Thinking about a Caribbean trip? From beautiful beaches to exciting history, Punta Cana's got it covered. The best excursions in Punta Cana make your vacation super fun and unforgettable. If you want a fantastic time in the Caribbean paradise, this destination serves it right!
Whether you love chilling on the beach or staying at luxury resorts, Punta Cana has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to enjoy a great adventure in the Dominican Republic!
1. Santo Domingo Tour from Punta Cana
Take a trip from Punta Cana to Santo Domingo that lasts about 10 hours. You can leave from Bávaro Beach near Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino. Travel in comfortable sightseeing buses with big windows. In Santo Domingo, visit historic places like the Presidential Palace and the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Check out incredible spots like the first Cathedral in America, built-in 1504. You'll have time for lunch and a walk by the seaside before going back to your hotel. The 2-hour ride to Santo Domingo might change depending on traffic.
2. Excursion to Saona Island from Punta Cana
● Saona Island's stunning beaches include La Caleta, Los Flamencos, and Mano Juan.
● Witness the beauty and spot giant starfish in the shallows.
● You can also avail hotel pick-up, followed by a 1-hour bus ride to Bayahibe.
● Transfer to Saona Island via a scenic motorboat ride.
● Add excitement to your journey at Mano Juan, a beautiful fishing village.
● Indulge in delicious local food, completing your Saona Island adventure.
3. The Punta Cana Off-Road Buggy Tour
One of the highlights in Punta Cana is worth mentioning. Enjoy a fun-filled 4-hour buggy ride starting from your hotel. Learn how to drive the buggies at a coffee and cocoa plantation, then zip through scenic routes and off-road trails. The adventure wraps up at Macao Beach, perfect for a swim. Don't forget to explore local springs and the underground pool.
To drive, be 18 or older, and know the stick shift (check if a license is needed). After the fun, return to your hotel.
4. Catalina Island Tour
This tour is one of the best excursions in Punta Cana. Add this to your must-book list, especially if you love diving. To start, take a boat to the island from anywhere along Costa del Coco. Catalina Island is known for its beauty, comparable to Saona, if not more stunning. While Saona is perfect for relaxation, Catalina Island is ideal for adventure activities and sports.
5. Scuba Diving & Snorkelling in Punta Cana
Diving is one of the top Punta Cana activities for visitors, offering a chance to witness the vibrant marine life hidden beneath the surface. The local beaches are teeming with wildlife, from sharks and manta rays to sea turtles.
There are two diving options available. If you're PADI certified, dive into the Caribbean during the day to explore its spectacular seabed, filled with tropical fish and sea stars. If you're not a certified diver, no worries! Professional guides on diving tours will assist you from the start, providing basic lessons and essential safety tips.
Alternatively, snorkeling is among the top excursions in Punta Cana, allowing you to uncover the secrets beneath the water's surface, even though it won't take you as deep as diving.
6. Los Haitises National Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Los Haitises on a full-day excursion, making an early start to the day. The trip is considered one of the best in Punta Cana for various reasons.
Enjoy canoeing along the Caño Hondo River and discovering La Línea and Arena Caves with ancient petroglyphs. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pools of Río Jivales and marvel at pelicans along the way.
The adventure concludes with a 4x4 climb to Montaña Redonda, offering stunning vistas. You can return to your hotel in time for a shower and dinner after a day filled with exploration and natural beauty.
7. Excursion to Samaná from Punta Cana
Experience the vast and stunning natural reserve of Samaná, celebrated for its breathtaking views. This tour is all about stunning locations and vistas, making an early start essential. The journey to Santa Bárbara takes about 5 hours, and you'll travel in panoramic sightseeing buses.
A highlight of the excursion is the unforgettable experience at El Limón waterfall, where taking a refreshing dip is a must. Post lunch, the adventure continues as you board a catamaran to Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardí Island.
8. Excursion to Manatí Park
Visit the Manatí Theme Park for unique Punta Cana activities centered around the native flora and fauna of the Dominican Republic, with the spotlight on the captivating manatees. While manatees take center stage, the park offers more than just these gentle creatures. Witness a lively dolphin show and capture a photo with these intelligent marine mammals. Additionally, the park is home to various species of birds, adding to your travel experience.
The bottom line
These are the top 8 excursions in Punta Cana that you can engage in right from the doorstep of your hotel! Discover the best of the Dominican Republic through these tours, ensuring you take home the best memories of its fabulous places and unique experiences.
If the complete experience is what you want, treat yourself to a spectacular dining experience at Dinner in the Sky! The world-class ambiance and lip-smacking food with an extensive list of services will enrich your enjoyment in this tropical paradise.
