Best Surf Spots in Punta Cana

Did you know that surfing is one of the most popular sports in Punta Cana? This region of the Dominican Republic has the perfect surf spots for those who love this sport and for everyone else who wants to see what it feels like to ride the crest of a wave.  

All along the 1,575 kilometres of coastline that the Dominican Republic offers, you’ll find dozens of beaches to unleash your greatest passion. From the paradisiacal beach of Barranca in Barahona, to the renowned Encuentro beach in Cabarete, or Macao beach in Punta Cana. All of which have a Caribbean climate that remains stable throughout the year, as well as exotic vegetation and endless panoramic views of the turquoise waters. 

Explore the Dominican beaches

Thanks to the different characteristics of the Dominican beaches, any surfer, regardless of their experience, can easily enjoy an active day in Punta Cana. There are lots of surf schools set up all across the island, allowing you to try your hand at this sport and providing you with the necessary equipment so that you can embark on an adventure in the sea. The beaches located on the north coast are usually more popular with surfers, but the southern surf spots are beginning to gain fame both nationally and internationally.

Macao is one of the most picturesque beaches you’ll find at this destination. It is located to the north, just 30 minutes from Punta Cana and is fully accessible to people of all ages. It is a wide beach, with a kilometre of coastline and is surrounded by coconut palms. The turquoise waters and fine white sand help to create the beautiful blue and green landscape. Thanks to its shallow waters, it is one of the best beaches for people looking to start surfing. Right on the beach, you’ll find schools with experienced professionals who will accompany you as you try out this sport for the first time.

The most intrepid surfers will find their paradise on the beaches of Río San Juan, a municipality in the María Trinidad Sánchez province, on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. Playa Grande, one of the longest in the country, attracts numerous surfers from around the world who are looking for the big waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Just a few metres away are the beaches of La Preciosa, El Barco or La Muela.

Located in Puerto Plata is a Dominican region with more than 55 kilometres of long beaches surrounded by thick vegetation and golden sands. This natural paradise with warm waters and changing winds is internationally recognised as one of the best destinations in the world for practicing sports such as surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing in Punta Cana. It is home to emblematic areas such as the Malecón sea boulevard and the town of Cabarete, with Playa Encuentro beach located just five minutes away. This enclave is a favourite among local surfers’, thanks to the many years during which it has served as a meeting point.

In one of the most beautiful natural areas of the country is Playa Cosón beach. The Samaná peninsula is fully immersed in nature and adventure, a must-see for adrenaline-seeking tourists, and offers numerous beaches for practicing sports. In this case, Cosón is still a virgin beach that is located just ten minutes from a picturesque fishing village. During your visit, you’ll be able to soak up the local culture of Las Terrenas and perfect your technique. Thanks to its location, you’ll enjoy a quiet day without the crowds. 

And on the southern coast of the Dominican Republic, Barahona is the go-to spot for those looking to have a surfing experience in the Caribbean. Due to their waves and climate, the recommended beaches for amateur surfers are Barranca, Bahoruco, Ciénaga, San Rafael and Paraíso. Its mountainous landscape has won over the hearts of all those who visit it.

Now that you know which beaches await you in the Dominican Republic, what are you waiting for to book your trip and start surfing in Punta Cana?