Date of publication 14/08/2025
Dream with your feet in the sand: Punta Cana’s must-visit beaches
To dream with your feet in the sand on your next vacation, you only need two things: a picture-perfect beach (or several) and a stay at one of these hotels in Punta Cana. Here, right on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, your perception of time and space will soon align with the rhythm of the destination, carrying you to a place where the word “rush” simply doesn’t exist. In this ideal setting, there’s also room to connect with nature, embrace well-being with all five senses, and enjoy yourself entirely your own way.
In the following lines, we’ll introduce you to the best beaches in Punta Cana—the coastal heart of a paradise island—unveiling some of their best-kept secrets and showing you every facet of their beauty. This way, you can start picturing exactly what awaits you on arrival. To begin, here’s one fact: as many as 11 of them have earned permanent Blue Flag status, a mark of ecological quality and tourism excellence. The municipality offers around 50 kilometers of beaches, with some of the most spectacular ones found between Punta Cana and Bávaro, in the area known as the Costa del Coco.
Finally, to make booking easier and help you prepare for your trip, we’ll also recommend hotels in the Dominican Republic with privileged beachfront locations.
Playa Bávaro
Playa Bávaro has been recognized by UNESCO as one of the best beaches in the world. Fringed with palm and coconut trees, its 20 kilometers of fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters make it a true haven—perfect both for those seeking relaxation and for water sports enthusiasts. Here, you’ll have the chance to enjoy activities of all kinds, from the most leisurely to the most energetic. Many guided excursions, such as those to Saona Island, depart from this area. A vibrant nightlife and a diverse dining scene complete the experience.
Just a short distance from this ever-lively, bustling location, the Bávaro Lagoon Wildlife Reserve and its mangroves invite you to explore other stunning coastal landscapes in a quieter setting.
This sunlit stretch of sand is also home to some of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in Punta Cana. Among them is JOIA Bávaro by Iberostar, an upscale, adults-oriented property where true luxury means feeling cared for at every moment while indulging in hedonism in a one-of-a-kind natural environment. Expect art in every corner, expansive gardens filled with native species, personalized services (including butler and concierge), seven specialty and signature restaurants, modern ocean-view suites, a spectacular spa you’ll never want to leave, and even a unique bar set inside a sailboat. What are you waiting for to pack your bags?
Playa Macao
Just a 20-minute drive from Punta Cana’s top resorts lies Playa Macao, a stunning stretch of coastline that shares its name with two animals native to the Caribbean: a small crustacean that shelters in empty sea snail shells, and the “macao” parrot, also known as the scarlet macaw. This wild beach, framed by cliffs and tropical vegetation, was highlighted by UNESCO as one of the most beautiful in the world—and it’s easy to see why.
Thanks to its steady waves and breezes, Playa Macao is one of the best beaches in Punta Cana for surfing at any time of year. Its bohemian, laid-back vibe is reflected in the traditional Dominican huts scattered along the shore, alongside beach bars and craft stalls where you can buy handmade pieces and other local products, including fresh regional ingredients. This authenticity is part of its charm, making it a gathering place for both locals and visitors.
If you consider yourself an adventurous traveler, round off your visit with an adrenaline boost. Set within a dune system, this coastal enclave often hosts guided buggy tours along the nearby trails—a thrilling way to discover the surrounding landscape.
Playa Juanillo
Wondering what to do in Punta Cana to keep exploring its marine ecosystems while enjoying your vacation? Playa Juanillo, a pristine coastline framed by coral reefs and calm, shallow waters, is perfect for diving, snorkeling, swimming, or taking long kayak rides. Located within the exclusive Cap Cana area, access—while free of charge—is regulated through a control system to prevent overcrowding, which means it remains pleasantly uncrowded even during peak season. Once there, you’ll find endless stretches of soft white sand and emerald-green waters that seem straight out of a dream. Excellent facilities make it an ideal spot for a family day without sacrificing comfort.
Its location couldn’t be better. Playa Juanillo is just a 30-minute drive from Playa Bávaro, home to Iberostar Waves Punta Cana—one of those family-friendly hotels in Punta Cana where everything feels designed with you in mind. Get ready to stay at a 5-star, all-inclusive beachfront resort featuring its own coral lab, the Star Camp kids’ club with age-specific learning and play programs, six themed restaurants, a diving center, a golf club designed by renowned architect P.B. Dye, and many more facilities tailored to guests traveling with children.
Playa Arena Gorda
Your (happy) stay in Punta Cana hotels will also give you access to other Dominican oases far from clichés, such as Playa Arena Gorda—a picturesque spot that, despite its name, has sand as white and soft as any you’ll find along the island’s coast. Flanked by lush tropical vegetation and bordered by a wide, crystal-clear shoreline, this beach is a favorite among windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts thanks to its waves, which range from gentle to moderate depending on the area, season, and weather conditions.
And while its storybook setting might make it seem hidden or even remote, you’ll be glad to know it’s extremely well-connected—located right next to Playa Bávaro. Facilities include rentable loungers and umbrellas, several nearby parking areas, accessible entry points for visitors with reduced mobility, lifeguard services, and a host of other amenities to ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible.
Playa Cabeza de Toro
Did you know Playa Cabeza de Toro gets its name from its aerial view, which resembles the head of a bull? Visit with the family if you’re looking for a safe, peaceful spot to enjoy the sea with children and babies experiencing the beach for the first time. Its shallow waters and gentle waves make it ideal. In fact, it’s one of the best beaches in Punta Cana for snorkeling with little ones, taking long boat rides, and soaking up the sun in a serene setting. Among its standout activities are excursions to spot dolphins, whales, rays, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat—an experience your children will love.
If gastronomy is your passion, you’ll be pleased to know that the area is dotted with bars, beach clubs, and traditional restaurants where you can savor authentic Dominican cuisine, with signature dishes such as sancocho, chimi, or mangú with Los Tres Golpes.
Playa de Uvero Alto
Looking for things to see in Punta Cana that will keep your sense of wonder alive throughout your vacation? Among other reasons, Playa de Uvero Alto will impress you with its breathtaking sunsets. Its calm, intensely blue sea appears like a lagoon in some areas, while in others it has gentle waves—perfect for beginner surfers to practice. In this golden-sand haven with a free-spirited soul, you’ll witness one of the most unforgettable sunsets of your life. Its quiet atmosphere also invites you to connect with nature and with yourself, making it one of the epicenters of ecotourism in the Dominican Republic. Activities here include diving and snorkeling in its coral reef, hiking, and cycling routes.
Located at the northern tip of Punta Cana, about 30 kilometers from Playa Bávaro, it’s close to exceptional resorts such as Iberostar Selection Bávaro Suites, where sustainable tourism blends seamlessly with a luxurious stay. Designed as a traditional Caribbean village, all accommodations are suites—ideal for couples, families, and small groups. From its wide-ranging entertainment program to its immersive décor, outstanding sports facilities, refined gastronomy, and wellness and beauty areas, the care and attention to detail at this 5-star all-inclusive will captivate you from the moment you arrive.
Playa Esmeralda
Playa Esmeralda is a pristine coastline stretching for about 10 kilometers, with nothing but warm, transparent waters and a ribbon of white sand edged by a stretch of jungle. Here, the Caribbean Sea’s biodiversity is on full display, and time itself seems to slow down. It’s the perfect spot if you’re looking to get lost and savor the pleasure of doing absolutely nothing for at least a few hours.
As this is a wild, undeveloped beach, keep in mind that there are no bars, restaurants, or tourist facilities, so you’ll need to come prepared—with plenty of water, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable footwear, and some snacks if you plan to spend the day. You can also take advantage of your visit to head to the nearby Montaña Redonda viewpoint, rising 300 meters above the Dominican countryside—said to be especially spectacular at sunrise.
Playa El Cortecito
Playa El Cortecito sits right next to Playa Bávaro, near what was once a small fishing village. Everything that happens here—on and off the sand—immerses you in the colorful culture of the destination. Picture an idyllic shoreline opening onto the vastness of the Caribbean Sea, framed by coconut palms and turquoise reflections; traditional beach bars with live music; the chance to join group bachata and salsa classes; craft markets; sunset parties that carry on well into the night; and a vibrant sports scene featuring volleyball tournaments, scuba diving excursions, and catamaran trips to explore the seabed. Together, they create a captivating personality deeply tied to the local way of life.
Stay at Iberostar Selection Coral Bávaro so you won’t miss a thing. This 5-star, premium-service beachfront hotel offers unique experiences while letting you enjoy the destination’s variety. Booking Coral Level gives you access to private areas and 24-hour concierge service, a dedicated buffet with show cooking, ocean-view suites, complimentary snacks at the beach club, and even your own lounge. The resort also features a three-story gym, a spa with 21 treatment rooms and personalized therapies, and a golf course. Sustainable initiatives include an innovative bee protection project and a coral nursery.
And after that? You can always start again—extending your vacation as long as you wish. Discover more hotels in Punta Cana, continue exploring the Dominican coastline with a stay at the best hotels in Bayahíbe, or venture to other equally inspiring Caribbean destinations.
