Updated
1. The sun and water essentials
Reef-safe sunscreen is the top item; the Caribbean sun is strong on open water and reapplying often matters. Add a hat, sunglasses, and a light cover-up for shade between activities.
A waterproof phone pouch or a waterproof camera is essential on any boat or beach day. Between speedboat spray, the Natural Pool, and the water, your phone will be near the sea all day; our guide on protecting your phone on a catamaran goes deeper.
2. Footwear and clothing
Pack water shoes for rocky entries at cenotes and snorkel stops, plus sandals you can walk in. Bring a swimsuit you feel good in and, if you like, a second light outfit so you can get dry, fresh photos after swimming.
Coordinate easy colors if you want good photos; our what to wear for excursion photos guide covers the details, and avoid brand-new shoes that saltwater and sand will ruin.
3. Cash, documents, and small extras
Bring small bills for tipping guides, drivers, and boat crew, ideally a mix of small pesos and US dollars; our tipping etiquette and currency guides explain how much. Keep a copy of your booking and your hotel details handy.
Useful extras people forget: insect repellent (vital for Los Haitises mangroves), a dry bag or zip-lock for valuables, a reusable water bottle, and any motion-sickness remedy if you are prone to it on boats.
4. What to leave behind
Leave valuables, jewelry, and anything you would be devastated to lose in the water back at the hotel safe. Bulky bags slow you down; a small daypack is enough for a beach or boat day.
Skip heavy makeup that melts in the heat and overpacking in general. The best excursion days are light, comfortable, and ready for sun and water.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the one thing I should not forget for a Punta Cana excursion?
- Reef-safe sunscreen and a waterproof phone pouch. The sun is strong on open water and your phone will be near the sea all day on most excursions.
- Do I need water shoes?
- They help a lot at cenotes and snorkel stops with rocky entries, like Hoyo Azul. For pure soft-sand beach days like Saona they are optional.
- How much cash should I pack for an excursion day?
- Enough small bills to tip guides, drivers, and crew, in a mix of small pesos and US dollars. See our tipping and currency guides for typical amounts.