9 Things to do in Punta Cana that you can’t skip on your Next Trip

Punta Cana, a town in the easternmost part of the Dominican Republic, is a famous tourist destination. According to Statista, the annual number of visitors entering Punta Cana will go up to 4.94 million in 2024. That’s quite a feat to achieve for a town with a 475-square-kilometre radius. The main reason behind this mind-boggling number is the things to do in Punta Cana.

Punta Cana is known for its 32-km stretch of beaches, clear and pristine water, stunning sunset views, tasty local dishes and drinks, and welcoming local hospitality.

Punta Cana, along with the Bavaro area, make up the Coconut Coast, or La Costa del Coco. If you are planning to visit and want to know about the best time to visit Punta Cana and its famous tourist attractions in this heavenly abode, you are at the right place. This guide walks you through the 9 famous things to do in Punta Cana.

9 Things to Do in Punta Cana in 2024

1.      Watersports at Bavaro Beach

Bavaro is an iconic and must-visit beach in the town of Punta Cana. Clean and clear white sand beaches with turquoise waters and stunning and tall palm trees await the tourists for a breathtaking serenity. Bavaro Beach has many subsections connected to each other. A walk through these sections is an ideal way to soak up the charming views of this natural beauty. 

The area is filled with luxurious resorts where you can stay and have the time of your life. The famous activities here include boat trips, snorkeling, parasailing, ATV tours, and ziplining. The town is famous in the entire Dominican Republic for its watersports. 

2.      Relax at Macao Beach

If you like seclusion and fewer crowds on your beach trips, Macao Beach is an ideal place for you to visit. It is located far away from the hustle and bustle of resorts, dine-ins, and bars.

The beach is a favorite spot among local travelers. Its white sand with blue-colored water makes it an ideal setting to sit back, relax, and enjoy a stunning sunset view while sipping your favorite drink. Macao is loved by surfers for its steady and consistent waves. The other activities to enjoy here include horseback riding and photography. 

3.      Bask in the Peace at Juanillo Beach

This is the place to let yourself get carried away by the Dominican Republic’s calmness. The beach is home to white sand lined up with palm trees.

This beach is open to the public, but it is only accessible through Cap Cana Resort. The beach is an ideal setting to enjoy in a quiet place. 

4.      Visit Reserva Ecologica Ojos Indigenas

It is a forest reserve with hiking areas, a petting zoo, lagoons for swimming, and natural history exhibits. This place is one of the best things to do in Punta Cana for all nature lovers.

A guided tour explains all the ecological projects, focusing on efforts to preserve the Dominican Republic’s species and sustainable projects. The tour also includes a visit to the endemic Rhinoceros Iguana and Ridgway’s hawks, the Apiary, the centre’s store, and the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve.

5.      Swim and Zipline at the Hoyo Azul

The lagoon is located in Scape Park and only reveals itself after passing a trail. The trail itself is a treat, as you can view the Caribbean's best flora and fauna.

The lagoon is located at the foot of a 65-meter cliff and has a maximum depth of 37 meters at the deepest point. Apart from its striking beauty, the lagoon is a tourist-favorite spot for swimming and ziplining.

6.      Have Some Family Fun at Sirenis Aquagames (The only Water Park in Punta Cana)

A recently built water park has added variety to the long list of things to do in Punta Cana. The park is located within the hotel, but it can be accessed by everyone. The water park currently holds the honor of being the only water park in the area.

The park is a family-friendly entertainment zone. There are adrenaline-boosting rides for adults, a pirate theme pool for kids, a picnic area, and a nursery. The park also houses a gift shop for visitors to buy souvenirs for people back home. Above all, the park is an all-inclusive place. You will find drinks and meals there as well.

7.      Go to ChocoMuseo Punta Cana

Punta Cana has something for everyone. This is a dream come true-spot for chocolate lovers and history geeks. The place is not just a museum; it is a chocolate factory as well. 

The best thing about this place is that everyone has free access. You can also enjoy a free guided tour of the factory and museum that explains everything about chocolate making and its history. You can take your experience here to the next level by participating in a workshop known as “From Coco Bean to Chocolate Bar." Here you can learn how to make handmade chocolate and the steps involved, from the harvesting of cocoa beans to the final shape of a chocolate bar.

8.      Shop at BlueMall Punta Cana

You might be thinking that Punta Cana doesn’t have much to offer shopaholics. Well, here you go. The BlueMall Punta Cana is home to some of the world's leading brands and some of the finest dining spots in the town.

The BlueMall offers free shuttle service to and from all the leading resorts in the town. A trip here usually takes 2–3 hours. The mall also hosts festivals and shows for kids. So it is a good idea to inquire before making your plans.

9.      Try your Luck at Hard Rock Casino Punta Cana

Hard Rock is another star on the list of things to do in Punta Cana. The casino spreads across 45,000 square feet and is home to 37 unique tables and 439 slots. Apart from casino games, you can also watch your favorite sports on the Sports Bar’s big screen. There are two restaurants in the casino that offer authentic Dominican cuisine.

Final Words

According to TripAdvisor, there are around 65 things to do and places to visit in Punta Cana. We have listed the most famous and best ones. A visit to these places will surely give you lots of memories to cherish for the rest of your life.