Punta Cana is heaven on earth with radiant beaches, crystal clear waters, white powder sand, dolphins, and palm trees. Sitting on the easternmost tip of the island of Hispaniola in the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana refers to a region that encompasses the beaches of Bávaro, Cap Cana, Macao, and Uvero Alto, among others. No matter where you land on the map, you’re destined to find paradisiacal places, countless experiences, and all-inclusive luxury resorts. We’re here to help you choose which slice of paradise meets your vacation desires.
Bávaro
Bávaro is a top choice for many spectacular resorts (80% of Punta Cana’s hotels and resorts are situated here), and its proximity to Punta Cana International Airport is just a 20-minute drive. If it’s your first-time visiting Punta Cana, then Bávaro is the perfect place to start. Once you’ve arrived at your island retreat, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking sea views and jaw-dropping sunsets. This area has something for everyone. It’s the perfect place for a fun-filled family vacation or a relaxing adults-only retreat with the finest spas at each resort. When not enjoying the pristine beaches, explore the vast underwater world with a scuba diving or snorkeling tour, or head to a world-class golf course for a game or two.
BeachBounder resort pick: Riu Palace Bavaro - All-Inclusive
This 24-hour all-inclusive hotel is poised to satisfy your every want and need. It’s the perfect place for a family vacation, romantic getaway, or trip with friends to the Caribbean. The culinary offerings at Riu Palace Bavaro stand out due to variety and expert preparation. Guests can choose from authentic American, Japanese, Italian, and fusion cuisine. There’s even a steakhouse in the pool area. What’s more? Guests at this resort can experience other Riu Hotels & Resorts in the area, including Riu Palace Punta Cana, Riu Bambu, Riu Palace Macao (adults-only), and Riu Naiboa, to enjoy even more amenities during their stay.
Cap Cana
Cap Cana is a small resort village just 15 mins from the airport or a 25-minute drive south of Bavaro. It’s renowned for having an exclusive atmosphere, fewer crowds, and pristine beaches. There are still plenty of unique bars, fine dining restaurants, lounges, and shops to explore if you want to venture outside of the resort on your own. Cap Cana is also home to some of Punta Cana’s best natural wonders like caves, coral reefs, and natural sinkholes. Satisfy your taste for adventure with a dip in the Hoyo Azul sinkhole, a hidden cove with a spectacular natural swimming pool filled with turquoise water. Get to know the enchanting natural surroundings with a trip to the nearby Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve (Parque Ecologico Ojos Indigenas). This 1,500-acre nature reserve offers shaded hiking trails through lush tropical forests and 12 freshwater lagoons to swim in.
BeachBounder resort pick: Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa - All-Inclusive
Escape into luxury at this exclusive adults-only retreat. Situated in a gated community of Cap Cana, Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa brings the highest luxury to one of the most beautiful beaches in Punta Cana. Guests will enjoy gourmet dining, top-shelf spirits, and a world-class spa to experience relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests love the two zero-entry infinity pools for their spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and beaches lined with palm trees. When ready for action, take a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, windsurfing board, or Hobie Cat for a cruise around calm waters.
Macao
Punta Cana’s up-and-coming resort hot spot is Macao. Just north of Bávaro, this area along the coast is charming and provincial compared to its neighboring locales. There is only one all-inclusive resort here, Dreams Macao. In Macao, you’ll get a more authentic taste of La República Dominicana. You can enjoy some of the best surfing spots on the island with all the luxuries of a bustling resort destination. There are several hidden gems to explore nearby, including Playa Escondida or Hidden Beach, where you can enjoy freshly caught and grilled fish from the sea. The half-moon-shaped bay and beautiful colored sand make this a most peaceful retreat set amongst gorgeous scenery. Don’t worry, there’s plenty of adventure to be had by land or sea. Book a dune buggy or ATV tour for an adrenaline-pumping ride on the beach or to explore the Macao Beach Cave.
BeachBounder resort pick: Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana - All-Inclusive
This resort is an idyllic haven for families and couples to connect in a surreal setting. This first and only all-inclusive resort on Macao Beach offers spacious rooms and suites equipped with luxurious amenities like a private balcony with a jacuzzi or a swim-out suite with your private pool. This tropical retreat has four shimmering pools, limitless dining and drinks, and a state-of-the-art spa for relaxing treatments, complete with a hydrotherapy circuit.
Playa Uvero Alto
Located on the northernmost end of Punta Cana, you’ll find some of the poshest resorts along this stretch of golden beach. This dreamy locale has a relaxed vibe with a long, wide beach with soft sand where you can walk, play, or laze the day away. The playful waves in this area are perfect for bodyboarding fun and surfing in some parts. Horseback riding on the beach is a popular activity for couples and families – make it extra romantic by booking a sunset tour.
BeachBounder resort pick: Live Aqua Beach Resort - All-Inclusive
This exclusive adults-only resort is your escape for sophisticated luxury in paradise. You’ll feel pampered from the moment you arrive, and the experience never stops while you’re there. Savor a world of culinary delights with flavors from around the globe like Italian, Japanese, French, Mediterranean, Mexican, and local cuisine from the Dominican Republic. Live Aqua boasts five shimmering pools, four of which are quiet pools away from the action where you can relax and have your every need met with exceptional wait service.
Explore more resorts in Punta Cana at Beachbound.com, and start planning your getaway today.
