Holidays in Punta Cana

Known as the Coconut Coast, holidays to Punta Cana are about one thing above all else: B-e-a-c-h-e-s. With a 50-mile stretch of incredible sandy beaches punctuated by coconut-bearing palms, you’re not exactly at a loss for places to relax by the ocean in Punta Cana, that’s for sure. And really, how much more heavenly can it get than a place nicknamed the Coconut Coast?

All of our incredible Punta Cana resorts are located right at the beachfront, with their own private beaches for you to spend your days relaxing on. If you do feel like venturing further afield to find some new beach spots, we recommend the area between El Cortecito Beach and Bavaro Beach. Either way, the ocean will never be more than a gentle stroll away from your room, and at night you’ll be falling asleep to a soundtrack of the ocean. Bliss.

Like other Caribbean islands, the Dominican Republic has its fair share of tropical delights to tuck into. One of our very favourites has to be all the incredible fresh fruit on offer left, right and centre; the country is famous for the best fruit in the world. While eating your way around Punta Cana, try:

• Perfectly sweet guava, mango like you’ve never had before and more exotic fruits like Sapodilla and guanabana
• Drink-wise, you’ll find freshly-squeezed passion fruit juice everywhere — it’s deliciously sharp but sweet, and the perfect breakfast accompaniment.
• Local Caribbean dishes, from various meat and bean stews to pastries (the meat-filled pastelitos are insanely good) and specially-flavoured fried chicken (pica pollo).

All of our fantastic Punta Cana resorts offer exceptional dining experiences; our restaurants’ menus are packed with local specialities.

Every one of our phenomenal Punta Cana resorts also have multiple bar options for you to take your pick from. While you may be tempted to stick to your usual cocktails, be sure to sample the local favourites, too...

• Presidente Beer is well known all around Dominican Republic, and we’re sure you’ll find it just as refreshing as the locals do.
• You can’t go to the Caribbean without drinking some rum, now, can you? Of course you could opt for rum and coke every time without any judgement from us, but definitely try the zingier local drink, Santo Libre.
• Of course, anything with coconut is bound to be especially delicious on the Coconut Coast, so go forth and Piña Colada.

Tear yourself away from your sunlounger and there’s some serious sightseeing to be done and activities to take advantage of, too. For some culture, Punta Cana’s biggest attraction is Altos de Chavon: A re-creation of a 16th century Mediterranean-style European village. If you’re lucky, this weird and wonderful venue will be hosting some live music performances during your stay.

Prefer your sightseeing to be aquatic? You simply cannot miss out on the excursion out to Punta Explorer, a floating island just off the coast. With multi-activity itineraries available, you can dive, snorkel, paddleboard or kayak around the Punta Cana Reef, or simply switch between the island and the glass-bottom boat. Admire the stunning ocean life, from fish of all shapes, sizes and colours to stingrays and even nurse sharks (don’t worry — they’re pretty docile!) Try and make time to visit Astron, the famous shipwreck and world-famous diving spot. The beauty of Punta Cana? There’s something for everyone, and you can “do” it exactly how you want to, however suits you.

If you’re a keen golfer, you probably know about the Dominican Republic’s fantastic reputation; tee off at one of Punta Cana’s three amazing beachside courses, or La Cana Golf Club’s 27 holes. Is golfing your main priority? Zoëtry Agua is handily located near to one of Punta Cana’s main courses, while Hard Rock Hotel and Casino offers unlimited use of the private 18-hole championship course as part of your all-inclusive package.

If you’re looking for something a little bit (okay, a lot) special, we’ve got just the ticket. How about a tour of this beautiful country’s astounding coastlines and turquoise seas… from the air? Whether you opt for helicopter travel or hot air balloon, this is one hell of a way to impress your travel partner; the aerial views are utterly breathtaking, and pretty hard to beat. Looking for the perfect, most unforgettable honeymoon experience? This is as good (and romantic) as it gets, we reckon.