Punta Cana offers far more than beaches and resorts. The best things to do in Punta Cana combine natural beauty, adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences that go beyond the all-inclusive property.
This guide ranks the Top 10 Things to Do in Punta Cana using the Punta Cana Local Rating, an independent editorial score based on overall experience, popularity, value, and long-term visitor satisfaction.
1. Saona Island Day Trip
Punta Cana Local Rating: 9.7 / 10
A visit to Saona Island is the most iconic excursion in the Dominican Republic, featuring white sand beaches, turquoise water, and shallow natural pools inside a protected national park.
Best for: First-time visitors, couples, and travelers seeking classic Caribbean scenery.
Local insight: Saona is best enjoyed on small-group or premium tours. Large catamaran trips can feel rushed and crowded during peak season.
Our Top Picks: Saona Island Tours
2. Scape Park & Hoyo Azul
Punta Cana Local Rating: 9.3 / 10
Scape Park in Cap Cana combines ziplining, cave exploration, cultural routes, and the famous Hoyo Azul cenote in one immersive experience.
Best for: Active travelers, families with teens, and adventure seekers.
Local insight: Arriving earlier in the day provides a calmer experience at Hoyo Azul before crowds peak.
Our Top Picks: Scape Park Adventures
3. Catamaran Cruise & Snorkeling
Punta Cana Local Rating: 9.0 / 10
Catamaran cruises combine snorkeling, music, drinks, and coastal views, making them one of the most popular social experiences in Punta Cana.
Best for: Groups, social travelers, and celebratory trips.
Local insight: Look for cruises that limit group size and include reef snorkeling, not just floating bar stops.
Our Top Picks: Catamaran Cruises
4. Dune Buggy Adventure
Punta Cana Local Rating: 8.9 / 10
Dune buggy tours take visitors off-road through rural landscapes, mud trails, local tastings, and a freshwater cave swim.
Best for: Adventurous travelers and those wanting a break from resort life.
Local insight: Wear old clothes and eye protection. This is a rugged, messy experience by design.
Our Top Picks: Dune Buggy Tours
5. Snorkeling & Scuba Diving
Punta Cana Local Rating: 8.8 / 10
Punta Cana offers beginner-friendly snorkeling and diving, including coral reefs and shallow shipwrecks.
Best for: First-time divers and casual snorkelers.
Local insight: Catalina Island usually offers clearer water than near-shore Punta Cana sites.
Our Top Picks: Snorkeling & Diving
6. Monkeyland Experience
Punta Cana Local Rating: 8.7 / 10
Monkeyland allows visitors to interact with friendly squirrel monkeys in a controlled, natural environment.
Best for: Families and animal lovers.
Local insight: Morning tours are calmer and more enjoyable, especially in warmer months.
Our Top Picks: Monkeyland Tours
7. Catalina Island Snorkeling
Punta Cana Local Rating: 9.1 / 10
Catalina Island is known for crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life.
Best for: Snorkelers and repeat visitors.
Local insight: Catalina trips are often less crowded than Saona and appeal to travelers seeking calmer tours.
Our Top Picks: Catalina Island Tours
8. Zipline Adventure
Punta Cana Local Rating: 8.8 / 10
Zipline tours deliver high-speed rides through forest canopies with scenic views.
Best for: Thrill-seekers and active travelers.
Local insight: Choose tours with longer lines and fewer platforms for the best experience.
9. Santo Domingo City Tour
Punta Cana Local Rating: 8.6 / 10
A full-day tour to Santo Domingo explores the oldest European city in the Americas.
Best for: History and culture enthusiasts.
Local insight: This is a long day (12+ hours) and best suited for longer stays.
Our Top Picks: Santo Domingo Tours
10. Luxury Yacht or Boat Cruise
Punta Cana Local Rating: 9.2 / 10
Luxury yacht and boat cruises offer premium service and a quieter alternative to party boats.
Best for: Couples and small private groups.
Local insight: Semi-private or private charters deliver the best value and experience.
