If you're planning a getaway to Punta Cana and want to experience the Dominican Republic beyond the beach resort bubble, this article is for you. Start scrolling for a few slept-on day trips from Punta Cana that made my DR vacation magical, and will be worth every minute on your itinerary!
Each of these destinations is accessible via car, private tour, or group excursion, making them easy to add to your Punta Cana vacation--even if you're traveling solo or without a car.
And if you enjoy this post, you'll love my Dominican Republic solo travel guide, too!
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Driving in the
Dominican Republic
Use this guide to help you plan your transportation!
1. Saona Island: The Quintessential Caribbean Escape
If you've drooled over those dreamy Dominican Republic photos with palm trees leaning over crystal-clear water, chances are they were taken on Saona Island. Located off the country's southeast coast, this protected natural reserve is part of Parque Nacional del Este and makes for a must-do day trip from Punta Cana.
Most excursions to Saona Island include transportation, a speed boat or catamaran ride, and an all-inclusive beach lunch. You'll have time to swim, kayak, or go snorkeling in shallow sandbanks that stretch for miles.
I visited as part of the only eco-friendly small group tour to Saona Island, which gave me plenty of space and time to relax and even capture videos and pictures for Instagram before the bigger tourist crowds arrived for the day.
Read my detailed Saona Island excursion review so you'll know everything you need to!
2. Bayahibe: A Local Gem by the Sea
To escape the hustle and bustle without going too far, Bayahibe is an easy and beautiful one-day trip from Punta Cana. Once a small fishing village, Bayahibe has become a go-to for divers, snorkelers, and anyone who prefers less-trafficked beaches.
Here, you'll find calm turquoise water perfect for swimming, and plenty of local restaurants serving fresh-caught seafood. It's also one of the best jumping-off points for excursions to Saona Island and Catalina Island, so you can easily bundle multiple stops into your adventure.
Compare prices on popular Punta Cana hotels to get the best deal!
Pro Travel Tip
Try to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds. This destination is especially peaceful for solo travelers or couples looking for a romantic day away from traveling families.
3. Miches: A Quiet Mountain-Meets-Sea Retreat
Just over an hour via car from Punta Cana, Miches felt a world away. Tucked between rolling hills and pristine beaches, this small town offers a peaceful escape from the hyper-commercial feel of themed resort restaurants and entertainment.
I spent a full day in Miches, swimming in gorgeous water at Playa Esmeralda, exploring Montaña Redonda, and eating authentic, affordable Dominican food at local restaurants. Miches is ideal if you're craving something non-touristy, scenic, and, honestly, refreshing!
Should you want to stay overnight, there are a few five-star hotels and resorts in Miches, as well as Airbnb and boutique eco-lodge options.
Check out my list of things to do in Miches to flesh out your itinerary!
Pro Travel Tip
If you're traveling during the high season in Punta Cana (December to April), head to Miches on a weekday when it's quieter, and you'll have a better chance of getting the perfect swing photo without a crowd!
4. Santo Domingo: The Heart of Dominican History
Taking a day trip from Punta Cana to Santo Domingo took more travel time than the other cities and towns, but gave me so many different experiences. Santo Domingo is the capital city of the Dominican Republic, home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and considered a must for travelers who love history, architecture, and a bit of urban adventure.
Santo Domingo is about 2.5 to 3 hours away from Punta Cana. I drove and used Google Maps to navigate, but you can also get there by bus or private transfer. I spent the day walking through Zona Colonial on a unique decolonial tour with a local guide, exploring Los Tres Ojos National Park, and eating delicious food.
Build your itinerary with my list of things to do in Santa Domingo!
5. La Romana: Art, Culture, and Caves
About 90 minutes from Punta Cana, La Romana is home to Altos de Chavón, a recreated 16th-century Mediterranean village complete with cobblestone streets, perched about the Chavón River. It's one of the best excursions in Punta Cana if you love photography and art.
If you want a taste of luxury, La Romana is considered to be more upscale than Punta Cana!
Like Bayahibe, La Romana is just a short boat ride away from Catalina Island, so pencil that in if you enjoy snorkeling or just want a quiet beach afternoon. In fact, you can pair La Roman and Bayahibe together by doing half-day trips in each.
Use my women's Dominican Republic packing list to get all your outfits together!
Frequently Asked Questions
In my experience, yes. However, the majority of travelers either hire a private driver or book a tour rather than self-driving.
Use platforms like Viator, Expedia, or your hotel concierge. You can also find reputable guides through TripAdvisor or Google Maps--just read the reviews carefully.
You can visit year-round as the weather is always warm; however, the dry season (December to April) offers ideal conditions for boat tours, zipline adventures, and outdoor activities in general.
More Favorite Caribbean Destinations
I hope these day-trips and excursions from Punta Cana help you have a more memorable trip. And sharing is caring, so be sure to pin this post for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
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