Given the community's vast resort infrastructure, Punta Cana has no trouble entertaining its guests. Pristine ecological reserves are open for guided tours on which hikers can learn about the indigenous plant and animal life, while horseback and helicopter rides open up the hinterland, revealing secluded waterfalls. The single most popular tour is to the Saona Islands, where idyllic beaches and a traditional fishing village await guests.
Casinos
The Dominican Republic has a strong gaming reputation, and Punta Cana does not disappoint in this arena. There are six prominent casinos in the region, all of which offer slot machines. Most local casinos also operate table games like poker and blackjack in addition to old standards such as billiards and roulette. The fun usually starts at around 20:00 and continues until well after midnight.
Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve
A beautiful tract of forest reserve, this pristine hideaway is often overlooked by visitors. Onsite is a collection of 12 lagoons that open for swimming, the Yuaga underground river, and stands of mangrove trees along the coast. Sponsored by the Punta Cana Ecological Foundation, the Indigenous Eyes reserve is part of a campaign to promote the Dominican Republic's culture and natural beauty. Phone: +809 959 9221 (Ecological Foundation).
Marinarium
This is a seaside marine park that offers visitors the opportunity to swim with sting rays and nurse sharks. The entire complex is an exclusive marine environment that has been tamed into a safe tourist experience. Double-decker catamarans carry guests over a variety of marine habitats that are easily viewed through the boat's glass bottom. Expansive areas are set aside for snorkelling, and equipment is provided. Entertainment and plenty of refreshments are available. Phone: +809 689 5183; www.marinarium.com
Marlboro Waterfall
This waterfall is found outside of Punta Cana between Miches and Pedro Sanchez. A dirt road accesses the waterfall, and one of the most popular ways to travel here is on horseback. Tours like these provide ample opportunity to take in the view or take photographs, and most tours arrange a picnic lunch at the base of the waterfall. It is also possible to charter a helicopter ride for an unparalleled aerial view of Marlboro Waterfall.
Punta Cana Ecological Reserve
Guided tours are available through this swath of authentic, protected jungle situated just 15 minutes from the airport. Tours afford an up-close look at the local flora, and once the walk is over visitors have the opportunity to swim in a refreshingly cool spring at the end of the trail.
Saona Island
This large island found off the coast of Altagracia province is a popular daytrip destination for tourists stationed across the east coast. Boats of all sizes (ranging from catamarans to full-scale tourist boats) are often escorted by pods of dolphins along the way. The two most popular stops on Saona Island are the Mano Juan fishing village and the brilliant, white-sand Palmilla Beach.
