Planning your trip to paradise and want to take home souvenirs from every trip? Then this article is for you. We will take you on a tour of the best places to shop in Punta Cana, such as hotel galleries or local markets (mercadillos as they are called in Europe). Get ready to explore a wide variety of options to suit all tastes and budgets – don’t forget your wish list and let’s get started!
Shopping tips
Before we tell you where to go shopping, we would like to give you some tips that we feel are essential to making your shopping experience in Punta Cana a complete and positive one. From tips before your trip to how to get around once you’re there, these tips will help you have a great shopping experience. Take note of these handy tips!
Before you travel:
- Check customs restrictions: Before you travel, it is a good idea to check the customs restrictions on bringing goods into your home country. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises or extra costs when you return.
- Research prices: It is important to research the prices of products both in your home country and in Punta Cana to avoid possible scams and to compare quality and prices.
- Research local specialities: Look for unique products that can only be found in Punta Cana or the Dominican Republic. These may include local handicrafts, rum products, Dominican coffee and handmade items that would make perfect souvenirs of your trip.
- Make a shopping list: Making a shopping list will help you prioritise what you really need and avoid unnecessary spending during your trip.
In Punta Cana:
- Carry cash: Although some shops and establishments in Punta Cana accept credit cards, it is important to carry enough cash, especially when visiting local markets. Many vendors prefer cash and ATMs may not be available everywhere.
- Think about the space in your suitcase: Remember that you will need to take everything you buy with you, so make sure you have enough room in your luggage for your new purchases.
- Shop for bargains: It’s normal to haggle over prices in local markets and souvenir shops. Don’t be afraid to offer a lower price, but be respectful.
- Beware of counterfeit goods: There are many counterfeit goods in Punta Cana, especially clothing, perfumes and electronics. Buy from reputable shops.
- Look for quality: Some products may be of poor quality, so check them thoroughly before buying.
- Know the opening hours of the shops: Some shops or markets may have special opening hours, especially during holidays or low season. Make sure you check these to plan your shopping days effectively.
- Ask about return policies: Before you make a purchase, especially for higher value items, ask about the store’s return policy. This will give you peace of mind if you find a fault with the product after you have purchased it.
- Check shipping options: If you find something you love but it’s too big to fit in your suitcase, check the shipping options. Some stores offer to ship your purchases directly to your home, which can be very convenient.
Hotel galleries
Many hotels in Punta Cana have shopping arcades to provide guests with a convenient shopping experience during their stay. They are ideal for those who wish to purchase products without going too far from their accommodation.
At the Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino you will find The Boulevard. With an impressive extension of more than 20,000 square metres, The Boulevard is a great option for shopping and entertainment in the area, although it stands out for being much more than a simple commercial space; it is a universe of fun and sensations designed to enrich your stay with its diverse range of establishments.
The Boulevard offers a wide range of facilities to make shopping a unique and enjoyable experience, from the casino and spa to the various restaurants and bars. What’s more, we haven’t forgotten about families, so the complex has facilities for children and teenagers.
Punta Cana handicraft markets: A journey into Dominican culture
One cultural experience not to be missed in Punta Cana is the markets (or mercadillos). Each one reflects different aspects of local life through handicrafts and culinary delights, among many other curiosities. They are the perfect place to take home a souvenir, a little piece of Punta Cana to keep or give to someone when you return.
Discover the essence of Punta Cana through its handicraft markets. Let yourself be carried away by the colours, textures and aromas of the products made by local artisans. Find the perfect souvenir to take home a little piece of the island.
Bibijagua handicraft market
One of the most outstanding craft markets is the Mercado Artesanal Bibijagua, located in Bávaro. This market sells handicrafts such as amber and larimar jewellery, wooden carvings, paintings, textiles, ceramics, souvenirs and typical products such as rum and Dominican coffee. Immerse yourself in a charming atmosphere with live music and colourful stalls, ideal for strolling around, discovering unique gifts and immersing yourself in authentic local culture.
Other excellent places to find handicrafts in Punta Cana include the Bávaro Municipal Market, which offers a wide variety of fresh produce and handicrafts at affordable prices. BlueMall Punta Cana is another alternative, with a shop called “Artesanía Dominicana” offering high quality handicrafts. In the Los Corales area you will find small craft stalls along the street where you can discover unique pieces handmade by local artisans.
Do you already have an idea of where to do your shopping in Punta Cana?
We hope you’ve taken note of our tips, because we have an exclusive recommendation for you: if you’re thinking about where to stay in Punta Cana, take a look at our Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort & Spa and make the most of your trip. Adventure and shopping are waiting for you!
