Just imagine yourself on the paradisiacal beaches with pristine white sand and clear water, lying under a palm tree with a cocktail in an all-inclusive hotel in Punta Cana; a great plan, right? What if we told you that this destination offers much more than you can imagine!

The days of rest, sun, and beach at a Punta Cana resort can be interspersed with other days exploring the Dominican Republic and having an exciting vacation. There are many places to explore: from the famous beaches, where you can do many water activities, to the nearby cities and islands, where you can taste Dominican cuisine and pamper yourself. Here are some of the activities and places you can visit there:

1) Visit the Saona Island

Punta Cana has a privileged location, in the east of the Dominican Republic, in La Altagracia. This place is ideal for discovering other areas and fairy-tale paradises, such as the Saona island, part of a National Park with villages of wooden houses for fishermen and some incredible reefs. Once there, head to Capuano beach and its marine ruins. Besides, you can observe different species of turtles there. Saona Island is one of the most important ecological reserves in the country.

2) Try Typical Dishes Such as the Sancocho

Vacations in Punta Cana open the doors to a new universe of landscapes, cultures, and also flavors. You cannot leave without having tried the typical Dominican dishes with Caribbean and European influences. This multiculturalism is noticeable in their delicious recipes, where coconut and banana are common. One of the most common dishes in Punta Cana is Sancocho, a soup made of meat, tubers, vegetables, and various spices mixed into a tasty broth.

3) A Dolphinarium in Punta Cana? Yes, You Can Swim With Dolphins at Dolphin Island Park

There are many reasons why you should choose to spend your vacation in Punta Cana. Escaping the cold during fall and winter seasons is one and also the stifling heat in the summer since the island always hovers between 26 and 30 degrees. Another reason is to be able to enjoy flora and fauna, especially species as fascinating as dolphins. Perhaps this, or maybe all of the above, will make you choose the Dominican Republic on your next getaway. If you want to enjoy the adventures of these friendly animals, head to Dolphin Island Park, a floating island three kilometers off the coast.

4) The Salto Del Limón Waterfall on the Island of Samaná

If adventure is your thing, don’t miss the impressive Salto del Limón Waterfall, 55 meters high and located in the Sierra de Samaná. From here, you can practice one of the riskiest waterfalls in the world and then take a raft down the Limón River. The waterfall ends in a natural pool where you can take the most relaxing bath of your life. Are you daring enough?

5) Playa Bávaro and Its Turquoise Blue Sea

Punta Cana’s trip offers unique experiences such as walks and endless white beaches, bathing in turquoise water with coconut trees on the beach, and resorts with all amenities.

Take the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful beaches globally: Playa Bávaro, Playa de Arena Gorda, Cabeza de Toro, or Cabo Engaño (among others). On these beaches, nature is still in an almost pristine state, and you only have the sound of the waves in the background. Of course, don’t forget to bring the SPF50 protection, because the sun shines a lot!

6) Bonus: The Capital of the Dominican Republic and One of the Oldest Cities in the Caribbean

Just two and a half hours by car from Punta Cana is Santo Domingo, a beautiful and formidable city. The city, divided into four zones (the National District, Santo Domingo Oeste and Norte, and the Eastern Zone), has much to see and do. If you want to spend a day, it is best to concentrate on visiting the historic center and eating a good Sancocho. Stroll along Calle El Conde until you come across some of the most important monuments, such as the Catedral Primada de América or the Parque Colón, within which is the central square of Santo Domingo. The National Pantheon, the Baluarte del Conde, the Alcázar de Colón or the Viceregal Palace of Don Diego Colón are also waiting for you. All of them are part of the Colonial Zone, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Pack your bags and head to Punta Cana!