When I hear the words “Punta Cana,” the first thing that pops into my head is a relaxing resort located on a striking beach. While these are the key components of a vacation here, many travelers may want to jazz up their journey with the many unique things to do in Punta Cana off the beaten path.
So, if you like to test your limits, step out of your comfort zone, enjoy the surrounding sights, or simply have a wonderful time, pack your bags and get ready for an epic adventure.
What unique things to do in Punta Cana when on vacation?
As you and I both know, this part of the Caribbean is a very popular tourist destination, renowned for its postcard-worthy beaches with sugary white sand and crystal-clear waters. With seemingly endless coastlines and resorts, Punta Cana is the most visited destination in the Caribbean. From resorts that will give you an unforgettable stay to thematic spas, restaurants and lively nightlife, this part of the world will make you forget all your troubles (if you have any, that is).
While we established earlier that there are many unique things to do in Punta Cana. However, if you are like me and easily get bored with a set itinerary, you’ll be glad to know that there is a range of Punta Cana tourist attractions that will lead off the beaten path to a new adventure! So, keep your eyes locked on this article and discover our list of unique things to do in Punta Cana and places to visit in Punta Cana off the beaten path.
There are tons of Punta Cana tourist attractions and excursions you can do, but what is the best option? And where should you go if you want to have an adventure off the beaten path? This means that you get to experience a little bit more than just a cookie-cutter vacation and explore a piece of the authentic region. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the unique things to do in Punta Cana.
Punta Cana tourist attractions you’ll love!
1. Los Haitises National Park
A visit to Los Haitises National Park is one of the unique things to do in Punta Cana. If you would like to know what Punta Cana looked like before it became a tourist magnet, this is the place to visit. Situated in the bay of Samaná and is easily accessible by land or water. Here you can explore dense mangroves by boat and visit the caves inhabited by the ancient people, the Tainos. Some of the caves are San Gabriel, La Reyna, La Línea, and La Arena.
2. Catalina Island
Catalina Island A. K. A. Serena Key is a gorgeous island with a naturally protected reserve where, of course, you’ll find no inhabitants. This beautiful spot is sheltered from the wind, which means that the sea is always calm and is lesser known to most visitors, making it one of the best places to go off the track when in Punta Cana. So if you are looking for some peace and quiet with the perks of warm sunny weather and marvelous beaches, this is the ideal place.
3. Ojos Indígenas Ecological Reserve
Ojos Indígenas Ecological Reserve comprises lush tropical jungles and several freshwater lagoons of fresh water. This magical spot is one of the hidden gems among the best things to do in Punta Cana. Here you can enjoy pure nature as you walk through the jungle along beautiful trails. That’s not all; you can also take a dip in the lagoons, take a ride in a catamaran or go horse riding on the beaches.
4. The Cave of Wonders
This underground cave houses a large sample of ancient Taino art and is one of the unique things to do in Punta Cana. The Cave of Wonders is an amazing cave complex with a marvelous display of ancient cave art, rock carvings, and pictographs. Here you might be able to spot Rhinoceros Iguanas (Cyclura Cornuta), who are in danger of extinction.
5. Paraiso Caño Hondo
Dubbed one of the best ecological vacation destinations, it offers you a mix of fun, natural beauty, and relaxation. This gorgeous paradise is an extension of the Los Haitises National Park and gives its visitors a sense of serenity. This property has impressive views of the Bays of San Lorenzo and Samaná, plus you can be engrossed in plenty of exciting excursions and adventures.
6. Scape Park, Hoyo Azul (Blue Hole)
Scape Park offers its visitors impressive ecological trails, where you’ll be able to see a plethora of flora, including ferns, cacti, orchids, endemic plants, and more. This is one of the free things to do in Punta Cana and also educates you about the different ecosystems of the Caribbean. Here you can also visit the Hoyo Azul cave, where you’ll find a natural pool with crystal blue water, and visitors can jump in and enjoy these fresh and revitalized waters. This is considered one of the most unique things to do in Punta Cana.
Adventure Activities in Punta Cana
There are many adventure activities among the Punta Cana tourist attractions. From horseback riding to jungle safaris or zip lining, this amazing region has got you covered.
These are the most remarkable adventure activities in Punta Cana:
- Visit the Marinarium, an aquarium located in the sea; here, you can go snorkeling and swim among sharks, sea lions, and vibrant fish.
- Visit Dolphin Island to go swimming with dolphins.
- Manati Park allows you to see dolphins, birds, iguanas, and other entertainment that shows the history of the Taino people.
- Go zip-lining through the lush Caribbean jungles, mountains, and hills.
- Ride on a buggy or a squad to visit some beaches, ranches, and villages.
- Enjoy a 4 x 4 Jeep Safari while you go off-road between villages, fields, and canals.
- Go horse riding on the beach or ranches.
- Fly on a helicopter tour and see the beautiful surroundings of the land below.
Free things to do in Punta Cana
A vacation here doesn’t have to be over-the-top expensive, as there are plenty of free things to do in Punta Cana. While visiting a beach is one of the free things to do in Punta Cana, there are many other options, such as visiting lagoons, caves, waterfalls, and more.
Free things to do in Punta Cana: rivers, caves, lagoons, and waterfalls
- Explore the highest waterfall in the Caribbean, Salto de la Jalda
- Visiting other waterfalls such as Cascada Blanca and Salto Socoa
- The hidden cenote of Punta Cana: blue lagoon and the Cenote Indígena Las Ondas
- Explore caverns and caves like the Cave Oleg Bat House
Free things to do in Punta Cana at the beach
- Take a quiet walk along the beaches
- Go on a day trip to Macao Beach
- Go snorkeling at the beach
The choice is yours, and no matter what you choose, your day will be full of unique things to do in Punta Cana, along with unforgettable adventures and experiences.
What are the best places to visit in Punta Cana, in your opinion? Do you know any other fun Punta Cana tourist attractions? Let me know in the comments!
If you love visiting the Caribbean, make a trip to this part of the tropics and enjoy the unique things to do in Punta Cana. So, call or drop us a line to us, and we will make sure you have an amazing trip that is fun and adventurous.
