Playing volleyball on the beach, Punta Cana; (c) Soul Of America
Punta Cana Beaches
Ahhh the beaches! Sugar-white sand, crystal-clear warm water, and enchanting ocean breezes are a formidable combination. That’s the image that most comes to mind when one thinks about the Dominican Republic, particularly along the eastern coast of the island in Punta Cana and the surrounding areas where the beaches stretch for over 30 miles! As such, you can enjoy your own private or public beach. And note that “playa” means beach in Spanish.
Macao Beach
About a half-hour drive north of Bavaro, you will find the beautiful underdeveloped Macao Beach. Drive straight through the tiny town of El Macio. After the crest of the hill, you will see Macao Beach. It’s popular with surfers and you can take surfing lessons there. The wide slopes down to shallow water of a beautiful turquoise color make this a favorite for families with kids.
Juanillo Beach
Juanillo is another secluded beach in the Cap Cana area at Punta Cana’s south end. The Sanctuary Cap Cana resorts are nearby. For luxury, beauty, and fine cuisine, check out the restaurant with its cabanas and lounge sofas. Take the road to Cap Cana to the gated area. As with Playa Blanca, you can spend the day there in exchange for your ID.
El Cortecito Beach
The next pristine white sandy beach is El Cortecito on the shore of a quaint fisherman village. This beach town is thought of as Bavaro-Punta Cana’s downtown area. You’ll want to browse the shopping centers and gift shops before hitting the beach. There are bars to stop in for a cocktail and several restaurants including one facing the beach.
Playa Bavaro
The beach in Bavaro is blessed with powdery white sand making it one of Punta Cana’s most popular. The shore seems endless, and it’s a great beach for a long walk. Get to Playa Bavaro by a clearly marked road south of the Melia Caribe Tropical Resorts. This Punta Cana Beach is a popular stopover for ATV tours. You will find a spacious parking lot, gift shops, and a market. Go past the gift shops and settle into a spot on this perfect beach.
Uvero Alto Beach
If you love seclusion, be sure to check out the beach at Uvero Alto. The beach is rather secluded except for the high-end resorts nearby. With its lush green coconut forest near the shore, you are likely to find yourself alone except for members of a horseback riding tour. You can access this beach from highway 105 traveling from Macao to Miches or Laguna de Nisibon. You’ll see a narrow dirt road on the right marked Miches/Uvero Alto.
Playa Blanca
Kids, white sand, kite, and windsurfing are what you’ll find on this shallow water beach. The azure water is calm and clear. If you go through the gated area of one of the resorts, you can leave your passport or driver’s license in exchange for a day on the beach. The beach is secluded since it’s in a gated resort area. You will find an excellent restaurant and bar here. It’s a good beach for spending the whole day.
For more information from a local, visit https://www.puntacanatravel.org
