Luxury Family-Friendly Vacation in Punta Cana: Without Seaweed Infestation

  • Day 1: Arrival
    10 minutes (4 miles) from Punta Cana Airport

    Welcome to Punta Cana! Check into the Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar, a resort known for its luxurious amenities and outstanding service. The adults-only features include its own private beach, six swimming pools, and a spa. The resort has a range of activities for the entire family, such as ping-pong, mini-golf, and snorkeling.

  • Day 2: Dolphin Explorer
    45 minutes (25 miles) from the resort

    Experience swimming with friendly dolphins at Dolphin Explorer, a family-oriented water park where you can also splash with sea lions and nurse sharks. The park offers three types of packages, including horseback riding, speedboat rides, and catamaran tours. All of the packages include a personal interaction with the dolphins, including kisses and handshakes.

  • Day 3: Monkeyland and Plantation Safari
    2 hours (66 miles) from the resort

    Experience a fun-filled day with the whole family at Monkeyland and Plantation Safari. At this attraction, you'll learn about the production of cacao, tobacco, and coffee. You can also watch monkeys in their natural habitats, and taste locally grown fruits like pineapple and papaya.

  • Day 4: Bavaro Adventure Park
    35 minutes (17 miles) from the resort

    Experience an action-packed day at Bavaro Adventure Park, an eco-friendly park that offers a range of attractions, including zip-lining, bungee jumping, and paintball. The park also has a natural pool and an artificial beach that allow you to relax and unwind, or you can ride the 4WDs to explore the woods.

  • Day 5: Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve and Punta Cana Beach
    25 minutes (10 miles) from the resort

    Spend a half-day exploring the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve, also known as the Punta Cana Ecological Reserve, located in a lush forested area. Hike through the nine lagoons surrounded by unique plants and wildlife. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to the Punta Cana Beach, lauded for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

  • Day 6: Saona Island
    90 minutes (45 miles) from the resort

    Escape to the unspoiled white sand beaches of Saona Island, an uninhabited island that is part of the National Park of the East. The island’s natural beauties include pristine beaches, palm trees, and clear turquoise waters. Boat tours depart from Bayahibe, and you can choose from a range of packages that include BBQ lunch, drinks, and snorkeling equipment.

  • Day 7: Departure
    25 minutes (14 miles) from the resort to Punta Cana Airport

    Time flies by when you're having fun! Enjoy breakfast at the resort before checking out and heading back to the airport for your departure flight.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar (6 days, $2,000)
  • Dolphin Explorer (4 hours, $200 per person)
  • Monkeyland and Plantation Safari (5 hours, $100 per adult)
  • Bavaro Adventure Park (4 hours, $150 per person)
  • Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve (4 hours, $75 per person)
  • Saona Island (8 hours, $150 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $2,750

Transportation

There are several airport transfer options available. Some hotels, like the Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar offer free transfers, so check with your accommodation first. Additional transportation options include private transfers or taxis. Renting a car is possible, but it is not recommended unless you are experienced with driving in a foreign country. Most attractions and beaches are easily accessible by taxi or organized tours. Average taxi fares can range from $15 to $50 per ride, depending on the distance.

Useful Tips

If you have more free time, you could consider visiting Hoyo Azul or exploring the Punta Cana coastline by speedboat. If your trip is shorter, you could skip one of the day trips and spend more time relaxing at the resort. Make sure to bring adequate sun protection, especially during the hot season, and wear comfortable shoes for tours. Avoid traveling during the hurricane season (June to November) and avoid being too adventurous when trying new foods.

Airports

Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is the main international airport in Punta Cana, located just a few minutes' drive from most of the area's resorts. The airport is located about 16 miles (25 km) from downtown Punta Cana and accepts direct flights from major cities like New York, Toronto, and Madrid.

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