Punta Cana

Why go

The appeal is time on the shore, but the coast is not one interchangeable strip. Macao lies farther north, Bávaro and El Cortecito form a central cluster, and Juanillo is farther south. That spread matters if you want to visit more than the beach beside your accommodation. The area also works as a base for sea outings, though the suitability of any activity depends on the operator and conditions on the day.

What to look for

• Macao, Bávaro and Juanillo show how far the named beaches extend along the east coast.
• Bávaro and El Cortecito sit within the area's main hotel and service corridor.

Useful to know

• Choose accommodation near the beach you expect to use most; the coastal names cover a wide area.
• Check sea conditions and the operator's current details before a boat or water-sport outing.