White sand beaches, crystal clear waters, endless sea breezes and its consistently gorgeous weather make Punta Cana an ideal spot for a holiday. However, it is far more than a great place with excellent beaches. It is a wonderfully cultured spot where you can walk through a UNESCO Heritage Site marking the first European settlement in the Western Hemisphere, or where you can stroll through an artist’s village that is modeled on a design of the 1500s. You can book a safari and go “zip lining” through the jungle canopies, or you might even glimpse endangered whales on a private boat tour.
Clients of Isle Blue can plan an unforgettable visit to Punta Cana, working with their concierge to book many different adventures and activities, but also spa services in their villa, chef-prepared meals, and days of basking in the glorious Dominican Republic sun.
Going to Punta Cana
Sitting at the eastern end of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana enjoys consistent weather that only destinations near the equator can provide. Arriving in the area is easy, and many US carriers make daily flights into Punta Cana International Airport. This is a very busy spot, but you can arrange for a pickup that delivers you to your villa and avoid the hustle and bustle of arrivals.
What to Do in the Dominican Republic
There is no need to suggest that you make plenty of time for the beaches of Punta Cana, but keep in mind that there is more than sunbathing and swimming in the shallow and perfect waters.
There are spots like Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park that consistently earns praise from travelers interested in really exploring the natural landscape of the region, as well as Hoyo Azul. There are some truly remarkable golf courses that include Punta Espada and Corales. The former is designed by Jack Nicklaus and was completed within the last decade. The latter is even newer, and opened in 2010 after being designed by Tom Fazio.
You will also want to stroll through Santo Domingo’s old town and be sure you see the Palace of Diego as well as Alcazar de Colon (the first cathedral built in the New World). The Altos de Chavon is a wonderful artist’s village and also an archeological site where you can spend a full day shopping for artisan goods, sampling amazing food, and enjoying historic sites.
If you are a dedicated beachgoer, the best beaches for days of sunbathing and watersports include:
Bavaro Beach
Macao Beach
Juanillo Beach
Beaches of Isla Saona (a short trip from Punta Cana) and Isla Catalina
Book some diving lessons or a boat tour, do some snorkeling or just enjoy the sea breezes.
Dining in Punta Cana
Naturally, as a seaside spot, you’ll need to make a point of enjoying the fresh fish and seafood available. If you are not a fan of seafood, there are many four and five star establishments serving amazing dishes favoring local ingredients. From smaller local cafes to the upscale spots in the different resorts, you are sure to find some new favorites. Some of the top sports include Simon Mansion which does Asian-themed seafood, Pranama which focuses on Indian cuisine, the Grill, which is a Caribbean spot, and the wonderful Little John directly on the waterfront.
Guests can also book time with a chef who is able to prepare meals in the villa, where they can be enjoyed in the beauty and privacy of your tropical home.
Punta Cana is a place that is all about history, relaxation, scenery and the sea, and with your Isle Blue villa, your holiday is going to be an unforgettable one.