If you're planning your vacation in Punta Cana but want to experience more than just the usual all-inclusive experience, then take a look at our latest blog post.
As experts on Punta Cana and the entire Dominican Republic, we really know every corner of the region and can give you unique insider tips – along with accommodation that is 100% tailored to your needs.
Discover off-the-beaten-path activities in Punta Cana and make your next vacation in the Dominican Republic unforgettable. Dominican Expert to organize.
Number 1: Off-the-beaten-path accommodations in the Punta Cana region
Number 1: All-inclusive resort in Cap Cana or Bayahibe
Most vacationers look for an all-inclusive resort directly in Punta Cana – that is, in the areas of Bávaro, Cabeza de Toro, Macao, or Uvero Alto. But many overlook the fact that there are also stunning beaches in the surrounding areas.
Cap Cana is a new project south of Punta Cana, only about 15 minutes away, while Bayahibe is reachable in less than an hour – and offers a completely different world.
Bayahibe, with its turquoise waters, is particularly recommended: Prices are cheaper than in Punta Cana, and the beaches are significantly less crowded.
Secrets Cap Cana (All-inclusive), Punta Cana
our recommendation In Cap Cana, that's Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa – an elegant adults-only hideaway in the exclusive, gated community of Cap Cana. The resort is situated directly on the clear Caribbean Sea, along the white sands of Juanillo Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.
For Bayahibe, the Cadaques Resort is a real insider tip off the beaten track, as it borders directly on the Del Este National Park.
Number 2: A lovely guesthouse right on the beach
Not everything in Punta Cana revolves around all-inclusive resorts.
Especially during peak season, when prices for large resorts rise, it's worth taking a look at small, privately run guesthouses – some of which are even located directly on the beach!
The advantage: You have more budget for excursions and adventures and experience a more authentic, local stay in Punta Cana.
Colorful entrance of a guesthouse in Bávaro
Our recommendation:
Ask us directly for the most up-to-date recommendations for guesthouses in Punta Cana, as we do not usually publish these online.
Number 3: A luxury villa with your friends
Another option that many people don't even consider when planning a holiday in Punta Cana is renting a luxury villa.
Although this is usually a bit more expensive than a stay in an all-inclusive resort, the service, privacy and comfort are simply unbeatable.
Imagine: You have your own chef, drinks are served by the pool that you have all to yourself – sounds great, doesn't it?
Sunset view from Villa Santa Cruz in Punta Cana
Our recommendation:
If you would like to get a first impression of our villas, take a look at Villa Waterfall, Villa Pandora or Santa Cruz del Caribe.
Convinced? Then read on in our blog post about 7 tips on how to find the perfect villa for your vacation in the Dominican Republic, and contact us so we can find your ideal villa in Punta Cana together.
Things to do in Punta Cana
Number 4: Round Mountain
Once you've found your perfect accommodation, it's time to plan your excursions in Punta Cana.
One of the hidden treasures in the area is Montaña Redonda, which translates to "round mountain peak".
From here you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountain landscape and the impressive coastline.
The highlight, however, is the swings and hammocks at the edge of the mountain – a unique experience that allows for fantastic photographs where you appear to be floating above the ocean and tropical vegetation.
Panoramic view from Montaña Redonda
Our recommendation:
To get to Montaña Redonda, you have several options:
With your own 4x4 vehicle from Punta Cana (we are happy to help you with your rental car request)
With a safari truck for a small fee
Or simply on foot – the climb takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
Montaña Redonda is located about an hour's drive from Punta Cana.
Number 5: Salto de la Jalda
If you're looking for even more adventure, you should definitely visit Salto de la Jalda – the highest waterfall in the entire Caribbean.
Since there are no signs or directions, you quickly realize that this is truly a destination off the beaten track – perhaps even your greatest adventure in Punta Cana.
To reach the waterfall, you need to be in good physical condition and definitely hire a local guide. But the effort is well worth it: at the end, a roaring waterfall, around 120 meters high, awaits you, along with a natural pool that you can enjoy all to yourself – a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Salto de la Jalda
Our recommendation:
Getting to Salto de la Jalda is challenging, and there are no organized trips there from Punta Cana.
But don't worry – we can organize a driver and an experienced guide for you so that you can experience this impressive natural wonder safely.
The waterfall is less than two hours from Punta Cana.
Number 6: The Blue Lagoons of Punta Cana
If you're looking for activities in Punta Cana that are nearby but not overcrowded, we recommend the Blue Lagoons in the region.
These are freshwater sinkholes whose water is crystal clear and wonderfully refreshing – fed by underground springs.
These blue lagoons are ideal for snorkeling, swimming and cooling off on hot days.
A visit is worthwhile for the whole family, because here you can enjoy pure nature and relax away from the large tourist crowds.
Hoyo Azul Punta Cana
Our recommendation:
In the Punta Cana region there are two easily accessible Blue Lagoons:
Hoyo Azul can be visited as part of an organized tour (ask us about our special discounts for excursions).
Hoyo Claro can be explored independently with a rental car (we offer rental cars with comprehensive insurance – gladly on request).
Number 7: Juanillo Beach
Of course, your stay in Punta Cana wouldn't be complete without visiting some of the region's world-famous beaches – and it's absolutely worth leaving your all-inclusive resort for a day to discover them.
One of our favorite beaches in Punta Cana is Playa Juanillo: a bright white sandy beach with turquoise water and atmospheric beach bars.
Here you can spend the whole day relaxing under palm trees, bathing in clear water and feeling like you are in another world.
Little John Restaurant, Playa Juanillo
Our recommendation:
Juanillo Beach can easily be explored on your own – the journey takes about 30 to 45 minutes from most all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana.
Alternatively, we can arrange an organized tour for you – including transfer, open bar and lunch at the elegant Juanillo Beach Club.
Number 8: Esmeralda Beach
If you want to discover a beach in Punta Cana that is truly off the beaten track, you should venture to the north of the region and visit Playa Esmeralda.
This pristine, unspoiled dream beach is located about 60 miles from most all-inclusive resorts and offers an idyllic, peaceful atmosphere.
The beach is over 3 kilometers long (and even longer if you include the adjacent bays) – and there's a very good chance you'll have it all to yourself.
If you are looking for hidden, unknown and breathtakingly beautiful beaches, Playa Esmeralda is definitely one of the top experiences in Punta Cana.
emerald beach
Our recommendation:
Esmeralda Beach is accessible by road, however you absolutely need an SUV (we offer fully insured rental cars – gladly on request) as the road is in poor condition for the last 7 to 8 miles.
Alternatively, we can also organize a boat trip for you if you would prefer to explore this piece of paradise from the sea.
Local Experiences
Number 9: Overnight stay with locals on Isla Saona
Isla Saona is one of the most popular excursion destinations from Punta Cana – and rightly so: turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and pure Caribbean.
But fame comes at a price: full boats and crowded beaches are usually part of it.
However, there is an authentic alternative to discover the island away from the tourist crowds:
Stay with the locals in the island's only village and experience authentic Dominican island life – warm, original and genuine.
This is how you get closer to the authentic culture of the Dominican Republic than almost anywhere else – combined with a dreamy, palm-fringed beach.
The beautiful Isla Saona in the south of the Dominican Republic
Our recommendation:
Our Isla Saona Local Experience can be organized either as a day trip or – which we highly recommend – as a multi-day trip.
If you decide to spend a night on Isla Saona, you will stay in our simple but charming guesthouse right on the beach.
There you will find an authentic, unforgettable experience on this paradisiacal island – with the sound of waves, starry skies and pure Caribbean flair.
Number 10: Drink Points in Punta Cana
Another highlight you should experience in Punta Cana is the nightlife.
Most visitors are drawn to the famous, spectacular, but very touristy Coco Bongo.
However, if you want to experience Punta Cana nights in a more authentic way and away from the crowds, you should head to Avenida España and discover the so-called Drink Points.
These local meeting places are extremely popular with the locals: loud, catchy music is playing, the drinks are cheap, and the atmosphere is lively.
If you speak Spanish, this is the perfect opportunity to chat with the locals – many of them work in the resorts and are happy to share insider tips for your next Punta Cana holiday.
"El Kan" – one of the many drink points in Punta Cana
Our recommendation:
You can easily explore the nightlife in Punta Cana on your own – just use common sense and it's best to leave your valuables at home.
Taxis and motoconchos (motorcycle taxis) will take you safely to Avenida España, for example to the popular KAN Drink House.
However, if you are interested in the famous Coco Bongo show, please feel free to contact us – we will gladly take care of booking your tickets for this spectacular experience.
Discover the Dominican Republic with our tailor-made experiences – planned entirely according to your wishes.
