Ever felt like your Punta Cana vacation could use a bit more excitement? You’re lounging on the beach, but there’s a nagging thought—shouldn’t you be exploring something beyond the sandy shores?
Punta Cana Day Trips offer an escape from mere relaxation. Imagine setting off for Saona Island with its natural pools or exploring history in Santo Domingo. These trips promise adventure and unforgettable views that add zest to any stay.
In this guide, we’ll highlight top day trips, exciting adventures, and cultural tours. Ready for some fun?
Key Takeaways
- Saona Island offers a full-day cruise with natural pools and lunch for $80, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before. It has a 4.5-star rating from 177 reviews.
- Santo Domingo provides a historical city tour lasting 10-12 hours at $95 per adult, recommended by 94% of travelers and rated 5.0 by over 3,400 reviews.
- Samana includes horse riding to a waterfall and relaxing on Bacardi Island; this trip blends adventure and nature photography opportunities.
- Los Haitises National Park has ancient caves, mangroves, bird-watching opportunities, and the Yanigua Waterfall for $149 per adult; it’s highly recommended (96%).
- For adventure lovers: Ziplining costs $130 per adult with an early booking discount available via promo code EARLY10; off-road buggy rides offer jungle exploration from $39 per adult.
Top Recommended Punta Cana Day Trips
Get ready for some fun and thrills! Let’s dive into the best full-day tours in this tropical paradise…
Saona Island: Full-Day Cruise with Natural Pool and Lunch
Feel the breeze on a Saona Island full-day cruise. Enjoy clear waters and a natural pool perfect for swimming. The trip costs $80 per adult, lasts over six hours, and has free cancellation if plans change within 24 hours.
Tourists love this adventure with a 4.5-star rating from 177 reviews. A tasty lunch is included! Languages offered include English and Spanish. It’s ideal for anyone visiting Punta Cana or Bayahibe.
Explore Santo Domingo next…
Santo Domingo: Full-Day Historical City Tour
So, you’ve enjoyed a sunny day on Saona Island… time to switch gears! Dive into history with the Santo Domingo: Full-Day Historical City Tour. Begin early and be ready for an adventure that spans 10-12 hours.
This tour is a hit—94% of travelers recommend it, and it holds a perfect rating of 5.0 from 3,428 reviews.
Wander through the capital of the Dominican Republic. Explore Zona Colonial’s cobblestone streets and colorful buildings dating back to Christopher Columbus’ time. See Alcazar de Colón and visit the first cathedral in America, Catedral Primada de América.
The trip costs $95 per adult but don’t worry if plans change; you can cancel free up until 24 hours before departure!
Samana: Full Day with Waterfall and Bacardi Island
Samana offers a full day of fun with horse riding, swimming, and relaxation. The adventure starts at the stunning Samana Waterfall. You’ll ride horses through lush forests that lead to this hidden gem.
Take moments to snap photos or simply admire the scenic beauty.
Next stop is Bacardi Island. Here, you can swim in crystal-clear waters and relax on white sandy beaches. This trip makes for incredible photo opportunities! Enjoy nature and a bit of adventure all rolled into one fantastic day.
Alrighty then, ready for more thrills? Let’s check out Los Haitises National Park next…
Los Haitises National Park and Yanigua Waterfall
Following the excitement in Samana, hit Los Haitises National Park. This park offers stunning views with its ancient caves and mangroves. Spot a variety of birds while cruising through the waterways.
Afterward, head to Yanigua Waterfall—a refreshing stop! Swim in the cool waters or simply relax by the falls. It’s an adventure for nature lovers. The full trip lasts around 12-14 hours and costs $149 per adult.
Most travelers highly recommend it—96% to be exact!
Catalina Island: Snorkeling and Beach Day
Los Haitises National Park and Yanigua Waterfall left your spirit refreshed. Now, let’s jump into Catalina Island! Spend 9-10 hours snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The island offers a slice of paradise with its beautiful beaches.
For $85 per adult, you get more than just sand between your toes. Enjoy guided snorkeling tours from a PADI-certified team. Relax on the beach after exploring vibrant coral reefs. Multiple languages are available for these tours, including English and Spanish.
So grab your snorkel gear—your underwater adventure awaits!
Adventure Day Trips
Ready for thrills and spills? Punta Cana has some wild adventures waiting just for you!
Zipline and Monkeyland Entry
Get ready for a thrilling adventure with the longest zipline in the Caribbean! Feel your heart race as you soar through lush treetops. This 8-hour tour costs $130 per adult and is worth every penny.
Plus, save 10% if you book early using promo code EARLY10.
After the zipline, head to Monkeyland. Play with friendly monkeys who might even jump on your shoulder! Rated 5 stars by visitors, this combo trip promises unforgettable moments. Next up: Off-Road Buggy Adventure in the Jungle….
Off-Road Buggy Adventure in the Jungle
Burn some rubber and explore the jungle on an off-road buggy adventure. For about 4 to 6 hours, drive ATVs through rough trails and thick green foliage. Professional guides lead the way, ensuring you don’t get lost in the wilds of Punta Cana.
Splash through mud puddles, visit a hidden cave and cenote, then cool off with a swim at Macao Beach. This thrill-packed trip costs from $39 per adult and includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.
It’s perfect for those looking to dive into Dominican culture while having a blast!
Horseback Riding and Zipline Adventure
Feel the wind in your hair as you zip through the treetops. The thrill of ziplining brings a rush like no other. Imagine soaring high above dense forests, with stunning views all around.
Next, swap your harness for a saddle and ride into nature on horseback. Ride across lush trails and discover hidden gems that only these paths can show.
You’ll love this adventure-packed day trip from Punta Cana! Whether you’re racing down ziplines or trotting along scenic routes, excitement is guaranteed. For those keen to explore more action-filled experiences….
ScubaDoo, Snorkel, and Glass Bottom Boat Tour
See the underwater world without even getting wet. The ScubaDoo, Snorkel, and Glass Bottom Boat Tour offers just that! It’s great for all ages. Hop on a glass-bottom boat and see colorful fish and coral reefs right under your feet.
Next, try snorkeling to get up close with marine life. Finally, don’t miss the ScubaDoo ride! It’s like an underwater scooter—perfect for exploring deeper waters safely. This tour lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes.
With a rating of 3.8 from 538 reviews, it’s well-loved by many travelers in Punta Cana. Plus, you can cancel it free if plans change within 24 hours before the trip!
Cultural and Scenic Day Trips
Explore Punta Cana’s hidden gems and rich history with these unforgettable day trips that are sure to make you smile.
Punta Cana Cultural Safari with Lunch and Drinks
Experience the heart of Punta Cana with a 6-hour cultural safari. For just $74, you can dive into local traditions and enjoy lunch and drinks. With a perfect rating of 5.0 based on 53 reviews, this tour promises to be unforgettable.
Hop on an open-air truck and explore the countryside. Visit small villages, see how cigars are made, and taste fresh tropical fruits. Lunch includes local dishes like rice, beans, and chicken…
truly delicious! This adventure is recommended by 96% of travelers—giving it high marks for fun and value!
Full Day Excursion to Hike Punta Cana’s Tallest Waterfall
Take a full day to hike Punta Cana’s tallest waterfall. The trip spans about 10 hours and covers an 8-mile round trip. You’ll trek through cacao forests, cross rivers, and soak in scenic views that will take your breath away.
Rated 5 stars by reviewers, this adventure is perfect for nature lovers seeking a thrill. Wear comfy hiking boots—prepare to get wet! The journey offers more than just exercise; it’s a feast for the eyes with its lush landscapes and vibrant flora.
Santo Domingo Private Tour: Explore the Richness of the Caribbean
Step back in time and wander the cobblestone streets of Santo Domingo. This full-day city tour reveals the treasures of the Caribbean’s oldest European city. Marvel at historic sites like Alcazar de Colón and Fortaleza Ozama.
The guide shares stories from centuries past, making history come alive.
After exploring landmarks, savor local cuisine with a tasty lunch break. Dive into Dominican culture with visits to bustling markets and artisan shops. Tours include multiple languages for everyone’s comfort.
Enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before—perfect for flexible plans!
Unique Experiences in Punta Cana
Ever wanted to explore Punta Cana like a VIP? Dive into these special trips, and make memories you’ll never forget!
Private Yacht to Saona Island
Sail to Saona Island on a 52-foot luxury yacht. Enjoy the open bar and feast on a lobster lunch. Relax with your friends in a private beach area. This trip takes around eight hours, making it perfect for a day of fun.
Travelers love this tour! They rave about the top-notch service and memorable experience. You can explore Cotubanamá National Park along the way. Don’t miss out on this adventure in paradise—you’ll talk about it for years!
Double Jet Ski Tour through the Mangroves
Speed through the mangroves on a double jet ski tour! This thrilling adventure lasts six hours. You will feel the rush as you navigate narrow water paths surrounded by lush greenery.
The tour costs GBP 222.78, and it’s worth every penny for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Rated 5.0 by past visitors, this activity offers both adrenaline and beauty. With only three reviews so far, it’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored. If you’re staying in Cap Cana or La Romana, this could be an unforgettable day trip for you…
Up next is another exciting journey—Zipline and Monkeyland Entry!
Saona Island Premium Discovery Tour
The Saona Island Premium Discovery Tour is a treat. It costs $134 per adult and has a perfect 5.0 rating from 21 reviews. Many people love it! The tour includes free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours ahead, which is helpful if plans change.
With many fun things to do, this trip stands out. Enjoy natural pools that are clear as glass and swim with colorful fish. Then savor lunch on white sandy beaches under the palm trees…
it’s like paradise! Next up: Discovering the Best Beaches in Punta Cana….
Discovering the Best Beaches in Punta Cana
Playa El Cortecito is a gem. It’s full of local shops, bars, and seafood spots. The beach has calm waters perfect for paddle boarding or just floating around. You can visit this lively place between December and May when the weather is best.
Bávaro Beach shines with its white sands and clear water. This spot ranks among TripAdvisor’s Top 10 Beaches in the world in 2018! Snorkeling here feels like swimming in an aquarium.
If you’re traveling with kids, head over to Playa Arena Gorda for family-friendly fun—lots of space and gentle waves make it safe for everyone. For surfers looking to catch some waves, Macao Beach offers great swells without the crowd.
Conclusion
Ready for an adventure in Punta Cana? This guide has laid out the top day trips. We’ve covered everything from Saona Island cruises to ziplining and buggy rides. These activities are easy, fun, and fit every budget.
Imagine snorkeling in clear waters or exploring historical sites in Santo Domingo. Each trip offers unique experiences you won’t forget. Why wait to explore these fantastic adventures?
Grab your camera and beach hat—Punta Cana awaits! Explore new places, enjoy thrilling rides, and soak up the sun… Time to make some memories!
Discover more about where to soak up the sun with our guide on the best beaches in Punta Cana.
FAQs
1. What are some must-visit spots for adventure tours in Punta Cana?
In Punta Cana, you can explore thrilling adventure tours like zip-lining through lush forests or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters around Saona Island.
2. How do I find the best vacation rentals and resorts in Punta Cana?
You can find top-notch vacation rentals and resorts by checking platforms like VRBO or Google Play. They offer a variety of options to suit different needs.
3. Is it worth taking a day trip to Higuey from Punta Cana?
Yes, visiting Higuey is worthwhile! It offers rich history and stunning landmarks that make for an unforgettable day trip experience.
4. How does Saona Island compare with Riviera Maya for a beach excursion?
Saona Island boasts pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, making it a fantastic choice over Riviera Maya if you’re looking for tranquility and natural beauty on your beach excursion.
References
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g16884615-d15142737-Full_Day_Cruise_to_Saona_Island_Natural_pool_and_lunch-Cap_Cana_Punta_Cana_La_Al.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g16884615-d14100944-Saona_Island_Full_Day_Cruise_Natural_Pool_and_Lunch-Cap_Cana_Punta_Cana_La_Altag.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g147289-Activities-c42-Santo_Domingo_Santo_Domingo_Province_Dominican_Republic.html
- https://www.viator.com/tours/Punta-Cana/Full-Day-Santo-Domingo-City-Tour-from-Punta-Cana/d794-7096P9
- https://www.viator.com/tours/Punta-Cana/Samana-Waterfall-and-Bacardi-Island-Full-Day/d794-120496P13
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g147293-d12943516-Full_Day_Samana_Whales_from_Punta_Cana_with_Waterfall_Bacardi_Island_Lunch-Punta_C.html
- https://www.viator.com/tours/Punta-Cana/3X1-OFFER-Montana-Redonda-Haitises-National-Park-Yanigua-Spa/d794-439631P1
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g16884615-d26821244-3in1_Los_Haitises_N_Park_Yanigua_Waterfall_Montana_Redonda-Cap_Cana_Punta_Cana_L.html
- https://everythingpuntacana.com/product/punta-cana-isla-catalina/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g16884615-d18974861-Catalina_Island_and_Snorkeling_Tour-Cap_Cana_Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_D.html
- https://www.runnersadventures.com/zip-lining/zip-line-adventures-monkeyland/
- https://www.viator.com/tours/Dominican-Republic/Monkeyland-and-Zipline-Adventure-from-Punta-Cana/d32-7096P16
- https://www.myguidedominicanrepublic.com/experiences/punta-cana-off-road-buggy-adventure-in-the-jungle
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g147293-d27529915-Offroad_Buggy_Adventure_Explore_Punta_Cana-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Domin.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g147293-Activities-c63-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Republic.html
- https://everythingpuntacana.com/things-to-do/horseback-riding/
- https://www.getyourguide.com/punta-cana-l411/from-punta-cana-scubadoo-explore-the-ocean-t462930/ (2024-07-30)
- https://www.viator.com/tours/Punta-Cana/ScubaDoo-Explore-the-ocean-in-Punta-Cana/d794-125717P9
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g16884615-d24013817-Punta_Cana_Half_Day_Cultural_Safari_with_Lunch_and_Drinks-Cap_Cana_Punta_Cana_La.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g16884615-d27926189-Punta_Cana_Half_Day_Cultural_Safari_with_Lunch_and_Drinks-Cap_Cana_Punta_Cana_La.html
- https://puntacanatours.com/la-jalda-waterfall/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g147293-Activities-c42-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Republic.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g147289-Activities-c42-t235-Santo_Domingo_Santo_Domingo_Province_Dominican_Republic.html
- https://www.viator.com/tours/Punta-Cana/Santo-Domingo-City-Full-Day-All-Inclusive-Tour/d794-122733P13
- https://puntacanatours.com/private-yacht-saona-island/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g7351269-Activities-c42-t235-Isla_Saona_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Republic.html
- https://www.pelago.com/en-US/activity/pjeiambmx-double-jet-ski-tour-through-the-mangroves-area-punta-cana/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g147293-d26368555-Double_Jet_Ski_Tour_through_the_Mangroves_area-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_D.html (2023-12-25)
- https://www.viator.com/tours/La-Romana/Saona-Island-VIP-Discovery-Descubrimiento-Isla-Saona-VIP/d4176-434995P3
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g663484-d26873182-Saona_Island_Premium_Discovery_Tour_from_Punta_Cana_or_Bayahibe-Bayahibe_La_Altagr.html
- https://www.barcelo.com/pinandtravel/en/punta-cana-best-beaches/