do in Punta Cana, probably because the climate is so perfect for it.

The city is home to several beautiful golf courses, like Punta Espada, La Cana and Cocotal Golf and Country Club.

Designed by a golf champion, enjoy the 3 separate 9-hole golf courses throughout Cocotal Golf Club, as you’re surrounded by native coconut trees and their tropical aromas in the air, stunning lakes, and bonus exotic birdwatching.

Get a taste of the high life with courses tailored to all levels of experience.

16 – Learn some fascinating agricultural techniques in Higuey

Higuey, Dominican Republic — Basilica Catedral Nuestra Senora de la Altagracia

Just a bus trip away from Punta Cana is Higuey, the eighth-largest city in the Dominican Republic.

Founded in 1502 by a Spanish voyager, its full name is actually Salvaleón de Higüey, and it’s the capital city of the La Altagracia Province.

Learn the fascinating agricultural techniques used at the local tobacco plantation, and see the city’s beautiful architecture, like the Basilica-Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de La Altagracia.

There’s also the gorgeous Macao beach where you’ll be able to soak in the Caribbean sun.

Higuey day trips

17 – See the protected Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve

Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve, Punta Cana

Do you believe in fairies? If you answered yes, head straight to this natural oasis! The Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve is a protected nature reserve owned and operated by a private group, but it is open for public tours and education.

The 1500 acres of gorgeous subtropical forest and freshwater lagoons are truly a sight to behold. The color of the natural pools (which you can swim in) is insane!

They also offer opportunities to learn about scientific and ecological research that takes place on the reserve, as well as ways to get involved.

Directions in Google Maps

18 – Get a bird’s eye view of the Dominican on a helicopter tour

helicopter tour in Punta Cana

Get a bird’s eye view of the Dominican Republic’s gorgeous southeastern beaches.

See the picturesque Saona Island and the magnificent La Jalda Waterfall, and sip champagne as you take in nature in all its glory.

If you’re using your Caribbean vacation as the perfect opportunity to pop the question to that special someone, a private helicopter tour is one of the things to do in Punta Cana that’s tailor-made for just such an occasion.

helicopter tours in Punta Cana

19 – Take part in some fine food on Catalina Island

Catalina Island, Dominican Republic

The Gorgeous palm trees and Caribbean sun await you on Catalina Island.

Along the way, take part in a variety of water sports, including snorkeling. Diving is also super popular, and the water visibility in these parts is top-notch.

See the incredible underwater ecosystem, then enjoy some of the finest local food and drinks served buffet style, and spend the rest of the day on the beach.

The island is another one that is only reachable by boat, but this adds half the charm.

Catalina Island tours

20 – Feel like you’re exploring Africa on Safari tours

safari in Punta Cana

In an oasis such as Punta Cana, safari tours are the way to really get a taste of what the landscapes have to offer.

Cruising around in an open-air safari-style vehicle, be driven around the countryside, through lush jungles, through blossoming plantations, over mountains and across beachscapes.

Stop over and join locals in their daily activities; for example, learn how to roll a cigar!

There are also safaris through Monkeyland, where squirrel monkeys pop out to say hi!

Tours range from three to five hours, or full-day adventures are about eight.

Safaris in Punta Cana

21 – Refresh yourself by zipping down the waterslides at the best waterparks

best waterparks in Punta Cana

Create memories at the Bahia Scouts Water Park at Bahia Principal! A water park for kids of all ages to enjoy, offering a refreshingly fun time sliding down the multiple, twisted slides.

Splash Water Park at RIU Resort offers a major dose of fun for older children, and adults, featuring long tunnel slides, and a variety of other thrilling games like Body Vortex and Kamikaze.

Make a big splash at Agua Games at Sirenis, either jumping into the pool, climbing up the water towers to slide all the way down, or joining other water games like the Aquaracer for a water racing experience unlike anything else!

22 – Find the world’s best whale watching between January and March

whale watching in Punta Cana

Between January and March every year, humpback whales gather at a UNESCO-funded whale sanctuary in Samana, to complete their annual mating ritual.

During this period, the sanctuary is free and open to tourists.

Learn firsthand from local experts about one of the Dominican Republic’s most incredible natural occurrences.

One of the most special ways to encounter the majestic mammals is with a dedicated Samaná whale-watching excursion. There are boat tours that bring excited spectators directly to the water sanctuary.

whale watching in Punta Cana

23 – Take an electric bike tour around Macao beach

bike tour in Punta Cana

Electric bikes are all the rage these days, and for good reason! You cover more ground on an e-bike, so this one is ideal for travelers short on time.

An electric bike tour around Macao Beach and the surrounding mountains and countryside is perfect for people of all ages.

Learn from an expert local guide, sample delicious local food and drinks, see the incredible sights, and stay in shape while you’re doing it.

E-bike tours are three hours long.

bike tours in Punta Cana

24 – Travel to Samaná for the day

Samana, Dominican Republic

The lesser-known Samana Peninsula has lots of natural beauty to see, like the El Limon National Park and Waterfall.

There are a number of local markets and top-quality resorts sprinkled throughout the area’s villages.

There is also a humpback whale sanctuary that plays host to the animals’ mating ritual between January and March of every year.

Situated in the eastern region, the beaches in these parts are truly breathtaking. Some bucket listers include Playa Rincon, Playa Fronton and Playa Madama.

Samaná day trips

25 – Make your own chocolate at the chocolate museum

chocolate museum, Punta Cana

The Dominican Republic is famous for its chocolate and cacao plantations, so much so that they’ve even got a whole museum dedicated to the delicious natural treat.

Not only will you learn everything there is to know about the history of chocolate in Punta Cana, but you’ll even be able to make your own straight from the bean.

While some of the other activities will cost you, the museum itself is free of charge.

Join a two-hour ‘From Cocoa Bean to Chocolate Bar’ workshop or the 35-minute ‘Unique Chocolate Bonbons’ one. Museum tours are free.

26 – Catch a show at Coco Bongo

Coco Bongo party in Punta Cana

You can’t plan a trip to Punta Cana without visiting the world-famous Coco Bongo.

There’s always a show waiting for excited guests here. Get picked up and dropped off right from your hotel so that you don’t have to worry about a thing as you’re gulping down delicious drinks and food and taking in the spectacle at Downtown Punta Cana.

The disco extravaganza is coupled with a dance floor, video projections, bubble machines, confetti explosions and floating balloons. Choose between different themed shows, like The Mask or Samba.

Coco Bongo show tickets

27 – See the lizards and parrots at Manati Park

Manati Park, Punta Cana — parrots at Manati Park

Manati Park, the Dominican Republic’s first-ever theme park, is home to lizards, parrots, sea lions, iguanas, and 150 other exotic animal species.

Established in 1996, the park is set within a massive native garden, and over 150 animal species live inside! There are shows happening there all the time and natural wells to bathe and relax in.

You can also swim with dolphins! Plus, there is an insightful Taina culture exhibit for you to become better acquainted with local customs and traditions.

28 – Go zip-lining over top the jungle trees

ziplining in Punta Cana

One of the most exhilarating ways to experience the Caribbean Jungle is by zip-lining over top of it.

There are no less than 12 different zip line ropes to ride along. Gliding from one to the other, cross over 18 platforms in total!

And the fun doesn’t have to stop there! Combine this activity with any number of others like horseback riding, dune buggy riding, or a visit to the Monkeyland animal sanctuary deep in the jungle.

zip lining in Punta Cana

29 – Play a round of volleyball at Juanillo Beach

Juanillo Beach, Punta Cana

Juanillo Beach is just another beach in Punta Cana where you’ll be able to soak in the Caribbean sun, get in a round of volleyball, and enjoy the fantastic local food and drinks.

The sands are powder soft, and the cyan-colored ocean usually remains flat and calm, deeming it favorable among families. There are a strew of restaurants down here, too.

It’s also home to a gorgeous national cenote with unparalleled beauty. What more could you ask for from a day at the beach?

30 – Try an authentic Dominican cigar

cigar shops in Punta Cana

Enjoy the process and the final product when you book a tour experience at Don Lucas Cigars. Learn about the art and craft of Dominican cigar production, from its filler, and aging process, all the way to its wrapper. Complement the cigar with a good rum, and feel an experience unlike anything else.

Vivaldi Cigars takes you under their wing as they teach you their 20+ years legacy of cigarmaking. Learn about the story behind what turns a good cigar, perfect, and how a Dutch and Dominican made that happen together.

31 – Try parasailing and admire the Caribbean sea from the air

parasailing in Punta Cana

Just like scuba diving and snorkeling, there are a lot of different ways to enjoy parasailing in Punta Cana.

You could take a luxury catamaran cruise, hop off a party boat, or drive your own speedboat.

However you choose to get there, there’s no way you won’t enjoy that glistening water and the wildlife that lives within it from 500 feet in the air!

Parasailing differs from paragliding. A giant parachute is attached to the back of a boat, and you’re harnessed in. As the boat speeds up, you’re lifted into the air.

parasailing in Punta Cana

32 – Embark on a sunset party boat

Sunset Party Boat in Punta Cana

What’s better than an ordinary boat cruise? A sunset party boat option, that’s what! Well, it is anyway if you’re here with a group of mates, or enjoying a bachelor’s weekend away before the Big Day.

Whatever the reason, these festive sails onboard a catamaran amp up the good vibes and leave you ready for a night on the town.

Departing in the afternoon, there’s plenty of time for snorkeling, swimming, dancing and drinking, and you’ll return back to the mainland as the sky transforms into all shades of red, pink and orange.

If you’ve already got late afternoon plans, there are party boat cruises during regular daytime hours as well.

sunset cruises in Punta Cana

33 – Explore the caves in Scape Park

Scape Park, Punta Cana

There are a lot of amazing things to do in Punta Cana, and quite a few of them can be found right in Scape Park.

Spanning a full 247 acres, the park includes sparkling pools hidden within mysterious caves, ziplining through lush jungle, and an exclusive beach club.

Swim through the turquoise blue waters inside the Hoyo Azul – a natural cenote pool or walk across the bridge directly above the cenote for an awe-inspiring view, and the perfect selfie spot!

Don’t forget to keep a lookout for colorful exotic birds, and snap a few pictures while you’re at it!

Scape Park tickets

34 – Get yourself professionally photographed in Altos de Chavón

Altos de Chavon Mediterranean Village — Altos de Chavón Amphitheatre

In the heart of the Dominican countryside lies the Altos de Chavón, a full replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village.

It’s also a cultural hub with numerous art studios, a gallery, and a school of design.

At its center is an incredible 5000-seat amphitheater that has played host to Frank Sinatra, Sting, and Elton John, just to name a few.

Perched above the Chavón River, hunt down this marvel in La Romana (a one-hour drive from Punta Cana). Once you’re done here, check out the rest of the town.

Altos de Chavón day trips

35 – Learn to surf at Macao Beach

surfing in Punta Cana

The incredible thing about the surf around the Dominican Republic is it appeals to all levels, from beginners to pros to waves suitable for groms.

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to surf, then the experts at Macao Beach are waiting to teach you.

Whether you’re looking for group or individual lessons, a quick taste, or a multi-day class, this gorgeous beach offers it all.

Grab your board, because you’ll be hanging 10 on perfect waves in no time!

Other popular surf beaches with surf schools are Playa’s Bávaro, Juanillo and Esmeralda.

surfing in Punta Cana

36 – Enjoy the impressive cocktails at Pearl Beach Club

Pearl Beach Club, Punta Cana

There are so many amazing beach clubs in Punta Cana that you’ll want to keep coming back again and again just to visit them all.

Pearl Beach Club specializes in mixology and offers an impressive cocktail menu. Also, no surprise, they bill themselves as the perfect location for a Caribbean wedding.

Chill around the infinity pool with live DJs amping the mood, or work on your tan on the beach in front. The beach club is located on Cabeza de Toro.

Hot tip: Feeling active? There are plenty of fun water activities to do on the beach, like kite surfing, with schools to show you the ropes. Keen to learn? Check out kitesurf lessons in Punta Cana.

37 – See Bahia de las Aguilas, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world

Bahia de las Aguilas, Dominican Republic

Every single Thursday, local experts offer a comprehensive tour of what many Dominicans refer to as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

The New York Times also referred to this beach as a must-see. Take a tour on the ground or in a plane, or simply walk along the beach on your own time.

Beach day tip: This eight-kilometer stretch is completely unshaded and the sand is so piercingly white that it easily reflects, which can lead to sunburn very quickly. Pack ample sunblock and protective gear!

Bahia de las Aguilas day trips

38 – See the sparkling waterfall pools in the jungle on a jeep tour

jeep tour in Punta Cana

Where there’s a jungle, there are jeeps.

Head deep into the jungle in a jeep or quad tour and find a sparkling waterfall pool, along with numerous other beautiful natural sights.

Stop by at local plantations and sample the local coffee and chocolate, and cap off your day with a magical horseback ride.

Thrill-seekers: jeep tours vary from half to full-day ventures, and excursions on a 4×4 are typically three hours.

jeep tours in Punta Cana

39 – Enjoy a magical day at the Seaquarium at Dolphin Island Park

Dolphin Island Park, Punta Cana

The Punta Cana Seaquarium is a theme park dedicated to the study of ocean life.

They offer all kinds of activities, including a fully immersive underwater walk surrounded by rare fish and other animals.

They also offer a full-on catamaran party cruise, for the adults.

Seaquarium tickets

40 – Learn to fish with experts on a chartered deep-sea fishing adventure

deep sea fishing in Punta Cana

Seafood is a staple in Punta Cana, and you’ll likely be able to sample the local offerings while you’re here.

But you can also take it a step further and take a chartered trip out on the water with local fishermen to see how the sausage is made, so to speak.

Your typical catch around these waters is usually blue or white marlin, wahoo, sailfish and dorado.

Learn to fish in style with an activity that’s perfect for the entire family.

fishing in Punta Cana

41 – An alternative to scuba diving, test the waters with scooter underwater experiences

scooter underwater experiences in Punta Cana

In a destination like Punta Cana, it can be torturous for some not to go scuba diving. But with PADI requirements and whatnot, it’s not possible for everyone, until now!

Have you ever heard of an underwater scooter? Just as the name states, it’s a powered underwater device equipped with a built-in helmet, allowing you to zoot along the bottom of the ocean and breathe at the same time — forget about snorkel gear!

Swim with schools of fish, among rainbows of coral and sometimes, up close to shipwrecks! How cool is that?

underwater scooters in Punta Cana

42 – Splash around at Caribbean Lake Park

Caribbean Lake Park, Punta Cana

Consider visiting Caribbean Lake Park for a whole lot of water fun, featuring an abundance of relaxing poolside activities, as well as thrill-inducing ones not to miss.

For adventure seekers, consider some wakeboard fun, or rent a flyboard to learn and practice your impressive moves in the air.

Those looking for something a bit lax may want to lazily float in the floating circuit, leisurely swim in the pool, or even lounge and work on your tan.

Caribbean Lake Park activities

43 – Enjoy the view from Montaña Redonda

view from Montaña Redonda

What’s one way to bring a mountain to the forefront of social media? Add an extra IG-worthy moment to its setting, of course!

At the top of Montana Redonda is a 360-degree swing that allows you to take in a gorgeous panoramic view of the countryside. You’ll literally be able to swing over the edge.

There’s also a restaurant and a gift shop, and they offer full photo services with various props.

It’s about an hour from Punta Cana, and the nearest town is Miches.

Montaña Redonda day trips

44 – Enjoy an easy hike on Anamuya Mountain

hiking in Punta Cana

Not everyone wants to exert themselves in nature; sometimes you just want to walk through the trees and relax while you take in the sights.

A jungle hiking tour of Anamuya Mountain is designed for hiking newbies.

Plus, you’ll get a chance to drink some local coffee as you stop by the local cacao plantation.

The trails range from hour-long walks to more extensive half-day amblings. But you will hardly notice the time thanks to the exquisite scenery and its undulating tropical hills.

hiking tours in Punta Cana

45 – Visit the awe-inspiring El Limon waterfall

El Limon waterfall, Punta Cana

On the north coast of the Samana Peninsula is the gorgeous El Limon National Park and Waterfall.

The journey there will take you through 2.5 kilometers of forest. Along the way, spot flora and fauna indigenous to the area, including royal palm trees and pineapples.

Choose to hike to the fall, or there are even incredible horseback riding journeys ending up at the 36-meter-tall cascade. Some even opt to go canyoning in this water playground, eventually leading here.

Swimming is allowed.

El Limon Waterfall tours

46 – Enjoy a luxurious spa day on a catamaran

spa in Punta Cana

Spas are a great way to relax, and a natural inclusion for any vacation itinerary.

Thankfully, Punta Cana has no shortage of great spas to visit. Some even take place on a boat! Of course, there are your regular spa centers if you’d rather stay on land, even massages available right on the beach.

Depending on your location, treatments and therapies range from 90 minutes to three hours to an entire day for the full work.

Spend the day relaxing and win back that youthful glow.

spas in Punta Cana

47 – Book your stay at the Hard Rock Casino

Hard Rock Casino, Punta Cana

The Hard Rock Cafe is a timeless staple of so many of the world’s greatest cities; New York, Washington DC, Montreal, and, of course, Punta Cana.

In this case, it includes a luxurious hotel and a fabulous casino.

This is also one of the numerous places in Punta Cana that offers stunning wedding services, so whether you’re looking to pop the question or say “I do,” this may just be the spot for you.

See price & reviews

48 – Visit the underwater life when you go scuba diving

scuba diving in Punta Cana

There are a number of ways you can go scuba diving in Punta Cana, favoring the waters and dive sites around Bayahibe and Saona.

You can either take the afternoon and go for some lessons, or you could go on a day trip to some of the gorgeous surrounding islands like Soana Island and Catalina Island and stop for some scuba diving along the way.

An incredible underwater ecosystem awaits you!

Trips are available for first-timers and experienced aquatic souls, or you can test out hooka diving where no tank is needed!

scuba diving in Punta Cana

49 – Meet new friends, mingle and dance the night away at the best clubs

Imagine Punta Cana Night Club

Located inside a vast network of cave tunnels that took thousands of years to form, the Imagine Night Club in Punta Cana is a fantastic club to party all night long.

One of Punta Cana’s premier night spots, it has a capacity of over 3,000 people. Their parties always include a who’s who of local DJs and artists.

Step inside a black-lit club with neon lights and glowing surfaces at Legacy Movie Disco Club, enjoying a grand selection of cocktails as the thumping of Latin reggaeton hits is perfectly mixed with the best hip-hop songs.

Inside the iconic Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is the stylish Oro Nightclub. VIP service? You bet! The LED-lit space has an amazing sound system and its own infinity-edge bar! Opening at 11 PM, the club stays open until 4 AM.

50 – (Rum) shots, shots, shots; get festive during pub crawls

pub crawls in Punta Cana

Forget about staying cooped up in one of the all-inclusive resorts and instead, mingle with other like-minded travelers on a super fun pub crawl!

Kick off the festivities with a welcome shot of rum (Caribbean-style), and then the drinking, fun and games begin (and by games, we mean the party type!).

A typical itinerary heads off to the lively Hard Rock Café for first rounds, Wacamole taco bar for margaritas, Calle Aruba Dominican Corner (which serves an amazing Cuba Libre), La Tribu for craft cocktails and ends at STOP PLAY for live music and karaoke!

Pub crawls in Punta Cana

How to get to Punta Cana?

Remove any confusion with figuring out how to get from the airport to your hotel in Punta Cana by pre-booking an airport transfer, starting as low as $15 USD.

After arriving at Punta Cana Airport, your airport transfer will pick you up at arrivals and will take around 20-25 minutes to arrive at some of the biggest hotels in Punta Cana.

Where to stay in Punta Cana?

Punta Cana resort hotel

Sirenis is a chain of luxury resorts, and they just happen to have one located in Punta Cana. This lodging offers so many incredible amenities that you may not even want to leave while you’re staying here. There’s incredible food, a gym, a spa, and even water slides!

Relax on the lush stretch of golden sandy shores at Grand Bavaro Princess all-inclusive hotel, located on the pristine Bavaro Beach. Offering over 9 different restaurants, snack bars throughout the hotel, and fully-serviced spas, enjoy plenty of fun activities for families of all ages.

Traveling with just your friends or your partner? Consider booking a few nights at the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana Adults Only hotel. Enjoy laying out on the sun terrace, daily entertainment and activities, and freshly-served continental or buffet-style breakfast. Relish a great amount of water sports activities, and even an adults water park for thrills.

Visiting with children? Your family will love staying at the Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, featuring Nickelodeon-themed games, activities, and foods, where your child can meet their favorite characters like Spongebob! While children play, parents can indulge in the spa amenities, or enjoy their drink of choice poolside.

best hotels in Punta Cana

Where to go next?

If one Caribbean island paradise isn’t enough, consider venturing off to another that matches in beauty. With plenty of awe-inspiring things to do in the Cayman Islands, this is a fabulous next option.

As the largest of the Cayman Isles, the things to do in Grand Cayman will keep you busy (and intrigued) for days. Dive shipwrecks, shop amazing craft markets, horseback ride along the beach, and so much more.

Head to Puerto Rico, where you’ll go from dancing in the streets to stumbling into colorful colonial homes of Old San Juan, taking a peak at the thought-provoking street, and art, and of course end up at the most beautiful beaches.

Sway to the music of reggae in Jamaica, setting foot on the white sand and pristine beaches of Montenegro Bay, or enjoying a culinary delight on a fabulous food tour of Jamaica’s best dishes. Once you get a taste for the things to do in Jamaica, you’ll never want to leave, man.

St. Lucia is one of the most romantic islands in the Caribbean, offering beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and some of the most breathtaking scenery of dramatic mountains, perfect for a challenging yet beautiful hike. Popular things to do in St. Lucia include time in Marigot Bay, revitalizing mud baths and trying wood carving art.

Relax in the natural pools dotting Aruba, though it’s known as another lovely romantic destination, it’s also a hot spot for solo travelers looking to get a slice of island life, with incredible snorkeling by day and a lively nightlife scene by evening. Visiting flamingos and butterfly farms is a touch more of the magical things to do in Aruba.

Final thoughts

We hope that our list of things to do in Punta Cana has inspired you to seek out all of the richness of experiences, from cultural to gastronomic, for the adventurer in nature, and the hopeless romantic in search of luxury.

All that’s left to ask is will you be making it to this treasured island? Keep us posted!

Happy travels!

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46 Fun Things to Do in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic