Punta Cana is kicking off high season at full pace: more flights every week, record figures for the country and an events calendar that picks up toward November.

What's making news this week

This week, October 19–25, Punta Cana International Airport has 587 arrivals scheduled, 31 more than the week before; Panama City, Bogotá, Lima, Toronto and Miami are among the origins with the most flights, and hoteliers expect a very good season for November, December and January. Nationwide, the Ministry of Tourism reported that the Dominican Republic received more than 9.2 million visitors between January and September, 7.5% more than last year, with 684,831 visitors in September (up 16.4%). And on the calendar: Afro Fest Punta Cana, from the Afro Nation brand, is announced for November 6–8 (venue and lineup to be confirmed on its official site).

Must-do activities

  • Catalina Island — a catamaran trip to a small island off La Romana, with very good reef snorkeling.
  • Playa Los Corales — a stretch of Bávaro with restaurants and bars on the sand, ideal for lunch with your feet in the sand.
  • Playa El Cortecito — a fishing and crafts area in Bávaro, good for strolls and boat outings.
  • Monkeyland — a squirrel monkey reserve in rural Anamuya, combined with cacao and coffee plantations.
  • Dolphin Explorer — a marine park in Bávaro with dolphin and sea lion interaction programs.

Best spots to visit

The Cueva de las Maravillas, between La Romana and San Pedro de Macorís, is a cave with Taíno rock art and a lit, accessible route. It's a half-day trip very different from the beach, perfect if you want to learn about the island's pre-Hispanic history.

Where to stay: the top-rated hotels

  • Iberostar Selection Bávaro — all-inclusive on a wide beach, with a golf course nearby and family options.
  • Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana — adults-only in Bávaro, with unlimited service and a romantic feel.
  • Club Med Punta Cana — all-inclusive with a flying trapeze, water sports and kids' clubs by age.
  • Catalonia Bávaro Beach, Golf & Casino Resort — beachfront, with its own golf course and good value.
  • Ocean El Faro — a resort in Uvero Alto with large pools and a calm beach.

Where to eat

At Playa Los Corales, Huracán Café is a classic for fresh fish with a sea view; for a more elaborate dinner in Bávaro, Noah Restaurant offers chef-driven international cuisine in an intimate setting.