The resort has everything you need to never leave. And that's perfectly fine — sometimes that's exactly what you're looking for. But if you have a free day, half a day, or just some curiosity, Punta Cana has experiences that aren't on the buffet menu. This guide shows you the best ones.
Hoyo Azul — the most photographed cenote in the Caribbean
Just 10 minutes from the airport, inside Scape Park in Cap Cana, is Hoyo Azul: a natural cenote with turquoise waters surrounded by 20-meter cliffs. The color of the water changes throughout the day. It's the most photographed spot in the entire region and is visited in small groups — book in advance.
- Location: Scape Park, Cap Cana (10 min from PUJ)
- Entry price: included in Scape Park package (from USD $89)
- Best time: early morning, before 10am
- Bring: swimsuit, biodegradable sunscreen (mandatory)
- Transfer from your resort: 15–40 min depending on your zone
Isla Saona — the perfect postcard
Isla Saona is a pristine island inside Parque Nacional del Este, 90 minutes by catamaran from Bayahibe. Its shallow emerald-green waters, natural starfish pool, and endless beach make it the most popular excursion in Punta Cana. Every minute of the journey is worth it.
- Departure: from Bayahibe or La Romana (1h–1h 30 min from Bávaro)
- Total duration: 8–10 hours with lunch included
- Price: USD $65–95 per person on group tour
- Tip: choose tours with a maximum of 20 people to avoid crowds
Pro tip
Book Isla Saona at least 2 days in advance during high season (December–April). Spots fill up fast and departures are morning-only.
Scape Park — adrenaline with Atlantic views
Cap Cana's largest adventure park offers zip-lines over the ocean, cave kayaking, snorkeling, ATVs, and access to Hoyo Azul. You can buy individual activity tickets or the full-day pass. Perfect for a complete day away from the resort.
- Ocean zip-line: from USD $45
- Full package (Hoyo Azul + all activities): from USD $149
- Hours: 8am – 5pm daily
- On-site restaurant — no need to leave for lunch
Marinarium — snorkeling with sharks and stingrays
One of the most unique excursions in Punta Cana: a catamaran takes you to a natural reef where you can swim alongside nurse sharks (harmless) and stingrays. Includes lunch, open bar, and time on a pristine beach. An unforgettable experience for both kids and adults.
- Duration: approximately 6 hours
- Price: USD $75–110 per person
- Includes: snorkel gear, lunch, drinks, certified guide
- Minimum recommended age: 5 years
Pueblo de los Pescadores — eating like a Dominican
If you want to step outside the resort bubble and try real food, Pueblo de los Pescadores in Bávaro is the place. A small village of seafront restaurants where locals eat lobster, fresh fish, and seafood at local prices. It's authentic, lively, and delicious.
- Location: Bávaro, 10–20 min from most resorts
- Price: whole lobster from USD $25–40
- Best time: lunch (12pm–3pm) or early dinner (6pm–8pm)
- Bring: cash, though some places accept cards
Local tip
Order the "pescado al coco" — fresh fish in coconut sauce with rice and tostones. It's the most representative dish of the Dominican east coast.
Night safari — the DR you never see by day
Night safaris by buggy or ATV travel through the Dominican countryside, pass through local villages, and end at a beach bonfire. It is the most different activity you can do — far from the resort, close to the real country. Great for groups of friends or families with teenagers.
How to get to activities from your resort
Most excursions include round-trip transport from Bávaro resorts. If your activity doesn't include it — or if you want to head out independently to restaurants or villages — a private transfer is the most convenient option. Book it for the time you need, without waiting for a tour bus.
Summary: activities by budget
- No extra cost: Bávaro public beaches (free access)
- USD $25–50: Pueblo de los Pescadores, craft market
- USD $65–110: Isla Saona, Marinarium, buggy excursion
- USD $89–149: Scape Park (Hoyo Azul included)
- USD $150+: sport fishing, scuba diving with instructors, kitesurfing