Top 10 Things to Do in Punta Cana — And Why Saona Island Leads the List

Punta Cana is one of the Caribbean’s most visited destinations. The hotels are world-class, the beaches are stunning, and the excursion options are endless. But with so many choices, where do you start? We ranked the top 10 things to do in Punta Cana based on what travelers actually love most — and Saona Island leads by a wide margin.

1. 🏆 Saona Island Tour — The #1 Punta Cana Excursion

Nothing on this list comes close. A full day on Isla Saona — the natural starfish pool, pristine white sand beach, Dominican lunch, open bar, and catamaran return — is the defining experience of any Punta Cana trip. Book with Saona Island Tours for hotel pickup and the complete package.

2. Zip-Lining Through the Jungle

Punta Cana’s jungle canopy tours offer thrilling zip-line runs above the tropical forest — perfect for adventure seekers and adrenaline lovers.

3. ATV & Buggy Adventures

Explore dirt roads, sugarcane fields, and local villages on an ATV or dune buggy — a raw, dusty, memorable afternoon off the resort strip.

4. Hoyo Azul Natural Cenote

Hidden inside Scape Park, Hoyo Azul is a stunning natural cenote with impossibly blue water inside a 15-meter limestone cliff.

5. Catalina Island Snorkeling Tour

Catalina Island is the Dominican Republic’s premier snorkeling destination, famous for the Wall of Catalina — a dramatic coral drop-off alive with sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish. Book your Catalina Island tour here.

6. Deep-Sea Fishing in Punta Cana

The waters off Punta Cana are prime territory for marlin, wahoo, and mahi-mahi. Charter fishing trips depart at dawn and return with stories.

7. Bavaro Beach Horseback Riding in Punta Cana

Ride along the edge of the Caribbean at sunset — one of the most romantic experiences in all of the city.

8. Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park at Punta Cana

Twelve freshwater lagoons connected by jungle trails — a quiet, beautiful contrast to the beach-and-resort scene.

9. Altos de Chavón

A replica 16th-century Mediterranean village perched above the Chavón River, with art galleries, restaurants, and a world-famous amphitheater.

10. Dominican Culture & Cooking Tour

Learn to make mamajuana, taste fresh cacao, and meet local families in a half-day cultural immersion that goes far beyond the resort gates.

Start with #1 — Book Your Saona Tour Today

Reserve Your Tour with Saona Island Tours

Book directly with the operator — departures from BlueMall Cap Cana, Punta Cana:

• Saona Island Group Catamaran Tour — shared catamaran day trip with natural pool, beach time, lunch and open bar
• VIP Saona — 3 Beaches Experience — small-group VIP day visiting three beaches
• Private Catamaran to Saona Island — the whole catamaran for your celebration or group