Things to do — Bávaro

Punta Cana is mainly organised around the beach and water activities. Central Bávaro beach, freely accessible, is 30 km long — choose the stretch in front of your resort (km 14-20 usually the most beautiful, but varies by year and sargassum). Water activities are included or available: kayak (free at most resorts), windsurfing, paddle, sailing catamaran, parasailing (€30-40), jet ski (€50-70). Snorkelling and diving excursions are booked at your resort activities desk.

The Saona Island excursion is the region's must-do (€60-90 per person, full day) — catamaran from Bávaro or speedboat from Bayahibe, natural pool stop in the middle of the sea, lunch on Mano Juan or Canto de la Playa beach, snorkelling, fast return. The Catalina Island excursion (€50-70, half or full day) is more snorkelling and diving focused.

Land excursions let you escape the enclave. Hoyo Azul at Scape Park (€60-80 with other activities, 14 km from Bávaro): spectacular turquoise cenote in the jungle. Macao Beach and quad excursion (€50-70, half day): wild beach and rural villages. Santo Domingo excursion (full day €70-100 per person): overview of the UNESCO capital. Samaná whale excursion (January-March only, €120-150, 5h round-trip).

Golf enthusiasts have plenty to choose at Punta Cana and Cap Cana: Punta Espada (Cap Cana, 18 holes Jack Nicklaus, world top 100), Corales (Puntacana Resort, Tom Fazio, PGA Tour Corales Championship host), La Cana (Puntacana Resort, P.B. Dye), Iberostar Bávaro (Pete Dye), Cocotal (27 holes), Hard Rock Golf Club (Jack Nicklaus). Green fees USD 150-300 depending on course.

Evenings centre on resort entertainment (cabarets, theme nights, internal discos). At Bávaro, CocoBongo Punta Cana (€80-100 entry + drinks) is the iconic disco-show (two rooms, acrobatic performances inspired by Cancun shows). At Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, the casino and live concerts draw an international crowd.