Why there’s no off-season in Punta Cana

There’s a reason they call the Dominican Republic the land of eternal summer. Dominican weather is warm year-round, with average highs around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideal beach weather! During the so-called “cool” season (from November through April), daytime temperatures on the coasts are generally in the low- to mid-80s (Fahrenheit), with temps dropping during the evening to a comfortable 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Thanks to this lovely climate, the Caribbean Sea is a bath-like 82 degrees Fahrenheit. the fall and winter months. That means you'll be able to spend plenty of time swimming and snorkeling during your vacation in the winter sun (see below for some Dominican on-the-water adventures you don’t want to miss).

• Dominican Republic packing tip: You may want to show off the gym body you’ve been working on during the winter months. But it’s a good idea to cover up at least for part of the day while you’re out in the sun to avoid over-exposure. A flowing, light cotton cardigan is a stylish solution. Get more skin care tips for your Punta Cana getaway.

Dominican weather is perfectly matched by Dominican Republic beaches. These beaches are legendary, of course. But they’re not just for rest and relaxation. Punta Cana beaches are the launch pad for countless aquatic adventures. And, as mentioned above, the water during the fall and winter is as comfortable as can be. Dive in! The best Dominican scuba and snorkeling can be found just off the coast of Punta Cana on such islands as Catalina Island and Saona Island. These island paradises offer calm waters, dazzling marine life and postcard-worthy beaches. Take a day trip out to one of these idyllic spots during your Dominican vacation – and see what’s happening beneath the waves! Discover more Dominican aquatic adventures.

One of the best ways to experience Dominican Culture in the Punta Cana area is to schedule your vacation around one of the off-season’s exciting festivals.

• Guloya Festival Dominican Republic: Ring in the new year in the Dominican Republic! The year kicks off in lively fashion in the southeastern city of San Pedro de Macorís’ Miramar neighborhood during the Guloya Festival, which draws massive crowds. During this vibrant Dominican Republic festival, you’ll sees colorfully costumed Guloya troupes dancing through the streets to the sounds of drums and flutes, celebrating Afro-Dominican heritage. The Guloyas’ dance is amazing and intricate – and it’s been classified by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Patrimony of Humanity.
• Carnival Dominican Republic Dominican Carnival (carnaval dominicano) is one of the best Dominican Republic festivals. Taking place every Sunday during the month of February, Carnival is a vibrant celebration – and one of the most fun places to experience it is in the capital city of Santo Domingo. Take part in colorful parades filled with incredible sights, dine on authentic Dominican cuisine and party with friendly locals. Year after year, the parties and parades are legendary, with Dominicans donning intricate costumes and masks that symbolize characters from the country’s past.

If you’re a golf-lover who misses the greens during the snowy months, have no fear. The Dominican weather in the fall and winter seasons make for perfect fairways experiences. Your best bet is the Lakes Golf Course. Playing on this 18-hole P.B. Dye-designed course isn’t just a day out on the links – it’s an immersive journey. The meticulously manicured course features rolling fairways that traverse through a lush mangrove forest, with 25 inland lakes and 122 strategically positioned bunkers.

• Winter Punta Cana golf promotion for Barceló Bávaro Palace and Barceló Bávaro Beach guests: Valid from Nov. 1, 2019 through April 30, 2020, you’ll get one free green fee per player included for every night’s stay. Learn more and book.

Are you in the mood for a Dominican Republic eco-adventure. Barceló Bávaro Palace and Barceló Bávaro Beach are the perfect home base for a Dominican Republic whale watching journey. Just a short shuttle drive from the coast, vessels await to take you out on the water in Samaná’s Sanctuary of the Humpback Whales. Quite simply, this is one of the best whale watching spots in the world. Samaná’s waters are off-limits to any boats except for whale watching boats, so the humpbacks here are comfortable and friendly. Learn more about Dominican Republic whale watching.