Punta Cana

General info about Punta Cana

• Punta Cana is located along the Atlantic coast on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic, where the boundary between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean lies.
• It is the most popular resort area not only on the island but also in the entire Caribbean.
• Here you will find the most famous and luxurious chain hotels in the country: Hyatt, Eden Roc, Tortuga Bay, Secrets Cap Cana, and others.

Car rental

VROOM.DO — a small local family business

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  New cars

  Our cars are new, always freshly cleaned, fully fueled, and ready for your journey.

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  Flexible pricing

  We offer flexible pricing that depends on how many days you rent the car. The longer the rental period, the lower the price.

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  Heartfelt service

  We strive to make everything as convenient as possible: delivering cars directly to the hotel, meeting you at the airport, or accepting the car at the airport when you're departing.

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  Communication via messengers

  We're always available via messaging apps and ready to help at any moment, if needed.

Our booking process is extremely simple

1. Contact us

   Write to us, choose, and book a car.

2. Receive the car

   Upon arrival, we deliver the car to your hotel or meet you at the airport.

3. Formalities

   You inspect the car, make the payment, and leave a small deposit, which is returned at the end.

4. Journey

   You're ready to hit the road!

Find out which cars are currently available for booking →

Traffic

Refueling your vehicle

In the resort area and along the highways, there are plenty of gasoline stations, a few LPG stations, and increasingly frequent fast-charging stations for electric vehicles.

To refuel your vehicle at a gasoline station, you don't need to get out of the car. Simply drive up to the pump, open your fuel cap, turn off the engine, and tell the attendant how much fuel and which type you'd like. You have a choice between premium and regular gasoline. For example:

• "Mil pesos regular, por favor" (One thousand pesos of regular gasoline, please).
• "Lleno regular, por favor" (Full tank of regular gasoline, please).

Before the attendant starts refueling, make sure they reset the pump counter — the display should show zeros. After refueling, pay right there (even if you're paying by card, the terminal will be handed to you through the window), and you're ready to hit the road!

Myths about road traffic we'd like to dispel

Toll roads and parking

Roads in the Dominican Republic are relatively good; you can drive on highways without worrying about potholes and bumps. Toll sections of the highway are paid at peaje points and cost on average about 100 Dominican pesos. Payment is accepted only in pesos or with the Paso Rápido card. If you plan to travel frequently on toll roads, it makes sense to purchase a Paso Rápido card, which is automatically scanned at peaje. You can buy and top up the card at gas stations.

You'll notice that Dominican drivers rarely worry about choosing a parking spot, often leaving their car right on the side of the road. However, improper parking can result in your car being booted (in rare cases, towed). Try not to park your car where it could be accidentally damaged by other drivers, and avoid parking too close to other vehicles.

Road signs and markings

In populated areas, pedestrian crossings are almost nonexistent, so yielding to pedestrians is the driver's personal responsibility. In the Bavaro — Punta Cana area, the traffic light system works well, but speed limit signs and other traffic signs are often missing.

General speed limits in the Dominican Republic are:

• In populated areas: 60 km/h (37 mph).
• On highways: 80 or 100 km/h (50 or 62 mph), depending on the section.
• In residential zones: 30 km/h (19 mph).

Since speed limit signs are not always present, we recommend using the Waze app for up-to-date information.

Traffic police and fines

The roads are patrolled by either the Policía Nacional or the traffic service AMET. If you're stopped, you'll be asked to present your driver's license and identification. Common reasons for fines include:

• Using a mobile phone while driving.
• Not wearing a seatbelt.
• Driving without a license.
• Speeding.

The average fine is about 2,000 pesos. Sometimes you may be stopped just for a document check — present your documents, remain calm and friendly. However, if you encounter unfair treatment or extortion, request an official fine and do not succumb to provocations. It's important to know that you are not obligated to hand over your documents or any belongings to police officers without lawful reason.

MOPC (Ministry of Public Works and Communications)

On the road, you'll also see SUVs with the MOPC inscription and flashing lights — this is the road service that assists drivers in emergencies. You can contact them if you've run out of fuel, your car has broken down, you have a flat tire, or other issues. Keep your peaje payment receipts — they contain the road service's contact number for your section. However, first and foremost, in case of an emergency, please contact us — we'll provide further instructions and do our best to assist you.

Healthcare and Insurance

Healthcare in Punta Cana is of a high standard. The area boasts several clinics equipped with modern technology and specialists in various fields of medicine. However, medical services can be quite expensive if you seek treatment without insurance. Therefore, we strongly recommend arranging medical insurance in advance, before your trip, or purchasing it upon arrival.

Popular insurance companies:

• Mapfre BHD
• Humano Seguros
• Universal

Clinics in the Bávaro-Punta Cana area:

• Hospital IMG — a modern clinic offering a wide range of medical services and 24-hour emergency care.
• Hospiten Bávaro — part of an international hospital network with highly qualified specialists and state-of-the-art equipment.
• Centro Médico Punta Cana — a medical center with professional staff offering a variety of healthcare services.

Tip: Always carry a copy of your insurance policy and identification. This will simplify the process of receiving medical care if needed.

Beaches in Punta Cana

Free access to Bavaro Beach

Despite Punta Cana stretching along stunning white sandy beaches, access to them is hindered by endless hotel fences. We present 5 great places where you can get free access to Bavaro Beach, each with cozy cafes and beach bars nearby. Grab your beach towel or mat and get ready to enjoy the sun!

• Bavaro Beach (access through Huracán Café). Huracán Café is a popular wedding venue, but there are free passages to the beach nearby.
• El Cortecito Beach (landmark — Onno's Bar). The bar itself may be closed until evening hours, but there are passages to the beach nearby.
• Bavaro Beach (near Jellyfish Restaurant). If you're visiting the beach club, there's convenient parking. Otherwise, finding a parking spot might be more difficult.
• Los Corales Beach (near Zoho Beach Club). Parking here can be challenging, but you can leave your car at Plaza Turquesa and walk to the beach in just 5 minutes.
• NOVA Beach Club. Located on Bibijagua Beach, between the hotels Barceló Bávaro Beach and Lopesan Costa Bávaro. Parking here is one of the most expensive in the resort area — 300 pesos.

Outside the tourist Bavaro/Punta Cana zone

Venturing outside the Bavaro/Punta Cana zone, be prepared for a slight change in the beach scenery: the sand turns more golden, the ocean becomes a bit more playful. Wild beaches are not fumigated for insects, so we strongly recommend bringing insect repellent.

• Macao Beach. A must-visit spot for surfing or simply jumping in the waves. It can be crowded on weekends.
• Limón Beach. Golden sand, high waves, lack of infrastructure, and almost no people. Bring a mat and plenty of drinking water.
• Esmeralda Beach. A place to retreat into tropical nature and the power of the ocean.
• Lavacama Beach. Offers both wild beach areas and a zone with the Costa Arrecife beach club, where you can relax on sunbeds, have lunch, and even stay overnight in an eco-hotel.

More beach clubs around the area

When exploring beach clubs, remember that some require a deposit — on average $35–50 USD per person. We recommend confirming this information by phone before your visit, as prices may change.

• Villa Blanca Beach Club. A relatively new beach club on Bavaro Beach with modern design and a pleasant atmosphere.
• Cana Bay Beach Club. Located next to the Hard Rock Hotel, sharing the same beach. Cocktails, cuisine, and a beautiful pool.
• Soles Chill Out Bar. One of the oldest establishments on Bavaro Beach, known for its frequent parties and grill bar.
• Playa Blanca. Located within the gated Puntacana Resort & Club. You need to make a reservation and pay a deposit at the office near the main entrance.
• Pearl Beach Club. Situated on Cabeza de Toro Beach, near the Catalonia hotel. A party spot with multiple pools, events, and a restaurant.

Entertainment and places to visit

Places and experiences to visit nearby

• Montaña Redonda. A picturesque mountain with swings at the top offering breathtaking panoramic views.
• Scape Park in Cap Cana. An adventure park featuring ziplines, underground caves, cenotes, and activities for the whole family.
• Dolphinarium. A unique opportunity to swim with dolphins and learn more about these amazing creatures.
• Pirate Ship. A thematic sea excursion on a pirate-style ship — fun for both kids and adults.
• Surfing at Macao Beach. A great spot for learning to surf, suitable for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
• Party Boat. Boat parties with music, drinks, and entertainment, letting you enjoy the sunset on the water.
• Fishing. Deep-sea fishing in the Caribbean Sea with the chance to catch marlin, tuna, and other species.

Entertainment and activities

• Caribbean Lake Park. A water sports park offering wake surfing and other aquatic activities.
• Punta Cana Village. A cozy European-style street, perfect for a cup of coffee or dining out.
• Caribbean Cinemas (San Juan Shopping Center). A modern cinema showcasing the latest movies in English and Spanish.
• San Juan Park. A recreational area with playgrounds and walking paths.
• Taino Gourmet. Cooking classes where you can learn to prepare traditional Dominican dishes.
• Paradise Garage. A vibrant drag show providing an unforgettable evening of entertainment.
• Dinner in the Sky. A unique dining experience at a height with views of the surroundings.

Shops and shopping centers

Grocery stores in the Bavaro/Punta Cana area

• Jumbo (Downtown Mall Punta Cana). A large supermarket offering local and imported goods.
• Nacional (Punta Cana Village, across from Blue Mall). Known for quality products and excellent service.
• Unidos (Bavaro). A convenient one-stop shop for groceries and daily necessities.
• La Sirena (San Juan Shopping Center). Food and alcohol, with convenient parking.
• Super Lama (close to residential neighborhoods). A smaller supermarket ideal for quick shopping.

Shopping centers (clothing and more)

• Blue Mall Punta Cana. Clothing, footwear, and accessory stores, as well as restaurants.
• Downtown Center. Shops, a couple of cafes, and a modern gym.
• Plaza San Juan. A popular mall with various stores, a cinema, and restaurants.

Buying a SIM card

Claro and Altice operator stores are located in the Jumbo shopping center. You'll need your passport to purchase a SIM card. The staff will help you choose the right plan and set up your phone.

Restaurants and night clubs

In Punta Cana and Bavaro, there are numerous restaurants offering a variety of world cuisines. The most popular here are Italian, American, and Mexican. Portions in local restaurants can be surprisingly large, so we recommend ordering one dish at a time or sharing several dishes among your group.

Top breakfast spots

• Dolce Italia. An Italian bakery offering fresh pastries and aromatic coffee.
• Noah. A diverse breakfast menu in a pleasant atmosphere.
• Terra Nostra. A wide selection of dishes to start your day.
• Dalia's Café. A cozy café with delicious breakfast options.
• Vale Valentina. Sweet and savory breakfasts, aromatic coffee, and fresh pastries.
• Brot Bagel Shop. Coffee, smoothies, and a variety of breakfasts, including fresh bagels.

Restaurants for lunch and dinner

International cuisine: Noah, La Bruja Chupadora (grill with live music), SBG Punta Cana (Blue Mall), Burlao Grill Bar, Market in Blue Mall (food court), Citrus, Pepe's Tavern (Punta Cana Village), La Tiendita.

Italian cuisine: Trattoria Pizzarelli, Mama Luisa, Punto Italia (near Plaza San Juan).

Mexican cuisine: El Burrito, Don Camarón.

Asian cuisine: Unagui (sushi and sashimi).

Dominican cuisine: La Casita de Yeya, Delicias de Bávaro.

Chain restaurants and fast food in the area

• Starbucks Café (Punta Cana Village) — with a drive-through.
• Hard Rock Café (Downtown Punta Cana) — often hosting themed events and concerts.
• Taco Bell (Plaza San Juan and Friusa).
• Wendy's (Punta Cana Village).
• KFC (at the gas station by Coco Loco traffic light and in Friusa next to Taco Bell).

Seafood restaurants on the beach

• Capitán Cook (Bavaro Beach). Fresh seafood and fish right on the oceanfront.
• Kukua Restaurant and Beach Club. A stylish restaurant with sea views and an exquisite menu.
• Jellyfish. An elegant beachside restaurant offering gourmet cuisine and a romantic ambiance.

Night clubs

• Coco Bongo. Famous club with world-class shows, acrobatics, and dancing.
• Infinity Bar Hip Hop and Reggaeton Club. An energetic atmosphere with hip-hop and reggaeton.
• Imagine. A unique club located inside a natural cave, offering various rooms and music genres.
• Legacy. A trendy club with modern music and stylish interiors.
• Mamajuana. A popular spot featuring live music and energetic parties.
• Downtown Punta Cana. Next to Coco Bongo, a square where bars and restaurants are gathered — great for diving into the nightlife of Punta Cana.