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.
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Private Isla Saona VIP Tour – Full-Day, Blue Lagoon, Reef Snorkeling, Mangrove Forests
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Isla Saona VIP Speedboat 10 hrs Tour – Snorkeling at Toro Beach & Turtle Sanctuary
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Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island) and El Limon Waterfall Tour – Samana’s Best 2-in-1 Tour 2024
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Fantastic Catalina Island Private Boat Tour (from Punta Cana) – With Fishing & Snorkeling
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Private Catalina Island Full-Day Tour by Speedboat – Isla Catalina Wall Snorkeling, Personal Guide
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Catalina Island Day Trip: the Best Snorkeling Experience
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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.
- Monkeyland: Get up close and personal with friendly squirrel monkeys in their natural habitat. This excursion is both educational and entertaining, making it a hit with visitors of all ages.
- Montaña Redonda: While it might not be for everyone, Montaña Redonda offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding landscapes. It’s a peaceful retreat perfect for stunning photos and a bit of serenity away from the hustle and bustle.
- Caribbean Lake Park: For water enthusiasts, this park offers wakeboarding, waterskiing, and other exciting water sports. The high-quality service and well-maintained facilities make it a great place to spend the day.
- Higuey Safari: This cultural and historical tour takes you into the Dominican countryside. You’ll explore rural areas, learn about local traditions, and experience the authentic way of life in the region.
- Slingshot Ride: If you’re an adrenaline junkie, the Slingshot ride provides an exhilarating experience as you speed through the landscape in a high-powered vehicle.
Show all ↓
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Scape Park in Punta Cana – Full Admission
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La Hacienda Park – 7-in-1 Adventures Tour in Bávaro, Punta Cana
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Bávaro Adventure Park Best Combo Tour 2024 – Catamaran, Polaris, Blue Lagoon, Dominican Village & Bonus Activity
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Best Monkey Excursion from Punta Cana – 2-in-1 Tour: Monkeyland and the Longest Zip Line in the DR
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Montaña Redonda (Miches) Private 2-in-1 Excursion – With Quad Safari, El Limon Beach, Professional Guide
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Punta Cana Water Park Full Day Access – Wakeboarding, Zipline, Water Obstacles & Pools with Snack
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Higüey Safari Tour – Basilica of Altagracia, Anamuya River, Macao Beach, Horse Ride & Taino Cave
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Extreme Slingshots Ride in Punta Cana
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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.
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Condo for Rent in Punta Cana – Stunning Ocean View – Oreuga
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Punta Cana Condo for Rent – Private Retreat on Los Corales Beach
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Dream Apartments for Rent in Punta Cana – Oreuga Ocean View Paradise
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Event Venue for Rent in Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana
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Quiet and Cozy Family Apartments for Rent – Directly on the Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana
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Private Ocean View Apartment for Rent in Punta Cana, the DR
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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.
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The Best Parasailing in Punta Cana, Bávaro – Unique Skydiving Tour 2024
from $85 Read more -
Punta Cana Water Park Full Day Access – Wakeboarding, Zipline, Water Obstacles & Pools with Snack
from $99 Read more -
Catamaran Tour in Punta Cana (Bavaro) – Party, Sailing & Snorkelling Experience 2024
from $69 Read more -
Water Park & Buggy Ride in Punta Cana – Full Day Access with Wakeboarding, Zipline, Pools & Snack
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Best Sunset Cruise in Punta Cana – Romantic Getaway on a Private Catamaran with BBQ, Party & Open Bar
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POWER Adventures Full Package
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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.
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Punta Cana Night Club with Best Prices – Maroca Club VIP Entry (Thursday, Sunday)
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Maroca Nightclub VIP Entry (Friday, Saturday) – Best Punta Cana Nightlife 2024
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New Punta Cana Night Club 2024 – Malo Show Potion & Passion
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Party Bus Punta Cana Night Tour – Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the Dominican Republic
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Entrance to Imagine Night Club in Punta Cana
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«Imagine» Night Club in Punta Cana: Premium Access
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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 ForecastAll 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
Is it good to go to Punta Cana in December?
Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Punta Cana. The weather is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures around 80°F (27°C). December marks the beginning of the dry season, so you can expect plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall. Additionally, the holiday season brings festive events and a lively atmosphere, making it a great time to enjoy both relaxation and local celebrations.
Is it warm enough to swim in Punta Cana in December?
Absolutely! The water temperature in December averages around 79°F (26°C), which is comfortably warm for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. You’ll find the sea inviting and perfect for enjoying the beautiful beaches.
How often does it rain in Punta Cana in December?
December is part of the dry season in Punta Cana. While there might be occasional brief showers, rainfall is generally minimal. On average, there are about 7 days of rain in December, but these showers are typically short and shouldn’t interfere much with your plans.
Water temperature in Punta Cana in December?
The sea temperature in Punta Cana during December is pleasantly warm, averaging around 79°F (26°C). This makes it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and enjoying various water sports.
Why is Punta Cana so famous?
The area’s natural beauty combined with a wide range of activities makes it popular among travelers.
Punta Cana is famous for its stunning white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and luxurious all-inclusive resorts. It’s a top destination for relaxation, water sports, and golfing on world-class courses.
How to party in Punta Cana?
- Nightclubs: Visit popular spots like Coco Bongo, Imagine Punta Cana, and ORO Nightclub for dancing, live shows, and entertainment.
- Beach Parties: Many resorts and beach clubs host parties with DJs and live music on the sand.
- Party Cruises: Join a party boat or catamaran cruise with music, dancing, drinks, and sometimes snorkeling.
- Local Bars and Lounges: Explore venues offering live merengue and bachata music for a more authentic Dominican experience.
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