Best Places to Go Swimming in Punta Cana

Punta Cana has become one of the top tropical destinations in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean, primarily because of its pristine beaches, deep virgin jungle, and mostly-perfect weather for worry-free sunbathing. Swimming is undoubtedly a must-do when traveling here, as Punta Cana boasts a plethora of beaches, lagoons, and cenotes to pick from. However, for those who can't decide where to go, all of those varied alternatives might be somewhat daunting, that’s why today we've compiled a brief list of the best attractions that you just can't miss on your next trip!

Bavaro Beach

Due to its pure turquoise waters, smooth cream-colored sand, and accessible palm tree line that provides a great shade to rest and appreciate the scenery, Bavaro Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Punta Cana. Travelers flock to this beach because it offers some of the greatest views of the Atlantic Ocean while providing warm waters to go swimming all day. It's situated in the Bavaro's resort zone, surrounded by plenty of restaurants and the destination's most prestigious resorts.

 

Hoyo Azul

This magnificent cenote is located in the Cap Cana area, about 20 minutes from the Punta Cana Airport. As its name in Spanish suggests, Hoyo Azul is essentially a hole in the earth featuring an underground body of fresh water with an intense blue color and cool temperatures, which is excellent for swimming and refreshing in the heart of the jungle. Keep in mind that because this cenote is located on the grounds of Scape Park, you'll have to pay an admission fee to visit it, however you’ll also have access to other exciting jungle activities! If you want to find out more about cenotes, read our special article: “Cenotes: Mexico’s Secret Underground Pools”.

Macao Beach & Escondida Beach

Surfers love going to Macao Beach because it’s one of the few spots in Punta Cana where they can practice their sport thanks to its sizable breaking waves. Just like Bavaro Beach, it offers a peaceful palm tree line where you may relax after a full day of exciting activities. Another appealing aspect of this beach is its spectacular landscape, which is highlighted by uninterrupted views of the Punta Macao cliff in the west. Here you’ll also find various restaurants, as well as equipment rentals for water activities and only a handful of resorts, making it an excellent choice for a relaxing beach day! Hidden between Macao Beach and Punta Macao, is Escondida Beach, a tiny yet beautiful beach ideal for admiring exceptional ocean views and going swimming away from the crowds. You'll have to travel through some jungle to get here, but the tranquility you'll discover in the end is well worth the effort.

 

Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve

Located on the outskirts of Punta Cana and Cap Cana you’ll be able to find the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve, a natural rainforest reserve with hiking routes, lagoons, a zoo, and exhibitions to learn about the local wildlife and nature. The lagoons you'll see here are surrounded by lush green trees and have crystal-clear waters of varying shades of blue and turquoise. They're all quite shallow, making them ideal for swimming with the whole family, and they feature interesting rock formations that emerge from the bottom, as well as little friendly fish.

Arena Gorda Beach

Arena Gorda is nestled between the beaches of Bavaro and Macao, and is fully encircled by only the most exclusive resorts, since its unmatched beauty draws swimmers from all over the world. This is without a doubt the prettiest beach you’ll see in Punta Cana, with the whitest sand and clearest waters in the vicinity, making it ideal for taking spectacular photographs. It also is home to the famous Astron Shipwreck, which is located close off the coast and is fully viewable from the beach.

 

We hope that after seeing our favorite picks, you decide to take the time to visit one or all of these interesting attractions.

Now that you know where you can go swimming in Punta Cana, it's time to start thinking about your next Caribbean trip! Contact our Member Service Department for bookings and additional information, and make sure to follow our social media pages.

 

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