Praia Macao

Macao is Punta Cana's untamed public beach — a broad sweep of golden sand backed by rugged cliffs and open Atlantic surf, far rawer than the calm resort strands to the south. It's the area's main surf spot and a regular stop on buggy and ATV tours, which roar down to the shore through red-dirt country lanes. The bigger swell and dramatic coastline give it a wild, cinematic mood you won't find on the sheltered beaches. Our photographers capture the breaking waves, the surfers and the cliff-framed bay, with the best light in the morning before the wind builds; the sea is liveliest with Atlantic swell and the sand at its golden best year-round.