Punta Cana Beaches Guide
Laura Schulthies
Laura Schulthies
Vanessa Howard
Vanessa HowardWith over 30 miles of coastline, Punta Cana offers idyllic beaches for everyone! Whether you are looking for calm waters, white sands lined by palm trees, or the best snorkeling on the island, Punta Cana has the perfect beach for you. Here are our top 8 beaches in Punta Cana.
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The Best Punta Cana Beaches
Bavaro Beach
Bavaro Beach (Playa Bavaro) is the most popular beach in Punta Cana, and many are drawn here because of its white sand and turquoise waters. It is also home to numerous all inclusive resorts and restaurants, but the beach is free to enter. Keep in mind that Bavaro Beach can be crowded, but the beach stretches for miles. Therefore, even in high season, this beach feels relaxed while lounging on the ivory sand or enjoying the water.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms at Access Points (Bibijagua, El Cortecito, Los Corales), Beach Restaurants, Beach Clubs, Beach Bars. Note: Hotel loungers and facilities are for guests only.
Stay Nearby! Explore Bavaro hotels on TripAdvisor
Macao Beach
Macao Beach, in the northeast coast of Punta Cana, is known as the most beautiful in the region. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility and adventure in equal measure. The beach boasts blue waters, soft golden sand, and impressive cliff formations, creating a stunning backdrop for any activity. Whether you’re looking to relax, sunbathe, or engage in water sports, Macao Beach has something to offer. It’s a perfect spot for surfing, bodyboarding, and even horseback riding. Don’t miss out on this picturesque paradise on your next visit to Punta Cana.
Beach Amenities: Senior Friendly, Public Parking, Public Restrooms, Public Walkways, Shaded Picnic Areas, and Beach Restaurants.
Stay Nearby! Explore Punta Cana hotels on TripAdvisor
Juanillo Beach
As one of the most exclusive beaches in Punta Cana, Playa Juanillo offers miles of pristine powdery white sand, shallow waters, and a lack of crowds. Several luxury resorts line Juanillo Beach, including Secrets Cap Cana Resort, Sanctuary Cap Cana, and Dreams Cap Cana. Public access requires a $20 USD fee at the Cap Cana security gate (ID required), which serves as a food and beverage credit at Juanillo Grill Beach Club. The beach is always tranquil and serene due to its controlled access. Offshore snorkeling at Buccaneers Reef is available via organized boat tours. Uber is not permitted inside Cap Cana, so you’ll need a taxi or rental car to get to the beach.
Beach Amenities: $20 USD Entry Fee (food/beverage credit), Public Parking, Juanillo Grill Beach Club, Little John Restaurant, Sun Loungers, Restrooms, Beach Service.
Stay Nearby! Explore Punta Cana hotels on TripAdvisor
Uvero Alto Beach
As one of the quietest beaches in Punta Cana, Playa Uvero Alto has a low-key vibe that is perfect for relaxing. Here you’ll find golden sand, and because Uvero Alto is located North of the resort zone, there are very few tourists. The waves can be quite high here, ideal for surfing but dangerous for families with small children. Visitors appreciate Uvero Alto Beach for its romantic feel and beautiful natural landscape.
Beach Amenities: Public Parking, Lifeguards and Restrooms Available At Resort Next Door, Beach Camping
Stay Nearby! Explore Punta Cana hotels on TripAdvisor
Saona Island
While Saona Island is not technically a beach in Punta Cana, it’s accessible from Punta Cana and is one of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic. This beautifully idyllic island is a tropical paradise you must see to believe. The island is a favorite, with long stretches of soft white sand and giant coconut trees that melt into the iridescent turquoise waters. Visitors can take day trips to enjoy the beaches, with various boat tours, from speedboats to catamarans.
Beach Amenities: Only Reachable By Boat or Catamaran, Public Restrooms, Rentable Beach Chairs and Lounges, Beach Vendors, Bars, and Restaurants.
Arena Gorda Beach
A wide swath of beach, Playa Arena Gorda tends to have more rough waters due to the number of waves and wind. You will find some of the most popular hotels in Punta Cana located on Arena Gorda, including Hard Rock, Iberostar, Majestic, Riu, and Bahia Principe resorts. Arena Gorda is located in the middle-northern section of the Hotel Zone and is seemingly endless, with plenty of room for everyone. The beach is Blue Flag certified for water quality and environmental standards.
Beach Amenities: Senior Friendly, Majority Of Beach Only Available To Hotel Guests, Lifeguard On Duty, and No Public Parking
Stay Nearby! Explore Punta Cana hotels on TripAdvisor
Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca’s name translates to “White Beach,” and that’s fitting because this beach is famous for its sparkling white sand. The romantic setting, delicious restaurant options, and excellent resorts on the beach make it unforgettable. As the closest beach to the airport, it’s convenient for travelers with limited time. Access requires a $40 USD minimum consumption at Playa Blanca Restaurant (get a day pass at the Visitor Center with ID). You are not permitted to bring your own food and drink to the beach. Playa Blanca is also a fantastic place to try some Dominican rum!
Beach Amenities: Public Parking, $40 Minimum Consumption for Access, Use of Restaurant, Restrooms, and Chairs Included, Kiteboarding School, Swimming Pool, Spa Services Available.
Stay Nearby! Explore Punta Cana hotels on TripAdvisor
Cabeza De Toro Beach
Cabeza De Toro Beach is a tranquil haven located on the eastern coast of Punta Cana. Its soft, powdery sand and calm, crystal-clear waters offer a picturesque and serene backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and towering coconut palms, creating a tropical paradise vibe. Visitors can engage in various water sports or simply soak up the sun and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the beach. This is a family-friendly beach with a few parks nearby that kids will enjoy. In addition, there is some excellent offshore snorkeling and even a few marine parks nearby.
Beach Amenities: Blue Flag Certified Beach, Beach Chairs and Umbrellas (resort areas), Water Sports, Snorkeling Equipment Rentals, Restaurants, Bars, Lifeguards, Restrooms, and Boat Tours Available.
Stay Nearby! Explore Punta Cana hotels on TripAdvisor
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