1-Day Local Sightseeing and Culinary Experience in Punta Cana

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

1 days

Palm leaning towards the water at a sandy tropical beach
Orange sea stars on sandy ocean floor
A boardwalk leading towards a wooden pavillion over the water
Pink and purple sunset sky over tropical beach
Aerial view of the Saona island

About Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Experience the tropical paradise of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, a haven for sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts. This Caribbean gem boasts pristine, palm-fringed beaches with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. Explore the vibrant marine life or indulge in water sports like windsurfing and kayaking. Punta Cana is not just about the beach; it's also home to world-class golf courses, luxurious resorts, and a lively nightlife. Discover the region's rich history and culture through its local cuisine, music, and art. Take a trip to the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park or the impressive Hoyo Azul for a touch of nature. Punta Cana is a destination that offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal vacation spot.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Natural and Marine Life of Punta Cana

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve. This 1,500-acre private reserve maintained by the Punta Cana Ecological Foundation consists of lowland subtropical forest. The park is home to 12 freshwater lagoons, five of which visitors can swim in, and exhibits on the island's environmental issues.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Dominican lunch at a local restaurant. Try dishes like 'La Bandera' (The Flag), which consists of white rice, beans, and meat, or 'Sancocho', a hearty stew made with meat and root vegetables.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Marinarium, a marine park where you can snorkel with stingrays and nurse sharks. The park also offers eco-tours that provide insight into the local marine life and ecosystems.

Dinner

For dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant. Punta Cana is known for its excellent seafood, so don't miss out on dishes like 'Pescado con Coco' (Fish with Coconut Sauce) or 'Camarones al Ajillo' (Garlic Shrimp).

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the Bavaro Beach. This stunning beach is known for its white sand, clear waters, and rows of palm trees. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere after a busy day.

Attractions in Itinerary (3)

Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve

1
Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve

A private protected area owned and operated by the Punta Cana Ecological Foundation. The park and reserve are home to an array of endemic species, and visitors can explore numerous trails, lagoons, and exhibits.

Parks
Cultural Experiences
Marinarium

2
Marinarium

An exciting excursion that offers snorkeling, sightseeing, and the opportunity to swim with nurse sharks and stingrays.

Tours
Entertainment
Bavaro Beach

3
Bavaro Beach

One of the most popular beaches in the Dominican Republic, known for its white sand, clear waters, and abundance of water sports activities.

Beaches

Local Food and Drinks (12)

La Bandera

La Bandera

A traditional Dominican dish that consists of rice, red beans, and meat (usually chicken, beef, pork, or fish). Its name translates to 'The Flag' in English, symbolizing its importance in Dominican culture.

Mofongo

Mofongo

A popular dish made from fried plantains that are mashed together with garlic, broth, and olive oil. It's often filled with meat or seafood and is a must-try for any food lover visiting Punta Cana.

Sancocho

Sancocho

A hearty stew made with a variety of meats and root vegetables. It's considered a national dish and is often served during special occasions or family gatherings.

Mangú

Mangú

A traditional breakfast dish made from mashed plantains, usually served with fried eggs, salami, and cheese. It's a staple in Dominican cuisine and a great way to start the day in Punta Cana.

Chimichurri

Chimichurri

A Dominican-style burger made with seasoned ground beef and topped with cabbage, tomatoes, and a special sauce. Despite sharing a name with the Argentine sauce, they are quite different.

Chicharrón

Chicharrón

Fried pork rinds that are a popular snack in Punta Cana. They're crispy, salty, and perfect for munching on while exploring the local sights.

Tostones

Tostones

Fried plantain slices that are a common side dish in Dominican cuisine. They're crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and often served with a garlic dipping sauce.

Morir Soñando

Morir Soñando

A refreshing drink made from milk, sugar, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Its name translates to 'Die Dreaming' in English, reflecting its delicious taste.

Mamajuana

Mamajuana

A traditional Dominican drink made from rum, red wine, honey, and a mix of local herbs and spices. It's often served as a digestive after meals and is believed to have medicinal properties.

Presidente Beer

Presidente Beer

The most popular beer in the Dominican Republic. It's a light, crisp pilsner that's perfect for sipping on a hot day in Punta Cana.

Yaniqueque

Yaniqueque

A type of fried bread that's a popular street food in Punta Cana. It's crispy, flaky, and often served with a side of salsa for dipping.

Queso de Hoja

A traditional Dominican cheese that's made by hand and often served with bread or crackers. It has a unique, tangy flavor that's a must-try for any cheese lover visiting Punta Cana.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Punta Cana, Dominican Republic is from March to May, right after the peak winter season. During these months, the weather is warm, the crowds are smaller, and the hotel rates are more affordable. However, if you're a fan of whale watching, you might want to consider visiting between January and March. Punta Cana is also a popular destination for spring break, so expect larger crowds and higher prices in late February to early April.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 9

Tue

Epiphany

January 21

Sun

Our Lady of Altagracia

January 26

Fri

Duarte's Day

January 29

Mon

Day off for Duarte's Day

February 27

Tue

Independence Day

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi

August 16

Fri

Restoration Day

September 24

Tue

Feast of Our Lady of Mercy

November 4

Mon

Constitution Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Punta Cana. It provides the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. However, it's important to note that driving in the Dominican Republic can be challenging due to different traffic rules and road conditions. International driving licenses are accepted.

Taxis are readily available in Punta Cana. They are a convenient way to get around, especially for short distances. However, it's recommended to agree on the fare before starting the journey to avoid any confusion later.

Public buses, known as "guaguas", are a cheap way to get around Punta Cana. They run frequently and cover most parts of the city. However, they can be crowded and may not have air conditioning.

Private transfers are a comfortable and convenient way to get around Punta Cana. They can be booked in advance and the driver will pick you up from your location at the agreed time. This is a great option for those who prefer not to drive or use public transport.

Motorcycle taxis, known as "motoconchos", are a quick and cheap way to get around Punta Cana. However, they are not the safest option and are not recommended for long distances or for those with large luggage.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Punta Cana. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone and track the driver's location in real time.

Renting a bicycle is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Punta Cana. There are several rental shops in the city offering a range of bicycles to suit different levels of fitness and experience.

Walking is a great way to explore Punta Cana, especially the beach areas. However, it's not the most practical option for long distances or in the heat of the day.

Tour operators offer guided tours around Punta Cana. This is a great way to see the sights and learn about the local culture and history without the hassle of navigating on your own.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency DOP

Time zoneUTC-4

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type BPower socket type C

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Punta Cana, Dominican Republic as a first time visitor

1

The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish, so it would be helpful to learn a few basic phrases.

2

The Dominican Peso (DOP) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.

3

Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors or in case of emergencies.

4

The Dominican Republic operates on Atlantic Standard Time, which is four hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-4).

5

The country has a tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C).

6

The hurricane season runs from June to November, with the peak period from August to October.

7

Tap water is not safe to drink in the Dominican Republic. Always drink bottled water.

8

Public transportation is not very reliable. It's better to rent a car or use taxis.

9

Tipping is customary in the Dominican Republic. A 10% service charge is often added to your bill, but it's customary to leave an additional tip.

10

The Dominican Republic has a 220V power supply, so you may need a converter for your electronic devices.

11

The country has a high rate of traffic accidents, so always be cautious when driving or crossing the street.

12

The Dominican Republic is generally safe for tourists, but petty theft can occur. Always keep an eye on your belongings.

13

The sun can be very strong, especially between 11am and 3pm. Always wear sunscreen and a hat.

14

The Dominican Republic has a strict dress code in public places. Beachwear is only acceptable on the beach.

15

The country has a vibrant nightlife, but it's important to stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night.

16

The Dominican Republic has a rich cultural heritage. Respect local customs and traditions.

17

Healthcare facilities in Punta Cana are good, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

18

The Dominican Republic has strict laws against drugs. Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs is a serious crime.

19

The country has a high rate of mosquito-borne diseases. Always use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk.

20

Always check the latest travel advisories before your trip to the Dominican Republic.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

See

Agreeing with someone

No

No

No

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

Ab-las in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

Expressing confusion

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

Don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Baño

Ban-yo

Looking for a restroom

Help

Ayuda

A-yu-da

In case of emergency

Food

Comida

Co-mee-da

Looking for a place to eat

Water

Agua

A-gua

Asking for water

Beer

Cerveza

Ser-ve-za

Ordering a beer

Wine

Vino

Vee-no

Ordering wine

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Kwan-to kwes-ta

Asking for the price

Can I have the bill, please?

¿Puedo tener la cuenta, por favor?

Pwe-do te-ner la kwen-ta, por fa-vor

Asking for the bill at a restaurant

Good night

Buenas noches

Bwe-nas no-ches

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimsuit

  • Beach cover-up

  • Flip-flops or sandals

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Sunscreen

  • After-sun lotion

  • Insect repellent

  • Travel-sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash)

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Health insurance card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (in local currency)

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Beach bag

  • Beach towel

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel guidebook

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • First-aid kit

Weather Conditions

Punta Cana, located in the Dominican Republic, is a tropical paradise that enjoys warm weather throughout the year. However, it's important to consider the weather patterns when planning your visit to make the most of your trip. The average temperature in Punta Cana ranges between 75°F (24°C) and 86°F (30°C) throughout the year. This makes it an ideal destination for beach lovers. However, remember to pack your sunscreen as the sun can be quite strong, especially between 10 am and 2 pm. The region experiences a rainy season from May to November, with August to November being the peak hurricane season. While it doesn't mean you should avoid these months entirely, it's worth noting that you may encounter some rainy days. The showers are usually brief and heavy, often clearing up quickly. If you're planning to visit during these months, it's advisable to pack a light rain jacket or umbrella. The driest months are from December to April, making it a popular time for tourists to visit. During this period, the weather is generally sunny and less humid, providing perfect conditions for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful beaches. Regardless of when you visit, the weather in Punta Cana can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Also, consider travel insurance that covers weather-related disruptions, particularly if you're planning to visit during hurricane season. Finally, remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. The tropical climate can be deceptively intense, even when it doesn't feel overly hot. Enjoy your trip to Punta Cana!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

29° / 22°

January is one of the cooler months in Punta Cana, but still warm with average temperatures ranging from 22 to 29 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather.

February

29° / 22°

February is similar to January with temperatures ranging from 22 to 29 degrees Celsius. It's the peak of the dry season, so it's less likely to rain.

March

30° / 22°

March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's a popular time for spring break visitors.

April

30° / 23°

April is a warm month with temperatures between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius. It's the end of the dry season, so there's a slight chance of rain.

May

31° / 24°

May marks the beginning of the rainy season with temperatures from 24 to 31 degrees Celsius. However, showers are usually brief and followed by sunshine.

June

31° / 25°

June is a hot month with temperatures ranging from 25 to 31 degrees Celsius. It's the start of the hurricane season, but storms are rare.

July

31° / 25°

July is similar to June with temperatures between 25 and 31 degrees Celsius. It's a popular time for summer vacationers.

August

31° / 25°

August is one of the hottest months with temperatures from 25 to 31 degrees Celsius. It's also in the middle of the hurricane season, so there's a chance of storms.

September

31° / 25°

September is a hot month with temperatures ranging from 25 to 31 degrees Celsius. It's the peak of the hurricane season, so there's a higher chance of storms.

October

31° / 24°

October sees a slight decrease in temperature, ranging from 24 to 31 degrees Celsius. It's the end of the hurricane season, but there's still a chance of rain.

November

30° / 23°

November is a cooler month with temperatures between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius. It's the start of the dry season, so it's less likely to rain.

December

29° / 22°

December is one of the cooler months in Punta Cana, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 29 degrees Celsius. It's a popular time for holiday visitors.

Did you know?

Did you know that Punta Cana is home to the Dominican Republic's most visited beach, Bavaro Beach?

1 of 10

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