3 perfect days in Punta Cana


Punta Cana, on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic, is legendary for its all-inclusive resorts, and many travelers who come here never leave their property (we get it). But that’s a mistake because the real magic of this beachfront city lies in the places where the locals go—the secret caves, the crystal-clear lagoons, the sizzling nightclubs. And the more you wander, the more fun you’ll have.
We consulted with in-the-know locals, plus the other experts—the Tripadvisor community—to craft a three-day itinerary that mixes plenty of beach time with some thrilling adventures. With this itinerary in hand, plus insider tips and tricks, you’ll be able to experience Punta Cana like a local.
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DAY ONE

MORNING: Breakfast and beaches
Today is your beach day. Kick it off with breakfast at Kats Corner near the beach in the buzzing Los Corales neighborhood. The food might skew international (bagels, smoothies, breakfast burritos), but the strong Dominican coffee gives it a totally local spin.
After breakfast, stroll east toward the beach. All the beaches in Punta Cana are public, but they can be hard to access because they’re blocked by hotels. But here’s a tip: You can find little spots for entry, and one of the best points of access is to the left of Jellyfish Restaurant. Look for the alley that leads to Bavaro Beach. Another place to gain entry: next to Zoho’s Beach Club, a five-minute stroll from Kats Corner.
Travelers say: “A beautiful Caribbean beach, with golden sand and blue waters - it was a pleasure spending lazy days here. The waves could be quite rough but this added to the fun for us!”—@LondonDebbieN
AFTERNOON: Club vibes
Spend the early part of the afternoon on white-sand Bavaro Beach before the sun gets too strong. When you’re feeling peckish, take a short cab ride south to Pearl Beach Club, which has pools, beach service, DJs, and the occasional foam party. Prices range from $30 for a beach lounger to $300 for a Balinese bed by the pool, and the money can be used toward drinks and food (try the fried fish with coconut creole sauce and tostones). You can easily spend four to six hours there, and it’s even great for kids, thanks to a little kiddie pool and a small park.
For something more chill, try Playa Blanca, a Traveler’s Choice winner set right on the sand with a beach club vibe (just no pool). There’s no entry fee, only a $40 minimum spend for food and cocktails. Tripadvisor reviewers rave about the ceviche and the Playa Blanca Julep cocktail with rum, mint, ginger, and pineapple juice.
BOAT TOUR OPTIONS
- This is a different kind of party boat: On the Taigüey Emotion Show, professional dancers will teach you a few moves. You’ll also dive into the past with a visit to a museum dedicated to the Taínos, the earliest inhabitants of the Dominican Republic.
- Escape the crowds on the Small-Group Cruising and Snorkeling Catamaran Tour, an intimate catamaran experience that’s limited to 16 people. Relax on net hammocks and enjoy an open bar as you sail to Cabeza de Toro Natural Reserve for snorkeling.
- The Snorkeling-Catamaran & Parasail at Punta Cana trip combines three adventures in one: Soar above Bavaro Beach on a parasail, set sail on a double-decker catamaran, and snorkel amid vibrant reefs. Unwind with snacks, tropical fruit, and endless drinks at the open floating bar.
EVENING: Island theatrics
It’s a good thing you took it easy today because tonight’s going to be a late one at Coco Bongo Show & Disco in downtown Punta Cana. Picture live theater meets Cirque du Soleil. It lasts four to five hours, and in addition to watching the show, you’ll dance, sing, and party the night away. You have to be 18 and up to enter the club, but a fun tip for parents—take your kiddos by the front of the theater; the dancers often hang outside and make balloon figures for the little ones.
You can buy tickets at the door, but we recommend booking your Coco Bongo tickets online well before your trip, since weekend tables often sell out weeks ahead. Regular standing-room tickets start at $70, but locals recommend the VIP access (starting at $165), which includes a guaranteed seat and better views of the aerial show. The VIP ticket also comes with free drinks the entire night.
DAY TWO


MORNING: Beach action
Just north of downtown Punta Cana is Macao Beach, a dream destination for sporty travelers. You can ride the waves with a local outfitter or do an off-road dune buggy tour. But the best adventure here is Cueva Taina Macao, an underground cave that opens up to a 26-foot-deep crystal blue lagoon. Cool off with a swim in the chilly water. It’s free, but you’ll want to go early to avoid the crowds.
Travelers say: “This beach is stunning. The water is turquoise blue. The temp is perfect. It’s absolutely beautiful! The entrance of the beach is full of people selling things but if your not interested they back off. You gotta visit this beach.”—@Sunshine M
AFTERNOON: An epic photo shoot
After the beach, head about an hour northwest of Punta Cana to Miches and climb to the top of 1,000-foot Montaña Redonda. Here, you can take in the landscapes—from Samana Bay to the Oriental Mountains. Want an epic Instagram shot? Hop on one of the swings, hammocks, or brooms and your photos will look like you’re swinging off of the edge of the mountain. One note: Miches is a long drive from downtown Punta Cana, so if you don’t book a guided trip, be sure to organize roundtrip transportation with a driver or rent a car. On the way back from Miches, swing by Playa Esmeralda for a dip in the sea.
MOUNTAIN TOUR OPTIONS
- The half-day Redonda Mountain & Emerald Coast Relaxing Experience will take you on a picturesque tour along the coast and up at the mountain for a memorable photo shoot.
- For a combo of adventures—including hiking, horseback riding, views, and even a dip in a waterfall—book the Private Tour in Miches with La Jarda Waterfall Experience.
- Rev your engines on a dune buggy tour that includes an expedition up the mountain and zooming through the coconut trees of Playa Esmeralda (swimming is optional).
EVENING: Rocking out
Tonight, make your way to the casino at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in downtown Punta Cana. It’s a great way to check out an all-inclusive without actually staying at an all-inclusive. As soon as you say, "I’m here for the casino," they’ll usually open the door and let you in. But access has limits—you’ll get a bracelet that’s just for the casino, with no free food or drinks or access to the pool. Feel like dancing? Hard Rock’s nightclub, Oro, is also open to the public. Dark and glamorous, it’s straight out of Vegas or Miami.
DAY THREE

MORNING: A local coffee to start the day
We’ve got two options for your last day in Punta Cana. If you’ve got kids in tow, you’ll want to make a day of it at the best water park in Punta Cana, which—plot twist—happens to be at an all-inclusive, the Nickelodeon Resort. Your other option: a visit to Isla Saona and Isla Catalina, a pair of tiny islands just off the coast.
If you’re going for the family-friendly option, head to Dalia’s Café and Bakery for breakfast. This bright spot has a tasty assortment of croissants and pastries and rich, foamy cappuccinos. It’s en route to Nickelodeon, which is north of Macao Beach in Uvero Alto.
Opting for the island adventure? Start the day with a coffee at Saona Café. The café sits in front of the embarcadero de Saona, where dozens of boat and tour operators are based. If you haven’t booked your trip in advance, you can negotiate with a captain directly here. Group rates vary, starting around $90 per person; private boat tours for two are around $300.
Travelers say: “A casual cafe with lots of options for breakfast in a nice setting on the main beach in Bayahibe. Good service and free internet, all you need”—@OtreblaSolrac
AFTERNOON: Islands or SpongeBob—take your pick
Saona is a dreamy island escape: Fewer than 1,000 people live here in palm huts, and the island didn’t even have electricity until 2022. Coming here is a must for the well-rounded Caribbean experience. You can take a day trip and swim, eat a beachside feast, and get social with other like-minded travelers. Isla Catalina is smaller, uninhabited, and known for its natural beauty and crystal blue waters. Lunch and snorkeling are included on most island tours.
Insider tip: Ask your captain if the boat can stop at the natural pools or reefs around the islands so you can snorkel, dive, or stand in the waist-deep sea.
If you’ve chosen the Nickelodeon option, it will cost you $100 per adult and $59 per child (food is an additional $39 for adults and $25 for kids 3 and up). You’ll get access to the action-packed water park, with an oversized Nickelodeon blimp, a slime area, water guns and cannons, plus a winding lazy river with dozens of inner tubes to ride—cocktail in hand for mom and dad. As you explore the grounds, you’ll also meet Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob and Dora the Explorer. The food is some of the best of any of Punta Cana’s resorts.
ISLAND TOUR OPTIONS
- This full-day tour takes you to Saona Island by catamaran or speedboat and includes a stop at natural pools along the way, plus free snorkeling.
- Don’t want to spend time with other people? Book the Saona Private Full-Day Tour, which isn’t cheap but will take you to Saona’s best beach (where boats and catamarans don’t park) and includes a fresh lunch, drinks, and a licensed guide.
- Take a boat trip to quiet Catalina—which is rich in fauna and flora—for a day trip, complete with snorkeling. It’s perfect for all ages
EVENING: A culinary high note
End the day in downtown Punta Cana at Noah restaurant, which is the top restaurant in town. It’s got the Traveler’s Choice stamp of approval, thanks to a well-seasoned staff that is amazingly attentive and poised, plus an extensive Asian-fusion menu (try the crab-stuffed starfish ravioli and the spicy tuna and salmon rolls—delightfully good). Toast a successful long weekend in Punta Cana with a caipirinha.
Know Before You Go
Punta Cana has a tropical climate year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically spans from December to April. This period offers plenty of sunshine and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for beach going and outdoor activities. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so it can get crowded. If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to June or September and October.
Punta Cana is a popular tourist destination, and most businesses and attractions are open seven days a week. However, the crowds can vary depending on the day of the week. Weekends tend to be busier, especially around popular beach areas and resorts. If you're looking for a more tranquil experience, plan your visits to popular attractions on weekdays when the crowds are thinner.
Punta Cana caters to a steady stream of travelers, and many businesses align their schedules with the arrival of vacationers. Most restaurants, shops, and attractions in Punta Cana are open daily. However, some smaller establishments may have reduced hours during the low season. Embrace the laid-back Caribbean vibe, and don't be surprised if things move at a slower pace. Remember that some local bars may close by midnight, but the larger areas often have nightlife options that stay open later.
Bavaro: This area is known for its beautiful beaches and numerous all-inclusive resorts, such as the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (with a world-class casino and a vibrant nightlife scene) and the family-friendly all-inclusive, Iberostar Selection Bavaro, which has tropical gardens and a pristine beachfront.
Uvero Alto: A quieter and less crowded option, this area is home to all-inclusive resorts like Zoetry Agua Punta Cana (a wellness-focused boutique property), Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa (a social, adults-only resort), and the family-friendly Nickelodeon Resort, with slime sessions and all your favorite characters, from Dora to SpongeBob SquarePants.
Cap Cana: A luxury enclave with high-end resorts like Eden Roc Cap Cana (lavish villas with private pools and an onsite marina) and Sanctuary Cap Cana by Playa Hotels & Resorts (adults-only with a focus on relaxation and romance).
Punta Cana is relatively easy to navigate, and there are several transportation options:
By taxi: Taxis can take you to various destinations in Punta Cana. Make sure to agree on a fare before starting your journey.
Resort shuttles: Many resorts offer shuttle services to and from the airport and popular attractions.
Rental cars: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore the area at your own pace. Major car rental companies have offices at the airport and in Punta Cana.
Public buses: While not as extensive as in some other destinations, public buses can take you between major towns and attractions in the region.
Excursions: If you plan to explore beyond Punta Cana, consider joining a guided tour that provides transportation in the rate.