Punta Cana Resort - Where the Atlantic Meets the Caribbean The Atlantic and the Caribbean converge at various places, but none more beautiful than the Dominican Republic's east coast and the beach resorts from Punta Cana to Bavaro Beach, 40 miles of unspoiled tropical coastline that offers the best of the ocean and the sea. From pearl white sand beaches studded with over abundant coconut trees, the land is exotic, tropical and totally natural, and offers the best of the Dominican Republic's all inclusive resorts. The coastline is dotted with local communities and attractions, including (from south to north) Cap Cana (Juanillo), Punta Cana, Cabeza de Toro, Bavaro, El Cortecito, Arena Gorda, Macao and Uvero Alto. Here the Atlantic and the Caribbean converge, and the steady winds generated by the two systems are a sailboarder's paradise. While the area is home to the best resorts in the Republic, there are plenty of outdoor activities and adventures that await. Sponsored Links Top Punta Cana ResortsPremier Hotel/Resort in Punta Cana Buy Direct & Get Discount Rates!www.occidentalhotels.com Punta Cana All-InclusiveUpfront 10% Off Punta C air/hotel pgs via Apple 215 348 9810www.DoylestownTravel.com Punta Cana On Sale NowCheapCaribbean.com all inclusive resorts and vacations on sale nowcheapcaribbean.com Both active and passive travelers can enjoy many sports through the local resorts. Snorkeling, diving, windsurfing and parasailing are hot pursuits. Punta Cana also features the longest coral reef on the whole island - about 30 kilometers in length. Shore snorkeling isn't that great, but excursions take groups out to the Aquarium and towards the reef off El Cortecito beach where snorkeling is optimal for all skill levels. Diving is limited because of shallow water, but there are a couple of worthy dives available. World class fishing and golfing are two other favorite sports, plus hikes along the unspoiled beaches are always a welcome activity when the dullness of the casinos and resorts get you yearning for the great outdoors. And while resort life may not be your bag of bones, you'll find these resorts a little different than your average tropical resort offerings. For one, many offer special water sport packages for active travelers, and most cater to either couples or families, so you'll have more time to adventure and less time to party. Of course, the serious party lover can always spend time in the casinos. There are four casinos in the area: Riu Palace, Barcelo Bavaro Casino, Paradisus Casino, the Catalonia Casino and the newest and largest Bavaro Princess casino. Or you can dance the night away at the resort night clubs. But nightlife on the east coast has been described as being a little dull, with a few exceptions. Other area attractions include safari-type excursions on four-wheel bikes, buggy rides, jeep safaris, monster trucks and helicopter rides. A dozen or so local tour companies offer these adventures that take you to observe tropical wilderness, visit a countryside home where a typical Dominican food lunch will be served, examine tropical crops, take a dip at a deserted beach or for a swim in a cool river, and other tours. Horseback riding is also popular in Punta Cana with the option of riding on deserted white-sand beaches. Nearby is the Manati Park Bavaro, a 130,000 square meter preserve with permanent exhibits of birds, reptiles, and fish. A show with parrots, dolphins and dancing horses is included in the admission fee. A free shuttle bus to and from principal hotels in the area is available. Just 15 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport is the Punta Cana Ecological Reserve. Here you can take a short guided tour through tropical flora with an optional refreshing bath in a cool spring at the end of the trail. You will be walking through a real jungle, so come dressed for the occasion. While the Dominican Republic's east coast isn't the best adventure land in the Caribbean, it does offer few crowds and great natural beauty. Try it once and chances are good you'll want to come back.