The best places for whale watching in Punta Cana

Punta Cana is known for the beauty of its beaches, which makes it a world-renowned tourist attraction. However, did you know that you can also go whale watching in Punta Cana? Many cetaceans come to Punta Cana to give birth to their young. Watching them is a unique spectacle that you should not miss if, during your holidays, you want to live an experience that you will never forget. The Lopesan Hotel Group will be pleased to tell you about the best places for whale watching in Punta Cana. Let’s get started!

Samana Bay: One of the best places for whale watching in Punta Cana

Located in the northeast of the Dominican Republic, the Bay of Samaná becomes one of nature’s most spectacular sceneries every year. Thousands of humpback whales leave the cold waters of the Atlantic to approach the warmer waters of the tropics where they have their breeding grounds.

In order to protect all marine fauna, the Humpback Whale Sanctuary was created in Samaná. This protected area of more than 50,000 km 2 is not only home to whales, but also to dolphins, orcas and manatees.

It is estimated that between 1,500 and 2,000 humpback whales come to Samana Bay each year. The first specimens begin to arrive during the month of November, while the last ones leave in April. If you want to see whales in Punta Cana, you should know that the whale watching period starts in mid-January and ends in late March, although the best time to go whale watching is February.

In order to visit the Samaná Sanctuary, boat or motorboat excursions of about 4 hours’ duration are organised. They take you all over the area in search of the best places for whale watching in Punta Cana. Don’t forget your camera!

In case the sea conditions are not favourable or you don’t want to go on board, you also have the option of going to the Land Whale Observatory. This viewpoint is one of the best places to see the whales from land. If you go outside the whale watching season or if you want to learn more about whales you can visit the Whale Museum in Samaná, you’ sure will love it!

Banco de la Plata: a stopover for migrating whales

The Banco de la Plata is located about 80 nautical miles off the north coast of the Dominican Republic. It is a submarine platform of coral origin. It has an average depth of 20 metres and belongs to a system of banks extending from the Bahamas to the Banco de la Navidad.

These waters are very calm, which allows humpback whales to breed in the winter season. After a short stay in the area, the whales return with their calves to the North Atlantic.

It is estimated that between 2,500 and 3,000 whales come to the Silver Bank. Approximately 85% of the Atlantic humpback whale population is born in this sanctuary. You can swim and snorkel in areas that have been set aside for this purpose. Access is by boats duly authorised by the Dominican government.

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Parque Nacional del Este: go out to sea and whale-watch in Punta Cana

The Parque Nacional del Este is one of the most beautiful areas of the Dominican Republic. It is located in the southeastern part of the country. Its long stretches of beach allow you to dive among coral reefs where you can find manatees, dolphins and other marine creatures. It is also home to more than 500 species of flowers and 300 varieties of birds. The park covers an area of about 430 m² and has three different climatic zones. This makes for very lush vegetation.

On the other hand, it has caves that are adorned with symbols belonging to the indigenous gods. These caves explain the history of the inhabitants of the park 500 years ago, that is, the pre-Columbian peoples. The themes depicted range from daily life to religious beliefs. There is also a wealth of cave art. In the caves you can discover objects made of pottery, stone or other minerals.

In this area, numerous excursions are organised so that you can see different marine mammals, such as dolphins and whales up close. They include both land and sea transport, as well as meals, allowing you to enjoy a complete experience.

Saona Island: whale watching in Punta Cana only 30 km from Punta Cana

Saona Island is not only a place to see whales in Punta Cana. This island was very important for the indigenous people, as it offered them refuge when they lost Hispaniola to the troops of Juan de Esquivel. It has long beaches with clear sands and crystal clear waters.

It stands out for being a very important area where sea turtles lay their eggs. You can also see other marine mammals such as Atlantic spotted dolphins. There are also sea manatees and brown pelicans.

If you want to go whale watching in Punta Cana, there are different tours available where you can take a boat trip while watching these imposing aquatic mammals. One of the highlights of these trips is that you have a whale specialist on board to answer your questions.

Don’t miss the opportunity to listen to the males as they sing and perform displays of breaches, tail wagging or flapping in order to impress the females. It’s a unique experience!

As you can see, if you want to go whale watching in Punta Cana, you have many options. We recommend that you go during the winter months, as this is when the whales are in full gestation and, therefore, you will be able to watch the whole process unfold. On the other hand, if you are looking for accommodations in the area, don’t forget to check out the hotel offer provided by the Lopesan Hotel Group.

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Where to stay in the Dominican Republic?

Now that you know where you can go whale watching in Punta Cana, all you have to do is book a charming hotel on the island. At Grupo Lopesan we have the spectacular Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino, which has a variety of green spaces, multiple freshwater pools and fantastic cuisine.

The resort has privileged access to one of the most attractive beaches in Punta Cana, Playa Bávaro.

Enter our website and book your holiday in the Dominican Republic now!