There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Punta Cana into a quick city adventure. From PUJ, the Taxi/Shuttle can get you into town in around 55 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave PUJ:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Dominican Republic. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Punta Cana takes about 55 minutes by Taxi/Shuttle. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is DOP. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
What to See and Do in Punta Cana
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Punta Cana, two standouts are:
- Playa Blanca — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Ojos IndÃgenas Ecological Park and Reserve — Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside PUJ — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Punta Cana International Airport VIP Lounge (Terminal B)
- Duty-Free Shopping at PUJ
Getting to Punta Cana from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Punta Cana is the Taxi/Shuttle, which takes about 55 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 75 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Shuttle is usually the smarter call.
Where to Eat
- In the city: La Yola Restaurant and Noah Restaurant & Lounge are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Punta Cana.
- At the airport: Cafe Santo Domingo and A Taste of the DR will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Punta Cana, budget roughly $42 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $21 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $11 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Punta Cana.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PUJ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Punta Cana or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Bag Storage Near PUJ
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At PUJ, you’ll find bag storage at Not available.
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Sleep & Lounge Options at PUJ
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, PUJ has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Punta Cana count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave PUJ. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.