Where to Stay in Punta Cana 2025: Map + Best Areas
By Rafael Couto
Updated April out of 2025
Are you planning a trip to the Caribbean and don't know where to stay in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. You are happy because you are going to see a spectacular beach, but the questions about where to stay in Punta Cana. All-inclusive hotels? Budget accommodation? Maybe it's better to rent an apartment?
And the questions don't stop there.
Because Punta Cana is many kilometers long, so in addition to analyzing what type of accommodation to choose, we need to know what is the best area to stay in Punta Cana to enjoy the best beach.
Hence, In this article we will answer these questions that we all ask ourselves before traveling: Where is the most convenient place to stay? What is the best area or beach to look for accommodation? What are the best All Inclusive hotels in Punta Cana? Barceló? Iberostar? How much do they cost?
Are there cheaper all-inclusive hotels? And are they adults-only? But is it worth staying in an all-inclusive hotel or is it better to look for a simpler one, with breakfast only? And if I travel with children, what should I choose?
How much does it cost to stay in Punta Cana?
Cheap hotels: daily rates up to R$800
Accommodation with the best cost-benefit ratio: daily rates between R$801 and R$1.500
Luxury resorts: daily rates from R$1.501
Map of Punta Cana regions
Where to Stay in Punta Cana: Best Places to Stay
Recommended area: Stay in the Playa Bávaro area
Playa Bávaro is a world-renowned beach located on the Costa del Coco. Bathed by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and with fine white sand, Playa Bávaro is one of the most important tourist destinations in the Dominican Republic.
Bávaro is home to a number of hotels and resorts from major international chains. Most of the resorts in this area include their own restaurants, spas, fitness centers, bars and nightclubs.
Several shopping centers such as Punta Blanca Mall, Plaza San Juan or Palma Real make this area an excellent shopping destination. Bávaro is also known as a nightlife area, in addition to the resorts' nightclubs, the area is home to several nightlife venues, particularly on the central Avenida España and near the beach.
Best Cheap Hotels in Playa Bávaro
Top rated hotels in Playa Bávaro
Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort
Top rated resorts in Playa Bávaro
Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino
Staying in the Playa Punta Cana area
Punta Cana's name comes from its enchanting beach, situated in an exceptional location. Its proximity to both the airport and the city center, together with its calm, turquoise waters, exemplify the ideal of a Caribbean beach.
Compared to the adjacent Cap Cana, Playa Punta Cana's stretch of coastline is not extensive, but it is on this stretch that three magnificent resorts are located.
Best Cheap Hotels in Playa Punta Cana
Villa in Tortuga Bay Punta Cana Resort
Top rated resorts in Playa Punta Cana
The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club
Staying in the El Cortecito area
El Cortecito, officially Punta El Cortecito, is another beach on the Costa del Coco located south of Playa Bávaro. This modern and well-developed area is ideal for all types of water sports such as snorkeling, diving, parasailing, surfing and even skydiving.
While this popular area is also home to some luxurious all-inclusive resorts, the atmosphere here is more relaxed and local. El Cortecito Beach is one of the most popular public beaches on the Cocos Coast, and the beach itself is home to several seafood restaurants, nightlife spots, and cafes.
Best Cheap Hotels in El Cortecito
Top rated hotels in El Cortecito
H2 Exclusive apartment near the ocean
1 BR Modern Apartment/ Great Location
Paradise Palms at Costa Hermosa
Staying in the Cap Cana area
Cap Cana is a growing resort complex located on the Costa del Coco. Considered one of the most exclusive resorts in the Caribbean, Cap Cana is located south of Punta Cana International Airport.
This modern area boasts first-class spas, five-star hotels, gourmet restaurants, gyms, convention centers and other amenities that make it one of the best areas to stay in Punta Cana.
Among the most interesting places in Cap Cana is Hoyo Azul. This natural cenote is located within Scape Park and is ideal for tourists who are not content with the seclusion of their resorts.
Cheap Accommodation in Cap Cana
Apartment with private beach in CAP CANA punta cana
Unique pet friendly apartment at loft
Exclusive Brand New Condo 1 bedroom at Cap Cana
Top rated resorts in Cap Cana
Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa – Adults Only
Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection All-Inclusive Resort, Dominican Republic
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana – Adults Only
Staying in the Arena Gorda area
Arena Gorda is famous for its all-inclusive resorts and white-sand beaches. The area offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, ideal for families and couples. In addition to the beaches, visitors can enjoy world-class golf courses and spas.
Best Cheap Hotels in Arena Gorda
Top rated resorts in Arena Gorda
Iberostar Selection Bavaro Suites
Staying in the Macao region
Macao is known for its picturesque beach, popular with surfers and nature lovers. Accommodation here ranges from boutique hotels to more rustic accommodations, providing a more authentic experience. Macao Beach is a must-see attraction, with its waves perfect for surfing.
Best Hotels in Playa Macao
Bungalow with pool and Air Conditioning near beach Macao
Staying in the Cabeza de Toro region
Cabeza de Toro is a haven for those seeking tranquility, with luxury resorts and serene beaches. The area is perfect for those looking to relax in a sophisticated environment, with accommodation options that include spas and water activities. It is also notable for its proximity to the Dolphin Explorer, a popular attraction.
Best Hotels in Cabeza de Toro
Serenade All Suites – Adults Only Resort
Staying in the Uvero Alto region
Unlike Bávaro, Uvero Alto is characterized by its long, wide beaches and wild waves. This area is located at the northern end of Punta Cana, about 30 minutes from the airport.
Being a somewhat remote beach, it is the best area for couples looking to completely disconnect. Thanks to its high waves, this area is also ideal for bodyboarding and surfing.
Best Cheap Hotels in Uvero Alto
Oceanfront Apartment in Punta Cana, 2-BR
Top rated resorts in Uvero Alto
Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa – Adults Only
Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana – All Inclusive – Adults Only
Places to stay in Punta Cana near the airport
Four Points by Sheraton Puntacana Village
Staying near the airport in Punta Cana is a convenient option, especially for connecting flights. Here are some accommodation options near Punta Cana International Airport:
Four Points by Sheraton Puntacana Village
Well-located accommodation options
whala!bavarian
Finding affordable accommodations in Punta Cana that are well-located is entirely possible. Here are some suggestions:
Where to stay in Punta Cana for a good price
Vista Sol Punta Cana Beach Resort & Spa
Choosing a good value place to stay in Punta Cana means finding a balance between price, comfort and location. Here are some options that offer excellent value for money:
Vista Sol Punta Cana Beach Resort & Spa
Impressive Resort & Spa Punta Cana
Where to stay in Punta Cana with family
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana
Choosing a place to stay in Punta Cana with your family involves considering factors such as kid-friendly activities, safety, and family-friendly amenities. Here are some family-friendly options:
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana
Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa
Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa
Where to stay in Punta Cana for your honeymoon
Zoëtry Water Punta Cana
Punta Cana is a perfect honeymoon destination, offering a mix of stunning beaches, romantic atmosphere and luxurious resorts. Here are some ideal options for honeymooners:
Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort
Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa
Vacation rentals in Punta Cana
Villas & Apartments Vacation HOTEL RENTALS Long Term BAVARO Los Corales
For those looking for a more personalized and intimate experience during their stay, Punta Cana vacation rentals offer an excellent alternative to traditional hotels. Here are some of the best options:
Villas & Apartments Vacation HOTEL RENTALS Long Term BAVARO Los Corales
LONG TERM Villas & Apartments Vacation RENTALS Los Corales Bavaro
BLUE Ocean Beachfront VILLAS & Apartments – WiFi, Pool, BBQ, PLAYA Los Corales
Las Terrazas Villas HOTEL POOL VIEW Beach CLUB & SPA
Incredible 4BR Beachfront Penthouse with Ocean View
Hard Rock at Cana Rock 1 by Unwind Properties
Hostels to stay in Punta Cana
GAVA hostel
If you want to save a lot and explore the beaches of Punta Cana, you should know that there are hostel options in the destination. There is not a wide variety, but the available hostels are well rated. Check out the options:
Where is the best place to stay in Punta Cana?
Bavaro Beach
Playa Bávaro is considered by many to be the best place to stay in Punta Cana due to its perfect combination of natural beauty and convenience.
With its long stretches of white sand and crystal-clear waters, it offers the ideal setting for a tropical retreat. In addition, the region is full of all-inclusive resorts that provide a luxurious and worry-free accommodation experience, with a wide range of leisure and entertainment activities.
How to choose where to stay in Punta Cana
When planning your stay in Punta Cana, it’s crucial to consider more than just the cost and quality of your hotel. The location of your accommodation can significantly impact your travel experience, especially in terms of access to public transportation and proximity to tourist attractions.
Here are some important things to consider when choosing where to stay in Punta Cana:
Accessibility and Transport Connections
Staying in a location where you can explore on foot is a huge advantage. Strolling through the charming streets of Punta Cana, especially in the Bavaro area, is a delightful experience thanks to its central location close to several attractions.
It is equally important to check whether the chosen location has easy access to public transport. This allows you to visit different areas of the city efficiently and economically.
Worst areas of Punta Cana
The surrounding areas of Punta Cana, such as Vallegina, Jina Jaraguá and Anamuya, can also be at risk, mainly due to crimes related to gang clashes or drug trafficking.
These areas, which are far from the beaches and are less frequented by tourists, may have limited security measures. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid venturing too far from the main tourist areas, especially at night, and to stay in well-populated and well-lit areas.
Tips for saving on accommodation
Saving on accommodation in Punta Cana can make your trip more affordable and allow you to enjoy more experiences during your stay. Here are some tips to help you reduce your accommodation costs:
- Travel Outside of Peak Season: Prices for accommodation in Punta Cana can vary significantly between peak and low season. Traveling during off-peak periods, such as during the fall or spring, can result in lower prices.
- Book in Advance: Booking in advance can guarantee better rates, especially if you're traveling during busier periods.
- Compare Prices Online: Use hotel price comparison sites to find the best deals. Sites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Trivago can help you compare prices and find deals.
- Consider Travel Packages: Packages that combine flights and accommodation can offer significant savings. Check out travel package deals at specialized agencies and websites.
- Choose Alternative Hosting: In addition to hotels and resorts, consider vacation rentals, apartments, hostels, or guest houses, which can be more economical.
- Take advantage of Last Minute Offers: Sometimes, booking accommodations last minute can result in huge discounts as hotels try to fill unbooked rooms.
- Check the Inclusions: Choose accommodations that include free amenities like breakfast, Wi-Fi or airport transportation, which can reduce overall costs.
- Participate in Loyalty Programs: If you travel frequently, participating in hotel chain loyalty programs can result in exclusive discounts and benefits.
- Set a Budget: Set a clear budget for accommodation and look for options that fit within it, avoiding overspending.
Factors to consider when choosing accommodation
When choosing accommodation in Punta Cana, it is important to consider several factors to ensure a pleasant and safe stay. Here are the main points to take into account:
- Location: Choose accommodations close to the main tourist attractions, beaches and restaurants. Check the proximity to the beach and whether the area is safe and well-rated by other tourists.
- Security: Choose areas that are known for their safety, especially if you plan to explore outside of the resort. Check to see if the accommodation offers 24-hour security.
- Type of Hosting: Choose from all-inclusive resorts, boutique hotels, private apartments or villas. Each type offers different experiences, from luxury to more privacy.
- Facilities: Check out the amenities offered, such as swimming pools, spas, gyms, restaurants, and leisure activities. For families, look for accommodations with activities for children.
- Cost benefit: Consider the total cost of your stay, including any additional fees. All-inclusive resorts may be more expensive initially, but they cover most of your expenses.
- Shipping cost: Consider the ease of transportation from the airport to your accommodation and the availability of transportation to explore the area.
- Opinions from Other Guests: Read reviews from other guests to get an idea of the quality of service, cleanliness, and overall experience.
- Cancellation Policy: Check the cancellation policy, especially if you are traveling during uncertain times.
- Accessibility: For people with reduced mobility, check the accessibility of the accommodation and common areas.
- Sustainability: If sustainability is important to you, look for accommodations that practice ecological and conservation measures.
Tips and recommendations before traveling to Punta Cana
Reservations in Punta Cana
- Book in advance in High or Mid Season, or if you prefer a specific hotel, to guarantee availability.
- Most hotels require a minimum stay of two or three nights.
Hotel Policy
- When staying in a hotel in a chain, it is usually possible to access other hotels in the same chain of the same or lower level.
Security of Belongings
- Avoid leaving valuables or money in the hotel room due to the risk of theft, a common concern both in Punta Cana and elsewhere, including Brazil.
Punta Cana Climate and Conditions
- Humidity is common due to the location close to the sea/ocean.
- Rooms can smell damp; opening windows usually solves the problem.
Travel Suggestions
- For longer trips, consider combining Punta Cana with Bayahibe.
Environmental Preservation
- During excursions, such as to Saona Island, do not touch or remove starfish from the water to protect marine life.
How to save a lot in Punta Cana
When starting to plan a trip, it is necessary to take several points into consideration, as there is no need to spend more and there are several ways to get everything cheaper.
Accommodation in Punta Cana
I suggest exploring accommodation options in Punta Cana through online hotel booking platforms. These sites often offer discounted rates on quality accommodations, thanks to large-scale negotiations with establishments.
Additionally, these platforms provide a safe and reliable way to make your reservations online!
Car Rental in Punta Cana
Using a car rental comparison service, You quickly get quotes from the top car rental companies in Punta Cana.
The advantage is that you can pay in up to 12 interest-free installments, in Brazilian currency, and also benefit from exemption from the Financial Transactions Tax (IOF) of 6,38%.
Airport to Hotel Transfer
It's a great convenience be met at the airport by a shuttle service that will take you directly to your hotel in Punta Cana. To enjoy this convenience without going over budget, I suggest using a transfer service comparison tool, where you can select the most suitable route and vehicle option according to your preferences.
Best tours in Punta Cana
It is advisable purchase tickets for excursions in Punta Cana in advance. This avoids long queues at the entrances to tourist attractions and ensures that you can participate in high-demand activities that may no longer be available if left to be purchased at the last minute.
For this, I suggest Civitatis, which offers competitive rates, the possibility of free cancellation up to 48 hours before the event and tickets adapted for access via mobile. This site also has 24/7 customer support in Portuguese.
How to use your cell phone in Punta Cana
Having a good connection in Punta Cana is essential for sharing moments, using maps and researching attractions. Our partners offer the best international roaming plans, ensuring that you are always connected with quality and without surprises on your bill.
Best Travel Insurance for Punta Cana
Traveling with peace of mind is essential. Therefore, we recommend our readers' travel insurance, that guarantee comprehensive coverage for any eventuality in Punta Cana, from medical care to luggage problems. Be sure to check it out and travel protected!
If you have any questions or want to know more tips about where to stay in Punta Cana, just leave your comment here. If you prefer, you can write directly to Mexico Guide Instagram which I will answer with great pleasure.
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