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3, 5 & 7 Days In Punta Cana Itinerary (Best Things To Do!)

By Jessie Festa. My trip to Punta Cana was sponsored by BeachBound and also contains affiliate links to trusted partners. I only recommend experiences I truly think you’ll love!

Looking for an unforgettable Punta Cana itinerary ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Located in the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is a tropical paradise known for its azure waters, all-inclusive resorts, and stunning stretch of connected beaches lined with palm trees.

While it’s a top spot for an unforgettable beach vacation, it can be challenging to plan the perfect trip with so many options available.

Luckily, I’ve done the work for you and created an itinerary for 7 days in Punta Cana — with options for shorter 3- and 5-day trips — based on my own experience in the destination.

Keep reading this Punta Cana travel blog to learn about the top things to do in Punta Cana along with important travel tips and recommendations for where to stay, excursions, and the perfect schedule.

🌞 Don’t forget to pack sun protection! Along with sunscreen and a hat, a few other recommendations include polarized floating sunglasses and rashguard clothing . 🏖️ Other beach essentials include a waterproof fanny pack , a quick-dry towel with hidden pocket , and a waterproof phone case . 😍 And if you’re looking for stylish beach cover-ups, I’m obsessed with these Kenny Flowers kimonos and sarongs !

Table of Contents

Booking A Punta Cana Beach Vacation With BeachBound

If you’re looking to book a trip to Punta Cana — or another beach destination — check out the recommended properties and vacation packages on BeachBound .

BeachBound is a company that curates unforgettable beach vacation experiences from over 70 seaside destinations, which you book right on their site.

In fact, you can search for beach getaways based specifically on your interests, whether that be adventure, cultural immersion, rejuvenation, romance, or something else.

A few other reasons to book your beach vacation with BeachBound:

• They price match with other US-based travel websites — and then offer an additional $25 off
• They offer a variety of ways to pay — including a payment plan where you can pay your trip off over 24 months, including after you’re already back from lounging in the sand
• With their Travel Protection Plus plans you can cancel for any reason — and receive either a 75% refund or 100% back in a future travel credit
• They work directly with Amstar DMC in many destinations — meaning there is no need to worry about transportation to and from the airport or excursions

Click here for beach vacation inspiration and deals for your next trip !

You can also see their Punta Cana vacation packages here .

Where Is Punta Cana? + Map

Punta Cana is located right where the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea meet on the eastern shore of the Dominican Republic. For many who plan a trip to the Dominican Republic, this is their first stop.

Note that the Dominican Republic isn’t an island, but a nation located on the island of Hispaniola in the West Indies. Haiti is also on this island.

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a map of Punta Cana:

You can click here for a Punta Cana map in Google map form .

Getting To Punta Cana

Most travelers to Punta Cana arrive by air and fly into Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). It’s about a 20-minute drive to Bavaro Beach, which is the area of Punta Cana we’ll be focusing on in this travel guide.

It’s recommended to pre-book your transportation to and from your resort. As stated, BeachBound works directly with Amstar DMC for this.

After using Amstar DMC’s services myself I highly recommend them as they’re reliable and professional. My driver was easy to find and was waiting for me with welcome sign after baggage claim.

Note: If you’re flying from New York City like I did, I suggest checking out JetBlue. Not only did they have the cheapest flights, but also a number of direct options In fact, if you’re wondering “how long does it take to get to the Dominican Republic?” my flight from JFK to PUJ was only about 3.5 hours!

Getting Around Punta Cana

Walking & biking around punta cana.

Many Punta Cana visitors don’t leave the resort area, which is completely walkable — especially since the beach connects all of the different properties. Off the beach, you can also bike around if you’d prefer.

In my opinion, this is one of the reasons Punta Cana is great for groups as well as those enjoying solo travel in the Caribbean .

Booking Tours In Punta Cana

If you’d like to explore beyond the Punta Cana resorts, booking a guided tour is typically your best option. This will generally be more affordable than hiring a taxi, too. You can book tours directly through BeachBound .

Renting A Car In Punta Cana

If you just plan to explore your resort, hang on the beach, and book a few Punta Cana excursions, you won’t need a car.

However, if you plan to do some Punta Cana day trips without a tour guide, renting a vehicle will typically be your most budget-friendly option.

When To Visit Punta Cana

Wondering when it is the best time to visit Punta Cana?

Punta Cana is a year-round destination, though peak tourist season is January to March. The average temperature in Punta Cana in January is a sunny and comfortable 70°F to 84°F.

In terms of Punta Cana weather, June and July are the hottest and driest months, and October tends to be the rainiest month.

Don’t let that scare you from traveling in fall though! I actually visited Punta Cana in October and it barely rained. When it did, it was only for an hour or so and was a nice break from the heat. So, you can definitely plan a trip to Punta Cana outside the peak season.

How Many Days To Spend In Punta Cana

Especially when traveling the Caribbean, I personally never get sick of swimming in the warm azure waters or playing in the sand.

That being said, I realize that for most people life doesn’t allow for unlimited beach vacation time.

But, hey, wouldn’t that be nice?

So, back to the question, “How many days do you need in Punta Cana?”

If you just want to relax at an all-inclusive resort, you can absolutely have a great weekend in Punta Cana. That being said, allowing for at least 5 days in Punta Cana can really help you get into vacation mode and experience the many resort activities and fun day trips.

Spending more than one week in Punta Cana?

You might consider doing a Dominican Republic road trip and also exploring some of the other great destinations in this island country like Puerto Plata, Barahona, Jaragua National Park, Paraíso, and Cabarete (where you can visit Ocoa Bay , a sustainable winery).

Where To Stay In Punta Cana

When researching Punta Cana hotels, know that the best way to experience this tropical paradise is through an all-inclusive resort.

For my trip to Punta Cana, BeachBound set me up with a stay at the upscale yet affordable Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort , an adults-only all-inclusive located on the stunning Bavaro Beach.

Specifically I stayed at The Level at Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort , a section of the resort that includes exclusive spaces and premium services like private beach and pool areas, preferential restaurant reservations, private rooftop access, included spa treatments and wellness rituals, and more.⁠

The property offers a nice mix of experiences. You can enjoy wellness and active exploration by day, or lounge by the pool or beach. At night, you might dance to live music, party at a silent disco, or savor a quiet dinner and drinks in a beautiful space.

A few highlights of my stay included:

• Spacious room with a balcony and rain shower⁠ (with sumptuous amenities included)
• Rooftop chef’s tasting dinner under the stars (every Tuesday)⁠
• Yoga, swimming, and sunbathing on Bavaro Beach⁠ (gorgeous)
• Daily pool parties, aquatic classes⁠, and wellness experiences (you’ll get a schedule of offerings at check-in)
• Sauna, steam room, hot tub, plunge pool, and hydromassage at Yhi Spa⁠ (which also offers healing treatments)
• Cocktails and nightly dance parties in the lobby (possibly the prettiest hotel lobby I’ve ever seen)

The location of this Punta Cana all inclusive hotel on Bavaro Beach — one of the most stunning beaches in Punta Cana — also makes it worthwhile as you can really just arrive to the resort without a plan and enjoy all-inclusive food, drinks, activities, and beach time in a beautiful place.

Surprisingly, T he Level is affordable, too, which is another reason why I think this is one of the best places to stay in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Click here to see current rates and deals for the property .

7 Days In Punta Cana Itinerary

Okay, now let’s dive into some of the best things to do in Punta Cana .

I’ve laid out an itinerary for a 7 day all-inclusive Punta Cana vacation, though of course feel free to swap in other activities based on your interests. There are some options for alternative Punta Cana experiences below, too. As stated above, your tours can be booked right through BeachBound .

Additionally, I’ve included suggestions for shorter vacations below, including 3 days in Punta Cana and 5 days in Punta Cana.

On that note, let’s dive into your one week itinerary for Punta Cana.

Remember, too, that when staying at the Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort there is an endless schedule of activities to take part in, like beach yoga, bike tours, Zumba, pool aerobics, rum tasting, and more.

In fact, here is a look at the morning schedule of events from when I stayed there. And this doesn’t even include the afternoon activities and evening nightlife!

Day #1: Explore Your All Inclusive Punta Cana Resort

It’s a travel day, so it’s best not to over-extend yourself by booking activities or holding yourself to a timeline.

Instead, explore your resort, grab a cocktail, relax by the pool, lay in a hammock, hit the beach, or simply wander the grounds.

Again, if you’re staying at the Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort , you can opt for some sunset beach yoga, a guided rum tasting, a pole dancing class in the pool, or dance the night away at a silent disco.

Day #2: Have Fun On Bavaro Beach

One of the best beaches in Punta Cana is Bavaro Beach (Playa Bávaro), known for its beauty as well as for being one of the longest white sand beaches in the Caribbean at 30 miles.

In my opinion, this should be included in any Dominican Republic itinerary, and no Punta Cana visit would be complete without spending at least a few hours here.

The Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort sits right on Bavaro Beach, so you can simply throw on a swimsuit and walk over when you’re ready — no car required!

If you don’t mind waking up early, get up to watch a beautiful sunrise. It’s a magical experience to watch the silhouette of the palm trees turn bright with colors as the waves gently lap up against the shore.

Personally, I loved staying in the resort’s exclusive Level accommodations as you also get a private area of the beach to relax on. The lounge chairs all have towels and you can find shade under umbrellas that looks like t hatched roofs.

The Caribbean waters are warm and inviting, and you can spend hours swimming or enjoying the complimentary water sports provided by the resort like standup paddle boarding and kayaking.

There are also loads of tour operators on the beach offering paid experiences like parasailing — a fun adventure travel excursion that allows you to get incredible views of the beach from up high!

After an all-inclusive lunch — I loved the salads and ceviche at Quimera at The Level — play a round of beach volleyball or go freshen up for a happy hour cocktail — preferably at Quimera Rooftop, which has a great view, or in the stunning Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort lobby.

You have many options for dinner — from Italian to Vietnamese to regional cuisine and beyond. You really can’t go wrong, though one must-have experience is the chef’s tasting dinner on Tuesdays at the Quimera Rooftop .

Along with an appetizer, homemade sangria, and dessert, there are eight creative tastings. The entire experience is paired with live music as well as your choice of drinks.

Day #3: Punta Cana Day Trip To Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve

There are many unforgettable day trips from Punta Cana, though one to get on your radar is Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve (Reserva Ecológica Ojos Indígenas) — a beautiful place to explore Punta Cana nature .

This 1,500-acre private reserve showcases wildlife like birds and turtles as well as a network of interpretive and connected trails leading to 12 freshwater lagoons, a few of which you can swim in, like Guamá Lagoon, the deepest at 26 feet. You’ll find a diving platform here, too!

Interestingly, the Indigenous Taíno Indians were said to have called these lagoons “eyes” — or “ojos” — due to their unusual shape.

You can visit the reserve on your own by calling a taxi or through a guided tour.

It’s truly one of the most unique things to do in Punta Cana!

Interested in adding another activity to your day or doing something else all together? A few other fun Punta Cana day trips include:

Los Haitises National Park. Meaning “highlands” in the Indigenous Taíno language, Los Haitises National Park is about 2.5 hours from Punta Cana and features rainforest, caverns, beaches with soft sand and emerald waters, interesting rock formations, and mangrove forests — not to mention over 200 bird species!

You may also spot dolphins and manatees in the water.

It’s the perfect place for hiking, bird-watching, and just enjoying the beauty of the Caribbean.

Saona Island. Encompassing about 42.5 square miles, Saona Island is part of East National Park. The tropical island showcases mangroves, beautiful palm-lined beaches, coral reefs, and attractions like the Cave of Cotubanamá, which is home to pre-Columbian rock art.

Typically, an excursion to Saona Island takes about 8 to 10 hours.

Cueva de las Maravillas. Located about an hour from Punta Cana, Cueva de las Maravillas is a large cave system featuring incredible Taíno pictographs and petroglyphs that date back thousands of years. It’s both an impressive and important site to visit!

Adventure activities. Beyond interesting Dominican Republic places to visit, there are also an array of bookable adventure experiences, whether you want to ATV Punta Cana, go horseback riding, zip-line, off-road in 4×4 buggies, or something else.

Again, you can book these excursions through BeachBound !

Day #4: Go Hiking In Punta Cana

Dominican Republic hiking can be a really fun experience. While I’ve already mentioned exploring the trails of local Punta Cana attractions like Los Haitises National Park and Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve, these are far from your only options.

One fun hike about an hour from Punta Cana is Montaña Redonda .

While this Punta Cana hike involves a tough climb of 800 feet, you’ll be rewarded with an amazing 360-degree view of the surrounding Cordillera Oriental (part of the Colombian Andes), the ocean, and lush vegetation.

Moreover, the hike showcases fun swings and hammocks at the top, which make for epic photos.

Looking for something on the easier side?

Walking the length of the Bavaro Beach area is considered a top choice for hiking in the Dominican Republic. What is neat is the scenery changes frequently as you walk. At one point, I even arrived at a spot full of birds diving into the water for food!

Day #5: Day Trip From Punta Cana To Santo Domingo

Depending on how you’re feeling, you can absolutely enjoy another day on Bavaro Beach, chill by the pool, or partake in the many classes offered by the Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort .

However, if you’re up for another Punta Cana day trip, Santo Domingo — the capital of the Dominican Republic — is only about 2 hours and 20 minutes from Punta Cana.

Spending even one day in Santo Domingo introduces you to many interesting experiences:

-Exploring the Colonial Zone (Zona Colonial) and seeing the beautiful architecture. Here you can walk the colorful José Reyes Street — the perfect spot for vibrant photos — as well as see the ruins of places like the Hospital of St. Nicolas of Bari , the first hospital in the New World, as well as of the Monasterio de San Francisco , the oldest Franciscan monastery in the New World.

-Visiting Plaza de España , a historic square also located in the colonial district. Along with showcasing bars and restaurants, you can see the Alcázar de Colón , an impressive fortress.

-Watching cigars being hand-rolled at La Leyenda del Cigarro , which sells all kinds of cigars.

-Perusing locally-made products, art, and clothing at Mercado Modelo .

-Spending time at Los Tres Ojos (The Three Eyes) National Park and descending down into the earth — literally. Located just 15 minutes outside of Santo Domingo via car, taxi, or Uber, it’s a magical place showcasing crystal waters, lush subterranean flora, and ancient Indigenous drawings. In my opinion, this should definitely be on your Santo Domingo itinerary.

-Relaxing on the beautiful white sand Boca Chica Beach , located about 40 minutes outside of Santo Domingo.

To visit Santo Domingo from Punta Cana, you can rent a car from Discover Cars or book a tour.

Day #6: Swim & Snorkel In The Caribbean Sea + Hit The Spa

You spent the last few days doing day trips from Punta Cana, so now it’s time to take it easy and enjoy the Caribbean beauty that surrounds you.

Spend your day enjoying beach activities, strolling up the shoreline, or just relaxing in a lounge chair with a fruity drink.

Along with hanging out on the beach, I highly recommend booking a spa treatment to get really relaxed before it’s time to go home.

At the Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort, they have the YHI Spa, a tranquil space showcasing high ceilings, rope doors, organic light fixtures, plants, and walkways surrounded by water features that make you feel like you’re in nature.

Their spa menu features an array of treatments infusing local ingredients (like moringa!), from massages to facials to wraps to wellbeing rituals that incorporate practices like guided meditation and breathwork.

Make sure to also spend time in their Atabeira Water Emotion complex. Created in honor of Atabey, the Taíno Mother of Water, you’ll have access to a circuit of water experiences like a steam room, dry sauna, warm plunge pool, and Jacuzzi to help promote relaxation and wellness.

Day #7: Relax By The Pool

It’s your last day in Punta Cana! Whether your flight is later today or early tomorrow, spend today relaxing and soaking up the peace of this sunny palm tree-filled destination.

If you’re like me and aren’t good at lounging for too long, take part in some SUP Yoga or Aqua Aerobics or grab a drink and enjoy a pool party.

Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort pools actually have elevated platforms that allow you to stand with the water up to your ankles. These are perfect for dancing or just cooling off.

Alternative Itinerary: 5 Days In Punta Cana

While 7 days in Punta Cana allows for a lot of unscheduled time and day tripping, you’ll need to move things around to maximize time if you don’t have a full week.

So, what does a 5 days in Punta Cana itinerary look like? My suggestion:

• Day 1: Explore the resort, relax by the pool, and partake in some included activities
• Day 2: Relax on the beach and do some water sports
• Day 3: Choose the Punta Cana day trip of your choice
• Day 4: Walk the Bavaro Beach coastline, enjoy some included activities, and book a spa treatment
• Day 5: Spend your last day at the pool or beach

Alternative Itinerary: 3 Days In Punta Cana

Finally, if you only have 3 days in Punta Cana , I recommend forgoing a set itinerary and instead opting to simply enjoy the resort activities, pool, beach, spa, and nightlife.

Again, Punta Cana is a place that naturally helps your stress melt away thanks to its tropical beauty and luxurious all-inclusive resorts.

With just a weekend in Punta Cana, skip packing too much in and instead take advantage of the fact that everything you might want — food, drinks, activities, parties, and more — is included in your room rate.

Especially if you stay at the Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort, you can really customize your day based on your personality.

For instance, if you love just laying on the beach, you can easily do that for three days; however, if you hate sitting still, the plethora of included onsite and beach activities will keep you entertained.

And of course, you might be somewhere in the middle. If this is the case, a typical day might be:

• walking the length of Bavaro Beach in the morning
• getting energized with some beach yoga
• lounging under a palm tree on the beach
• going for a swim in the warm Caribbean waters
• savoring an included lunch with a cocktail
• dancing off those calories at a daytime pool party
• reading on a poolside loung chair
• getting a spa treatment
• having a happy hour cocktail at sunset
• digging into an included dinner
• letting loose at an onsite nightlife experience

The best part? It’s all included! This helps to make this Caribbean trip even more stress-free.

Tips For Visiting Punta Cana

Now that we’ve gone over what to do in Punta Cana and a few suggested itineraries for Punta Cana, let’s discuss some important tips.

Check the latest entry and exit rules for travel in Punta Cana. This goes for general passport, visa, and vaccination requirements, as well as necessary steps due to the pandemic. For instance, at the time of writing, all travelers to and from the Dominican Republic need an E-Ticket .

Moreover, when leaving the Dominican Republic for the United States, I also needed a CDC Declaration Form and a negative antigen test. Both of those were available at my Punta Cana resort.

Taxis are expensive in Punta Cana. Therefore, you’ll want to pre-arrange your airport shuttles beforehand. Again, BeachBound partners with Amstar DMC in Punta Cana, so they can easily help you get that sorted out.

Moreover, consider renting a car or booking an excursion to save costs on sightseeing transportation. Excursions can be booked through BeachBound.

Add a Tuesday to your Punta Cana itinerary. This is when guests of The Level at Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort can attend a multi-course chef tasting at Quimera Rooftop. It’s absolutely delicious and the tastings are creative. Plus, when you factor in the views, live music, and unlimited drinks, it’s totally worth adjusting your trip dates for.

Bring cash for tips. US dollars are widely accepted in Punta Cana, though the local currency is officially the Dominican Peso — and using the latter will typically get you the best rates.

Many all inclusive resorts bake tips and taxes into the room rate, though leaving a little extra for your servers and bartenders is a nice gesture. You should also tip bag handlers and housekeeping.

Try the Mama Juana. Sometimes spelled “Mamajuana”, this tasty alcoholic drink blends rum, red wine, and honey with tree bark and herbs for a sweet and spiced beverage that will warm your insides in the best possible way.

Wear (reef-safe) sunscreen & sunglasses. Punta Cana is a sunny and hot Caribbean destination, so you’ll definitely want to wear sunscreen and sunglasses at all times. To help protect the environment, consider a high SPF reef-safe sunscreen.

Punta Cana Travel Insurance

When visiting Punta Cana — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Frequently Asked Questions About Punta Cana

Q) is punta cana in the dominican republic.

Yes, Punta Cana is a resort town in the Dominican Republic.

Q) When is the best time to go to Punta Cana?

January to March are considered the best times to visit Punta Cana.

Q) How many days in Punta Cana do I need?

You need a minimum of 5 days in Punta Cana to have time to relax and do fun activities.

Q) Is Punta Cana worth visiting?

Yes, Punta Cana is worth visiting. It has incredible resorts, beaches and fun activities for solo and family travelers.

Q) Is Punta Cana safe?

Yes, Punta Cana is a safe destination for travelers.

What would you add to this 7 days in Punta Cana itinerary? Save this Punta Cana travel guide for later!

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The resorts are not my favorite places to go on vacation, but what you say is great. At least to end a trip and relax it seems very good. And you always have the option to go on excursions to other places. I write it down.

By the way, I don’t know how that 360 video is made with tiktok, but it’s awesome.

Greetings and nice future trips!

Thank you so much for the kind words! I actually made the 360-video with the Insta360oneX2 camera + the Insta360 editing software! 🙂

When did you take your trip? Recently? Thanks for all ofnthe great ideas!

Your blog is soooo helpful! My family is planning a trip there over Christmas. There could be 14 of us in total. We need family friendly and all inclusive, ideally. Any suggestions? Our youngest traveler is 13. Thanks for putting this together!

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Update April 12, 2024

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Dominican Republic Travel Advisory

Travel advisory june 6, 2023, dominican republic - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

Country Summary:  Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic. The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in resort areas means these tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo. The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Dominican Republic.

If you decide to travel to the Dominican Republic:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Follow the advice of resort and tour operators regarding local safety and security concerns.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for the Dominican Republic.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

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Caribbean Uncovered

Is Punta Cana Worth Visiting in 2024?

This small resort town in the Dominican Republic is a beautiful place to vacation and the beaches are stunning, but is Punta Cana worth visiting this year? With all of the new resorts and attractions popping up all over the island, Punta Cana is definitely a place you’ll want to check out!

Punta Cana is a popular tourist destination in the Dominican Republic and for good reason. The area boasts beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy

Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or some relaxation, Punta Cana has something for everyone. So if you’re thinking about planning a trip there, go for it – you won’t regret it!

Is Punta Cana Worth Visiting?

Yes, Punta Cana is definitely worth visiting this year! The weather, prices, and wide variety of activities will make for a great vacation for a solo trip, couples weekend away, or family adventure. You’re sure to make great memories in Punta Cana.

The weather in Punta Cana is fantastic – it’s warm and sunny almost every day, with very little rainfall. Punta Cana averages less than 40 inches of rainfall per year.

Additionally, prices are incredibly reasonable, especially for accommodation and food. It’s known as one of the cheapest islands in the Caribbean, so if you’re looking for a vacation on a budget, Punta Cana is a great choice!

And of course, the beaches are absolutely beautiful. There are many great resorts to choose from, all of which offer a wide range of facilities and activities. So if you’re looking for a relaxing place to spend your holidays, Punta Cana is definitely the place to be.

Is Punta Cana safe in 2024?

Punta Cana is a high-traffic, high-tourism destination for US Citizens, and is considered one of the safest areas in the Dominican Republic. Especially if you choose to spend most of your time at one of the Punta Cana all inclusive resorts.

If you’re not staying in resorts and hotels, try to find rentals in securely gated communities! There are plenty of rental options to choose from on VRBO.

As of June 27, 2022, the Dominican Republic has been labeled a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution country for US Citizens to travel to. Out of 4 levels, the last being Reconsider Travel and Do Not Travel, the DR is a great option for Caribbean travel.

What Do You Need to Know About Staying Safe in Punta Cana

Be smart and aware of your surroundings , as you would in any city. Even though it’s considered safe, you should always be mindful of petty theft – keep your car doors locks and hotel rooms locked at all times.

Don’t carry large amounts of cash, or wear expensive items . Don’t travel around alone if you have the choice, especially late at night or in secluded areas.

Take advantage of the concierge and hotel employees by getting recommendations on places to go if you plan to leave the resort.

Why Visit Punta Cana?

Visit Punta Cana if want some great all-inclusive resort options, a bumping nightlife, beautiful beaches, and unique, local food tasting.

If you’re looking for a sunny, sandy getaway, look no further than Punta Cana. This Dominican Republic destination is home to some of the best all-inclusive resorts and hotels in the Caribbean , as well as an array of activities to keep you entertained.

When night falls, the party doesn’t stop, with a selection of nightclubs and bars to keep you dancing into the early hours.

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Visitors can enjoy spending their days relaxing on the pristine beaches, exploring the lush jungle landscape, or indulging in the vibrant nightlife.

Of course, no visit to Punta Cana would be complete without trying some of the local food. From fresh seafood to mouth-watering Dominican classics, like meat stew, plantain mash, and stewed beans, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or a wild party scene, Punta Cana has something to offer everyone.

Where is Punta Cana Located?

Punta Cana is a lush, tropical paradise located on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic.

Best Time to Visit Punta Cana

For those who don’t mind crowds and are looking for the warmest weather possible, peak season (December to April) is the best time to visit. However, keep in mind that prices will be higher during this time and availability may be limited. If you’re set on a winter vacation, Aruba in December is also a great option where you can find budget deals.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience and don’t mind cooler temperatures, off-season (May to November) is a great option. Although there is a chance of rainfall during this time, overall prices will be lower and there will be more availability for activities and accommodations.

Hurricane Season in Punta Cana

Hurricane season runs from June to November, so if you’re planning a trip during this time, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks. October is usually the rainiest month. But, this is also the cheapest time to go, if your priority is to save money and you’re okay with risking some daily rainfall.

Overall, when planning a trip to Punta Cana (or anywhere in the Caribbean!), it’s important to keep in mind that the best time to visit depends on your personal preferences. By doing some research in advance, you can plan the perfect trip for you and your group.

Related reading: Planning a Caribbean vacation: Is Cancun in the Caribbean?

Top Three Things to Do in Punta Cana

Don’t worry about what to do in Punta Cana – the options are endless! Here are a few of my favorite things to do in Punta Cana.

1. ATV and Zipling in Punta Cana

There’s no better way to explore the jungles of Punta Cana (and other islands, like Aruba and Punta Cana ) than from above and below! ATV tours are popular, and ziplining is even more popular. Plan a day of both with this Punta Cana ATV and Ziplining tour .

Book your ATV and Ziplining tour in Punta Cana

2. Playa Bavaro, Bavaro Beach

Punta Cana is a beach lover’s paradise, with turquoise water, soft sand, and plenty of palm trees. Playa Bavaro is the main beach in Punta Cana and home to many of the most popular all-inclusive resorts. But the fun doesn’t stop there – there’s also plenty of opportunity for adventure.

3. Parasail and Snorkel

Water sports abound, from windsurfing and kitesurfing to snorkeling tours and scuba diving. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are plenty of options as well, from golfing and horseback riding to ATV tours and zip-lining.

Snorkel, parasail, and swim 🌊 ☀️ Plan your all-day adventure with Tour Package Punta Cana

4. Punta Cana Nightlife! Congo Bongo and ORO Nightclub

When the sun goes down, the nightlife comes alive, with powerful cocktails and loud nightclubs.

Congo Bongo will put on a Las Vega type show to get your night started with a bang! Tickets start at $70, so plan ahead for this wild club!

Find more Caribbean adventures: Things to Do in St Thomas | Turks Caicos vs Aruba

Punta Cana Resorts – Where to Stay

⭐ Grand Bavaro Princess All-Inclusive Resort

Located on Punta Cana’s main beach, Playa Bavaro, the Grand Bavaro Princess packs a big bang for your buck.

At $350/night, you’ll find yourself on a resort with 2 swimming pools, a full-service spa, bar, 10 on-site restaurants, a fitness center, tennis courts, and more.

Rooms offer private balcony, separate living areas, and Wi-Fi.

Plan your 5 star trip! ⭐ ☀️ Book your vacation at Grand Bavaro Princess

⭐ Iberostar Grand Bavaro Hotel

Choose from lake views or ocean views and enjoy a balcony, AC, TV, Wi-Fi, and more at the all-inclusive Iberostar Grand Bavaro Hotel.

The hotel offers 7 on-site restaurants, golf and optional water sports. This hotel is adults only! So enjoy no interruptions or kid responsibilities here!

All-inclusive, adult-only living ⭐ ☀️ Reserve your stay at Iberostar Grand Bavaro Hotel

Caribbean Dreamin’

If you’re looking for something lowkey, but still luxurious, the Caribbean Dream Suites Playa Los Corales Pool Beach Club & Spa is a great option.

You’ll get free Wi-Fi, private showers, pool, air conditioning, and kitchenette and balcony options.

Romantic getaways ⭐ ☀️ Check availability at Caribbean Dream Suites

Not sure about Punta Cana? Check out hotels in USVI Resorts in St Thomas, USVI | Hotels in St Croix, USVI

Is Uber Safe in the Dominican Republic?

Unlike many Caribbean destinations, Uber operates in the Dominican Republic and is quite safe to use.

As always, be sure to check the vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number, and turn on your Uber pin for extra security before beginning your ride!

Related 🚗 Is there Uber in USVI? | Is it Worth Renting a Car in St Croix Is there Uber in Aruba? | Is there Uber in St Maarten?

Is it Safe to Drink the Tap Water in Punta Cana?

No, it is not recommended to drink the tap water in Punta Cana, or anywhere else in the Dominican Republic. The tap water in Dominican Republic does not undergo any filtration treatment and is not purified.

Be mindful that this includes vegetables and fruits washed in tap water, brushing your teeth, and ice cubes.

Bottled water is readily available and affordable throughout the island, so don’t be stingy about stocking up! It’s best to be safe than have a bad glass of tap and risk getting sick during your island vacation!!

Punta Cana Travel Tips: Know Before You Go

1. immigration requirements to enter.

To enter the Dominican Republic , a valid passport with two blank pages is required.

A tourist card fee of US$10 is incorporated into your airfare cost.

2. Public Buses

Public Buses in Punta Cana only travel to some areas in town, they may not be convenient for your travels. Additionally, pickpocketers are big on public buses, especially during rush hour and high-tourist season. Keep your belongings with you and in eyesight at all times if you choose to take a bus.

3. Don’t Drink the Tap Water

Use bottled water for smoothies, washing fruits and vegetables, ice cubes, and brushing your teeth. Better safe than sorry, and the water in the Dominican Republic does not undergo any treatment.

Water quality is not guaranteed, therefore it is not worth the risk.

4. Buy Excursions from Licensed Companies

You can check to see reviews and licensing from Viator, making it a great place to purchase excursions. Don’t purchase anything from an unlicensed provider.

Conclusion: Is Punta Cana Worth Visiting?

Is Punta Cana worth visiting this year? If you’re still on the fence about whether or not to visit Punta Cana in 2022, allow us to convince you. Not only is the Dominican Republic a stunningly beautiful country, but it’s also home to some of the best beaches in the world.

So if you’re wondering “Is Punta Cana nice?” and “Is Punta Cana worth it?” The answer is a firm yes!

Add in all-inclusive resorts with top-notch amenities and unlimited food and drink, and it’s easy to see why Punta Cana is one of the most popular tourist destinations on earth. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Punta Cana today!

Rachel is passionate about encouraging you to stop waiting and start exploring. After over a decade of traveling through the Caribbean islands, Rachel is sharing all of her secrets. She's passionate about sharing her expert Caribbean travel tips with you to make planning your trip as easy as lying on the beach.

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Is Punta Cana Safe? Everything To Know Before Visiting In 2024!

by waynekask | Mar 31, 2024 | Blog , Caribbean | 0 comments

Last Updated on March 31, 2024

Are you considering a trip to the idyllic coasts of the Dominican Republic?  If so, one of the top questions on your mind might be, “Is Punta Cana safe?”

Fortunately, yes! Although nowhere is 100% safe, Punta Cana is a moderately low-risk destination for travelers.

The gorgeous white sand beaches and turquoise waters draw millions of tourists every year.

In fact, about seven  of the  ten million people who visited the Dominican Republic  in 2023 went to Punta Cana.

Although the Dominican as a whole suffers from high crime rates, including violent crimes such as armed robbery, the statistics in Punta Cana paint a far more promising picture.

Dominican authorities work hard to keep Punta Cana safe.

Besides having police officers, they’ve also implemented safety measures in Punta Cana resorts and increased food and beverage safety checks.

However, as with any trip to a foreign country, it’s important to follow safety precautions.

Tourists can still be victims of opportunistic crimes, such as petty theft and scams. 

Visitors should also safeguard their health through Centers for Disease Control-recommended vaccines, preventing mosquito-borne illnesses, drinking purified water, and avoiding overexposure to the sun.

This popular tourist destination on the east coast of the Dominican Republic is well worth a visit. 

Let’s dive into more considerations to ensure you make the most informed decision possible regarding whether Punta Cana is a safe place for you.

Is Punta Cana Safe For Visitors?

Yes–Punta Cana is generally safe for visitors. However, it’s always a good idea to follow common sense precautions to avoid becoming a victim of a crime or suffering from health issues.

Petty crimes like pickpocketing bag snatching, and sexual harassment can affect visitors.

To avoid problems, don’t leave cell phones or personal belongings unattended.

Avoid bringing expensive jewelry, electronic devices, and other valuable items on your vacation.

Stick to populated tourist areas, especially after dark, and avoid isolated locations.

There are health risks in Punta Cana. Drinking bottled water rather than tap water is best to avoid waterborne illnesses.

Use insect repellent and loose-fitting clothing at dawn and dusk to prevent mosquito bites, which could carry Zika, Dengue, and Malaria.

Limit sun exposure, stay hydrated, and use sunscreen to avoid heatstroke.

You may also want to take malaria prophylaxis since Punta Cana is in a malaria transmission area.

Fortunately, tourist safety is pretty high in the Punta Cana. This is even more true at the all-inclusive resorts.

With 24-hour security, medical services, fire safety measures, employee background checks, lifeguards at the beaches and pools, security cameras, and restricted access, Punta Cana’s luxurious resorts are among the safest places to be.

Safety For Families

If you have extra safety concerns about traveling to Punta Cana with your family, I have good news! This beautiful destination is fairly safe for families.

The best way to keep your family safe and have an awesome time on the stunning beaches of Punta Cana is to follow the safety precautions I mention in the rest of this article.

For example, take extra care to protect your kids from the fierce tropical sun.

Supervise them when they’re swimming, ensure they only drink purified water (no brushing their teeth with tap water), and keep an eye on what they eat.

Protect them from mosquito bites and make sure they wash their hands to avoid unnecessary health concerns.

Also, if you choose to meander further afield than the resorts, ensure your kids stay close and don’t put themselves at risk from the crazy traffic.

Follow these essential tips, and there’s no reason Punta Cana can’t be a memorable travel destination for the whole family.

Looking for an amazing family adventure in Punta Cana?

Check Out The Half-Day Buggy Tour to Water Cave and Macao Beach

Safety For Solo Travelers

Punta Cana is moderately safe for solo travelers, but take additional precautions to avoid any high-risk scenarios, especially if you aren’t staying at one of the all-inclusive resorts.

Solo female travelers should be especially vigilant. Unfortunately, females can experience cat-calling and harassment.

Solo Traveler Safety Tips

Don’t walk alone at night or in remote areas.

Share your travel itinerary with family or trusted friends from home and check in with them regularly.

Let them know what to do if they don’t hear from you within a specified amount of time.

Choose reputable accommodations in safe areas, preferably where there are other guests staying as well (rather than an isolated vacation rental).

Choose reputable transportation services such as Uber and licensed taxis.

Ask your hotel staff about safety guidelines and recommendations for your area.

Although it’s fine to be friendly with the locals, don’t be suggestive, go home with anyone, invite anyone into your hotel room, or give out details about where you’re staying, your room number, or your travel plans.

If you want to enjoy the nightlife, do so with other travelers, and don’t get drunk so you can keep using your best judgment.

Don’t accept drinks that have already been poured or leave your drink unattended. Cover it when you’re talking or otherwise distracted.

As a female traveler, if a man makes advances on you, be firm but polite. For example, say “ No thanks .” or “ Sorry, I need to go. “

Is Punta Cana Safe For A Girls’ Trip?

Yes–Punta Cana is generally safe for a girls’ trip. The resort areas are considered quite safe, but you should take precautions.

For example, keep your hotel room locked, don’t tell anyone your room number, stick together, and watch out for each other.

Don’t accept drinks or rides from strangers or separate from your group. Use licensed taxis to travel around and go on excursions with reputable tour services.

Catcalling and conversational advances are fairly common, even in touristy spots, and might sometimes escalate into sexual assault.

Check the section above for safety tips.

How About Safety At Night?

According to Numbeo, people feel safe walking alone around Punta Cana during the day and moderately safe at night.

If you’re heading out and about after dark, it’s best to go in a group and stick to more frequented or crowded areas.

Avoid isolated locations like the beaches, dark shadowy roads, and neighborhoods in Verón and Friusa.

If you’re staying at a resort, it’s generally safe to walk the grounds at night, but female travelers would be advised to do so in the company of other travelers.

Which Parts Of Punta Cana Are Safe, Risky?

Regarding risky areas in Punta Cana, exercise extra caution in Verón and Friusa and avoid remote areas like beaches and quiet roads after dark.

Fortunately, safe locations abound! Cap Cana, Bávaro, Punta Cana Village, and Uvero Alto are among the best secure spots.

Cap Cana is a tranquil and exclusive community with great levels of safety.

It’s a favorite thanks to the golf courses, marina, private beaches, upscale resorts, and gated communities.

Bávaro is also very tourist-friendly, with heightened security. This area boasts numerous resorts and pristine beaches.

Punta Cana Village is a safe community featuring a mixture of residences and businesses.

There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and services available here. Local authorities ensure the area is secure through regular patrols.

Uvero Alto is another resort area in Punta Cana.

It is less busy than Bávaro but also has great security measures in place, fancy resorts, and lovely beaches.

Is Punta Cana’s Crime Rate High?

According to Numbeo, Punta Cana has a moderate safety rating of 52 out of 100–comparable to places like Denver in the United States or Liverpool in the United Kingdom.

Crime statistics emitted by the Dominican Security Data Analysis Center (CADSECI) state that there were 41 homicides in La Altagracia province—where Punta Cana is located-–in 2022.

Of these, only two occurred in hotels, and zero occurred on beaches.

In 2021, there were 13 armed robberies in the province. 

In 2023, the homicide rate dropped from 4% to 3% in La Altagracia. 

According to the Eastern regional director of the National Police  in La Altagracia, crimes other than homicide were down by 270%.

Besides petty theft, hardly any crimes in Punta Cana target tourists specifically.

Most crimes in the Dominican Republic occur in five main provinces: Santo Domingo, Distrito Nacional, Puerto Plata, Santiago, and San Cristobal.

As a point of comparison, in the same year that there were 41 homicides in La Altagracias, there were 1389 in Santo Domingo.

Explore Punta Cana’s Breathtaking Landscapes With This Tour:   Scape Park Full Day Punta Cana, Caribbean!

Is It Safe To Travel To Punta Cana?

Yes–it is fairly safe to travel to Punta Cana. If you do, you’ll be in good company!

In fact, over 10 million visitors traveled to the Dominican Republic in 2023, with an estimated seven million visiting the resort towns of Punta Cana.

Although violent crimes do occur, tourists are most likely to encounter petty theft.

This Latin American tropical paradise is considered a safe destination, but not all locations in the Dominican are advisable to visit.

The U.S. State Department has issued a level 2 travel advisory for the Dominican due to the higher crime rates in recent years, especially in major cities and urban areas like the capital, Santo Domingo.

They recommend American tourists join the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to register with the closest U.S. Embassy.

Is Punta Cana Swimmable?

Absolutely! Punta Cana’s beaches are famous for their incredible white sand, turquoise waters, and elegant coconut palms.

Punta Cana is like a necklace where each bead represents another delightful sandy shore and luxurious blue water.

Some of the best beaches to check out include Playa Blanca, Juanillo Beach, Playa Bavaro, and Macaco Beach.

Just be sure to stay alert to water conditions, keep an eye on the flags (green means you’re good to go), and protect yourself from the harsh UV rays.

Is It Expensive?

Punta Cana lands in the moderate range when it comes to price. It’s cheaper than other Caribbean destinations and caters to various budgets.

On average, the per-day cost of a trip to this region is $269 for a solo traveler, $484 for a couple, and $908 for a family of six.

Super budget travelers may be able to drop costs to an average of $116 per person per day.

Punta Cana hotels vary from $45 to $406 per night, with an average cost of $167.

Vacation rentals typically cost between $120 to $1000 a night, but about 3% of them are under $100. Some are available for as little as $20 but will be in less desirable areas.

Why Is Punta Cana So Popular?

Punta Cana is popular because of its amazing white-sand beaches with stunning turquoise water, luxurious all-inclusive resorts, fun water activities, and popping nightlife.

The scenery and attractions scream “Caribbean” but are often offered at more affordable prices than many other islands in the region.

Visitors to Punta Cana enjoy snorkeling, scuba-diving, wakeboarding, parasailing, and zip-lining through the jungle canopy.

Dominican dishes like sancocho, chicharrón, and mofongo add extra appeal.

Booking with an all-inclusive resort makes budgeting and logistics easy and often includes fun activities and all-you-can-eat buffets.

Punta Cana Safety Tips

Just mentioning Punta Cana conjures images of pristine beaches and tropical bliss.

However, like any travel destination, safety should be a top priority (whether or not the U.S. State Department says to “exercise increased caution”).

Let’s delve into some essential safety tips to ensure a worry-free and enjoyable stay in this Dominican paradise.

Personal Safety

✓ avoiding theft.

Punta Cana, known for its stunning beaches and all-inclusive resorts, is generally safe. However, opportunistic crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can happen.

Follow these guidelines to keep your belongings secure:

Stay vigilant and alert to what’s happening around you, especially in crowded areas.

Avoid wearing flashy jewelry and carrying large sums of cash:   Get local currency if you can, and carry cash in multiple pockets to make it harder for pickpockets.

Use a crossbody bag and hold it securely.

Avoid using credit/debit cards in public areas:  and be cautious when using public wifi. Cloning and identity theft are prevalent.

Make copies of your ID and passport:  take those with you when you go out so you can leave the originals in your hotel safe.

Theft from hotel rooms is not uncommon, even in resorts.

Always lock your room:  close the windows and balcony doors when you leave, and keep your valuables in either the room safe or the front desk safe.

Beware of Scams: some people in Punta Cana pretend to be lawyers or police officers.

It’s okay to ask for proof of their identity. Do your research before using a local lawyer.

Fake excursions are another potential scam:  Do your best to choose reputable tour companies and avoid depositing money to companies or tour guides you haven’t researched.

✓ Traveling Smart

Refrain from walking in the streets alone:  especially after dark, and don’t go to isolated and remote areas.

If you plan to enjoy the nightlife, go with a group of friends or fellow travelers.

Drink responsibly:  It’s important not to get drunk so you can maintain full use of your judgment, stay alert to potential risks, and prevent anyone from tampering with your food or drink.

Avoid sharing personal information: such as where you’re staying, your room number, or details about your itinerary.

Share your itinerary with family and friends:  check in with them regularly, and let them know where you’re staying and what numbers to contact if you miss a check-in.

Familiarize yourself with the local public transportation system: or use reputable rideshare services like Uber instead of taxis.

If possible, learn some of the local official language (Spanish) so you can ask for directions, ask for help, and avoid scams.

Looking for a trusted tour company with complete activities in Punta Cana?

Check Out This Top-Rated Tour 👉 Half-Day Adventure 4×4 ATV, Water Cave, and Dominican Culture at Punta Cana

Health and Environmental Safety

✓ sun protection.

The sun and tropical climate in the Dominican Republic are  intense.  So be sure to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing .

Avoid the intense midday sun from 11 am to 3 pm to prevent sunstroke.

✓ Tropical Storms

Stay updated on weather conditions , especially during the rainy season (June to November).

There is a possibility of tropical storms and hurricanes during this time, so consider insuring your trip for peace of mind.

✓ Preventing Illness

The tap water in Punta Cana isn’t safe to drink, so stick to bottled water. Staying hydrated will help keep you healthy and feeling your best.

Guard against mosquito-borne diseases by using repellent and appropriate clothing .

Consider the CDC’s recommendation for malaria medication.

Ensure you’re up to date on all your standard vaccines, consider getting a typhoid vaccine , and decide whether or not to take a malaria prophylaxis during your trip.

Don’t buy food from street vendors or any other questionable source.

The last thing you want is to get a stomach bug or food poisoning! Always wash your hands before eating as well.

Buy comprehensive travel insurance before your trip to make sure any health-related issues that might come up are covered.

Transportation Safety

Use licensed taxis or rideshares like Uber .

Steer clear of local motorcycle taxis (a.k.a. motorcoaches), as they can be unsafe.

There are a lot of road deaths in the Dominican, and motorcycles are a contributing factor.

Safe Places To Stay In Punta Cana

1. royalton chic punta cana.

Photo credit – Expedia

⭐️ Rating: 7.7/10      📌 Location: Highway Macao Uvero Alto Beach, Punta Cana    Check Rates Here

Situated on a gorgeous beachfront in in Punta Cana, the Royalton CHIC Punta Cana   is a 5-star resort that features a stellar outdoor pool, a spa and wellness center, upscale restaurants, a bar, and a private beach area.

I stayed in this resort during my vacation in Punta Cana and I can assure you, this place is worth it!

From their world-class service, top-notch food, and amazing views, the Royalton CHIC is truly a tropical paradise.

Check Rates For Royalton CHIC Punta Cana

2. Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana

⭐️ Rating: 9.0/10      📌 Location: Uvero Alto, Punta Cana     Check Rates Here

If you’re looking for the best luxury and more private accommodation in Punta Cama, Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana is your best choice.

This luxury resort features a huge outdoor swimming pool and relaxing indoor pools in each accommodation.

It also offers a beautiful private beach area, a bar and garden for guests to relax and unwind.

The impecable service and stunning amenities will make your stay in Punta Cana truly memorable.

Book the Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana

3. Costa Love Aparta Hotel

⭐️ Rating: 8.5/10    📌 Location: Av. Pastor Domingo de la Cruz, Punta Cana    Check Rates Here

For budget-friendly accommodation in Punta Cana, I highly recommend the Costa Love Aparta Hotel . 

This aparthotel offers complete room amenities and features an in-house restaurant and bar for an affordable price.

Check Rates For Costa Love Aparta Hotel

Final Thoughts: Is Punta Cana Safe?

Punta Cana is a fairly safe destination in the Dominican Republic.

Although nowhere is completely safe, taking a few precautions will go a long way to ensuring you have the best time possible on your trip.

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Me in Nassau, Bahamas enjoying the beach and crystal clear waters.

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Always On The Shore contains affiliate links and if you make a purchase, we make a small commission at no cost to you.

For more information, please read the disclaimer page . 

Booking a last-minute trip to Punta Cana?  

If so, we have you covered.  

Top Tours in Punta Cana

Half-Day Tour: Dominican Republic at Punta Cana (Mixed Tour with 4×4 ATV, Water Cave and Dominican Republic Culture)

Half-Day Buggy Tour to Water Cave and Macao Beach (Off-road adventure in Dominican countryside)

Party Boat / Catamaran Party In Punta Cana ( Party boat cruise with lots of activities)

Private Catamaran Booze Cruise & Snorkeling (Private Party Catamaran Cruise)

Horseback Riding On a Punta Cana Beach ( Enjoy coastal views from a back of a horse)

Top Rated Hotels & Accommodations –  Booking.com

Looking To Get Around In Punta Cana?  

Check out rental car rates here! 🚗

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Adults Only Resorts - Punta Cana (2024) - Punta Cana Forum

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- Bahia Principe Aquamarine

- Bahia Principe Ambar

- Barcelo Bavaro Beach

- Be Live Collection Punta Cana

- Breathless

- Catalonia Royal Bavaro

- El Beso at El Faro

- Excellence El Carmen

- Excellence Punta Cana

- Hideaway at RPC

- Hyatt Zilara

- Iberostar Grand

- Live Aqua

- Melia Punta Cana

- Punta Cana Princess

- RIU Palace Macao

- RIU Republica

- Royalton CHIC

- Sanctuary Cap Cana

- Secrets Cap Cana

- Secrets Royal Beach

- Secrets Tides

- TRS Cap Cana

- TRS Turquesa

20 replies to this topic

Have replaced the thread with the new list in top questions but did want to keep the old thread on here as there were lots of discussions about various resorts on it. Can be useful as reference.

https://www.tripadvisor.ca/ShowTopic-g147293-i28-k13987345-Adults_Only_Resorts_Punta_Cana-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Republic.html

I love at TRS large adult beach with a lot of palapa . Love to be on the beach and not fighting for shades. Been at Magestic Elegance but beach adult area very small.

Barcelo Bavaro Beach nice resort but shades only under the palms and you have to move around.

Also TRS has good selection of restaurants due to be part of Paladium group.

Any recommendations would be nice.

I am looking to book an Adult Only hotel in PC traveling a solo female. What can you recommend? I am looking for social, lively and still big enough to have quiet places to relax. I don't mind a casino...and it is not needed. I am a HUGE Foodie!! Great food is required.

Thank you in advance for even reading my message

Excellence typically caters more to couples. Would recommend looking at CHIC. Fun, lively but upscale modern resort. Breathless is another option. Both have casino, disco etc...

Out of all of your favorites, are there any that are hot and muggy inside? I keep seeing random reviews about some of these resorts being super hot and the AC not working well I definitely like it cold inside and only hot when I’m outside. Lol.

No issues with AC indoor at any of the resorts I have visited recently. But yes, outdoor or open air bars and restaurants can be warmer especially on hot days/evenings. I much prefer warmer than colder evenings we have experienced in Mexico.

May I ask you if you have thoughts on breathless ? Is t really geared for 20 year old partiers? I love the price . EEC vs epc biggest difference ?

myself, my wife, my cousin and his wife are planning a may trip to punta cana. I have never been to an all inclusive before or out of the usa. would like that and adult only. i am a fairly picky person as food goes and want a clean hotel room. looking for maybe a casino, but definetly want a beach and massage LOL. dont want to break the bank. what order would you put this list in for us to decide where to stay? majestic elegance, majestic mirage, majestic colonial, riu republica, TRS, barcelo bavaro or do you know of a better place around these price ranges

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Punta Cana Hotels and Places to Stay

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Entry Requirements for the Dominican Republic

Home » Blog » Entry Requirements for the Dominican Republic

Entry Requirements for the Dominican Republic (Updated 2024)

Traveling to the Dominican Republic is a Visa-Free seamless experience for visitors from various countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Mexico, many South American countries, Central America, Japan, Israel, and more. As of April 23, 2022, the travel landscape has evolved, bringing noteworthy changes to visa requirements and COVID-19 protocols.

Airports and other ports of entry will perform a quick, aleatory breath test to between 3% and 15% of passengers, and all those who present symptoms, upon arrival. Passengers under the age of five and crew members are exempt from this procedure. All passengers will also need to perform a temperature check. Passengers who present symptoms or whose test results are positive will be isolated and attended at authorized locations. Prior to departure, travelers should confirm with their airline provider and airport of origin regarding any testing or other related requirements for inbound flights to the Dominican Republic, or necessary requirements needed upon arrival to their country of origin.

Presentation of vaccination cards upon arrival in the Dominican Republic In accordance with the protocols approved by the Civil Aviation Board within the framework of its faculties, the presentation of vaccination cards will  NOT  be required for passengers arriving in the Dominican Republic.

Admission to hotels, resorts and services offered therein To enter the hotels and services offered within them and to enter hotel complexes, it will not be necessary to present the vaccination card against COVID-19, nor the negative PCR test, taking into consideration the application of the strict Protocols of Risk Management previously approved for the sector.

All airports and tourism activities in the Dominican Republic are open, as well as the ports, marinas and anchorage facilities to receive yachts, ferries, and cruise ships.

The Dominican Republic adopted an electronic system providing digital versions of the Traveler’s Health Affidavit, Customs Declaration and International Embarkation/Disembarkation forms, combined in a single digital form. All passengers entering and departing the country on commercial flights will be required to fill out and submit their digital forms through the  Electronic Ticket Portal  either before or upon their arrival to the country. To save time during the arrival procedure, we recommend filling out the form 72 hours before the trip, printing or making a screenshot of the QR code and keeping it on hand until arrival, where it will be scanned by the authorities when the passenger goes through Customs. Passengers will need to fill out a form for arrival and another one for departure and the system will generate two QR codes. The QR code will not be scanned during departure, but it is a confirmation that the form was completed correctly. If you need to make a change to the form, in the E-ticket portal you can select the option to consult the issued E-ticket, enter the application code of the form and make the necessary changes. Dominican airports have free internet access, so that passengers who did not fill out the form before flying can do so when they arrive in the country. For additional information and to watch an instructional video, please visit:  https://viajerodigital.mitur.gob.do/ .  Passengers arriving on private flights, non-commercial vessels, ferries, cruise ships, etc., do not need to fill out the electronic form. The physical Traveler’s Health Affidavit, Customs Declaration and International Embarkation/Disembarkation forms will be accepted for the aforementioned passengers.

STAY EXTENSION

If staying beyond 30 days, expect an additional fee upon departure–determined on a sliding scale according to the total length of your stay.  See the applicable fees and upload required documents  here , to be paid online before departure or at the airport’s immigration section–after check-in and past security–upon departure.

For more information, please visit  https://www.godominicanrepublic.com/newsroom/coronavirus/  where you will be able to find all relevant information about the measures that are being implemented in the country’s tourism industry.

The Dominican Republic issues tourist, business, work, student, and residency visas. Tourist visas can be issued for one or several entries.  Any person, regardless of their nationality, can visit Dominican Republic if they are a legal resident of or, if they have one of the following valid visas in their passport: United States, Canada, United Kingdom or Schengen. Travelers who do not have a passport or visa from countries listed above or from other authorized countries will need to apply for a visa. To issue a visa the passport needs to have a validity of at least six (6) months.

See list of  Dominican consulates abroad here .

The departure tax is US$20. It is already included in your airline ticket fare.

Be sure to always check for up-to-date requirements before traveling.

You are allowed to bring the following items into the Dominican Republic:

• A maximum of 20 packs of cigarettes, 25 cigars, or 200 grams of tobacco.
• Up to three (3) liters in total of wine, beer, rum, whiskey, or liquor.
• You may also bring in gifts of a value of up to US$500 (five hundred United States Dollars) once every three months.
• Medicines for personal use, in quantities that justify the exclusive use of the passenger. In the case of medicines that contain psychotropic substances, you must present the prescription for their use.

Click  HERE  for more information .

Do You Need a Passport for Punta Cana?

Yes, a valid passport is a non-negotiable requirement for traveling to Punta Cana. Whether you’re arriving from the United States, Canada, Europe, or elsewhere, having a passport is mandatory for entry into the Dominican Republic. Make sure your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date.

Do Children Need Passports?

• Yes, all travelers, regardless of age, need a passport to enter Punta Cana. This includes infants and minors.

Can I Use a Passport Card?

• While a passport card is sufficient for land and sea travel to certain destinations, flying to Punta Cana requires a traditional passport book.

How Far in Advance Should My Passport Expire?

• It’s recommended to renew your passport if it has less than six months of validity beyond your intended departure date to avoid any complications.

Do I Need a Visa in Addition to a Passport?

• Most visitors to Punta Cana do not require a visa for short stays. However, check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality.

Is a COVID-19 Vaccination Card Required?

• As of the latest update in April 2022, a COVID-19 Vaccination Card is not required for entry into Punta Cana. However, travelers should stay informed about any changes to travel protocols.

What if I Lose My Passport in Punta Cana?

• Report the loss to local authorities and contact your embassy or consulate immediately. Carry a photocopy of your passport separately for such emergencies.

Can I Travel to Punta Cana with a Soon-to-Expire Passport?

• To avoid potential issues, ensure your passport has ample validity, ideally more than six months, beyond your planned departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many countries require a negative COVID-19 test before boarding your departing flight or entering your home country. Please confirm with the authorities of your destination country the specific type of viral test you need (PCR, antigen or antibodies) and the time it should be administered (48, 72 or 96 hours). It is important to note that these requirements depend on the authorities of other countries and can change at any time.

Below you will find a list of laboratories within the Dominican Republic that are authorized to test for COVID-19. Please confirm with each laboratory if they perform the type of test you need to travel back to your destination country, the estimated time for delivery of results and the cost. Please contact each laboratory directly. The following test prices and delivery times are subject to change.

CGE CLINICAL LABORATORY (CENTRO GASTRODIAGNÓSTICO SRL)

It has three branches strategically located in the following Santo Domingo neighborhoods:

• Gazcue: Calle José Joaquín Pérez #208.
• Naco: Avenida Tiradentes # 14, Plaza Alfonso Comercial, 1st Floor.
• Los Prados: Calle Nicolás Ureña Mendoza #2.

COVID-19 PCR Tests: 

Available at all locations. Walk in at all locations (no appointment needed).

• Cost : RD$ 3,500 (approx. USD$ 60.00)
• Results:  15 to 24 hours.

COVID-19 PCR PRIORITY Tests: 

• Cost : RD$ 4,300 (approx. USD$ 70.00)
• Results:  6 to 8 hours.

COVID-19 Antigen Tests: 

• Cost : RD$ 1,600 (approx. USD$ 27.00)
• Results:  1 to 2 hours.

For more information:

• Website:   www.cgelaboratorio.com /  www.cgegrupomedico.com
• Contact Center:  809-221-4190 ext. 221/ 809-221-3000
• WhatsApp:  829-213-4395

AMADITA CLINICAL LABORATORY

It has 47 branches strategically located nationwide for general clinical analysis.

TESTING SERVICES FOR TRAVELERS:

Antigen Tests:

This test is available at almost every branch in the country in Santo Domingo, La Romana, Bávaro, Punta Cana, Higuey, Jarabacoa, Santiago, San Pedro de Macorís an Azua, among others. This test does not require an appointment and it can be requested directly at the branch or through the following channels:

• Amadita App  (available for Android & IOS)
• Web page   www.amadita.com
• WhatsApp:  +1(809) 682-5414

Cost: RD$1,700 (approx. USD$30)

Results: Between 2 and 4 hours

You must present your passport.

COVID-19 PCR tests:

The COVID-19 PCR test is performed nationwide by requesting a visit to your hotel of a specialist or in person at the special collection points located in Santo Domingo and Santiago. You can request the test by completing the form required by the Ministry of Health through the following channels:

Cost: RD$4,100 (approx. USD$72)

Results: Between 48 and 72 hours.

You must make an appointment and present your passport.

Respiratory SARS COV 2 (COVID-19) tests:

This test is performed nationwide by requesting a visit to your hotel of a specialist or in person at the special collection points located in Santo Domingo and Santiago. You can request the test  through the following channels:

Cost: RD$8,500

Results: Between 4 and 8 hours.

For more information contact +1(809) 682-5414 or  www.amadita.com .

AMADITA CLINI CAL LABORATORY AT  LAS AMÉRICAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SANTO DOMINGO)

Amadita Clinical Laboratory offers antigen and respiratory panel testing at Las Las Américas International Airports (Santo Domingo)  only for emergencies.

The lab in the airport is located on the third level and is open from Monday to Sunday, between 5:00AM and 8:00 PM.

Antigen Test cost: RD$1,700

Cost of Mini Respiratory Panel with SARS COV 2 Test : RD$8,500

More information:

• App Amadita (available for Android & IOS)
• WhatsApp : +1(809)682-5414
• amadita.com

REFERENCIA CLINICAL LABORATORY

A network of 51 locations throughout the country.

Available without appointment, starting at 2:00PM, to travelers presenting a confirmed flight itinerary and a form of identification, at the Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, Bávaro, Higuey, La Romana, Puerto Plata, San Francisco de Macorís, La Vega, Nagua, Azua, Baní and San Juan de la Maguana branches.

Cost: RD$1,750

Results: 3 hours.

PCR Tests: 

Available at all branches throughout the country  with home-testing at hotels or  drive-through service (Auto Service). Appointment is required.

Cost: RD$4,300

Results: 48 hours

Express PCR Test:

Available at the Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Bávaro and La Romana branches.

Cost: RD$5,000

Results: 24 hours

For more information or to schedule an appointment:

• Tel.  +1(809) 221-2684 ext. 50
• WhastApp : +1(809)221-5545
• [email protected]
• https://www.labreferencia.com/

PATRIA RIVAS CLINICAL LABORATORY

With 10 branches throughout the country, the lab also offers the service of home testing.

Available in the San Cristóbal, Punta Cana and  El Seibo Branches.

To schedule an appointment:

WhatsApp:  +1(829)292-9612

Tel.  +1 (809) -685-0950, ext. 1002 and 1003

https://patriarivas.com.do/covid-19/

email:  [email protected]

PUNTO  MÉDICO

Branches in:

• Santo Domingo
• San Cristobal

Cost: USD$90

Results: Between 24 and 72 hours

An appointment is necessary. The lab also offers home testing at selected hotels.

https://www.puntomedico.com.do/prueba-covid-19

• Tel:  +1(809)338-3338 and +1(809)562-0040

Whatsapp: +1(809)562-0040

Antigen Test:

No appointment is necessary. Available at the following branches, from 7:00AM to 5:00 PM:

• Punta Cana International Airport
• Bávaro City Center, Bávaro.
• Punto Medico Plaza Coral, Santiago
• Punto Medico La Fuente, Santiago
• Punto Medico Zona Universitaria, Santo Domingo,
• Punto Medico Diamond Plaza, Santo Domingo.
• Punto Medico Occidental Mall, Santo Domingo.
• Hospital Semma, Santiago

Cost: USD$45

Results: Between 30 and 40 minutes

More information:   https://www.puntomedico.com.do

PUNTO  MÉDICO AT PUNTA CANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Punto Médico laboratory offers antigen testing at the Punta Cana International Airport, from Monday to Sunday, between 7:00AM and 5:00 PM. No appointment is necessary.

Antigen Test cost: USD$45

• Email :  [email protected] ,  [email protected]
• Whatsapp:  +1 (809)562-0040
• puntomedico.com.do

CENTRO MÉDICO PUNTA CANA

Cost: RD$4,500

Cost: RD$2,000

Results: If the test is administered at the branch, between 2 and 4 hours. If the test is administered at the hotel, between 24 and 48 hours.

Additionally, guests staying at the following hotels can have the PCR or antigen test administered at the medical center in the property: Majestic Resorts, Nickelodeon, Catalonia Bávaro, RIU Republic, RIU Complejo, Viva Dominicus Bayahibe, Hilton Bayahibe, and Catalonia Bayahibe.

To schedule an appointment:  scan this QR code 

For more information call:  + 1 (809) -552-1506

Call Center – 24 hours / day:  +1 (809) 473-7283

Email:  [email protected]

Website:   https://www.centromedicopuntacana.com

HOSPITEN BÁVARO, PUNTA CANA

Hospiten has a partnership with several hotels in Punta Cana. Bávaro, Capcana and Uvero Alto to administer testing on the property. Please confirm with your hotel if they are part of this agreement.

Cost: USD$125

For tests administered on hotel property please check availability with Guest Services. For tests administered at the lab, please make an appointment by calling:

Tel:  +1 (809) 686-1414 ext. 2560

Cost: USD$35

Results: 20 minutes

Email:   [email protected]

Tel:  +1 (809) 686 1414

https://hospiten.com/centros-y-hospitales/cid/6

IMG HOSPITAL, PUNTA CANA

To schedule an appointment: +1 (809) 285 6116

For more information visit:  https://img.hospital

BOURNIGAL MEDICAL CENTER, PUERTO PLATA

Additionally, guests staying at the following hotels can have the PCR or antigen test administered at the medical center in the property: Lifestyle Hotels Cofresi, Senator, and Casa Marina Sosua.

To schedule an appointment:  scan this QR code

For more information:  +1 (809) 586-2342

Cellular / WhatsApp  +1 (829) 679-3155 (Monday to Friday from 8 am-6pm)

Email:  [email protected]

For more information:   https://www.centromedicobournigal.com

BOURNIGAL MEDICAL CENTER AT  GREGORIO LUPER Ó N INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, PUERTO PLATA

Service available from 10:00Am to 5:00PM.

Results: Between 20 and 30 minutes

HOSPITEN SANTO DOMINGO

Results: Same day, approximately 3 to 4 hours

Tests are administered only in the mornings, starting at 8:00 AM, from Monday to Friday.

Tel:  +1 (809) 541 30 00 ext. 2840

Email:  [email protected]

For more information visit:   https://hospiten.com/centros-y-hospitales/cid/4

CENTRO DIAGNÓSTICO DE HELICOBÁCTER PYLORI Y LABORATORIO CLÍNICO ESPECIALIZADO, SANTO DOMINGO

Cost: RD$3,000

Results: Between 1 and 2 hours.

An appointment is not necessary but suggested. Walk-ins welcomed and served on a first-come basis.

Tel: +1 (809) 567-1996 or +1(809) 732-7044 (for information in English please ask to speak to Dr. Lyanne Santana)

Whatsapp: +1(809)857-1952

Email:  [email protected]

Address: Calle Frank Félix Miranda #11. Ensanche Naco. Santo Domingo

LABORATORIO CLÍNICO SIRENY. LAS TERRENAS. SAMANÁ

It is strategically located in the municipality of Las Terrenas, Samaná. It has clinical analysis services in general and also offers testing service for travelers.

Antígen test COVID-19: Available by appointment at home or at the hotel. It is essential to have a passport if it is for travel. Also available with self-service in the laboratory parking lot, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cost: RD$3,500 (aprox. USD$62)

Results: 24 horas

COVID-19 PCR tests: Available with Self Service in the laboratory parking lot. It is essential to make an appointment.

Cost: RD$ 6,500 (aprox. USD$114)

Results: 24 to 48 hours

• Tel.  +1(809) 240-5910
• WhatsApp  +1(809) 847-3880
• Cel.  +1(809) 756-7476

General measures to protect against respiratory diseases include:

• Frequently clean your hands (wash them with soap and water or alcohol solutions), especially after direct contact with sick people or their environment.
• Avoid contact with people with signs of a respiratory illness, such as coughing or sneezing.
• Cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues when you cough or sneeze, and then wash your hands.

These measures also help protect you against frequent illnesses like the flu.

If you suspect that you have symptoms of COVID-19, the United States Center for Disease Control advises you to take the following steps:

• Stay in your home or hotel room and call the doctor before going for a medical visit.
• Avoid contact with other people and animals.
• Wear a mask.
• Cover your mouth or nose with a disposable tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands regularly and for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid sharing personal items with others.
• Clean all high-contact surfaces every day.
• Monitor your symptoms.

The most common symptoms are fever, cough, and feeling short of breath. In some cases, there may also be digestive symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. Symptoms can be aggravated in vulnerable individuals such as the elderly or people with compromised immune systems, among others.

COVID-19: general aviation flights arriving from and departing to Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela airports (MAIQUETIA FIR) are suspended.

These measures may be revised, rescinded, or extended by the Dominican Civil Aviation Institute and the Dominican Civil Aviation Board after evaluation of the circumstances that originated them.

Information on COVID-19 can be found on the websites of different official organizations. Our recommendations are as follows:

• World Health Organization:
• https://www.who.int/en/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
• Pan American Health Organization:
• https://www.paho.org/hq/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=15696:coronavirus-disease-covid-19&Itemid=4206&lang=es
• Dominican Republic Ministry of Public Health:
• https://www.msp.gob.do/web/
• United States Center for Disease Control:
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index-sp.html

Things to do in the Dominican Republic

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Puerto Plata vs. Punta Cana – which holiday destination should you choose?

You can’t decide if you shall book your vacation to Punta Cana or Puerto Plata? It might indeed be a difficult decision as both are the top holiday destinations in the Dominican Republic. While Punta Cana is famous for its endless sandy beaches and elegant all-inclusive resorts, Puerto Plata can score with a more low-key atmosphere and incomparable natural attractions. As I have been to both holiday destinations several times (and am living in one of them 😉 ) I have made a comprehensive comparison between both and tell you at the end which is the better place to go: Puerto Plata or Punta Cana?

Flight connections: Puerto Plata or Punta Cana?

Airport transfers: puerto plata or punta cana, hotel options: puerto plata or punta cana, prices and travel budget: puerto plata or punta cana, which beach is the best: puerto plata or punta cana, where can you have the best excursions: puerto plata or punta cana, where can you have the best adventures: puerto plata or punta cana, where can you have the best food: puerto plata or punta cana, where is it better to start a road trip: puerto plata or punta cana, where can you expect the better caribbean weather: puerto plata or punta cana, which tourist area is more authentic: puerto plata or punta cana.

If you want to know how to get from Punta Cana to Puerto Plata, you can check out this post .

Completely UPDATED: December 2023

Flight Connections

Flights to punta cana.

 Punta Cana is one of the biggest hubs in the Caribbean and features connections to over 20 countries. As of December 2023, the United States has direct flights to Punta Cana (seasonal or year-round) from more than twenty cities, among them – year-round flights to Punta Cana from Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Cleveland, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Miami, New York–JFK, Newark, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Juan, Tampa and Washington and – seasonal flights to Punta Cana from Dallas, Detroit, Houston, Minneapolis, St. Louis and San Juan

Canada is also well represented when it comes to airlift to Punta Cana. For 2024, Punta Cana connects close to 20 Canadian cities with direct services, among them – year-round flights to Punta Cana from Montréal, Québec City and Toronto and – seasonal flights to Punta Cana from Bagotville, Calgary, Edmonton, Fredericton, Gander, Halifax, Hamilton (ON), Kitchener/Waterloo, London (ON), Moncton, Ottawa, Regina, St. John’s, Saskatoon, Vancouver, Winnipeg

When it comes to countries, Punta Cana International Airport offers non-stop services to 21 countries. Besides the US and Canada, those countries are Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Haiti, Netherlands, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, UK, US and Venezuela. Compared to the beginning of 2022, there won’t be any flights from Russia, Finland, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Romania and Ukraine anymore in 2024.

 If you can’t find the right flight to Punta Cana, you can also fly to La Romana (with limited connections to the United States and Italy) and Santo Domingo . The last one mentioned is the capital of the Dominican Republic, around 2 hours away from Punta Cana and does have several connections to Latin America, Europe, the Caribbean and North America, totaling up to around 20 different countries as well.

Editor’s Choice: the best experiences 2024

Most unique experience in a small group: Authentic rum tasting * (rating 4.78/5) Best Rated Punta Cana excursion: Isla Saona Premium in small groups * (rating 4.95/5) Most booked through Punta Cana Travel Blog: Small-Group Snorkeling * (rating 4.91/5) Best off-the-beaten-track excursion: Montana Redonda & Costa Esmeralda * (rating 4.79/5) Best excursion for family fun: Jungle Buggies + Zipline Combo * (rating 4.91/5) New and trending for 2024: Evening Buggy Tour with Water Cave and Dancing * Not the right tour for you? Check out the 45 best Punta Cana excursions here at Punta Cana Travel Blog!

Flights to Puerto Plata

 Compared to Punta Cana, Puerto Platas’ flight connections are considerably less. Sometimes it might be a struggle to reach Puerto Plata via the international Gregorio Luperón Airport. Although Puerto Plata has recovered from some years with hardly any flight connections, it still only features direct flights to 6 countries worldwide for 2024, which are 4 less than 2 years ago. Among those countries are the United States, Canada, Germany, Switzerland, Poland and Turks & Caicos.

Still, there are a few connections to the US and Canada, even though the frequencies are remarkably lower than to Punta Cana or Santo Domingo as a lot of the destinations are only served once or twice weekly.

For 2024, the US can count with – non-stop flights to Puerto Plata from Miami, New York, Newark and San Juan and – seasonal flights to Puerto Plata from Boston and Charlotte

Interestingly enough, Canada has more cconnections to Puerto Plata than the US – 10 cities enjoy direct flights to Puerto Plata among them – non-stop flights to Puerto Plata from Toronto and Montreal and – seasonal flights to Puerto Plata from Halifax, Hamilton, Moncton, Ottawa, Québec City, Regina, Saskatoon and Winnipeg

However, similar to Punta Cana, Puerto Plata does have an alternative airport that is around an hour away – Cibao International Airport close to the second biggest city in the Dominican Republic, Santiago de los Caballeros. Santiago counts with excellent connections to New York with usually more than 10 non-stop services daily (!) (+ services to Boston, Fort Lauderdale and Miami), but it lacks flights to other countries as it is just connected with Turks & Caicos, Panama and Colombia otherwise. 

In case you want to visit Puerto Plata but get better and cheaper flights to Punta Cana, you can find all the options for getting from Punta Cana to Puerto Plata here .

Head to head: Punta Cana Airport vs. Puerto Plata Airport

 The discrepancy of Punta Cana and Puerto Plata can also be seen in the total number of passengers. While Punta Cana and Santo Domingo together received 7 million passengers in 2023, Puerto Plata and Santiago just counted around 1.2 million passengers combined. You definitely find more flight connections to Punta Cana, even though they are not necessarily cheaper.

  Preliminary score: Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata 1-0

Transfer time from the airport to the hotel

Transfers from punta cana international airport.

  Punta Cana International Airport is located right at the ocean and the roads from the airport to the resorts are well maintained and developed. Depending on where you are staying, your transfer time – assuming you are booking a private transfer – can vary between 5 and 45 minutes. When choosing a resort directly in Punta Cana or Cap Cana you are there in 10 minutes, if you go all the way to Uvero Alto it will take you at least 35 minutes. However, most all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana are a 20-30-minutes ride away from Punta Cana International Airport.

 In case you won’t like to book a private transfer from the airport in Punta Cana, you can also go by shared transfers, Punta Cana public transport or rent a car .  Continue reading here about all options you have to get to and from Punta Cana International Airport .

Transfers from Puerto Plata International Airport

 Gregorio Luperón International Airport in Puerto Plata has a nice oceanfront location as well, counting (usually) for beautiful ocean view approaches when landing. It is located halfway between Puerto Plata and Sosua. Travel time to most all-inclusive resorts in Puerto Plata is a mere 20-minutes, if you have booked a hotel at Playa Cofresi (Senator, Playa Bachata) it is a 35-40 minutes ride.

 Same as in Punta Cana, transfers at Puerto Plata Airport can be arranged by private transfers, shared transfers, public transport or by renting a car .

In case you are arriving in Punta Cana and want to go to Puerto Plata you can find a full guide here about getting from Punta Cana to Puerto Plata or vice versa .

Head to head: airport transfers Puerto Plata vs. Punta Cana

 Travel time, prices and available options are similar at both airports, Punta Cana and Puerto Plata. Therefore, it is a tie. 

  Preliminary score: Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata 1.5-0.5

Hotel Quality and Selection 

Hotel options in punta cana.

 Hotel options in Punta Cana are endless – and this goes for the choice of accommodation types in general as well as for the selection of all-inclusive resorts . It doesn’t matter if you are looking for a luxury villa next to the golf course, a small guesthouse in the town center, a beachfront condominium or one of the omnipresent all-inclusive resorts, Punta Cana has it all. And as most of the properties were just built in the last 5-15 years, the majority of accommodation is quite new.

Quality is an important word in Punta Cana, I am always impressed with what you get for your money. Everything is super clean, high quality and the service usually impeccable (of course, depending on your final choice of accommodation), but there is hardly anything you will miss while enjoying your vacation in Punta Cana. If you are not sure how to find the best all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, check out this article .

Hotel Options in Puerto Plata

 Puerto Plata does have its own little all-inclusive area called Playa Dorada with several all-inclusive resorts as well as further hotels at Costa Dorada and Playa Cofresi. However, you can see and feel that the boom of Puerto Plata was in the 90s – and that most resorts were constructed back at that time. This is why most accommodation in Puerto Plata tend to be a bit older even though they are renovated, of course. Furthermore, when determining if you shall visit Punta Cana or Puerto Plata, the latter one is lacking true luxury options as most hotels here are in the budget and middle-class segment. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t get good deals in Puerto Plata, especially as the price level is significantly lower than in Punta Cana (see next point in the comparison Puerto Plata vs. Punta Cana).

Head to head: Punta Cana accommodation vs. Puerto Plata accommodation

 Punta Cana does have significantly better hotel options – both in quantity and in quality. Just check the links above and you will be overwhelmed by the options (this is why I offer travel coaching by the way 😉 ). On the other hand, compared to Punta Cana, Puerto Platas’ choices are limited, but you can get good deals though.

 Preliminary score: Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata 2.5-0.5

Prices for a holiday in Punta Cana

 Even the Dominican Republic is a developing country with a decent price level, Punta Cana is not a budget destination. This is due to heavy tourism which levels up the local prices. But also hotels in Punta Cana are more expensive than in other parts of the country – partly because of the high demand, partly because of the high quality mentioned before.

 It is very hard to put a general price tag on a Punta Cana vacation as it all depends on your needs and how you are traveling. But to give you a few examples, Punta Canas all-inclusive resorts are starting at around 75-80 USD per person per night in low season, while you can grab a deal in Puerto Plata starting from 60-70 USD. Transport prices in Punta Cana are nearly doubled (public transport and taxi) compared to the rest of the country due to the focus of solvent tourists. And while I can get my Cuba Libre on several beach bars in the country for 100 to 150 Dominican Pesos (approx. 2-3 USD), a common price for the same drink in Punta Cana is between 5 and 6 USD. These examples can be continued with restaurants, services, activities, etc., but I think you get the point.

Travel resources

Punta Cana Airport Transfers : Info | Book It * Santo Domingo Airport Transfers: Info | Book It * All-Inclusive Resorts: Info | Book It * Apartments & Villas: Info | Book It * Excursions: Info | Book It * Rental Car: Info | Book It * Road-Trips & Self-Drive Tours: Info | Plan It

Prices for a holiday in Puerto Plata

 Compared to Punta Cana, Puerto Plata vacations usually come with a lower price tag. As mentioned above, hotel deals might be significantly cheaper in Puerto Plata and due to the lower impact of tourism to this area, general prices are lower as well, even not as low as in other parts of the country. The interesting thing about Puerto Plata is that you get prices like a local once you leave the resort and head toward the city center of Puerto Plata, a nice bustling town with all the chaos, charm and beauty the Dominican Republic has to offer.

Head to head: Punta Cana prices vs. Puerto Plata prices

 A vacation in Puerto Plata is more probable to end up cheaper than in Punta Cana. The only problem might be higher flight prices due to the limited connections described in the first point (but you can fly to Punta Cana and head to Puerto Plata from there ), but once you score a good deal, Puerto Plata will please your travel budget more than Punta Cana do.

  Preliminary score: Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata 2.5-1.5

The beaches in Punta Cana and Puerto Plata

The punta cana beach.

 The beach might be the most important reason when raising the question if Puerto Plata or Punta Cana is better. After all, this is why people choose to book a vacation in the Caribbean.

Looking at Punta Cana, it is no wonder why millions of people head to this holiday destination every year. More than 30 miles of beaches are awaiting you in the whole area of Punta Cana, all of them with the finest sand, ranging in color between white (especially in Cap Cana and Punta Cana) and lightly golden (in the Uvero Alto area). You can have endless beach walks, particularly at Bavaro Beach , swim in the blue or turquoise ocean and enjoy thousands of swaying palm trees.

Beach clubs, pristine stretches and colorful boats every now and then are counting for great photo opportunities, including beautiful Macao Beach . Is there anything else you can ask for from a Caribbean beach? Interested in further information? Check out the 10 best beaches in Punta Cana here .

The Puerto Plata beach

 Puerto Plata has a decent beach as well. Calm waters, a long stretch of golden sand, a very calm atmosphere and if you leave Playa Dorada eastward, you enter a particularly pristine part of the beach without any people or buildings – nature at its best. Still, Puerto Plata cannot compete with Punta Canas beaches, there is hardly anyone arguing about that. The only advantage Puerto Plata might have beach-wise is that it is a lot less populated – the hundreds of people strolling up and down the beach in Punta Cana you won’t find in Puerto Plata.

 Hardly any category in the battle of Puerto Plata vs. Punta Cana is as easy to determine as the question of the beach. The long beaches in Punta Cana are clearly better than the ones in Puerto Plata. Still, have a look at the Dominican Republics beaches to find out more.

Preliminary score: Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata 3.5-1.5

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Excursions and guided tours

Excursions and guided tours in punta cana.

 Punta Cana has an endless choice of excursions for its visitors – especially for those, who are only staying in their all-inclusive resort and would like to see something different than just the hotel. Dune buggies, catamaran tours , Los Haitises National Park , Safari adventures, VIP tours, riverboat experiences, Isla Saona , Ziplining , a monkey jungle or a full-day excursion to Santo Domingo are just a few of the options you can experience when vacationing in Punta Cana.

TOP 12 Punta Cana Excursions

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It does not matter what kind of guided tour in Punta Cana you are looking for, probably one of the excursion operators will have it for you. If you feel like exploring, you definitely won’t get bored in Punta Cana, as you can see in this overview about the best things-to-do in Punta Cana .

Excursions and guided tours in Puerto Plata

 But the tour operators in Puerto Plata are getting creative as well to gain access to the wallet of the vacationer. Cayo Arena, 27 Charcos de Damajagua, the historic city of Puerto Plata, seeing manatees, visiting monkey jungle, an ocean view zipline, countryside safaris and the cable car up to Puerto Platas mountain Isabel de Torres are just one of the few experiences you can have when booking organized excursions. And this is not without a reason, because the surrounding of Puerto Plata is super nice and interesting. Contrary to the section above mentioning the price differences between both destinations, prices for guided tours hardly vary for Puerto Plata or Punta Cana.

Head to head: The best Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata excursions

 It is hard to choose a winner in this category as both holiday destinations have their highlights. Furthermore, both are offering a high diversity of excursions, hence it’s a draw between Puerto Plata and Punta Cana.

 Preliminary score: Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata 4-2

Sports and Adventures

How to be active in punta cana and where to find adventures.

 If staying in an all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana – especially in one of the better ones – you have plenty of activity options to choose from. Usually, this includes snorkeling , Hobie Cats, a gym, team activities, kayaking , tennis, pool, sometimes golf and much more. However, if you leave the resort and would like to be adventurous, options are limited in the surrounding of Punta Cana, even though there are some pretty cool Punta Cana adventures . Surfing at Playa Macao is one possibility, hiking to the highest waterfall of the Caribbean, Salto de la Jalda , another one. You can go parasailing or scuba diving and in case ziplining counts as an adventure, this is possible as well. You see, there are a lot of things to do in Punta Cana .

But to explore Punta Cana on your own and be adventurous – you have to get creative to achieve this as the typical adventure playground (jungle, mountains, pristine beaches, waterfalls , lagoons , etc.) is missing. 

How to be active in Puerto Plata and where to find adventures?

 Concerning watersports, Puerto Plata can count on at least the same options as Punta Cana. Although the resorts – due to their limited size – might offer fewer activities, you find plenty of additional options outside. The best snorkeling reef in the Dominican Republic (Cayo Arena) can be reached from Puerto Plata, catamaran tours are sailing along the north coast and Cabarete, approx. 40 minutes away from Puerto Plata, is the kitesurfing capital of the Caribbean. Further water activities include windsurfing, SUP yoga, SUP and scuba diving.

 However, the true difference between Puerto Plata and Punta Cana is the number of activities you can do on land. It is not only the city of Puerto Plata which is nice to visit but also the nature is absolutely stunning. Thanks to the mountain chain right in the back of Puerto Plata, the Cordillera Septentrional, you have the right setting to go hiking, mountain biking, river chasing, caving, canyoning or river-tubing. Nothing is impossible in this area. As the mountains are particularly famous for their blue rivers, some of my favorite waterfalls are located here, such as La Rejolla, Charcos del Militar, Rio Soñador, Magic Mushroom, Salto de Elena or Cola de Pato. If you want to go adventurous, then Puerto Plata and the surrounding area will be your paradise.

 While the water-based activities are similar in both destinations, Puerto Plata has unquestionable advantages when it comes to onshore activities and adventures. Considering this, Puerto Plata is absolutely nice to visit. If you love pristine nature and lush mountains, Puerto Plata beats Punta Cana and is your place to go.

 Preliminary score: Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata 4-3

Where can you get the best food?

Food options in punta cana.

 When comparing Puerto Plata vs. Punta Cana in terms of culinary options, it really depends on what you are looking for. If you love international food at different levels, Punta Cana is the right place for you. Due to the number of tourists visiting Punta Cana, you can find all kinds of international cuisine when spending your vacation in Punta Cana – either directly in your resort or in one of the several restaurants. Also if you are into fine dining, Punta Cana has you covered as most of the best restaurants in the Dominican Republic are located in Punta Cana, among them Bamboo, Passion, Montserrat Manor or La Palapa. On the other hand, if you are into street food or local “hole in the walls”, Punta Cana might be difficult to explore, especially when traveling on a budget .

Food options in Puerto Plata

 If you are looking for the fine dining experiences just mentioned for Punta Cana in Puerto Plata, forget about it. In those terms, Puerto Platas food options are limited. However, if you want to eat out as the locals do, Puerto Plata has plenty of opportunities for you, especially within the city limits. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for an air-conditioned restaurant with trendy Dominicans or a casual snack bar at the oceanfront promenade in town – both options offer the most authentic Dominican food including the opportunity to be just among locals.

 If it comes to fine dining, Punta Cana is without a question the No. 1 choice in the entire Dominican Republic. However, if you prefer Dominican food options in authentic settings, Puerto Plata represents much stronger local flavors. As food preferences vary from person to person, I’ll count it as a tie when answering the question: Puerto Plata or Punta Cana.

  Preliminary score: Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata 4.5-3.5

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Road trips and rental cars

Road trip options from punta cana.

Assuming you’d like to fly to the Dominican Republic for a road trip, is Puerto Plata or Punta Cana the better starting point?

Logistically, Punta Cana is not 100% perfect for a road trip in the Dominican Republic . You have to take the Punta Cana-Santo Domingo highway twice to actually start and end your Dominican Republic itinerary , as this is the only road that connects Punta Cana with the main part of the country. An exception is if you just would like to head on a 2- or 3-day road trip from Punta Cana , where Los Haitises National Park and Bayahibe are perfect destinations.

However, Punta Cana also offers a lot of advantages when it comes to road trips and multi-day itineraries . First of all, Punta Cana car rentals are usually cheaper than those in Puerto Plata. The roads from and to Punta Cana are also much easier to drive, which is particularly important for newbies when it comes to driving in the Dominican Republic. And, last but not least, there is a bigger choice of rental car companies in Punta Cana and opening hours are usually more flexible.

Road trip options from Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata usually marks the better starting point for road trips in the Dominican Republic . There are particular more destinations to visit in the nearby distance, such as Punta Rucia, Cabarete, the north coast including the romantic and rustic Playa Magante beachfront bungalows * and Cordillera Septentrional with its mountain villages Yasica Arriba, Tubagua and Jamao al Norte. You can also take the ultimate Dominican Republic itinerary from Punta Cana Travel Blog and start it right in Puerto Plata.

On the other side, rental cars in Puerto Plata might be a bit more expensive and once you leave the airport area, you are directly heading into the busy traffic area of either Sosua or Puerto Plata. Therefore, starting a road trip in Puerto Plata is only recommended for those who have previous experience in driving in the Dominican Republic or other Latin American countries.

Head to head: the best road-trips in Punta Cana and Puerto Plata

There are advantages and disadvantages for both destinations, which is why this category between Punta Cana and Puerto Plata is tied.

Preliminary score: Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata 5-4

Weather: where can you expect the better Caribbean climate?

Punta cana and puerto plata.

As you can already see from the headline mentioning both destinations, it is easier to answer the question for the best weather in the Dominican Republic with one mutual answer for Punta Cana and Puerto Plata. The reason is that there are hardly any differences when it comes to the weather in Punta Cana and Puerto Plata.

 Even though many people speak from different seasons in different areas in the Dominican Republic, this is usually not true. Puerto Plata feels slightly wetter than the drier east of the Dominican Republic including Punta Cana, but you will hardly feel this difference (see table below) as both holiday destinations are offering perfect Caribbean weather to enjoy your vacation. In general, the Dominican Republic is a year-round destination where you’ll see the sun nearly every day – just the number of rain showers might vary between the dry season (January to April) and the rainy season (May to November/December).

For further information, you can see the table below for the detailed climate figures when it comes to the comparison of Puerto Plata vs. Punta Cana (or check the weather article on the blog here ). As you can see, the difference is marginal and won’t influence your vacation in the Dominican Republic.

Head to head: the weather in Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata

 This question of Punta Cana or Puerto Plata is clearly a draw. There are no significant differences in the weather between both areas.

  Preliminary score: Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata 5.5-4.5

Authenticity: where can you explore the real Dominican Republic?

Is punta cana authentic.

Let’s check the last question in our comparison of Puerto Plata or Punta Cana: authenticity.

 One reason why I started Punta Cana Travel Blog is to show you the real and authentic Dominican Republic because many people just stay in their all-inclusive resort and are raving about how amazing the Dominican Republic is. Well, that is as wrong as if you would say you have been to Los Angeles and love the beauty of California.

 Of course, you can do great excursions and visit Isla Saona , Los Haitises National Park , Salto de la Jalda , Montaña Redonda or other unique and gorgeous natural sights – it will be mind-blowing and gives you a perfect start into the diversity the Dominican Republic has to offer.

 However, if you would like to dig into real Dominican life – music, little villages, ramshackle beach bars, colmados, dancing on every corner, deep-fried empanadas and much more – it gets difficult in Punta Cana as you have to leave the comfort zone of the tourist area and start your journey to Higuey, Miches or other towns which are away from the tourist radar. To do so, it is best to get a Punta Cana car rental , start a road trip in the Dominican Republic and follow one of the amazing travel itineraries I have compiled here on Punta Cana Travel Blog .

TRAVEL COACHING

Do you need help planning a customized vacation in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic? Is it difficult for you to decide what and where to book? Would you like to take advantage of someone with years of experience in the tourism industry (knowing all the travel hacks 😉 ) and living right in the place where you would like to spend your holiday? That’s what my personal travel coaching is for. I will design your tailor-made itinerary, tell you how to save money on your trip and send you the best insider tips and recommendations. All the information I send you are crafted with love and passion – and are coming with a money-back guarantee. Let me know how I can help you ( check my packages here ) and send me a request here !

Is Puerto Plata authentic?

 If you are just staying in your all-inclusive resort in Puerto Plata, it feels similar to what I just explained about Punta Cana. You are living in your comfort bubble of 24-hour food, organized excursions and personal service – which is not bad at all, do not get me wrong. If you would like to experience the authentic Dominican Republic, you have to leave this comfort zone as well, but it is a lot easier in Puerto Plata vs. Punta Cana. You have frequent public buses running right in front of the Playa Dorada or Playa Cofresi resort area, the city of Puerto Plata is easily reachable and features some amazing visit-on-your-own attractions and the mountain chain right next to the city awaits you with some amazing adventures you can easily explore on your own if you are experienced in the field – even though a guide is highly recommendable. And last but not least, if you head to the Malecon of Puerto Plata, buy yourself a Presidente beer and relax at the oceanfront promenade where you can have one of the most authentic local experiences one can imagine in the Dominican Republic.

 Thanks to its connection to the local life and the city of Puerto Plata, experiences in Puerto Plata are more authentic once you leave the resort. In Punta Cana, this is possible as well, but it is a bit harder to leave the comfort zone of the tourist area due to logistical and infrastructural reasons.

FINAL score: Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata 5.5-5.5

Summary: should you visit Punta Cana or Puerto Plata?

 It’s a tie between Punta Cana and Puerto Plata – a little bit surprising at first glance. But upon a differentiated view, the result makes more sense.

 Both destinations have their advantages and disadvantages. Punta Cana cannot be beaten in terms of beaches , hotels and flight connections, while Puerto Plata is the perfect playground for vacationers who want to combine a beach holiday with some adventurous outdoor activities. It depends on you, which is the right place for you. 

 For the same reason you can also justify this result – even the tourism figures are speaking another language. While Punta Cana has more than 80 resorts with 2-3 million visitors every year, Puerto Plata can count with around 10 resorts and maybe a 10-15% share of the amount of Punta Cana tourists. But why is everyone heading to Punta Cana if both holiday destinations offer an equal value? 

 The solution is simple: for most vacationers, flight connections, hotel choices, the quality of the beach and the price are the most crucial key decision points when booking a vacation. In 3 of those 4 categories, Punta Cana is clearly outperforming Puerto Plata. In other words, if we would award double points in those most important categories, Punta Cana would be the sole winner of this competition Punta Cana vs. Puerto Plata.

 Therefore it is also important for you to determine what you want when traveling to the Dominican Republic? If beaches , superb hotel quality, relaxation and a smooth holiday experience are your key decision points, Punta Cana is the right choice for you. Continue browsing through this Punta Cana Travel Blog to find more inspiration for your holiday.

 If you are an adventurer, love to hike mountains and would like to see the authentic Dominican Republic, you should consider Puerto Plata or other regions in the country – or plan a road-trip in the Dominican Republic so that you get the full experience. I can help you with that !

And if you are still not decided if you shall book your vacation in the Dominican Republic to Puerto Plata or Punta Cana, just contact me here and I’ll help you out .

What’s your favorite – Punta Cana or Puerto Plata? Have you been to one of these destinations or maybe even to both? Or are you just planning your trip to the Dominican Republic and can’t decide? Let me know in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Puerto Plata is absolutely worth visiting. There are many sights in the closeby area, both natural and cultural attractions. You can explore the city, go hiking, explore beaches or take the cable car up to the famous viewpoint of Puerto Plata.

Puerto Plata is as safe as many places in the Dominican Republic. Just use common sense, watch your surroundings, leave your valuables at home and don’t walk along dark and remote places at night. In general, especially for tourists, Puerto Plata and the Dominican Republic can be considered safe, as you can read here.

This depends on what you’re looking for. Puerto Plata is great for adventurers, low-key travelers and those who want to immerse in the local culture while Punta Cana is great for families, luxury travelers and those who’d love to stay in a modern resort. Check out the extensive comparison between Punta Cana and Puerto Plata in the article above.

There are many differences between Puerto Plata and Punta Cana: prices, flight connections, beaches, resorts, activities and many more things. You can find all the differences between both places in the article above.

SHARING IS CARING! IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE, PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS – I WOULD APPRECIATE IT A LOT.

Hey, I am Chris, a born and raised German, travel-addictive and Caribbean Soul. Since 2011 I have been living in the Caribbean, among them 5 years in the Dominican Republic. Punta Cana is my home-base here in the country and I’d love to tell you more about how to experience Punta Cana off-the-beaten-track and give you all the advice you want to know for your vacation in Punta Cana.

ALSO WORTH READING:

Catalonia Punta Cana – a comprehensive review of this all-inclusive resort

How to get from Punta Cana to Santo Domingo: bus, Taxi, Transfer, Shuttle or rental car?

Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana – a comprehensive review for this all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana

The 8+ cheapest all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana 2024 (hand-picked and recommended)

2 thoughts on “Puerto Plata vs. Punta Cana – which holiday destination should you choose?”

You live in a seriously lovely location. Lucky guy! Nice article. I would love that cable car. That’s an insane climb. If I ever get an opportunity to ride a cable car, I always take it. Love them.

Hey Martin, indeed, I can’t complain about living in the Dominican Republic, especially during these times of Covid-19. The cable car is a great attraction in Puerto Plata and the view from the top is amazing – it is absolutely worth it. Chris

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