How to Spend a Dreamy Holiday in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Bavaro is an area in Punta Cana, located in La Altagracia province, Dominican Republic. While Punta Cana was built as an area for tourists, Bavaro was developed as a home for the resort workers and their families. Over the years, as hotels started to rise along the east coast, north of Punta Cana, Bavaro itself became a tourist area. There are numerous hotels in Bavaro, the oldest and most historic one is called Barcelo. There's also a shopping mall, as well as various other facilities, such as gift shops, bars, restaurants, the Mangu and Areito discothèques, and a White Sands golf course.

Seaquarium Punta Cana is an amazing underwater adventure. The experience starts with an open-top bus that picks up its passengers at their hotel and takes them to the quay, where a modern catamaran will be waiting. While on the catamaran, passengers can enjoy an onboard party with live entertainment and music, fresh fruits, snacks, and drinks. And once they come to the quay, they'll get the chance to walk underwater, snorkel with fish, sharks, and manta rays, and even get a kiss from the sea lion. The party continues in the warm waters of a natural sea pool in the Caribbean Sea.

Ctra. Manatí, s/n, 23000 Bávaro, La Altagracia, Dominican Republic, Phone: +1 (809) 221-9444

Macao Beach is located right at the end of Carretera Higuey, just a short ride away from all the action in Punta Cana. The road leads directly to the sand, where there is a place for cars to park. This beautiful beach, in a peaceful rural setting, is the perfect place for anyone who is looking for a relaxing afternoon in the sun. The view here is beautiful, the sand is soft, and coconut palm trees are there to provide a shady respite from the sun in the deep blue sky. Unfortunately, there are no on-site public restrooms, but there are several activities in the vicinity, such as the Hard Rock Casino Punta Cana and the Hard Rock Golf Club at Cana Bay.

The Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve (Reserva Ecologica Ojos Indigenas) is a 1,500-acre area owned and operated by the Punta Cana Ecological Foundation. It consists of lowland subtropical forest with twelve freshwater lakes. The whole place is dedicated to conservation and scientific research as well as recreation. Historians discovered that the Taíno Indians, former inhabitants of the island, referred to the lakes as "eyes" (ojos in Spanish) because of their distinctive shape and formation. Numerous exhibits describe the cultural and natural history of the island to all its visitors. They can visit an iguana habitat, a sugarcane exhibit, or a petting zoo with many animals that are common in the Dominican Republic.

Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic, Phone: +1 (829) 470-1367

Marinarium Marine Park & Aquarium is located in Cabeza de Toro, between Bávaro and Punta Cana. This park provides exciting tours and excursions, suitable for people of all ages who want to explore the coast and coral reef and discover the beauty of marine life. Through eco-tourism and educational programs, Marinarium fosters environmental conservation and the preservation of nature for future generations. All snorkeling equipment is supplied, as are snacks and beverages. Transfers in both directions are included in the price of the excursion. These trips are a perfect opportunity to celebrate an anniversary or birthday or just enjoy a casual party on a boat.

Marinarium, Cabeza de Toro, Bávaro, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Phone: +1 (809) 468-3183

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

Altos de Chavon is a replica of a 16th century Mediterranean village, located on a rocky outcrop above the Chavón River in La Romana, Dominican Republic. It was designed by Jose Antonio Caro, a Dominican architect, and Roberto Coppa, an Italian designer and cinematographer. Local artisans handcrafted every detail in this marvelous village. Altos de Chavón is one of the most popular attractions in the city, and it features facilities such as an archeological museum, a cultural center, and an amphitheater. It's also home to the renowned Altos de Chavón School of Design, affiliated with the famous Parsons School of Design from New York.

Altos de Chavón, Casa de Campo, La Romana, Dominican Republic, Phone: +1 (809) 523-3333

Swimming with dolphins is a common item on animal lovers’ wish lists. You can make that dream come true in Punta Cana when you book one of their Dolphin Encounters. There are 3 different dolphin experiences to choose from. Even non-swimmers can enjoy a close up and personal dolphin experience by standing on a platform and receiving a “hand-shake” and “hug” from one of the friendly dolphins. If you are happy to take to the water with these amazingly friendly creatures you can swim with the dolphins on a Dolphin Royal Swim or Dolphin Swim Adventure. Both experiences are totally unforgettable and will make lasting memories of your Dominican Republic vacation.

Dolphin Discovery Punta Cana, Carretera De Veron Bavaro La Altagracia Province Higuey Town, 23301, 886 393 5158

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

Bavaro Adventure Park was created in 2011 when a group of friends and partners in the Dominican hotel industry realized that there were not many adventurous and entertaining activities offered for tourists. They wanted to create something different, exciting, and eco-friendly at the same time. Each attraction they offer has well-trained and certified staff, geared specifically toward individual visitors and their wishes. Most packages include transportation from and to the hotel. Visitors can jump up to 32 feet (10 meters) in the trampoline area, climb onto a pirate ship, or ride a mountain bike through a remote area of Bavaro. Activities to be added on the package can be chosen upon arrival.

Bulevar turistico del Este km 8,5, 23000 Bávaro, La Altagracia, Dominican Republic, Phone: +1 (809) 933-3040

Big Marlin Charters is a fishing and boat charter company located in a lively tourist area of Punta Cana and caters to both experienced fishers and beginners. Big Marlin Charts offers exciting deep-sea fishing adventures to all the visitors of Punta Cana. The professional and friendly staff provide great customer service and speak both English and Spanish. An experienced local captain navigates each fishing charter, and all guests are assisted by an attentive first mate, who is always there to help them with advice. Yachts are available for various events and celebrations, too. The company has its own van for transfers.

str. Playa Bibijagua 1, 23000, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Phone: +1 (849) 409-9977