18 Best Things To Do In Punta Cana All Inclusive Hotels
18 Best Things To Do In Punta Cana All Inclusive Hotels
We left for Munich Airport in May 2015 with mixed emotions, as it was our first trip outside of Europe and the eight-hour flight would be our longest. We were really satisfied with the airport near Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic when we arrived, and the trip proceeded without incident, much to our satisfaction. There were wide areas and the appearance of straw covering the airport; the structures already had the elegance of the Caribbean.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Table of Contents
Dominican Republic Map
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Food Costs: Low-Cost Dining Establishment 6 USD per person, mid-range eatery Two people 36 US dollars Visa: Upon boarding the aircraft, we completed the necessary paperwork and paid the $10 airport fee.
Informations
Situated in the Caribbean region’s Greater Antilles archipelago, the island of Hispaniola is home to the Dominican Republic.
Between Saint Martin and Hispaniola, the only other Caribbean island shared by two independent states, lies the eastern five-eighths of the island, which it shares with Haiti. Temperature: Mid-December to mid-April is when the hot season occurs.
It’s still a lovely day with ideal beach conditions. There can possibly be a few gloomy days with a gentle breeze. Nevertheless, these phases frequently end quickly. The most perfect month to visit the Dominican Republic is April. Language:
Spanish is the primary language. Because there are so many tourists everywhere, English is also spoken there. There are a lot of visitors from Brazil as well.
Currency: The currency of Dominican Republic is Dominican Peso.1€ Euro you can get aprox 69 DOP, $1 USD = 57 DOP. We did not changed our money, we had dollars and we could used them everywhere, we paid everything with dollars without problems.
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you click through and make a purchase, I will receive a fee at no extra cost to you. Click here to view our complete affiliate disclosure.
Things to do
We had a great time during our 11-day visit in the Dominican Republic. The only thing you would know on the first day is that you will be responsible for any consequences if you leave the hotel grounds. It’s considered that you might be in danger if you venture outside of the Punta Cana hotel area. We made the decision to heed their recommendations, and we used transportation to get to and from the hotel on every excursion. We decided to take a taxi to get to the club.
Although we didn’t believe we may be in any danger, when returning from our island vacation, we passed the town of the locals and, regrettably, witnessed a world very different from the opulent one found in the hotels. That depressed us greatly because of their extreme poverty. We purchased tickets for Imagine Punta Cana, a very wonderful club in a cave with great music, in addition to the tour that we chose to see Isla Saona, Isla Catalina, and the Buggies Tour in Santo Domingo. These are the things we remember from this wonderful trip:
Isla Saona
Isla Saona is a big island in the Dominican Republic’s east, in the province of La Altagracia, covering an area of around 110 km². The Taíno inhabitants refer to the island by another name, Adamanay. It is a protected area and a part of Parque Nacional del Este. Being one of the biggest national parks in the nation, it is well-known for having a huge number of birds, particularly uncommon species. Sand beaches and palm groves have progressively replaced the initially tropical vegetation. There are two villages in Saona: Catuano, which is located on the western point and is home to a naval installation, and Mano Juan, a fishing community on the southern tip.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Isla Catalina
Isla Catalina, also known by its native name, Toeya, is a huge island spanning about 9 km² in the east of the Dominican Republic. It is situated around 3 km southwest of the mainland and 2 km south of the coastal town of La Romana. The floor plan is roughly triangular. It does, however, belong to the municipality of San Rafael del Yuma’s Bayahibe district and is a part of the province of La Altagracia, which is located farther east. There is no one living on the island. There are beaches for swimming on its west coast, which are frequently used by cruise ships.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Imagine Punta Cana
Because it is the only nightclub inside a cave where people congregate, music plays, and positive vibes permeate the air, Imagine Punta Cana, also known as “The Cave,” serves as the nightly reference for Punta Cana, which means “The Spot.”
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Buggies Tour & Playa Macao
With its large beach, Playa Macao does not have a “sea of plastic beach chairs.” This is a great beach for swimming, but novices can also find what they need here! It was a little congested at times inside the little area with “small bars” and vendors selling trinkets. You will be directed straight to the freezer among the trees if you ask for a menu card.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic
Altos de Chavón
In the Dominican Republic’s La Romana province sits Altos de Chavón, a tourist attraction that is a recreation of a community in the manner of the sixteenth century.There was an abundance of stone available because construction started in 1976 when a route was blasted for a road and a bridge over the Rio Chavón. The village was finished by the beginning of the 1980s. It is common to reserve the Church of St. Stanislaus for marriages. Artifacts from the region’s pre-Columbian cultures are shown in an archeological museum.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Santo Domingo Cathedral
The capital city of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, is home to the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Annunciation, Primarica Cathedral of the Americas, a Roman Catholic church. It is the Annunciation-patronized cathedral of the Archdiocese of Santo Domingo. As a component of the colonial metropolis of Santo Domingo, it was the first church in the New World and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Scape Park
When it’s not too hot, go ziplining first, then take advantage of the aquatic activities. Many people purchased water shoes, but sneakers worked just as well because you could set them aside to enjoy the water features. The website was stunning! Even though one of the caverns was closed, it was still worth the money! It was simple to stay busy all day. They primarily trade in dollars, so if you want decent pictures, buy a waterproof phone case while you’re there. The $5 lockers were helpful for keeping things secure during the day.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Alcázar de Colón
Diego Columbus constructed the Alcázar de Colón, a palace at Santo Domingo, for the viceroy who held the position from 1510 until 1514. For sixty years, this served as the colonial Spanish government’s headquarters in the New World. It currently serves as the Viceroyal Museum.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Museo de las Casas Reales
You will learn a great deal about the entire island as well as the visual history of Haiti and the Dominican Republic, which at one point made up “Española.” To get the most out of your visit to the museum, we advise taking the guided tour.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Playa Boca Chica
Gorgeous beach, but exercise caution—there are a lot of con artists, big crowds, parking can be tricky, and securing a position on the beach can be challenging. We would advise being cautious and wise, and to stay close to the hotels.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Columbus Park
Enjoy this lovely, iconic location with your family. The pigeons and the historic Dominican Republic location enhance the experience. Talented people and characters abound. It is advised that visitors, residents, couples, and families with kids visit this location.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Fortaleza de San Felipe
Excellent location to witness Puerto Plata’s historic site and the resilience of this nation through the ages.You can enter for just $2 and receive a complimentary audio guide.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Cave of Wonders
A true gem of the La Romana region is the Cave of Wonders. You are truly amazed by the stunning color displays and the exquisite stalactites and stalagmites.Fascinating artwork made by the Aboriginal people.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Basilica of Higuey
Located in Salvaleón de Higüey, Dominican Republic, the Basilica of Higüey, also known as Basilica Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia, is a contemporary Catholic national shrine. One of the most popular sanctuaries in the Caribbean is the cathedral of the Diocese of Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia en Higüey, located in Higüey.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Fortaleza Ozama
In the center of the colonial district is a stunning fort. Each person’s ticket cost around 140 pesos. Although we didn’t bring any, guides were an additional expense. Yes, you can climb the fort, and you can spend around thirty minutes here. Although the stronghold is small and deserted, the summit offers fantastic views of the Ozama River. Here, you can obtain some stunning images.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Dudú Lagoon
Everybody can find something to suit them. Enjoying a picnic, sight-seeing, swimming with fish in the crystal-clear water, and zip-lining a water jump are all recommended activities. We had a great day, and we can assure you that you won’t grow tired of this location. A tiny bar along the water serves drinks and juices, and it has a pleasant atmosphere with music playing. incredibly pleasant and safe
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Plaza de la Hispanidad
An absolute must-see when visiting Santo Domingo. lovely historic streets. Numerous eateries offering delectable cuisine at reasonable costs. The Coca-Cola Christmas tree is rather attractive.) You could easily spend several hours strolling around.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
National Palace
The President and Vice President of the Dominican Republic are housed at a facility in Santo Domingo called the Palacio Nacional.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Where to stay
The first travel choice that springs to us when we think of stunning scenery and amazing islands is a cruise. Thus, this is the greatest choice if you would rather visit several stunning islands than fly to only one and remain there. When on a cruise, you can unwind on days when the ship is just in the sea or ocean, but if you’re an adventurer, you can also take advantage of the opportunity to see other locations. We work with the world’s top cruise operators, so you may select the ideal voyage:
Traditional Food
Mangú with Salami, Huevo y Queso Frito – Fried eggs, cheese, mashed green plantains, and Dominican salami Harina de Maíz – Porridge with Cornmeal La bandera dominicana, or the Dominican flag, is the national dish. The three staples of white rice, red beans, and stewed meat (either beef or chicken) are enhanced with avocado, tostones (fried plantains that have been flattened), green salad with tomatoes, or stewed eggplant. Green bananas with Dominican longanizas are known as Guineo Verde with Longaniza. Flavorful Goat Meat Stew – Chivo Guisado Picante
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
All that is mangú is mashed green plantains. In order to make mofongo, fried plantains, garlic, and pork rind are mashed in a mortar and pestle. The resulting dough is then formed into little balls and served in a bowl resembling ice cream. A tasty stew (or soup) cooked with chopped pork belly or beef is called mondongo. El Sancocho: A Traditional Dominican Stew Fish in Coconut Sauce (Pescado with Coco)
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Sweet Cream of Beans, Habichuelas Con Dulce Rice Pudding, or Arroz with Leche Curdled Milk Dessert, Leche de Leche Cortada Coconut mixed milk fudge, or Dulce de Coco Tierno Corn Pudding from Majarete
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Restaurants
La Bruja Chupadora: The grilled octopus and short ribs are two of the restaurant’s best-selling barbecued meats. Nearly everyone may find something they enjoy on La Cava’s varied menu, which includes colorful grilled fish, creamy soups, crisp salads, and sushi. Wacamole: lively music with a hint of mexico Little John offers a variety of local and “turf” flavors, such as goat risotto, sandwiches, burgers, pasta, and pizza, in addition to seafood “surf” options like ceviche.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
La Yola: The menu offers a variety of fresh seafood options along with Mediterranean and regional cuisines. A decent assortment of seafood, grilled meats, burgers, and delectable regional fare like chivo guisado (goat stew) are all available on Playa Blanca’s menu. One of the greatest restaurants in Punta Cana is Citrus Restaurant, which has a large menu featuring a variety of dishes from the Caribbean, Italy, and Asia.
Saving Tips
Almost everywhere, with the exception of banks and supermarkets, expect haggling. (December–January and June–August are the High Season months). These off-peak times can also see a sharp decline in flight costs. Avoid Exchanging Currency at Airports
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Since transportation is included in your ticket price, getting to the clubs is easy. If you book your tours directly with licensed tour operators instead of going via your hotel, you can save money. When buying a tour, wait and compare prices to save money.
If you choose not to go by car and would like further information on tours, things to see, and things to do, we suggest these two firms. They offer tours for any kind of activity you can think of, and you can purchase trips from them for a lot less money than you would if you were to buy them when you get there. Being able to save some money is always beneficial! The greatest things to do in the area are Viator and Get Your Guide!
Shopping
Excellent high-end shops in Cap Cana offer designer beach gear, books, music, art, and locally produced Dominican goods like rum and cigars. The Dominican Republic’s only gemstone, larimar, may be purchased at the Cap Cana Marina. Plaza Uvero Alto: vibrant booths brimming with handicrafts, ceramics, paintings from the area, exquisitely crafted larimar jewelry, and other locally produced trinkets and mementos. Located in the center of Bávaro-Punta Cana is the contemporary shopping center Downtown Mall Punta Cana. Situated about 2 miles from Punta Cana International Airport, Blue center Punta Cana is a posh shopping center. Near Punta Cana’s downtown, the San Juan Shopping Centre is an excellent place to get a large variety of goods. More than 60 establishments are present, including a pharmacy, grocery store, and designer
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Sambil In the Colonial Zone of the city sits Santo Domingo, a contemporary retail center. The complex, which opened in 2012, is home to over 350 distinct stores and boutiques including well-known brands like Aldo and Victoria’s Secret. Retailers such as Armani Exchange, Louis Vuitton, Carolina Herrera, Cartier, Longchamp, and numerous other well-known international brands are included in BlueMall. The largest movie theater in the Caribbean is located at Downtown mall, a contemporary three-story retail mall. With more than 180 stores, Agora Mall features well-known global labels like Brooksfield, Guess, Levi’s, Tommy Hilfiger, Timberland, Zara, and more. The biggest market in Santo Domingo is Mercado Modelo. Take in the distinctive Chinese-Caribbean atmosphere at Avenida Duarte Chinatown Street Market. Cuban cigars, spiced alcoholic beverages, jewelry, vibrant carnival masks, and distinctive
Getting Around
Over much of the country, the bus companies in the Dominican Republic offer a good, affordable service. The two main bus hubs are Santo Domingo and Santiago, and some companies only operate shuttle services between the two. Generally, you purchase your ticket on the day of departure; however, Caribe Tours permits online reservations as long as they are confirmed two hours in advance of departure. Every Dominican bus has restrooms at the rear, and on excursions longer than two hours, a break will be made at a service station or wayside eatery.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
The two lines that Metro Santo Domingo runs are primarily utilized by locals going to and from work. However, there are a few stops that are close to attractions. For about US$40 per day, numerous local businesses also hire out motorcycles. But be advised, especially in resort areas, motorbike theft is very widespread. As such, you will need to keep your motorcycle locked up while not in use.
Getting Here
The Dominican Republic has numerous airline options from North America and Europe, and it is well-connected to the outside world. Santo Domingo, Puerto Plata, and Punta Cana are the main airports for international travel, with minor airports located in Santiago and Samaná. Most major US and Canadian cities have flights to the Dominican Republic (some west coast connections need an overnight stay in Miami or New York), but the most affordable and regular flights go from the “gateway” cities of Miami, New York, Montréal, and Toronto.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Traveling to the Caribbean from Australia or New Zealand is not a cheap option. You will need to first fly to the US or Europe as there are no direct flights to the Dominican Republic. Whichever way you go, it’s a long day of work. Your best options for affordable flights to the Dominican Republic are Delta and JetBlue, as they have the most flights (particularly on the well-traveled JFK to Santo Domingo route). The Dominican Republic is served by the following airlines: Iberia, TIU Airways, Condor, Air Europa, Air France, British Airways, SWISS, and Eurowings.
