Beat the winter weather blues by ditching the UK for a gorgeous tropical paradise โ Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic is a masterclass in the three S’s: sun, sea and sand and is renowned for its wealth of luxurious all-inclusive resorts and wonderful weather.
Exploring Punta Cana ๐
The region of Punta Cana is situated on the eastern edge of the Dominican Republic in the La Altagracia Province and is often thought of as the most idyllic Caribbean seascape, loved for its dramatic views and sizeable coastline.
Youโll find more than 25 miles of glistening white sands that strike a contrast with the rich, aquamarine waters of the North Atlantic Ocean.
What’s the weather like in Punta Cana? โ๏ธ
The tropical climate of the Dominican Republic means that the weather in Punta Cana is generally very warm, if your looking for winter sun then the temperature in December to February is around 26หC and temperatures hovering between 25หC and 28หC throughout the year. For sun-seekers, the best time to go is in August when the sunshine reaches its peak of 32หC for around 10 hours per day.
Where to stay ๐จ
Nature Park Beach Eco Resort & Spa
Those looking to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings of Punta Cana should head to the picturesque grounds of NaturaPark Beach EcoResort & Spa. As the name suggests, itโs home to local wildlife, so expect to be greeted by a flamboyance of flamingos or a majestic peacock during your expedition through the resortโs lush gardens.
The rooms are modest and simple in design but fully equipped and comfortable. Along with six bars, a spa and three restaurants, thereโs one main pool but Bรกvaro Beach is only a few minutes away, so you can easily skip the poolside bustle.
The Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real
Families in search of luxury should opt to stay in the lavish dwellings of The Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real. This boutique resort offers five-star quality and children under the age of 13 can stay for free.
Thereโs a family concierge service and a designated โKids Zoneโ to help keep you and your little ones satisfied throughout your stay. Here, the beach is literally at your doorstop as The Reserve sits along Bรกvaro Beach;
it also offers access to its own private beach. With three pools, three restaurants, a spa, gym and three tennis courts, you definitely wonโt get bored here.
Simply Lovely Homes
If an independent holiday is more your style, then Simply-Lovely Homes offers an affordable and stylish apartment situated inside a gated complex of villas near Bรกvaro Beach.
Accommodating up to four people, the comfy condo offers a deluxe, modern interior and is fully-furnished with two bedrooms, a living and dining area, as well a kitchen and laundry area.
Thereโs a clubhouse, a pool, and a Jacuzzi located on the complex and guests also get private access to the beach. This accommodation option is highly rated by visitors, awarded โGold Top Vacation Rental 2013โ by Flipkey.
Things to do ๐คฟ
Viator
For an entertaining afternoon out at sea, book a half-day snorkelling voyage with Viator.
Youโll be collected from your hotel in the morning, ready to head out and enjoy the breath-taking views of the coastline before you snorkel your way through the beautiful marine life of the Caribbean Sea. You may see, Starfish, Turtles, Coral fish, Stingray and more.
On the way back, youโll be treated to some snacks along with some live music and entertainment, before being dropped off back at your hotel.
Viator also offers trips to Dolphin Island where you can watch these wonderful creatures in their natural environment. Prices start from around ยฃ70.
Palma Real Shopping Village
Palma Real Shopping Village or Punta Cana Village, which boast an array of high-end stores, restaurants, a cinema.
Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve
For a more adventurous experience, visit the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve to get up close with local wildlife and tour its 12 freshwater lagoons. The reserve consists of a lowland subtropical forest thatโs home to around 500 different types of plant life, 100 types of bird species, and 160 insect species, all spread across a massive 1,500 acres of protected land.
Visitors can take part in a guided tour through the park to enjoy its botanical and fruit gardens, iguana farm and farm-animal petting zoo.
Outback Safari
To gain an authentic cultural insight into Punta Cana away from the sheltered luxury of the all-inclusive resorts, Outback Safari offer tours into villages across the region where you can visit a local school, chocolate and coffee plantation, a coconut farm.
At the end of your tour youโll get the chance to โboogie boardโ on a secluded beach, too.
Marinarium Water Sports
Marinarium offers catermeran snorkel excursions and private tours where you can head out on a private dining trip, snorkelling, where you can spot sharks, coral fish and more.
Marinarium is driven by marine protection and conservation of the environment.
Places to eat ๐ฝ
Bamboo Bar
If youโre staying at an all-inclusive resort, at some point you may want to venture out and experience Punta Canaโs diverse food scene. A stroll through the plazas around Bรกvaro Beach and a trip to the neighbouring village of El Cortecito will bring you to a collection of restaurants and bars where you can dine al-fresco. A nice spot for lunch is Bamboo Bar located on Los Corales Beach near El Cortecito.
Jellyfish
Jellyfish is a popular choice among tourists and locals alike. Here, you can enjoy the fresh catch of the day in a relaxed atmosphere right on the seafront.
The chefโs specialities include steam-cooked lobster tail, sea bass in passion fruit and ginger sauce or, if youโre really hungry, why not order the hearty seafood grill.
Mediterraneo Restaurant
If youโre prepared to go all out, a high-end, gastronomic experience can be found at Mediterraneo Restaurant, where the high ceilings and the quality of the food will make an impression.
An extensive wine list, a refined selection of dishes, and even an olive oil and salt tasting service which allows you to sample flavours from around the world โ this restaurant is a real treat for anyone in search of sophisticated dining.Time to party
