Top 7 Things to Do in Punta Cana in December 2024

Visiting Punta Cana in December is a fantastic way to kick off your winter. You’ll leave the cold behind and enjoy warm, sunny days on beautiful beaches.

We’ve gathered a list of our favorite excursions, the best parks, and great places to eat in Punta Cana – just spots we’ve genuinely enjoyed and can recommend to our friends and family. So between your adventures, you can look forward to some delicious meals.

December also brings holiday celebrations, so you might catch some local festivities and taste Dominican culture during this special time of year. So, what to do in Punta Cana in December?

1. Catch the Sunrise and Explore the Islands
near Punta Cana

There’s something truly special about watching the sunrise in Punta Cana – the sky painted with hues of orange and pink over the calm sea creates an atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Just watch our recent video!

If you happen to greet the sunrise after a sleepless night, you might think about heading to a comfy bed and sleeping until midday. But if you’re already up, why not make the most of it?

Consider joining an excursion to one of the nearby islands, like Saona Island, or enjoy the beauty of the Samana Peninsula. These trips are a great way to spend the day. The excursions are fun, often including snorkeling, beach volleyball, or relaxing by the sea. They usually come with transportation and a meal, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy yourself.

So, if you’re awake at sunrise, take the opportunity to experience something different. Instead of returning to bed, grab your sunglasses and hop on an island excursion. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of your time in Punta Cana.

2. Go to the Best Excursions and Adventure
Parks in Punta Cana

Many of our guests have raved about the local parks and excursions, consistently praising the excellent service and memorable activities. Here are some top recommendations that you might enjoy:

• Scape Park: Located in Cap Cana, Scape Park is an eco-adventure paradise offering a variety of activities like ziplining, cave exploration, swimming in the famous Hoyo Azul cenote, and cultural exhibits. Guests have always been delighted with their visits, noting the park’s well-maintained facilities and friendly staff.
• La Hacienda Park: This adventure park offers a unique blend of experiences, including horseback riding, buggy tours, ziplining, and a chairlift ride with panoramic landscape views. It’s an all-in-one destination for those seeking excitement and cultural immersion.
• Bavaro Adventure Park: Perfect for families and thrill-seekers, this park features ziplining, bungee trampolines, and Segway tours. The park’s commitment to safety and fun has satisfied many guests.

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Highly Recommended Punta Cana Tours:

We wholeheartedly recommend these tours to our family and friends. They consistently receive positive feedback for their exceptional service and unforgettable experiences.

• Best Snorkeling Tour in Punta Cana: This private snorkeling yacht tour along Bávaro Beach is a favorite among our guests. Over three hours, you’ll explore the best snorkeling spots with a small group, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable experience. The tour includes all equipment, a natural refreshment pool, and luxury transportation.
• Private Saona Island Tour: Experience Saona Island on this exclusive tour like never before. You will go to a VIP beach featuring excellent food, a well-maintained area, and a clean, welcoming entrance to the water. A professional guide accompanies you throughout the trip, providing insights and ensuring a smooth experience – setting it apart from many group tours.

3. Unwind on Punta Cana’s Amazing Beaches

Punta Cana has some of the finest beaches you’ll find anywhere. With miles of white sand, clear blue waters, and sunshine, it’s the perfect place to do nothing and enjoy yourself. Whether staying at a hotel or renting a villa or apartment, you can spend your days lounging on the beach and eating delicious food.

Top Punta Cana beaches to visit:

• Bávaro Beach: This is the main tourist area with a vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find a range of all-inclusive resorts, restaurants, and shops here. The beach is beautiful, and the nearby coral reef keeps the waters calm – great for swimming and snorkeling.
• Macao Beach: A bit off the beaten path, Macao Beach is less crowded and offers a more relaxed setting. It’s known for its golden sands and is a favorite spot for surfers due to the good waves. Local food stands offer tasty Dominican snacks if you get hungry.
• Juanillo Beach: Located in the upscale area of Cap Cana, Juanillo Beach is known for its pristine sand and turquoise waters. It’s less crowded and offers a peaceful environment. There are also some nice beach clubs where you can grab a meal or a drink.
• Arena Gorda Beach: Just north of Bávaro, this wide beach is great for taking long walks. It’s lined with several resorts but still offers plenty of relaxing space.
• Cabeza de Toro Beach: Close to a traditional Dominican village, this beach gives you a chance to experience local culture. It’s also a good spot for fishing or taking a boat trip.

Spending time on these beaches is all about relaxation. You can sunbathe, swim, or simply enjoy the scenery. If you’re up for a bit more activity, many beaches offer water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling. But if you’d rather just sit back and enjoy the view, that’s perfectly fine, too.

All ocean-view apartments

4. Taste the Local Cuisine

When you come to Punta Cana for vacation, enjoying the delicious local food is a must. We’ve spent many years here and have compiled a list of our favorite restaurants that we think you’ll love. In December, some of them offer a special Christmas menu.

Breakfast Favorites:

• Dalias: Start your day with a hearty breakfast and friendly service at Dalias. It’s a great spot to fuel up before heading out.
• Kat’s Corner is another excellent choice for breakfast. They often have live music in the evenings, adding a pleasant atmosphere to your meal. Plus, it’s conveniently located near our main properties in Los Corales.

Top Picks for Lunch and Dinner in Punta Cana:

• Dolce Italia: This is the place to go if you’re craving Italian cuisine with a Caribbean twist. Their pasta and pizzas are crowd-pleasers.
• Palma Real: Known for its diverse menu and elegant setting, it offers international and local dishes.
• Noah: A fusion restaurant that blends different culinary traditions. It’s a great spot to try something new.
• La Bruja Chupadora: A local favorite with a fun atmosphere. They serve delicious seafood and Dominican specialties.
• Jellyfish: Located right on the beach, Jellyfish offers fresh seafood with a fantastic view. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
• Trébol: A hidden gem that offers excellent service and a variety of tasty dishes. It’s worth a visit.

5. Try Exciting Water Activities

If you’re up for some adventure, Punta Cana’s waters have plenty to offer. Here are our guest’s favorite activities:

• Parasailing: Take a bird’ s-eye view of the stunning coastline by parasailing above the ocean. It’s an exciting way to see the area from a new perspective.
• Jetpack Experiences: For something truly unique, try a water jetpack adventure. Flyboards propel you above the water using powerful jets, making you feel like a superhero.
• Catamaran Cruises: Enjoy a day on the water with a catamaran cruise. Choose from lively party cruises with music and dancing or more relaxed trips focused on sightseeing. Many cruises include stops for snorkeling or swimming in clear waters.

6. Tee Off at World-Class Golf Courses

Punta Cana is known as the “Golf Capital of the Caribbean.” Even if you’ve never swung a club, visiting these lush, meticulously designed courses is a must.

Punta Cana Golf Cources:

• Cocotal Golf & Country Club: Crafted by José “Pepe” Gancedo, often called the “Picasso of golf courses,” this 27-hole course winds through coconut groves and gently rolling hills. It’s perfect for both seasoned golfers and beginners looking to soak in the serene ambiance.
• Punta Cana Resort & Club: Home to two championship courses designed by legends Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio, this resort offers challenging play amid breathtaking ocean views.
• Cap Cana Resort: Featuring the renowned Punta Espada Golf Club, a signature Jack Nicklaus course consistently ranked among the best in the Caribbean. It’s a visual and sporting delight with eight holes playing directly along the sea.
• Corales Golf Course: Tom Fazio’s masterpiece boasts six oceanfront holes and concludes with the dramatic “Devil’s Elbow,” a trio of holes challenging even the most experienced golfers.
• La Cana Golf Club: Designed by P.B. Dye, this 27-hole course combines oceanfront and lakeside holes while embracing environmentally friendly practices by incorporating native plants.
• Cana Bay Golf Course: Another Jack Nicklaus creation offers a challenging yet fair layout suitable for all skill levels and is part of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

You can learn more about Punta Cana golf courses and available accommodations here.

Golfing Costs: Prices vary, with premium courses like Corales and Punta Espada ranging from $300 to $450, including green fees, carts, and caddies. More affordable options like Cocotal Golf & Country Club start around $95.

7. Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Punta Cana

On Christmas resorts and public areas are decorated with lights, Christmas trees, and festive displays. It feels like a tropical twist on the holidays.

On December 24th, locals celebrate “Nochebuena” with big family dinners. Many restaurants and resorts offer special Christmas Eve dinners that you can join. It’s a great chance to try traditional Dominican dishes like roast pork, rice with pigeon peas, and sweet desserts.

Is Punta Cana good for party?

On December 31st, the beaches come alive with parties. Many resorts and beach clubs host events with live music, DJs, dancing, and midnight fireworks. It’s a fun and energetic way to ring in the new year.

Coco Bongo is a popular nightclub for its spectacular shows combining music, dance, and acrobatics. They put on an extra special event for New Year’s Eve that lasts well into the early hours. If you’re into nightlife, this could be a highlight. Other popular spots include Imagine Disco Club, famous for its unique parties in the caves, and the luxurious ORO Nightclub, where you can dance to the rhythms of DJs until the early hours.

Some restaurants and venues offer New Year’s Eve packages that include a multi-course dinner, drinks, and live entertainment. It’s a more relaxed way to celebrate but still festive. Or You can choose special experiences, like:

• Dinner in the Sky. We recommend Dinner in the Sky for something truly unforgettable. You’ll be lifted 150 feet above the ground to enjoy your meal with panoramic views. It’s an exciting experience with great food – perfect for making your vacation special.
• Tracadero: While not in Punta Cana but in nearby Bayahibe, Tracadero is a beach club. The prices are quite high, but it offers a stunning sunset view and excellent cuisine. If you’re up for a short trip and a unique dining experience, Tracadero might be worth considering.

Punta Cana Weather on Christmas

Punta Cana enjoys warm and pleasant weather, with average temperatures
around 80°F (27°C). It’s typically sunny and dry.

Temp in Punta Cana for 7 Days

Punta Cana 7 Day Weather Forecast

All in all, Punta Cana in December offers a great mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. It’s a wonderful destination to make some unforgettable memories.

Frequently Asked Questions about
Punta Cana in December

Updated on: 2024-12-18. Author: Evgenia

Tags: Punta Cana Things to do Things to do with family Top activities