Punta Cana tourist information and things to do (2023)

Everything you need to know about Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic before coming to visit, live or buy an apartment. We also offer you the top 10 things to do in Punta Cana and Bavarian. So grab a notebook or print this sheet and enjoy the island as you deserve.

Punta Cana tourist information

Location

The Dominican Republic is located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea and together with Haiti forms the Hispaniola island. Located between the island of Cuba, to the west, and Puerto Rico, to the east, it is the second largest island in the Greater Antilles archipelago. Hispaniola was the first European settlement in the New World, after being discovered by Christopher Columbus on his first voyage in 1492.

Punta Cana is located on the east coast of the Dominican Republic, right at the crossroads of the two oceans. The currents of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean create an environment of impressive biodiversity that makes it perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Timezone

Punta Cana is located in the Atlantic Time Zone (sometimes referred to as the Eastern Caribbean) and does not have daylight saving time. It is in the same time zone as Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands and Venezuela, that is, GMT -4.

Weather

The climate here is subtropical – so bring your sunscreen, flip-flops, and hat. The climate is quite consistent throughout the year, with an average temperature around 23 degrees. Being a tropical climate, the rains are constant so do not forget to bring your umbrella.

From May to October the weather is a bit hotter and more humid and from November to March temperatures are cooler – especially at night. June is the hottest month of the year and the coldest is January. The rainiest month to visit is September – with an average of 128mm of rain.

The capital

The capital of the Dominican Republic is Santo Domingo, with a population of nearly four million. Santo Domingo was one of the first Spanish colonies, so a great influence of this culture can be seen in the capital.

Government

The Dominican Republic is a representative democracy – the president is simultaneously head of state, head of government and head of a multi-party system. The country has a strong relationship with Puerto Rico and the United States, with Puerto Rico being its largest trading partner. In addition, the Dominican Republic is a founding member of the United Nations, as well as the World Trade Organization and the World Health Organization.

Language

The official language is Spanish. However, if you don't speak Spanish, don't worry, English is spoken in most tourist areas, and French is also spoken by a part of the population. It is a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Spanish.

Currency

The official currency of Punta Cana is the Dominican Peso. However, since Punta Cana is a tourist destination, many hotels, shops and travel companies also accept US dollars and euros. Additionally, most large hotels and resorts will accept major credit cards such as Mastercard and Visa.

Gastronomy

Dominican cuisine is predominantly a mix between Spanish, Taíno and African. Quite similar to other Latin American countries.

The flag

The flag is the flag that represents the country, and that together with the Coat of Arms and the national anthem, has the category of patriotic symbols. It is the only flag in the world that has an open Bible.

In accordance with the Constitution, it has a cross in the center that extends towards the extremities and divides the flag into four rectangles: the upper ones are blue (on the side of the pole) and red; and the ones below are red (on the side of the pole) and blue. In the center of the cross there is the coat of arms of the Dominican Republic.

Meringue, rum, tobacco and coffee

When talking about meringue, we talk about the Dominican Republic, because this rhythm is one of the elements that is part of the national identity. Juan Luis Guerra is one of the international ambassadors of baile.

The Dominican Republic is a great producer of sugar cane, hence the great variety and quality in the ron that produces. The Dominican rum industry formally began with the founding of the Bermúdez rum factory in 1852.

El tobacco Dominican stands out for its mild flavor and the quality of its preparation. Among the best brands are Avo, Davidoff, Aurora, El Coto, Cuesta Rey and Casablanca among others. The tobacco industry is one of the most important in the country.

The grains of coffee The most appreciated coffee comes from the southwest and is known under the name of Barahona in reference to the coastal town where this coffee is shipped, highly appreciated for its aroma, acidity and good body.

larimar

Larimar is culture, it is tourism, it is crafts, it is commerce. It is a blue semi-precious stone, known as Dominican Turquoise. Discovered in 1976 by an American geologist. The name arises from the union of the name of the daughter "Lary" with the noun "mar".

Why invest in Punta Cana

There are many reasons to invest in Punta Cana. The tourism market in the Dominican Republic is booming, attracting large numbers of beach-loving tourists from all over North America, South America and Europe. It is a destination that offers Caribbean beaches and sun at affordable prices compared to other places in the Caribbean.

Punta Cana offers investment apartments and rentals with high income potential and a great return on investment. Tourism levels here have seen steady growth and tourism is now the most important economic sector in the country. If we still haven't convinced you, here are more reasons to invest in Beach Garden Residences:

  • It is only 15 minutes from an international airport, making it a very convenient location.
  • The country has a stable government and great infrastructure.
  • This area offers some of the lowest prices on residential property in the entire Caribbean.
  • You will be able to collect rent from visitors and make a profit on your investment home. It offers you an excellent investment opportunity with an expected appreciation of 15-20% per year.
  • Many of the major developers and companies are investing in the area.

These are just some of the reasons why invest in Punta Cana. For more information about buying property in Punta Cana and why this is a great place to invest, contact us.

TOP 10 things to do in Punta Cana

  1. Relax on Bávaro beach, work on your tan and have a piña colada or coco loco.
  2. Eat fresh tuna in the Trunk Beach Restaurant.
  3. take an excursion to Isla Saona VIP with Miguel from Destiny Caribbean Tours, an island protected by the government as a nature reserve known for its beautiful virgin beaches.
  4. Horseback riding on the beach at sunset.
  5. learn wakeboarding in radpark in Downtown.
  6. See the show of acrobats and dancers in Coco Bongo.
  7. Learn to dance bachata and merengue, and maybe start with salsa.
  8. Swim with dolphins and take photos with them.
  9. Visit the colonial zone of Santo Domingo.
  10. Learn to surf at Macao Surf Camp.

Don't forget the most important thing, make a private tour of Beach Garden Residences, apartments for sale in Punta Cana with an excellent location and a guaranteed fixed return of 7% per year... What more could you ask for?

For more information, you can visit the sales office at Calle Marcio Veloz Maggiolo Edificio Piscina Jardín, Cogarden Local B301. Punta Cana, our website www.gesproingroup.com, call us at +1 (849) 408 – 5695 or send an email to info@gesproingroup.com

FAQs

Punta Cana tourist information and things to do? ›

Famed for its wonderful white sandy beaches and twinkling turquoise waters, Punta Cana occupies the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic. The second-most popular tourist destination in all of Latin America, its luxurious resorts are visited by thousands of happy holidaymakers each year.

What do I need to do before going to Punta Cana? ›

Top 10 Helpful Things To Know About Punta Cana
  1. There Is An Airport Visitor Fee. ...
  2. Pre-book Your Airport Transportation. ...
  3. Your US Dollars Are Acceptable. ...
  4. Ignore The Clouds On Your Weather App. ...
  5. Keep Your Top On. ...
  6. The Town Is Far Away. ...
  7. It's A Tourist Destination. ...
  8. Tipping Is A Must.
Aug 7, 2022

What is Punta Cana best known for? ›

Famed for its wonderful white sandy beaches and twinkling turquoise waters, Punta Cana occupies the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic. The second-most popular tourist destination in all of Latin America, its luxurious resorts are visited by thousands of happy holidaymakers each year.

Is Punta Cana OK to visit now? ›

Is it safe to visit Punta Cana now? Yes, it is safe to enjoy the sunny, tropical ambiance of Punta Cana, as long as you follow these basic rules for traveling to any foreign country: Avoid traveling alone whenever possible. Always take note of extreme weather advisories when planning your trip.

How do tourist get around in Punta Cana? ›

The best way to get around Punta Cana is by foot if you're staying at an all-inclusive resort and by car if you plan to explore. Buses run along the main strip of hotels, but their irregular schedules make them a poor choice for getting around.

Is 5 a good tip in Dominican Republic? ›

How much is customary? In the Dominican Republic, it is customary to leave a 10% if you enjoyed your services. Some restaurants will add 10% gratuity to your bill, so make sure you look at your check before leaving extra.

Is there tainted alcohol in Punta Cana? ›

The FBI has released toxicology test results related to the deaths of three U.S. tourists in the Dominican Republic, according to the U.S. Department of State.

Can you walk around Punta Cana? ›

The best way to get around Punta Cana is by foot if you're staying at an all-inclusive resort and by car if you plan to explore. Buses run along the main strip of hotels, but their irregular schedules make them a poor choice for getting around.

What is the famous drink in Punta Cana? ›

Mamajuana. The well-known Mamajuana can be tried alone or in cocktails. It is very attractive among tourists and is considered one of the main national drinks.

Which side of Punta Cana is better? ›

There are also plenty of shopping options and some historic attractions as well as a bustling nightlife. The best area to stay in Punta Cana is the Bavaro area as this is where the main tourist hub is located.

Is there a mask mandate in Punta Cana? ›

On Wednesday 16 February 2022, Dominican authorities announced that with immediate effect all COVID-19 measures are suspended, including mandatory mask wearing, social distancing and proof of vaccination for public spaces and private spaces for public use.

What vaccinations do I need for Dominican Republic? ›

Courses or boosters usually advised: Hepatitis A; Tetanus. Other vaccines to consider: Diphtheria; Hepatitis B; Rabies; Typhoid. Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera.

Can you drink water in Punta Cana? ›

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that water should only be consumed in the Dominican Republic if it is purified or from a bottle that is sealed.

Should you leave the resort in Punta Cana? ›

While it is a very safe location, as it is in other countries and cities, there are places where you shouldn't go by yourself. It is generally safe to leave the resort in Punta Cana, it is recommended that you don't do so by yourself and instead book safe Punta Cana Transportation.

Do you need money to leave Punta Cana? ›

By Dominican law, there's also a US$20 departure tax, the cost of which is usually included in your airfare (verify with your carrier).

Is there a fee to enter Punta Cana? ›

All tourists entering the Dominican Republic are required to pay a US $10 entry fee in cash. If you're arriving by air, you don't need to worry about this - the fee is now included in the airfare. If you're entering via Haiti, Cuba or another Caribbean location, though, be prepared to pay the fee.

How much is $100 US in Dominican pesos? ›

5441.00000

How much cash should I bring to Punta Cana? ›

We usually find $500 for the week for us is right. This covers 1 excusion, some shopping, tipping from start to finish and a meal at the airport when we leave. We usually take 500-600US and usually come home with money. Make sure to break up the denominations from 1's to 50's.

Is $20 good tip in Punta Cana? ›

As with restaurants back home, a gratuity is expected at bars in Punta Cana. A 10% tip is customary for standard service at a bar; tipping 15% or more shows extra appreciation.

What not to eat or drink in Punta Cana? ›

NEVER DO the following in the Dominican Republic:
  • Never drink tap water. ...
  • Never eat fruit and vegetables from stalls and fruit kiosks without washing and peeling them. ...
  • Not drink fresh juice from fruit kiosks. ...
  • Not use ice from kiosks. ...
  • Not play with street animals. ...
  • Not eat raw meat and fish (ceviche).

Is there a taboo in Punta Cana? ›

When day transitions to night, Finest Punta Cana opens the doors to Taboo Lounge, a luxurious nightclub located inside our resort.

Is it illegal to wear camo in Punta Cana? ›

Camouflage is considered to be strictly for military or law enforcement uniform, so the print cannot be worn in public by anyone who is not in “active” military or law enforcement status. Yes, the rule applies to you too, Mr. and Mrs. Tourists.

Can I take my medication to Dominican Republic? ›

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor's prescription. Check with the Ministry for Public Health to ensure the medication is legal in the Dominican Republic.

How can I avoid getting sick in Punta Cana? ›

Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the Dominican Republic, so your behaviors are important.
  1. Eat and drink safely. ...
  2. Prevent bug bites. ...
  3. Stay safe outdoors. ...
  4. Keep away from animals. ...
  5. Reduce your exposure to germs. ...
  6. Avoid sharing body fluids. ...
  7. Know how to get medical care while traveling. ...
  8. Select safe transportation.

Can you go out at night in Punta Cana? ›

Whether you want to dance all night or chill with cocktails on the beach, Punta Cana has a setting for everyone. While the Dominican resort town is among the Caribbean's most desirable destinations for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, its nightlife is pretty spectacular, too.

What is the fruit of Punta Cana? ›

Papaya. In Punta Cana, we call it Lechosa. It is a very large fruit that has a shell and a core of seeds that are not eaten, and a very fleshy pulp. It has a very mild flavour, as well as a soft texture in the mouth.

What liquor is only found in Dominican Republic? ›

Mamajuana (or "mama juana") is the native spiced rum of the Dominican Republic. The legendary drink dates back hundreds of years with rich history, and has become a token of Dominican pride and culture.

What is the drinking age in Punta Cana? ›

Legal drinking age in Dominican Republic is 18. We might ask for an I.D. at any time. Under-age drinking and providing alcohol to minors is punished by law. Introducing alcohol to the premises or taking it out of the premises is not allowed.

Should I bring USD or pesos to Punta Cana? ›

The most appropriate thing is to travel to the Dominican Republic with American dollars for the subject of the quote. Also, it will be easier for you to go to an exchange place and get the Punta Cana currency, which is the Dominican peso, to make your purchases or access services more easily.

What's the best month to go to Punta Cana? ›

From October to December – midseason

For those who want to enjoy a pleasant climate during the end of the rainy season in Punta Cana, we recommend visiting the region between the months of October to December. Many visitors consider that the best time to travel to Punta Cana is when the rainy season ends.

What is the prettiest beach in Punta Cana? ›

Bavaro Beach is generally considered to be the best beach in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic overall. Lined with tall coco palms, its soft, white sand stretches for 10 kilometres (6.2 miles), with a flat slope to the water edge, which makes it perfect for long beach walks.

What can you not bring into Dominican Republic? ›

Illegal drugs, animal, horticultural and agricultural products are prohibited. The prescription medication you bring for personal use should be in its original container.
...
Information on customs and duty
  • 1 liter of liquor.
  • One box of cigars or 200 cigarettes.
  • Gifts of up to US$100.
  • 2 bottles of perfume for your own use.

Do you need vaccine card to go to Punta Cana? ›

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Passengers who present their Vaccination Card will be exempted from random testing. Passports: All foreign citizens who enter the Dominican Republic, exclusively for tourism purposes, must have a valid passport during their stay and departure from the country.

Do I need to fill out a form to enter Punta Cana? ›

All travellers will need to fill in the online entry form before travel to the Dominican Republic, which includes the COVID Traveller's Health Affidavit, the Customs Declaration and the International Boarding / Disembarking forms and can be completed via the Dominican Republic's Electronic Ticket Portal, before your ...

What is a typical breakfast in the Dominican Republic? ›

Mangú Tres Golpes is the traditional breakfast of the Dominican Republic. It consists of mangú, or mashed plantains, with GOYA® Queso de Freir, fried salami and eggs, finally topped off with tangy pickled red onions to balance the richness.

What is the main dish in the Dominican Republic? ›

La Bandera is considered the national dish of the Dominican people. It consists of white rice, chicken or beef, and red beans, accompanied by tostones, green salad or even avocado.

Do I need malaria pills for Dominican Republic? ›

Travelers to Dominican Republic are reminded to take malaria prevention measures. CDC recommends antimalarial medication for travelers going to the Dominican Republic, outside of Santiago and Santo Domingo cities.

Is it safe to take a shower in the Dominican Republic? ›

Tap water is treated in the Dominican Republic, so feel safe to shower any time.

Are mosquitoes bad in Dominican Republic? ›

In resort areas of the Dominican Republic, mosquitoes are less common than in forests and do not disturb tourists persistently with their annoying behavior. However, far from populated areas, not equipped with the benefits of civilization, there are crowds of mosquitoes, and they are very bloodthirsty.

Is the ocean swimmable in Punta Cana? ›

Beaches in Punta Cana offer true tropical paradises with sand and surf that extends forever, tropical environs, clean seashores, palm trees, and all the relaxation you need. Here, you can relax on powder-soft white sands, swim and surf in crystal clear turquoise water, and escape from the stress of your daily life.

What is the cheapest month to stay in Punta Cana? ›

The cheapest time to visit Punta Cana is generally considered to be during the off-season months of April through November. During these months, hotel prices dropped significantly due to decreased demand from travelers.

What day of the week is best to go to Punta Cana? ›

The best arrival day of the week is either Tuesday or Wednesday (BobH); Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday (wessiewoo's Travel Agent); Saturday looks good for OttawaTom; and NewfieOWL trumps them all by declaring that everyday is a good day to arrive in PC.

Do you have to pay $20 to leave Dominican Republic? ›

Note: Upon departure from Dominican Republic, passengers are also required to pay a departure tax of $20 USD in cash at the counters prior to check-in.

Is it better to use cash or card in Dominican Republic? ›

Most of the larger restaurants, bars, and grocery stores will accept credit cards. Some smaller convenience stores are starting to accept cards as well, but it can be hit or miss. There are still many services that do not accept credit cards so it's best to bring some cash on your trip.

How long does it take to get through security at Punta Cana airport? ›

One of the most common questions we get from travelers visiting Punta Cana is how long lines at Punta Cana airport during the high season are. The truth is lines can be 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on season and day of the week.

Should I exchange money before going to Dominican Republic? ›

For most of the trips to Punta Cana, you're fine with US-Dollars. Especially when staying in all-inclusive resorts and heading on organized excursions in Punta Cana, you won't need any of the local currency of the Dominican Republic. Tipping in US-Dollar is fine as well.

Is $1 dollar a lot in Dominican Republic? ›

1$ may seem like a lot relative to their salaries but it is not much in terms of the cost of living. 1$ is comparable to a bus ticket or 1/2 a beer.

What documents do I need to enter Punta Cana? ›

Quick Facts
  • PASSPORT VALIDITY: Passports must be valid for the period of stay in the Dominican Republic.
  • BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 1 page required for entry stamp.
  • TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for visits shorter than 30 days.

What documents do I need for Punta Cana airport? ›

The most relevant documentation to travel to Punta Cana is the passport, which must be valid, at least for a period of six months from the date of your entry. Also, two blank sheets are required to seal both the entrance and the exit.

What can I bring home from Dominican Republic? ›

Ideas for souvenir shopping in the Dominican Republic
  • Coconut oil. ...
  • Taíno handicrafts. ...
  • Mamajuana. ...
  • Rum, the Dominican drink par excellence. ...
  • Dominican coffee, aroma and pure pleasure in a cup. ...
  • Larimar and Amber: Dominican jewellery. ...
  • Typical sweets. ...
  • The Dominican Republic and the allure of its cigars.
Oct 25, 2022

When should I fill out my e ticket for Dominican Republic? ›

How many days in advance should I fill out the form? The form can be filled out since 72 hours before arrival to Dominican Republic, until right before going through immigration.

Do I need to bring cash to Punta Cana? ›

There are still many services that do not accept credit cards so it's best to bring some cash on your trip. For example: Taxis, fruit stands, souvenir shops, and vendors on the beach do not usually accept credit cards. Neither do some of the smaller restaurants and food trucks.

What to fill out when flying to Dominican Republic? ›

The Dominican Republic eTicket is the digital form required by multiple institutions to enter or leave the Dominican Republic. It combines the Traveler's Health Affidavit, Customs Declaration, and International Embarkations in just one single document.

Do you go through US customs in Punta Cana? ›

Once you have claimed your luggage, proceed to Customs. Until very recently, all visitors had to buy a tourist card before arriving in the country or directly at the Customs booth. The cost of the Tourist Cards is $10,00 dollars.

References

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