Things to Do with Kids in Punta Cana
Punta Cana on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic boasts pristine beaches, all-inclusive family resorts, and plenty of activities perfectly suited for kids and teens. With its average year-round temperature of 80°F, Punta Cana offers an appealing warm weather destination for families looking to escape colder winter climates.
The area encompasses world-famous beaches, family-friendly hotels and adventure parks all in close proximity. Below we detail some of Punta Cana's best children’s attractions and resort options for an enjoyable and hassle-free family vacation.
Activities for Kids
Beaches
Punta Cana's white sand beaches stretch on for miles, with gentle surf perfect for swimming and playing. Many resorts feature protected lagoon areas ideal for small children. Popular family-friendly beach areas include:
- Bávaro Beach – Calm waters, restaurants, water sports
- Macao Beach – Wide spacious beach near adventure parks
- Juanillo Beach – Palm-fringed beach known as one of Punta Cana’s most beautiful
- Arena Gorda Beach – In quiet northeast area, shallow entry good for kids
Outdoor Adventure
From ziplines to swimming with dolphins, outdoor adventures promise excitement for kids of all ages:
- Scape Park – Ziplines, suspension bridges set in lush nature reserve
- Manatí Park – Horseback rides, swimming, butterfly garden perfect for young kids
- Marinarium – Snorkel trip to nearby reef, interact with starfish, see marine life in nursery
- Dolphin Island Park – Multiple swim programs with dolphins and sea lions
- Los Haitises National Park – Mangrove ecotours to see endemic wildlife
Resort Kids Clubs & Activities
Most all-inclusive resorts include kids clubs with scheduled activities like:
- Arts & crafts
- Music & dance
- Playgrounds
- Ping pong & video games
- Pool games & contests
Some also offer amenities like waterparks, ropes courses and learning programs about local culture, flora and fauna.
Family Resorts
With literally hundreds of hotel options in Punta Cana, we’ve highlighted some of the best suited for an enjoyable family vacation below.
Family-Friendly All-Inclusives
Name | Highlights | ||
---|---|---|---|
Barceló Bávaro Palace | Waterpark, mini golf, kids club with theater & disco | ||
Dreams Palm Beach | Explorer’s Club for kids with pirate ship pool area | ||
Paradisus Palma Real | Family Concierge Suites, babysitting services | ||
Now Onyx | Kids zone, multiple pools and Swim-up rooms | ||
Hard Rock Hotel | Teen lounge, music lab, Rock Star Suites |
Major Brands with Multiple Properties
Several hotel chains have 2 or more locations in Punta Cana tailored specifically to families:
- Nickelodeon Hotels – Character meet-&-greets, slime events, Punta Blanca golf course
- Melia Hotels – The Level Family Suites (exclusive amenities), multiple dining options
- Club Med – All-inclusive, circus activities, children’s programs by age
Family Villa Rentals
Renting a private villa provides more space and flexibility for multi-generational family trips. Luxurious estates feature private pools, full staff, chef services plus access to resort facilities nearby.
Best Family Villa Rental Companies
- Punta Cana Vacation Homes – Villas with 2 to 8 bedrooms, family-friendly staff & services
- Punta Cana Vacation Rentals – Convenient resort delivery service for villa needs
- Airbnb Luxe – Access to luxury vacation homes vetted for quality
With mild year-round weather, some of the Caribbean's best beaches and range of family-friendly resorts, Punta Cana offers an easy, enjoyable island getaway with kids. Adventure parks, cultural activities, watersports and pools will keep children entertained, while parents also find time to relax. Let the kids roam free and make family memories together in this Dominican paradise.
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## Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a family vacation to Punta Cana? Below we answer some common questions to help you prepare.
### Punta Cana Basics
#### Where is Punta Cana located?
Punta Cana sits on the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean Sea. It’s known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world!
#### What is the weather like?
Punta Cana has fairly consistent warm tropical weather all year long. Daily highs average around 88°F/31°C. Expect brief passing rain showers but otherwise sunny skies perfect for the beach.
#### How do I get around Punta Cana?
Many resorts offer airport transfers in air conditioned vans and buses. Public mini buses called guaguas connect nearby towns. Renting a car provides freedom to explore more on your own. Taxis can be hired as well for both short and long distances.
### Family Vacation Ideas
#### What are the best kid-friendly hotels?
Some of Punta Cana’s most popular family resorts include Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus Palma Real, Now Onyx, Dreams Palm Beach and Hard Rock Hotel. These all-inclusive hotels feature great kids’ facilities like clubs, playgrounds and waterparks.
#### Should we stay at a villa instead?
Renting a private villa provides extra space to spread out, private pools, fully equipped kitchens and often staff like a chef, butler or concierge. Consider a villa rental for multi-generational family trips where both together and alone time are desired.
#### What are the best things to do with toddlers?
Little kids tend to especially enjoy Punta Cana’s beautiful beaches which are calm, shallow and great for sand castles! Resort splash areas, parks like Manatí Park, boating to reefs or dolphins also top the list for tiny tots.