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Punta Cana is an area made up almost entirely of all-inclusive resorts on the east coast of Dominican Republic.

It is the top vacation destination in Dominican Republic in large part because of the reputation of its resorts and 21 miles of soft, white-sand beach shaded with coconut palms. More than 35 resorts line the beach.

Visitors typically arrive at Punta Cana International Airport, about a half hour away; La Romana Airport, about 1.5 to two hours away; or Santo Domingo International Airport, about four hours away. They travel through the largely empty countryside to reach the resorts. Once there, most visitors stay on the resort properties because of the wide-array of activities including water sports, classes, entertainment and restaurants.

Typical water sports include snorkeling, kayaking, catamaran sailing, scuba, banana boats, fishing, party boats and speed boats.

Unique nearby attractions include the village of Bavaro, where tourist can go for quick day shopping of local arts and crafts; Marinarium, a marine park that allows visitors to go snorkeling with stingrays and nurse sharks; Dolphin Experience where visitors can swim with dolphins; Manati Park, a nature preserve with permanent animal and sea life exhibits and a show with parrots, dolphins and dancing horses; and Punta Cana Ecological Reserve, which offers a short guided tour through tropical flora and a real jungle.

People wanting to leave the property for a change of scenery can visit the town of El Cortecito, a small beach town between Punta Cana-Bavaro and Macao; Higuey, the nearest city about 28 miles away; and Ponce de Leon House, home of the famous Spanish explorer from the 1500s.

The average high temperature in the Dominican Republic ranges from the low 80s Fahrenheit to the high 80s year-round. Rainfall is lowest from December through May and hits a high point in October during one of the most active months of the Caribbean hurricane season. However, the most popular months to visit are March and July, while the least popular is September followed by October.