A girls trip to the Dominican Republic? In Punta Cana? While staying at an incredible all inclusive resort? YES PLEASE! I’ll be sharing where to eat, stay, and play in this girls trip guide to Punta Cana

My best friend and I just got back from a girls’ trip in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic at Lopesan Costa Bavaro, and it was everything we needed and more.  Curious about where we stayed, what local delights we devoured, and all the exciting adventures we had at Lopesan Costa Bavaro? Allow me to take you on a virtual adventure!. Sit back, relax, and let me take you on a journey through the sun-soaked wonders of Punta Cana.

About The Dominican Republic

Punta Cana, a jewel in the Dominican Republic’s crown, graces the island’s eastern tip.  Picture this: turquoise waters, sugar-white sand beaches, a vibrant nightlife scene pulsating with energy(Fun fact: Bachata originated in the Dominican Republic), and a plethora of resorts catering to your every whim. Punta Cana is a Caribbean paradise waiting to be explored. The key? Staying at a resort that will be the perfect home away from home while you live your best life and Lopesan Costa Bavaro did indeed unlock some life-long memories for myself and my best friend. This girls trip guide to Punta Cana will give you the lowdown on how to make the absolute most of your trip!

High season is December through April with dry weather, fair temperatures due to seasonal trade winds. We visited in February and every local assured us that this was an incredible time to visit with moderate temperatures. The timing was impeccable! 

Getting There and Entry Requirements

Since I’m based in Houston, Texas, I flew from Houston (IAH) to Miami (MIA) and then hopped a direct flight to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). The flight is quick and easy, plus there’s no time difference between Texas and the Dominican Republic, so jet lag wasn’t a major concern.

For US citizens, you’ll need a valid passport (and it shouldn’t expire within six months of your trip!). You don’t need a visa, and both entering and leaving the Dominican Republic requires purchasing a tourist card that can be obtained before you travel or at the airport.

Lopesan Costa Bavaro provides super convenient transportation from the airport to the resort and back, taking the stress out of navigating your way around.

Girls trip guide to Punta Cana: Where to Stay | Lopesan Costa Bavaro

Okay, so listen.  Picture this: you pull up to Lopesan Costa Bavaro, and bam!  We were greeted with champagne upon arrival and this truly set the tone for the rest of our stay.   This gorgeous resort, built just a couple years ago in 2019, is all about chic vibes and relaxation.  The rooms are super spacious and clean, just perfect for kicking back and unwinding.

I’ll admit, I’m not exactly a resort regular, but this place seriously redefined the experience for me.  Lopesan boasts incredible restaurants (we’ll get to that deliciousness in a sec!), daily yoga classes for my fellow yogis out there, and even a dedicated adults-only section where you’re searching for tranquility.  And oh man, the beach?  Imagine the most crystal-clear water you’ve ever seen lapping at the softest sand ever – it’s seriously like stepping into a postcard.

Girls trip guide to Punta Cana: Where to Play

Exhilarating ATV and Cave Jumping Excursion:  | An exhilarating four-wheeling excursion took us off-road through rugged terrain and included a frightening yet exciting jump into a crystal-clear cave. It was the perfect prelude to sipping coconuts and eating fried plantain on a picturesque beach.10/10 recommend!

Boozy Boat Party | After seeing the reviews, I knew I just had to book this. Think Caribbean cocktails, a sandbar stop, a perfect blend of Island and hip-hop jams, beautiful weather,  underwater snorkeling, and an infectious energy among a fun crowd of international travelers. Your girl was salsa dancing on board and talkin’ it up with fellow travelers in the ocean all at once. 

Starting the day with breakfast and coffee at Bavaro Coffee within the resort and ending with dinner on-site provided ultimate convenience and returning to Lopesan Costa Bavaro each evening was truly the cherry on top.

And despite these off-resort adventures, the best part was coming ‘home’ to the comfort of Lopesan Costa Bavaro each day. Those looking to stay close to the resort will not be disappointed! I met plenty of travelers who never stepped foot off the resort and they were more than satisfied with their trip. It makes complete sense given that Lopesan Costa Bavaro is jam-packed with entertainment. 

Don’t miss the various bars, including Chia Lounge, a speakeasy, an English pub, a Tequila Bar, Baco wine bar, and Coralino bar – all perfect for unwinding and meeting fellow travelers. From salsa dancing at the pavilion with a live band to sipping red wine at Baco wine bar to taking shots at the tequila bar, there were countless opportunities to connect with other travelers – which is my favorite thing about travel!  I even tried(and failed) my hand at bowling! Live performances at the theater,  drinks at the Coralino bar,  and a lively atmosphere across multiple bars made sure our evenings were always brimming with fun.

Girls trip guide to Punta Cana: Where and What to Eat

Foodies, get ready! Lopesan Costa Bavaro offers a taste of the Dominican Republic as part of the all-inclusive package. Make sure to indulge in some of these local delights at the Buffet Atlantico.

• Mangu: Mashed plantains – a savory breakfast staple.
• Tostones: Twice-fried plantains, my favorite crispy snack! 
• Empanadas: Savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, or veggies. A must try!
• Habichuelas con Dulce: Suprisingly delicious sweet creamy beans.
• Sancocho: A hearty stew often with seven types of meat (a national treasure).
• La Bandera Dominicana: The ‘Dominican flag’ – rice, beans, and stewed meat.
• Pastelón: A plantain casserole filled with savory goodness.
• Pescado Frito: Whole fried fish, a coastal staple.

The Best of Both Worlds at Lopesan Costa Bavaro

For those days when you crave the resort’s ease and variety, Lopesan delivers with a wide variety of food options:

• El Charro: My top pick for authentic, drool-worthy Mexican cuisine. Get the Pozole – trust me on this!
• Mareas: A spot to savor fresh seafood dishes as you overlook the ocean.
• Mediterraneo: Perfect for indulging in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean.
• Inari: An exciting Japanese hibachi experience!
• Buffet Atlantico: An international buffet that I enjoyed for breakfast and dinner.

In conclusion, my trip to Punta Cana was a dream come true, filled with unforgettable moments shared with my lifelong friend. As I said, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this resort but ya’ll know I’m all about switching it up and I was certainly rewarded.

From the seamless and convenient travel arrangements to the exceptional stay at Lopesan Costa Bavaro, every aspect of the trip exceeded my expectations. Exploring beyond the resort added an extra layer of adventure, allowing me to experience the best of both worlds. The flavors of the Dominican Republic, coupled with the all-inclusive perks at Lopesan Costa Bavaro, made the trip truly remarkable.

Y’all know I love to be on-the-go but this is why it felt so special to take it easy and soak up all the magic that the Dominican Republic has to offer. Whether you want relaxation or excitement, Punta Cana has it all. Lopesan Costa Bavaro is the perfect base for your Caribbean getaway!