There are many family-friendly activities in the Dominican Republic.
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When you need an escape for sun and fun and you’re willing to splurge on an all-inclusive, family-friendly resort or want to take a break with a cruise excursion, choose Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.
Why Punta Cana?
For starters, its location on the eastern tip of the island means silky soft sands and, thanks to a coral reef off the coast that breaks the waves, gentle surf. Take that along with Spanish immersion, fresh seafood and warm-weather activities, and you’ve got a perfect cultural Caribbean escape.
Swimming with dolphins, Dominican Republic
What is there to do?
Plenty. Baseball comes to mind, particularly when you realize that at least 10% of the players in the American Major League hail from the Dominican Republic, as do Hall of Famers Pedro Martínez, Juan Marichal and David Ortiz. Baseball is taken seriously in the DR. The Caribbean Series, which rotates between different Caribbean countries, kicks off in early February. Some tour companies may pick up guests from Punta Cana accommodations, especially for games in the popular Dominican Winter League, some of which play at Estadio Francisco Micheli, just an hour and a half away from Punta Cana.
Hole 18 Devils Elbow, La Cana Golf Course
puntacana resort
Other options spin toward swimming with dolphins, playing a round of golf at La Cana Golf Course, deep-sea fishing for marlin and wahoo, snorkeling and scuba diving, and zip lining at Scape Park.
Scape Park also holds an amazing underground limestone sinkhole, the Hoyo Azul lagoon. It is popular with swimmers because of its blue water and beautiful surroundings. Lemon Lagoon Bay is also popular for swimming, as well as horseback riding and a dune buggy tour.
Hoyo Azul in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
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Don’t miss the beaches. Must-see Punta Cana strands include Arena Gorda Beach, Bavaro Beach and Juanillo Beach. They’re wonderful spots for simply relaxing.
Catamarans are popular boat choices here. Hop on one and head to Marinarium marine park, where you can open-water snorkel in the “Aquarium” with nurse sharks and stingrays. Or, board another and sail to Isla Saona (Saona Island), the largest coastal island in the Dominican Republic. The natural pool here is full of starfish, so bring an underwater camera to snap photographs of them. Note: Bring everything you need for a day at the beach because the island doesn’t have any shops.
Kayaking, Punta Cana
Take some time away from the water and sand to shop, see cultural sights and let loose. The Bavaro Beach Flea Market may be one of the more traditional places to connect with local artisans and browse stalls. Expect to haggle. If you visit BlueMall Punta Cana, prices are fixed. You also can pick up souvenirs at attractions like Manati Park, where a replica Taino village with a museum and demonstrations of indigenous culture are found.
Altos de Chavon is a 16th century-inspired Mediterranean-style village near La Romana. Opened to the public in 1982, the village includes restaurants, boutique shops, art galleries and a 5,000-seat amphitheater. The Archaeological Regional Museum, where visitors can learn more about the local history and culture of the indigenous people of Punta Cana, holds more than 3,000 artifacts.
Stick around Punta Cana after dark to enjoy its vibrant nightlife. One of the hottest spots is Imagine Punta Cana, located in an underground natural cave. The club sports multiple rooms, each with its own DJ playing a different music style. CoCo Bongo Show & Disco is another popular nightclub, known for its acrobat and musical performances.
Snorkeling is easy from many Punta Cana beaches.
How do I plan it all?
You don’t. Instead, rely on a AAA Travel Agent, who can recommend cruises that stop in Punta Cana or find an all-inclusive resort that suits your budget. Additionally, AAA Travel Agents can assist with transfers (pre-booked is definitely the way to go since the Punta Cana airport is bustling with local freelance drivers eagerly vying for your business), flights and booking some attractions.
When traveling internationally, especially with children, AAA Travel Agents can guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your family feels confident, comfortable and prepared. They ensure that passports are valid and in-date, discuss travel protocols, select seats together for the whole family on flights, and can advise about travel insurance.
What else do I need to know?
Complete required forms, such as electronic ticket immigration forms for each traveler or required health surveys, before you set out on your trip. Often this can be done electronically. Doing so in advance will reduce unnecessary frustration and anxiety during your trip.
Also, families flying with young children will want to use the restrooms at the Punta Cana airport before piling into a transfer; many resorts are more than 30 minutes away.
Start your next Punta Cana vacation with AAA
AAA provides peace of mind when you travel—before, during and after your vacation! Members enjoy the advantages of membership, including exclusive benefits and savings, whether stopping at this Dominican Republic paradise on a cruise or choosing it for a longer stay.