10 Best Things to Do in Punta Cana in 2026
Planning a Dominican Republic vacation and wondering about the best things to do in Punta Cana? There is much more waiting for you beyond your resort.
From driving a Slingshot through the Dominican countryside to discovering Saona Island, swimming in crystal-clear Caribbean water, meeting monkeys, and cruising the Bávaro coastline, Punta Cana tours offer something for couples, families, groups, and adventure travelers.
Here are our picks for 10 of the best things to do in Punta Cana in 2026.
1. Drive a Slingshot Through the Dominican Countryside
One of the most exciting and different things to do in Punta Cana is exploring the countryside behind the wheel of a Polaris Slingshot.
The Punta Cana Slingshot Adventure takes you away from the resort area to discover places such as Nisibón and Macao. Along the journey, experience Dominican culture, local products, beautiful scenery, and a stop at famous Macao Beach.
For travelers searching for Punta Cana tours that combine driving, sightseeing, culture, and adventure, this one deserves a spot near the top of the list.
2. Spend a Day on Saona Island
Saona Island is a Caribbean experience you should consider at least once during a Punta Cana vacation.
Travel toward Bayahibe before heading across beautiful Caribbean waters to Saona. Many tours include a stop at the famous Natural Pool, beach time, lunch, drinks, and transportation.
If this is your first visit to the Dominican Republic, Saona is easily one of the most iconic things to do near Punta Cana.
3. Visit Monkeyland
Looking for something fun for the entire family? Monkeyland Punta Cana combines nature, wildlife, and the Dominican countryside.
Meet friendly squirrel monkeys in a tropical environment and learn more about local plants and Dominican products such as cacao, coffee, and coconut.
Among the many available Punta Cana tours, Monkeyland is particularly appealing to families traveling with children.
4. Go on a Punta Cana Buggy Adventure
Get ready for dirt, mud, and adventure.
Buggy tours take travelers away from Punta Cana's resorts and onto countryside trails. Depending on your selected Punta Cana tour, the adventure may include caves, local communities, plantations, and Macao Beach.
Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty!
5. Cruise Punta Cana on a Catamaran
A Caribbean vacation deserves some time on the water.
A Punta Cana catamaran tour can combine cruising, snorkeling, music, drinks, swimming, and time at a natural pool.
Shared party boats are great for meeting people and having fun, while private catamarans are excellent for families, weddings, birthdays, and groups wanting their own experience.
6. Spend the Day at Scape Park
Located in Cap Cana, Scape Park combines nature and adventure in one destination.
Visitors can experience attractions such as Hoyo Azul, caves, ziplines, and outdoor adventures surrounded by tropical scenery.
It's one of the best things to do in Punta Cana with family, particularly when everyone wants different activities.
7. Snorkel at Catalina Island
If exploring underwater is high on your vacation list, consider a Catalina Island tour.
Clear Caribbean waters and snorkeling opportunities make Catalina an attractive alternative for travelers who want their island day to focus more heavily on the ocean and marine environment.
8. Be a Dominican for a Day
One of the most meaningful Punta Cana tours is leaving the resort area behind and experiencing the Dominican countryside.
A Be a Dominican for a Day experience can introduce your family to local traditions, countryside life, Dominican foods and products, and the natural beauty of the island.
It's an excellent way to combine fun, culture, nature, and education.
9. Discover Santo Domingo
Spend a day discovering the Dominican Republic's capital and its historic Colonial City.
A Santo Domingo tour from Punta Cana offers a completely different experience from the beaches and resorts, giving travelers an opportunity to learn about Dominican history, architecture, culture, and traditions.
10. Charter a Private Yacht or Catamaran
For something more exclusive, charter your own boat.
Private yacht and catamaran Punta Cana tours can include snorkeling, open-bar options, swimming, music, snacks, and stops along the coast.
They're especially popular for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, family groups, and travelers who simply prefer a private Caribbean experience.
There's More to Punta Cana Than the Resort
Some of your best vacation memories may happen after you leave your hotel.
Whether you want beaches, wildlife, culture, adventure, or Caribbean waters, there are Punta Cana tours for almost every type of traveler.
At Punta Cana Best Excursions, we make it easy to discover the best things to do in Punta Cana and choose experiences that fit your family, schedule, and vacation style.
Come to Punta Cana for the beaches. Leave remembering the adventures.