Punta Cana keeps its momentum: more air arrivals, a food calendar in Bávaro and plenty of hotel options to plan ahead.

What's making news this week

October 18–25 brings the 11th edition of Punta Cana Culinary Week at the Barceló Bávaro Grand Resort, with themed dinners, chocolate tastings and rum masterclasses with ten chefs, according to the announced program. By the numbers, Punta Cana's airport received 2.6 million tourists between January and May 2026 (66% of the country's air arrivals), 11% more than the year before. A practical tip for arrival: Terminal A mostly serves flights from Canada and Europe, and Terminal B those from the United States and the Americas.

Must-do activities

  • Culinary Week in Bávaro — a week of food experiences by the beach, October 18–25.
  • Uvero Alto Beach — a long, quiet beach north of Bávaro, with less bustle than the central area.
  • Punta Espada Golf Club — a Cap Cana golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus, with holes along the sea.
  • Altos de Chavón — a re-creation of a 16th-century Mediterranean village in La Romana, with an amphitheater and river views.
  • Bávaro at sunset — a walk or bike ride along the beach in golden light, without leaving the hotel zone.

Best spots to visit

For a change of pace, Altos de Chavón is a day trip very different from the beach: cobblestone streets, crafts, galleries and a view of the Chavón River, a little over an hour from Punta Cana.

Where to stay: the top-rated hotels

  • Barceló Bávaro Grand Resort — host of Culinary Week, with plenty of restaurants and bars.
  • Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa — all-inclusive with large gardens, several pools and programs for the whole family.
  • TRS Turquesa Hotel — adults-only, with a luxury feel and personalized service.
  • Royalton Splash Punta Cana — built for families, with a water park and kids' activities.
  • Bahia Principe Grand Bávaro — all-inclusive on one of the area's widest beaches.

Where to eat

If you love food, October is a good time: Culinary Week brings chefs together at the Barceló Bávaro Grand Resort with themed dinners and tastings open to visitors (it's worth confirming reservations with the hotel).