Think about getting out of the plane and experiencing the warm Caribbean breeze touching your skin and hearing the waves in the distance. Punta Cana embraces you immediately with heaven with the golden beaches, the turquoise waters and the uncut adventures to be explored.
However it is natural to ask yourself questions before you place your toes on the sand, like when is the best time to visit it, what to bring, how to get around and what activities you absolutely cannot afford to miss. This is why we made this Punta Cana FAQ guide to give the answers to the most frequently asked questions. So you can plan a smooth, exciting and memorable trip.
History & Geography Punta Cana
Punta Cana is not only beaches, but it has a very rich cultural background and a unique natural setting. The history, meaning and local language of the city will ensure that your visit is even more special.
Where is Punta Cana located?
Punta Cana is a resort town located in the eastern region of the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean. It is located on the Atlantic coast and is famous for its gorgeous beaches and resorts. You can also find it on the map of the Dominican Republic to get its location on the map in regard to the other cities and other islands in the Caribbean.
What does Punta Cana mean?
Punta Cana is a Spanish word. Punta is a point, and Cana is the local cana palm (that is a kind of palm tree). And Punta Cana is more or less translated as the End of the Cana Palm.
It is pronounced as: /POON-tah KAH-nah/.
What language is spoken in Punta Cana Dominican Republic?
The Spanish language is widely spoken in Punta Cana Dominican Republic. It is its official language. English is also commonly spoken in tourist spots, particularly in resorts, hotels and tourist attractions.
What is the timezone in Punta Cana?
Punta Cana lies in the Atlantic Standard Time (AST) Negro zone, which is -4 hours UTC. Daylight saving time is not observed in this region. Therefore the time does not change throughout the year.
What currency is used in Punta Cana Dominican Republic?
Dominican Peso (DOP) is used in Punta Cana. The US dollar is also accepted but using Punta Cana currency(DOP) gives you a better exchange rate.
What is Punta Cana known for?
Punta Cana is known for its beaches of white sand, clear water, advanced all-inclusive resorts and also a charming nightlife. It is also a very famous destination for adventure sports, golf courses, catamaran sailing and eco-tourism activities like a visit to the cenotes and nature reserves.
What is the weather in Punta Cana Dominican Republic?
The tropical climate of Punta Cana is warm all year round, with an average temperature of between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 84°F).The rainy season normally dawns in between May and November.While the dry period is between December and April and it is the best season to visit Punta Cana.
When is hurricane season in Punta Cana?
Punta Cana hurricane season occurs between June to November and it is very likely to occur between August and October.There is a high risk of tropical storms and heavy rains, so you should check the weather forecast before visiting Punta Cana.
When is the best time to visit Punta Cana?
Punta Cana has a dry season between December and April and this is the best time to visit the place. These months are usually sunny , pleasant and have less humidity and less rain. Hence it is a good climate to go to the beach, engage in water sports and go on tours.
If you want to read more, check out our guide on the best time to visit Punta Cana.
Safety and Travel tips Punta Cana FAQs
Punta Cana is a safe place in the Caribbean and it is easily accessible by direct international flights as well as through connecting routes. This is where you will get everything you need to know about passports, flights, e-ticket, and airport transfers.
Is Punta Cana safe for tourists?
Yes, Punta Cana is mostly secure for tourists, particularly resorts and tourist attractions.Visitors have to take reasonable measures, like staying out of secluded locations during night hours, locking up valuables and hiring the services of honest transportation companies.
How safe is Punta Cana for getting around, using taxis, beaches, and nightlife?
Punta Cana is safe based on resorts, guided tours and traveled paths. The main activities that are considered safe when visiting are walking, taking taxis, visiting the beach, water sports and nightlife. But you should always stay alert and avoid going to secluded spots. It’s better to use trusted transportation services.
How safe is driving in Punta Cana?
The local traffic patterns, the pavement of roads, and the lack of signage could complicate driving in Punta Cana. When driving, be careful, rent from good companies and do not drive at night.
If you are still worried for your safety then you can read our guide on why Punta Cana is one of the safest Caribbean islands.
Do you need a passport for Punta Cana?
Yes, every international traveler is required to have a valid passport to access Punta Cana Dominican Republic.Ensure that you have a current and unexpired passport to travel. The travelers might also require a tourist card/ visa based on their nationality.
How long is the flight to Punta Cana from the US, UK and Canada?
The flight durations to Punta Cana vary depending on your departure city:
- From the US it takes approximately 4–5 hours
- From Canada it takes approximately 4.5–5 hours
- From the UK it takes approximately 9–10 hours
Direct flights are also available from major cities in these countries.
How far is Santo Domingo and La Romana to Punta Cana?
The distance between Santo Domingo and Punta Cana is about 200km (124 miles) and it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours using a car.
The distance between La Romana and Punta Cana is about 100 km (62 miles) and it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours in a car.
Travel times may vary depending on traffic and the chosen route.
What is an e-ticket for Punta Cana?
A Punta Cana e-ticket is an electronic flight ticket that contains confirmation of an airline reservation.It holds your flight information, passenger details and booking information. It can also be used for checking in online or at the airport.
What airlines fly direct to Punta Cana?
Punta Cana International Airport has direct flights from the US, Canada and the UK. Major airlines include American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, Air Canada, WestJet, British Airways, TUI Airways, and Jet2.com. Their availability may vary seasonally so it’s best to confirm with airlines you are travelling with.
Is the taxi fare from Punta Cana airport to the hotel zone expensive?
A taxi ride between Punta Cana airport and the hotel area normally costs between 30-35 USD each way. The fares can be different depending on your hotel address, the number of people in your group and whether you reserve a transfer in advance.
How far is Punta Cana airport from major resorts?
From the largest resorts in Bávaro and the hotel zone, it takes around 15 to 30 minutes to travel to Punta Cana International Airport. The amount of time taken on the road can be different based on highway traffic and the location of the resort.
Things to Do in Punta Cana FAQs
Punta Cana is full of endless fun both in beaches and catamaran tours, adventure sports and eco-excursions. It does not matter whether you are a couple, a family or a solo traveller, Punta Cana has something to offer you.
What to do in Punta Cana?
Punta Cana is a place where you can spend free time on beaches, catamarans, adventure sports and cultural walks. Activities such as swamp snorkeling, ziplining, dune buggy tours and sightseeing at local attractions are very popular.
What to see in Punta Cana?
Bavaro Beach, Macao Beach, Juanillo Beach, and Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve can be seen in Punta Cana. Other places to see are Altos de Chavón, Saona, and Catalina islands.
Are there catamaran tours to Isla Saona from Punta Cana?
Yes, you can book catamaran tours to Isla Saona that include snorkeling, swimming, and lunch. A private 8-hour tour starts at $1,795 for up to 60 guests, with round-trip transport, open bar, music, and a visit to Isla Saona & Palmilla included.
If you want to experience Isla Saona in style, book your private catamaran tour today.
What is a private catamaran tour in Punta Cana?
A Punta Cana catamaran tour is a unique sailing experience that is ideal for couples, families, or groups. You will have all the privacy to cruise the coast. You also have the chance to snorkel, swim in the natural pools, drink and eat onboard.
What is a shared catamaran tour in Punta Cana?
Shared catamarans in Punta Cana allow you to share a boat with other travellers. This makes it a less expensive alternative. The tours have fun and adventurous activities such as snorkeling, swimming in the crystal clear ocean and taking a rest in the lively atmosphere.
If you want to turn your beach day into a lively celebration, book your Shared Catamaran tour now.
Are catamaran cruises available in Punta Cana?
Yes, in Punta Cana there are catamaran tours that provide picturesque tours along the coast, natural pool visits, snorkeling and swimming. You can book your private catamaran and enjoy the beauty of Punta Cana at your own pace.
What adventure sports are available in Punta Cana?
Punta Cana provides adventure sports such as ziplining, dune buggying, parasailing, horseback rides and snorkeling. Several catamaran tours involve a variety of activities that one can do in a day.
What excursions are popular in Punta Cana?
The most famous tours in Punta Cana are organized to Saona Island, Catalina Island, Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve and Hoyo Azul cenote. Visits to other cultures and adventure trips such as coffee and cacao tours or ziplining are also a high demand.
What are the top beaches in Punta Cana?
Punta Cana has the best beaches such as Bavaro Beach, Macao Beach and Juanillo Beach. Certainly these beaches are famous for their white sands, crystal waters and water sports.
Accommodation and Resorts in Punta Cana
There are every type of place to stay in Punta Cana, large all inclusive and small boutique hotels. You will have the most suitable places to stay as a family, couple or an individual that would like to have a relaxing holiday.
What are the best areas to stay in Punta Cana?
Punta Cana has the best places to visit, such as Bavaro with dynamic beach resorts, Cap Cana with luxury and exclusivity, and Uvero Alto with its relatively quiet and family-friendly environment. All of these areas bring about a different feel so you can decide when it comes to nightlife, luxury or calmness.
What is the best all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana?
Excellence Punta Cana is one of the most superior all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana with luxurious facilities, adult only resort, great cuisine and spectacular beachfront resorts. The other one is the Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa, which has finally received praise in terms of its luxury, service and romantic location in Cap Cana.
Which resorts are best for couples and honeymoons?
Wedding and honeymoon resorts in Punta Cana are Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa, Excellence Punta Cana, Zoeyty Agua Punta Cana, Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, and Sanctuary Cap Cana. These are adult and luxury resorts which also provide honeymooners with romantic centers, suites and exclusive facilities.
Should you choose an all-inclusive resort or a boutique hotel?
Punta Cana offers various all-inclusive resorts that will guarantee you convenience, unlimited dining, drinks and entertainment. A boutique hotel in contrast is a personalized and smaller experience that can usually be topped in originality and local flavor.
What to pack for Punta Cana?
Bring lightweight clothes, swimsuits, sandals and breezy materials to the tropics. You should not miss necessities such as sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat and a pair of comfortable walking shoes during outings and evening wear at the resorts.
What is the legal drinking age in Punta Cana Dominican Republic?
The minimum age at which one can drink in Punta Cana and Dominican Republic is 18. Mostly the resorts and bars check ID so you should carry valid identification.
Planning a trip to Punta Cana? Book your catamaran tour today and make your getaway truly unforgettable. Have questions or want to reserve instantly? Message us on WhatsApp and we’ll take care of everything for you!