You don’t need to leave your resort to experience an incredible Punta Cana vacation. But if you do, you’re sure to have a vacation to remember!
If you’re looking for a unique adventure off the beaten path, these seven off-the-resort activities are guaranteed to deliver.
1. Go for a hot air balloon ride.
Take to the skies and soar above Punta Cana in a hot air balloon tour with Dominican Balloons – the only balloon ride operator in the entire Caribbean. A sunrise trip delivers stunning, turquoise sea views that you must see for yourself to believe.
2. Plan a day trip to a one-of-a-kind basilica.
Less than an hour west of Punta Cana in the town of Higüey sits the Basílica Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia. This important religious site is also an architectural wonder, with an arch that stands 225 feet high and a distinctive bronze and gold entrance.
Every January, pilgrims flock here to pay their respects to the Virgin Mary. You can book an excursion to Higüey from Punta Cana and take a tour of the cathedral.
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3. Go wild at the Bávaro Adventure
Feeling stir crazy at the resort? Take the family to Bávaro Adventure Park for high-flying, sustainable adventures featuring ziplines, zorbing, BMX and mountain biking tracks, a flight simulator and a climbing garden. The park features its very own “Jurassic Park,” with more than 20 animatronic dinosaurs in a natural setting. There’s also paintballing, a bungee trampoline and a Segway circuit, making it easy to find an activity that pleases every person in your group.
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4. Catch a wave at Macao Surf Camp.
Dominican Republic has long been a mecca for surfers and there is no better place in Punta Cana than Macao Beach! Whether you’re looking for surfing lessons or just to rent a board, Macao Surf Camp is the place to be. The camp provides learners with step-by-step lessons that are targeted on improving your individual technique.
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5. Reconnect with nature at Cotubanamá National Park.
If you’re craving quality time with the island’s beautiful underwater wildlife, plan a day trip to Cotubanamá National Park, previously known as Parque Nacional del Este. Within this vast national park, Saona and Catalina Islands are two of the most popular destinations, where snorkelers and divers explore colorful reefs and landlubbers can admire more than 300 types of birds and unique flora.
Photo: @marissa.anwar @wesselbaptist
6. Get your adrenaline fix with a visit to Scape Park at Cap Cana.
If you’re looking for an outdoor escapade in stunning natural surroundings, pack up for a day at Scape Park. This sprawling park is a popular adventure hub for all ages. Don’t miss the chance to swim in the turquoise Hoyo Azul cenote, go zip lining, sailing and snorkeling, cave exploring and drive buggies through the jungle or interact with fun animals. The newest attraction in the Cap Cana complex is to kayak or SUP in Lago Azul.
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7. Hit the links.
Renowned for having the most magnificent golf courses in the Caribbean region, and Latin America, the Dominican Republic is the undisputed leader of golf in the tropics.
From ocean-front greenways to lush inland courses designed by the most acclaimed golf course architects, Punta Cana, which is home to 10 courses, is a golfers paradise! Whether champion or hobby player, you’ll enjoy trying your hand at our spectacular courses.
Start planning your tee-times here!
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Looking for additional planning inspiration? Follow along for more off the beach activities here.
What are your go-to destinations around Punta Cana? Share your favorite spots on social media and tag @godomrep.