Punta Cana Holidays

Things To Do on Punta Cana Holidays

If all night partying or big city shopping is your thing, then a holiday to Punta Cana is perhaps not for you. But for those amongst you who want a week of total relaxation in a location of seaside bliss, then you are most definitely in the right place. The white sands stretch an amazing 50 km along the Dominican coast and connect a number of resorts including Bavaro and Macao. The seaside location is ideal for watersports, yachting, jet skiing, diving, water skiing, parasailing and many more are all available.

A trip out to 'Dolphin Island' gives you a chance to, as you might have guessed, swim with dolphins and explore local marine life, whereas a jeep safari inland is just one of the ways to explore the Dominican Republic's more tropical wild side. So whether it's caving or beach horseback riding, speed boating or just straight sunbathing, there is definitely something to keep your whole party entertained on holidays to Punta Cana!

For many people on holidays in Punta Cana there is one thing and one thing only: the beach. This isn't surprising however once you arrive on holiday to Punta Cana as the far stretching white sands really are as breathtaking as they appear on the postcards.

With around ten resorts and towns adjoined by this stretch of coastline, what began as a 'walk across the front' can really turn into one of the best experience's of your holiday. However if you're looking for a little more exploration, then the caving excursions and the tours through the Dominican wildlife are well worth investigation!

Culture

Hispaniola, the island which the Dominican Republic shares with Haiti, was first ruled by the Tainio Indians, and it wasn't until Christopher Columbus's voyage in 1492 that occupation changed hands. Spanish influence is still present today, in particular with Spanish spoke as the Dominican Republic's official language. At long last, in 1884, after attempts from the French and the English to take over, the Dominican Republic finally gained independence. Punta Cana itself was developed for tourism mainly, and is dominated by the number of large resorts which are frequented each year, making the most popular Dominican Republic holiday destination. Although Punta Cana may not be the best place to see the Dominican Republic at its most authentic, there are a couple of ways to experience as much of the culture as possible. Shopping at the local markets is a great way to try out some local produce, and the 40 minute journey to nearby Higuey is perhaps a better way to get a feel for real Dominican life. Alternatively, come on holidays to Punta Cana when Carnival hits in February, with the bright street parades and vibrant colours on show every Sunday showing the locals doing what they do best - dancing! Their love for jazz and 'Merengue' is evident, as a visit to one of the more secluded clubs or bars in Higuey will show only too well!

Families

Most stretches of Punta Cana beaches are perfect for families with children, with mild surf for splashing. Children will especially enjoy the dolphin, sea lion and parrot shows at Manati Park Bavaro (Carretera Manati) (www.manatipark.com), a theme park that also includes a replica of a native Taino village.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Punta Cana is very much based around the resorts. There are no real clubbing hotspots, but the hotels within the resorts are usually more than adequate when it comes to evening entertainment. Look out for the locally owned bars and restaurants for a more authentic evening out and a taste of Dominican cuisine.