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Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Overview
Introduction
Located about 100 mi/160 km east of Santo Domingo, Punta Cana and its neighbor, Bavaro, are ground zero in the Dominican Republic's all-inclusive resort explosion. They're located along a beautiful 30-mi/48-km stretch of white-sand beach lined with coconut palms that was once nicknamed the Costa del Coco for marketing purposes (the Dominican Tourist Board, however, no longer favors the moniker). This lovely strip of shore looks like it was taken straight off a travel poster and has perhaps the finest (and certainly the longest and whitest) beaches and most beautiful turquoise and jade seas in the country.
Most hotels concentrate in Bavaro, although the entire coast has become known as Punta Cana, which is really a separate and somewhat more exclusive area about 10 mi/16 km south of Bavaro. In the communities just inland from Bavaro, unregulated development has stolen all charm away from the sands and seas.
The largest complex is the BarceloBavaro complex, with more than 2,000 rooms, its own casino, two discos and an 18-hole golf course. The Bavaro resorts are closer together than those in Punta Cana, allowing for more movement between properties. Hotel development continues to make public beach access more difficult year by year, although several narrow access lanes lie hidden between the resorts.
Although more development is moving into the area, the resorts of Punta Cana have so far retained the relaxed atmosphere most visitors expect from a Caribbean vacation spot. Much of the recent ongoing development is centered on Cap Cana, south of Punta Cana proper; and at Macao and neighboring Uvero Alto, about a 40-minute drive north of Bavaro.
Must See or Do
Sights—The crystal clear shallow waters of the Piscina Natural (natural pool) on Isla Saona.
Museums—Taino artifacts at the Altos de Chavon Regional Museum of Archaeology in Casa de Campo.
Memorable Meals—Fresh fish fried Dominican-style at La Yola Restaurant by tony Tortuga Bay.
Late Night—Watching the sunset at Puntacana Resort & Club.
Walks—Meandering through jungle flora and fauna at the Punta Cana Ecological Foundation.
Especially for Kids—Cool shows with costumed Spanish conquistadors, parrots and dolphins at Manati Park; swimming with dolphins a la Jacques Cousteau at the Dolphin Explorer.
Geography
Located in the province of La Altagracia on the eastern-most tip of the country, the Punta Cana area's most distinct feature is the sandy white beachfront known as the Coconut Coast that runs from Punta Cana through Bavaro and on up to El Macao. The warm Caribbean Sea harbors one of the longest coral reefs (19 mi/31 km) in the world, and the area also enjoys year-round sun and a warm climate.
Tourists enjoy the cave rappelling outside La Romana and day trips to the various islands such as Isla Saona and Isla Catalina.
History
A secluded stretch of jungle inhabited only by a handful of fishermen, this coastline on the Dominican Republic's east coast was virtually forgotten until American businessman and lawyer Theodore Kheel stumbled upon the 30-mi-/48-km-long area at a convention in Miami in 1969 when a photographer presented the astute businessman with aerial photographs of the area.
Kheel decided to build a resort complex like no other. At the time, the chunk of beachfront was inaccessible. There were no roads and no airport, so the resort dream proved difficult, but the entrepreneur-investor trail blazed ahead with other partners, including Dominican local Frank Rainieri, creating what is now known as the Puntacana Resort & Club, which opened in 1971. This resort spearheaded the future development for the region.
Potpourri
Mamajuana is a potent national libation infused with rum, red wine, honey and herbs believed to be the Viagra for Dominican men.
When people talk about "eating the flag," they are referring to red beans, fried plantain, shredded spicy marinated beef and white rice. Called banderaDominicana, it's the favorite meal in the country.
Besides exporting rum, the next biggest export to the U.S. is star baseball players, including David Ortiz, Pedro Martinez and Sammy Sosa. All-star New York Yankee A-Rod (Alexander Rodriguez) moved to the DR when he was 4.
Amber is the country's primary gemstone with lalimar a close second.
Punta Cana's beaches have been declared among the top 10 best in the world.
See & Do
Sightseeing
Although Punta Cana's claim to fame is its beaches, more tour operators are popping up with various excursions that involve beach activities such as ATV, Segway, horseback riding or island excursions to nearby Isla Saona. Check with your hotel activities desk or concierge about booking a tour.
Isla Saona is a popular spot accessible by a power-boat ride that rips through the whitewater waves for a temporary snorkeling pit-stop before disembarking on the paradise isle. Plunk the beach blanket under your choice of palm tree and splash in this piscine natural (natural pool). Various tour operators provide lunch and drinks. The island itself is inhabited by iguanas and some 300 villagers.
Four theme parks—the Marinarium, Dolphin Island Park, Manati Park and Animal Adventure Park—offer plenty of thrilling options, such as swimming with dolphins, sea lion shows and crocodile exhibits.
Santo Domingo, the country's capital, can be seen as a day trip.
Casinos
BarceloBavaro Casino
This longtime gaming fixture is a favorite. The sheer number of slots is dizzying. Other specialties include American roulette, blackjack, Caribbean poker and Texas hold'em.This smoke-free facility is on the more refined, formal side: No sandals or beach attire. There's an express train that shuttles from the other three Barcelo properties in the neighborhood. Plus, the facility is only a 15-minute drive from Punta Cana International Airport. Open daily 24 hours. AvenidaEstadosUnidos, Bavaro. Phone 809-686-5797.
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
Nestled by Macao Beach, this larger-than-life Vegas-inspired casino is pegged as the country's biggest casino and doesn't pull any punches. This 48,000-sq-ft/4,459-sq-m venue caters to pros and novices alike with 457 slot machines and 40 gaming tables. There's an exclusive high-limit poker room, a VIP lounge, and even a race- and sports-booking area. Blvd. Turísticodel Este 74 (km 28, Macao), Punta Cana. Phone 809-731-0000.
Princess Tower Casino
This 27,986-sq-ft/2,600-sq-m casino holds 120 slot machines and 35 table games, including roulette and blackjack. Arena Gorda, Bavaro. Phone 809-552-1111.
Museums
Altos de Chavon Regional Museum of Archaeology
A homage to the ancient Taino Indians, who inhabited the Dominican Republic before Christopher Columbus left his mark, is the focus of this archaeology museum located behind the Church of St. Stanislaus. Many of the 3,000 artifacts were culled from the nearby Chavon River. Open daily 9 am-8 pm. Free. Casa de Campo, La Romana. Phone 809-523-8698.
Casa Ponce de Leon
Home of the famous Spanish explorer and discoverer of Florida, Juan Ponce de Leon, this restored 16th-century manor house is now a museum depicting the conquistador's life. Built by Taino slaves, the working farm and sugar plantation now offers tours (in Spanish). Artifacts and Ponce de Leon's suit of armor are on display. Monday-Saturday 10 am-1 pm. San Rafael de Yuma, Punta Cana. Phone 809-551-0118.
Museo Vivo del Tabaco
Watch how cigars are made at this tobacco museum, and learn about the region's tobacco history and harvesting methods. Monday-Friday 9 am-4 pm. Plaza Playa Dorada (between Bavaro and Punta Cana), Higuey. Phone 809-551-1128.
Nature
Fun Fun Cave
Accessible by tour only, a handful of local operators take outdoor enthusiasts on a hard-hat tour inside one of the country's biggest cave systems. The fun begins by rappelling down into the cave once known as LaCueva del Diablo (Cave of the Devil). Depending on the water level of the subterranean river, tours might include a brief dip, but the highlight is seeing the limestone stalagmites and stalactites, and learning about the ancient petroglyphs left by the Taino Indians. Hato Mayor, La Romana.
Ojos Indigenas Ecological Reserve
Situated in a tropical jungle and part of the Punta Cana Ecological Foundation, these clear blue lagoons harken to the old Brooke Shields 1980s sleeper The Blue Lagoon. The 11 lagoons were dubbed the Indigenous Eyes by the Taino Indians because of their round, eyelike shape. Daily 8 am-4 pm. US$25 for two hours; free to Punta Cana Hotel guests. Phone 809-959-9221.
The Punta Cana Ecological Foundation
Situated on 1,500 acres/607 hectares of private protected land, this foundation provides an array of ecological excursions.The fascinating walking tour of the island of Hispaniola showcases local flora and fauna. Tour highlights include stops at a petting zoo, a family farm, sugar cane production, an iguana farm, and learning about worm-composting and bee-keeping projects. Daily 8:30 am-5 pm. US$14. Phone 809-959-9221.
Religious Sites
Basilica de HigueyNuestra Senora de la Altagracia
This basilica, built in 1972, is adorned in beautiful stained glass. The massive outdoor statue is dedicated to the Dominican's patron saint, the Virgin de la Altagracia. Daily 5 am-7 pm. Phone 809-554-4541.
Amusement Parks
Manati Park
A glimpse into the ancient world of the Taino Indians and marine adventure are rolled into one at this jungle theme park. Walk through a reconstructed Indian village and watch a riveting musical and dance performance. The park's marine theme includes a chance to swim with the dolphins. There's an equestrian show with costumed horse handlers, and other wildlife programs scheduled daily. Daily 9 am-6 pm. US$35 adults, US$20 children; US$115 to swim with dolphins.Ctra.Manati s/n (Bavaro/Higuey), Punta Cana. Phone 809-221-9444.
Marinarium Marine Park
Swimming with the sharks and stingrays might be like a Fear Factor moment, but these wet and wild activities are part of the optional excursions offered at the marine park. Other highlights include a snorkeling sightseeing cruise along the coast of Cabeza de Toro and Bavaro. Cruises are half-day and include a buffet lunch and drinks. Prices vary. Cabeza De Toro, Bavaro. Phone 809-468-3183.
Zoos & Wildlife
Dolphin Explorer
This wildlife park offers animal exhibits, including tigers, exotic birds and sea lions, as well as a thrilling swim with dolphins—two bottlenecks push you up by your heels and throttle full speed ahead until you're practically standing.
Dolphin Island Park
A quick boat ride from Playa Bavaro leads to a network of joining rafts at this enclosed dolphin aquarium. Watch a show, or snorkel with the dolphins. Snorkeling gear is provided. Daily 9 am-5:30 pm. US$145 for dolphin swim; US$80 for sea lion swim; US$35 for accompanying visitors.CarreteraManati, Bavaro.
Recreation
This all-inclusive resort mecca offers a huge variety of recreational diversions. Activities range from meringue lessons, cooking classes and other fun cultural workshops regularly scheduled at the hotels to a wide range of nonmotorized water activities for beach lovers. Favorites include snorkeling and beachcombing.
There's also plenty to do outside the hotels, including an increasing number of deluxe options. Jeep safaris lead to waterfalls and more remote beaches such as Playa Macao, which is popular for ATV and horseback tours.
Snorkelers can submerge in the deep azure sea and explore the tropical fish and coral reefs, and scuba divers can take to the deeper waters in search of sunken ships and exotic marine life. Subterranean rivers are located in the northern area of the island.
In addition, the Dominican Republic boasts more than 25 breathtaking designer golf courses with several more expected to open in coming years.
Beaches
Beaches are technically free to the public across the Dominican Republic. But along the 30 mi/48 km Costa del Cocoa (Coconut Coast), between Punta Cana and Bavaro, are some of the finest beachfronts in the world with private, all-inclusive resorts limiting access to the beach.Playa Bavaro
The long lip of Playa Bavaro attaches itself nicely to adjacent Playa Cabeza de Toro.
Punta Cana Beach
This 20-mi/32-km stretch of white powder sand has been pegged among the finest beaches in the world. Take a siesta beneath a shady palm tree or admire the crystal clear blue waters.
Boating & Sailing
Cap Cana Marina
Cap Cana Marina is designed for both leisure and competitive pro yachtsmen. Currently 81 berths are operational, ideal for yachts up to 130 ft/40 m. It's the only full-service marina between Puerto Rico and the Turks and Caicos. Phone 809-688-5587.
Caribbean Dreams Speed boats
Helm your own speedboat (accompanied by a guide) as you challenge yourself to the whitecaps off Punta Cana in this three-and-a-half-hour tour. US$97. Gran Plaza Friusa, Bavaro. Phone 829-548-2386.
Sunny Day Sailing Cruise
During this full-day catamaran cruise, the boat glides over glass-smooth water with the palm-fringed coastline of Bavaro in the distance. Be prepared for snorkeling and to drop by the famous Astron Wreck. Drinks and lunch provided. US$99 per person.Cabeza De Toro, Bavaro. Phone 809-468-3183.
Fishing
Mike's Marina Fishing Charters
Based at the Cap Cana marine docks, this local marine operator is set to lure anglers to a huge breeding ground of marlin, mahi, sailfish and other massive species. A fleet of charter boats also has offshore fly-bridge boats. Various private charter services are available. A shared four-hour fishing boat excursion is US$150 per person. Cap Cana Marina, Punta Cana. Phone 829-695-5539.
Golf
This sun-swept seacoast is a virtual temple to golf. There are currently 12 golf courses designed by the biggest names in the industry (think Nick Price, Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, Tom Fazio, P.B. Dye and Jose-Pepe-Gancedo), with additional courses slated for future openings.Corales
This 27-hole, Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course has six oceanfront holes overlooking rocky cliffs and coral reefs. Caddies are required and are an extra charge in addition to the regular fee. US$195 per person.Puntacana Resort & Club, Punta Cana. Toll-free 888-442-2262.
La Cana
This PB Dye-designed golf course is legendary for its captivating views of the Caribbean Sea. Often compared to Pebble Beach, it's been continuously lauded as the No. 1 golf course in the Caribbean. The golf clubhouse is designed by Oscar de la Renta. Picture 14 stunning ocean-view holes with four right on the water's edge. US$105 for 18 holes for hotel guests, US$140 for nonguests. Puntacana Resort & Club, Punta Cana.Toll-free 888-442-2262.
Punta Espada Golf Course
Rated among the best golf courses in the Caribbean, this award-winning course is the first of three Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses slated for Cap Cana. It has 72 championship holes, eight of which overlook the azure sea in the background. Cap Cana, Punta Cana. Phone 809-688-5587.
Horseback Riding
Uvero Alto Ranch
Hotel pick-ups make this three-hour excursion easy. Horseback riders are taken to the nearby Uvero Alto Ranch and shown riding instruction followed by a ride along the palm-fringed Macao Beach. US$55 adults, US$50 children.Macao Beach, Punta Cana. Phone 809-724-7564.
Scuba & Snorkeling
Nearly 19 mi/30 km of reef rank this stretch of coral as the country's longest. Snorkeling occurs at all the resorts with many local tour operators offering a variety of half-day and full-day snorkeling trips.Dressel Divers
With locations at three Iberostar properties in Punta Cana (Bavaro, Dominicana and Punta Cana), this dive center has a weekly dive schedule and offers scuba courses for beginners and advanced divers. Dive excursions head to Saona Island. Prices vary.
Nightlife
Caribbean nights kick into high gear at the numerous all-inclusive properties, which offer cabaret-style shows, discos and lounges for cigar-toting patrons who like to end the day with a nightcap. Check with the hotel concierge for closing times at local venues outside the hotels.
Bars, Taverns & Pubs
The Lounge
Live music and cozy couches are a good combination for chill seekers who want to mingle with their newfound resort friends and dancers who want to merengue or salsa. Nightly from 9.Puntacana Resort and Club, Punta Cana. Phone 809-959-2262, ext. 7175.
Dance & Nightclubs
Imagine Disco
This cave-palace is where the die-hard dancers and those who want to be in the action go. A two-story dance floor submerged in a cave setting with each floor catering to different music genres that include merenge, house, techno and rock. Various fire-breathing and juggling performers mix in with the crowd so the place feels like you walked onto a Cirque du Soleil stage with mood lights throbbing on the ceiling. Nightly shuttles are available from the hotels. La Piscina, Residencial Los Corales, Bavaro. Phone 809-466-1049.
Mangu Nightclub
Shades of LA or New York City add to this scene where the patrons strut in tiny tanks and black leather shorts as they dance to the hippest techno tunes and other trendy club music. The disco has five bars and spans two floors, each with a different music vibe. Nightly 11 pm-5 am. US$10 cover. Occidental Grand Flamenco, Punta Cana. Phone 809-221-8787, ext. 5002.
Oro Nightclub
This swanky den in the heart of the Hard Rock Hotel's casino looks and feels like Miami or Vegas with over-the-top decor. The mega-huge 14,000-sq-ft/1,300-sq-m complex spans two levels and has the latest lighting and sound systems for an unforgettable multisensory experience. Plenty of nightly events; the revelers there party all night.US$20 cover. Boulevard Turisticodel Este, Punta Cana. Phone 809-731-0099, ext. 4780.