Welcome to Punta Cana
The vibrant destination of Punta Cana, also known as the Coconut Coast, is lined with over 40 miles of breathtaking palm-lined beaches and over 75 luxurious all-inclusive oceanfront hotels and resorts.
Punta Cana’s charm extends beyond its idyllic coastline. Its rich cultural heritage and diverse ecosystems offer endless exploration opportunities. Immerse yourself in authentic Dominican culture through the vibrant colors of local markets and the rhythmic beats of traditional music. Embark on eco-friendly excursions to discover ecological reserves, adventure activities,
hidden caves, and cascading waterfalls, or delve into the island’s intriguing history through its colonial architecture and ancient ruins.
Watersports abound with warm, clear waters providing the perfect environments for snorkeling, scuba diving, and sportfishing. And as one of the most popular golf destinations in the Caribbean, golf enthusiasts won’t be disappointed with several world-class courses to challenge most any handicap.
Whether you seek adventure or serenity, Punta Cana promises an unforgettable escape where every moment is filled with warmth, beauty, and the essence of Caribbean paradise.
Marinarium
3.5 hrs* | Low | Daily
Come and discover the secrets of the Caribbean from a glass-bottom boat! Bask in the tranquility of the underwater world and surround yourself with myriads... read more.
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Reel Explorer
3.5 hrs* | Low | Daily
Relax on a floating island anchored over coral reefs in the shallow waters of
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time
Happy Hour
3.5 hrs* | Low | Daily
Do you have something to celebrate: an anniversary, a birthday, a honeymoon, or even a recent graduation? Then this activity is meant for you. Begin the afternoon... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Eco Park
3.5 hrs* | Low | Daily
Enjoy an up-close experience with a wide variety of domestic and exotic animals, and interact with your favorite farm friends. Then this activity is meant for you. Begin the afternoon... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Christopher Columbus
& The Dominican Republic
While the U.S. has long celebrated Columbus Day to recognize Christopher Columbus’ discovery of the “New World”, he never set foot on the mainland of what is now the United States and Canada, landing only in the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America. So…What shores did Columbus actually discover? Read on!
Land Ho
During Columbus’ first voyage across the Atlantic in 1492, his first “land ho” was an island that is now part of the Bahamas. A few months later, he discovered another island, which he named Hispaniola – and the rich history intertwining Columbus and the Dominican Republic was born. Enchanted by the island’s beauty and strategic location, Columbus established La Navidad, the first European settlement in the Americas, on the northern coast. Though the settlement was short-lived, it marked the beginning of European influence in the region and set the stage for further Spanish colonization.
Christopher Columbus Statue
Image: Alcázar de Colón Museum
Couldn’t stay away
On his second voyage in 1493, Columbus returned to Hispaniola and founded La Isabela, again on the northern shore of what is now the Dominican Republic. This became the first permanent European settlement in the New World. Despite facing hardships such as disease, conflict with the indigenous Taíno people, and poor supplies, La Isabela laid the groundwork for the colonial capital of Santo Domingo, founded by Columbus’s brother, Bartholomew, in 1498. Santo Domingo would go on to become the oldest continuously inhabited European city in the Americas, rich in colonial architecture and historical landmarks including:
First Cathedral:
The Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor in Santo Domingo, the oldest cathedral in the Americas, was built between 1504 and 1550.
First Hospital:
The Hospital San Nicolás de Bari in Santo Domingo was the oldest hospital in the Americas, though it is now in ruins.
First University:
The Universidad Santo Tomás de Aquino (now the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo) was founded in Santo Domingo in 1538, becoming the first university in the New World.
First Monastery:
The Monasterio de San Francisco, whose ruins are in Santo Domingo, was the oldest monastery built in the Americas.
Image: Santo Domingo First Cathedral
Image: Hospital of San Nicolás de Bari in Santo Domingo
First Fortress:
The Fortaleza Ozama, dating back to 1502–1508 in Santo Domingo, is the oldest military construction of European origin in the Americas.
The Alcázar de Colón: The first fortified European palace built in the Americas.
First Stone House: Casa del Cordón, built between 1502 and 1503 in Santo Domingo, is considered the oldest European stone house in the Americas.
Santo Domingo is widely recognized as having the first organized city grid system in the New World, becoming the standard and a model for town planning across the rest of the New World.
Today, visitors to the Dominican Republic can explore Columbus’s legacy through sites like the Columbus Lighthouse (Faro a Colón), a massive monument and mausoleum in Santo Domingo said to house his remains.
The Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a vivid glimpse into the early days of European settlement. Columbus’s voyages not only changed the course of world history but also left a permanent imprint on the Dominican Republic, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.
Image: Alcazár of Columbus House in Santo Domingo
Jungle Buggies Adventure
4 hrs* | Intense | Daily
An exhilarating adventure for the whole family to enjoy. Drive a powerful Honda Pioneer 700 seating up to four people on a challenging course deep in the Anamuya... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Zipline
5 hrs* | Intense | Daily
For the ultimate adventure in Punta Cana, try a 12-line circuit across 18 platforms including the two longest “zips” in the Caribbean - the longest, a 1/2 mile (800 m) adrenaline rush!... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Santo Domingo City Tour
9 hrs* | Low | Daily
An exhilarating adventure for the whole family to enjoy. Drive a powerful Honda Pioneer 700 seating up to four people on a challenging course deep in the Anamuya... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Limon Waterfall & Bacardi Island
10 hrs* | Moderate | Daily
Take a comfortable bus ride to Las Cañitas on the coast, where you’ll catch a beautiful catamaran for a relaxing sail to Samana. Then jump aboard a fun... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Bavaro Runners
8 hrs* | Moderate | Daily
Discover the hidden treasures that the Dominican Republic has to offer as you explore the countryside in a safari truck. Venture into sugar cane fields as ... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Monkey Land
5 hrs* | Low | Daily
Enjoy a one-of-a-kind adventure in the Dominican Republic with a guided tour of Monkey Land, located on 5 acres in the Dominican countryside with stunning views ... read more.
What’s included
Bilingual guides Water
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Catalina Island Day Tour
8 hrs* | Low | Daily
Take a comfortable bus ride to Las Cañitas on the coast, where you’ll catch a beautiful catamaran for a relaxing sail to Samana. Then jump aboard a fun... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Ask an insider...
This is a thrill-seekers paradise!
Must-do activities in Punta Cana
You’ve arrived in Punta Cana for the first …. or perhaps the fifth time - so what’s next?
We asked Gabriel Perez, who was born in Santo Domingo and has made Punta Cana his home for the past 14 years, what he recommends to his visiting family and friends when they are in his ‘neck of the woods!’
Do something you can’t do at home
One of the most unforgettable experiences in Punta Cana is a visit to Saona Island. Here you’ll enjoy one of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean, with powdery white sand and turquoise waters, surrounded by tall coconut palms that “make you feel like you’ve stepped into paradise” Gabriel explained. “It’s the perfect kick-back day, way to experience”.
A highly recommended excursion is the Saona Reserve, where you can spot colorful tropical fish, sail along the coast of the Eastern National Park, and witness the magical point where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea.
Enjoy an outdoor adventure
There is an adventure around every corner in Punta Cana. For thrill-seekers, there is Triple Adventure activity that won’t disappoint. It includes an exciting buggy ride through the jungle, a refreshing dip in a crystal-clear river, ziplining over the tropical canopy, and a fun interaction with adorable capuchin monkeys.
To top it off, you’ll get a taste of authentic Dominican cuisine and explore local products such as coffee, cacao, and the famous Mamajuana, a traditional drink unique to the region. “It’s a great family activity because there is something appealing to almost anyone” Gabriel added.
Santo Domingo City Tour
If history and culture are a top priority, you won’t be disappointed. A cultural highlight not to be missed is a trip to Santo Domingo, the very first city founded in the Americas. You’ll walk through historic landmarks such as the Columbus Lighthouse, the First Cathedral of the Americas (built in the 16th century), and other iconic sites tied to Christopher Columbus and the Dominican Republic’s national heroes.
It’s an “enriching journey full of history and culture”, Gabriel added.
Beyond the Resort
Stepping outside your resort also opens the door to unique local experiences. In the heart of Bávaro-Punta Cana, you’ll discover exciting spots like the Noah restaurant, among many others, where you can enjoy great food and the lively atmosphere of the area.
Saona Island
8 hrs* | Low | Daily
Combine a beautiful power catamaran, an exciting speedboat ride and the most amazing beach you’ve ever seen, and what do you get? The paradise of Saona Island! Set sail... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Wild Tiger Buggies
3 hrs* | Intense | Daily
Drive your own buggy and see nature up-close while you venture through passing fields and groves of palm trees. Make a quick stop at one of the local plantations... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Did you know?
5 Little-known facts about Dominican Republic
01. Larimar:
This beautiful, turquoise-hued stone is only found in the D.R. in the Bahoruco Mountains on land owned by Miguel Méndez, who took his daughter’s name Larissa and the Spanish word for sea (mar) and named the stone — Larimar.
02. Highest and Lowest Points in the Caribbean:
The Dominican Republic is home to both the highest peak in the Caribbean, Pico Duarte (10,174 ft), and the lowest point, Lake Enriquillo (-151 ft).
03. Merengue:
Merengue, the country’s vibrant, high-energy musical style and dance, is characterized by its quick tempo, 2/4 time signature, and the prominent use of the tambora drum, güira scraper, and accordion; it was declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2016.
04. Jurassic Park connection:
Yes, some scenes from the original Jurassic Park were filmed in the Dominican Republic. Specifically, the opening scene featuring the mosquito in amber was filmed at the Amber Museum in Puerto Plata.
05. The Rhinoceros Iguana & Hispaniolan Solenodon:
The Dominican Republic is home to two creatures found nowhere else in the world. The Rhinoceros Iguana is a large lizard that can vary from 2 to 5 ft. long! It gets its name from the horn-like growth that stems from the top of its snout and the other is the Hispaniolan Solenodon, a small, furry mammal closely resembling a shrew, which is the 3rd most venomous mammal in the world.
Fishing Cap Cana
4 hrs* | Moderate | Daily
Take this exciting deep-sea fishing adventure and wrestle with some of the sea’s greatest creatures right off the coast of Cap Cana. Marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna, sailfish and... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Fishing Punta Cana
4 hrs* | Moderate | Daily
Head out into the Caribbean on a quest to reel in that ‘Trophy’ catch on this half-day fishing charter out of Punta Cana Marina. An experienced local captain will... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Punta Cana Map
Dolphin Explorer
2 hrs* | Low | Daily
Are you ready for some adventure? Prepare yourself to be transported to a dream-come-true experience holding ‘hands’ and interacting with dolphins! Amaze yourself... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Bavaro Adventure Park
6.5 hrs* | Medium | Daily
This is a full day of adventure and adrenaline at the first adventure park in the Dominican Republic. Choose from an exciting list of adventure activities at the... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Bavaro Adventure Park
4 hrs* | Intense | Daily
An adventurous journey designed for the whole family to enjoy. Drive through a thrilling course deep inside the Dominican jungle. Then, stop by a rural village... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Bavaro Adventure Park
3.5 hrs* | Moderate | Daily
Discover the magic of the jungle at night with Magic Mystic Memories at Bávaro Adventure Park! Experience an exhilarating Polaris 4x4 ride... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Bavaro Adventure Park
3.5 hrs* | Moderate | Daily
Discover the ultimate experience of fun and adventure in paradise with the new Explorer Adventure at Bávaro Adventure Park in Punta Cana! This impressive... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Crazy Wheels
4 hrs* | Intense | Daily
Have a crazy good time when you ride 4x4 ‘crazy wheels’ through the countryside surrounding La Romana. Not only will you get to tour through beautiful... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Catalina Paradise
8 hrs* | Low | Daily
This adventure begins at the picturesque coastal town of Bayahibe where you’ll board a comfortable catamaran to sail the Caribbean. As the sails catch the breeze... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Saona Island Classic
6.5 hrs* | Intense | Daily
Escape to Saona Island, launching from Bayahibe on a catamaran or speedboat. Sail to a coral reef for relaxing snorkeling, then visit a natural pool... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Caribbean Pirates
4 hrs* | Low | Daily
Join an adventure on the high seas as a wacky crew of pirates entertains you with a live show while sailing aboard a pirate galleon ship. An epic treasure map... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Ocean Spa
3 hrs* | Low | Daily
This 3-hour escape offers you a Pilates and yoga exercise session while you cruise the calm and colorful waters of the Punta Cana coast. Start this experience off with... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Sailing Splash
4 hrs* | Intense | Daily
This multi-activity tour offers an exciting range of activities sure to create lots of vacation memories. Enjoy a sail aboard a beautiful catamaran on... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
El Dorado Park
8 hrs* | Varies | Daily
This themed water park, hidden in the lush vegetation of the tropics, offers more than 20 attractions divided into 4 zones, offering exciting adventures designed... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Wild On Punta Cana
3 hrs* | Moderate | Daily
Hop on a golf cart for an unforgettable journey to see the amazing variety of nature that surrounds you. Your guide will accompany you as you make stops along... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Wild On Caribbean Sea
3 hrs* | Moderate | Daily
Experience the scenic beauty of Punta Cana on a catamaran and snorkel cruise in the Caribbean Sea. The first stop will be at the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Hacienda Park
6 hrs* | Moderate | Daily
Experience 7 adrenaline-filled adventures in one actionpacked day of thrills, culture, and nature. Ride buggies through scenic mountain trails, soar on ziplines... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Hispaniola Explorer Signature
8 hrs* | Low | Daily
An eclectic day of sightseeing in the D.R. First stop, an interesting walk through a cigar factory before a short ride to explore Altos de Chavon, a famous artist village... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Santo Domingo Signature
8 hrs* | Low | Daily
Discover the vast history and colonial architecture of the oldest city in the Americas. Enjoy private transportation as you explore the capital of the Dominican Republic... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Happy Hour Signature
3.5 hrs* | Low | Daily
Enjoy a sailing trip to the colorful coral reefs of Bavaro as you dance to merengue and bachata rhythms. Later, splash into a beautiful natural Caribbean pool and refresh... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Fishing Charter Signature Experience
4 hrs* | Intense | Daily
Charter a beautiful fishing boat exclusively for you and your family and friends! Share a fantastic fishing experience as you sail the breathtaking Caribbean waters and... read more.
What’s included
*Duration does not include transportation time to and from the activity
Golfers paradise
In addition to being home to incredible beaches, fantastic weather all year long, hospitable people and exciting adventures, the Dominican Republic is also a golfer’s paradise.
The landscape and amazing views have inspired world-renowned golf course architects such as P.B. Dye, Jack Nicklaus and Nick Faldo to create spectacular seaside courses. The Puntacana Resort & Club has two fantastic oceanfront courses — La Cana and Los Corales.
Additionally, Punta Espada Golf Club blesses golfers with extraordinary views of the Caribbean Sea contrasting with emerald fairways and perfect greens.
Punta Cana also boasts challenging courses, such as Cana Bay by Jack Nicklaus, courses at Iberostar Bavaro Golf Club by P.B. Dye, Cocotal Golf Club by Pepe Gancedo, Punta Blanca by Nick Price and The Lakes by P.B. Dye, who also created at La Romana the Teeth of the Dog, considered the top-ranked course in the Caribbean and the 39th-ranked course in the world, The Links, Dye Fore and La Estancia, located on the Chavon River.
So, polish your clubs and get ready for some real golf! Be sure to contact your Amstar Customer Representative for more information and tee times.
Shop until you drop
When visiting a foreign country, taking home something unique from the country can bring back fond memories of your travels for years to come.
Before rushing to the hotel shop and buying the first thing that says Punta Cana on it, take a moment to learn a bit about some of the more distinctive souvenirs you can find during your visit to the Dominican Republic.
Sculptures:
You will find traditional sculptures often depicting Taino gods. The originals were found in underground caves, formerly inhabited by the native Taino. Nowadays, it is easy to find good-quality replicas.
Amber:
Made from fossil resin or tree sap, it is appreciated for its interesting mixture of colors and is widely used for ornamental objects. The Dominican Republic has rich deposits of this stone in addition to possessing blue amber, unique in the world.
Larimar:
It is an azure, semi-precious stone found exclusively in the Dominican Republic.
The quality of the stone can be determined by its coloration: light blue is low quality, volcanic blue is higher quality. High-quality jewelry utilizes stones having tones between sky-blue and volcanic blue.
