Cancun or Punta Cana – Which One to Choose?

Cancun or Punta Cana

Punta Cana and Cancun have gained huge popularity in recent years because of their alluring nature and tranquility as vacation destinations. The island presents a perfect opportunity to relax and unwind during your vacation. When you choose a holiday destination, there are a lot of factors that come into play, and you must have all the facts about the destinations before concluding. While the two islands have significant similarities, there is a considerable difference between them, and you should consider these differences before choosing the final location.

Cancun

Cancun Beach-min

 

Cancun is the Caribbean of Mexico, and in the recent past, many people have been flocking this island to enjoy their time in the sunny weather, white sandy beaches, and swim in the blue waters. Cancun is a vibrant destination. If you are looking for a destination with cultural diversity, this is the perfect location. The Yucatan peninsula has played a key role in different eras from trade, culture, and religious center for the people from this region. You will find ancient structures and artifacts from the Mayan period.

It is truly inspirational to see the best places still preserving history and giving the current generation something to remember their ancestors about. If you want to feel at home on the white sea sandy beaches, then Cancun is your best choice. The coastline line has unparallel beauty, and it offers an opportunity to party, relax, and sample local and international cuisines on the beach. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or not, there is always something that you can do in Cancun.

More to read: The Cooks Island or Bora Bora

Punta Cana

Punta Cana

Punta Cana is known for its warm weather and exquisite white sandy beaches. The island is a perfect relaxation location for you if you want somewhere to clear your mind and relax. Data shows that over 2 million tourists annually choose Punta Cana as their holiday destination. The maritime enclave does not just give you white sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters, but there is a wide array of fun activities that you can do while in the region.

The weather is perfect all year round, and you can escape the cold winter weather and soak some sun on the island. The islands’ rains are usually torrential and do not last more than 15 minutes. This means you have enough time to enjoy the outdoor environment throughout your stay in Punta Cana. Punta Cana has over 50 kilometers of turquoise blue waters and white sandy beaches. The coastline is considered one of the national treasures because it is rich in fauna and flora that you cannot find elsewhere. The community in punt acana is welcoming and friendly, and you can sample local and international cuisine as well.

More to read: Bahamas Or Hawaii

Cancun vs Punta Cana 

Beaches

Beach in Cancun

The beach in Cancun is historic because, until the early 70s, it used to be an empty location. However, with the people changing their preferences and adding new traditions to the country’s diverse culture, the small fishing village with about 100 inhabitants changed considerably to one of the best tourist destinations in the world. There is so much infrastructure and financial investment that has been done on the over 15 mile stretch in Cancun, and private investors have also put their money into developing the best beachfront in Cancun. You will enjoy white sandy beaches with blue turquoise waters when visiting Cancun. There is so much to do and see in the area.

Punta Cana started similarly, and in the 60s, the area was almost deserted. However, several investors partnered up and changed the scenery in Punta Cana. As a result, the area developed to be one of the famous hotel destinations with an international airport and a resort city with over 5 million visitors annually. Punta Cana is filled with coconut palms, white sandy beaches, lush coral reefs, crystal clear waters, and you can enjoy fun activities at the beach such as snorkeling, kayaking, and windsurfing, among others. The beaches are kept clean by rakers who ensure you always get a pristine sandy beach.

More to read: Bonaire or Curacao

Historic sites

Chichen Itza - Mexico

Cancun is part of the Mayan civilization, and it is an integral part of the Mexican culture and is considered a getaway to the Mayan world. There are many day trips that you can take while in this region to explore the Isla Mujeres, the sacred Chichen Itza, and other locations around the area. The coral reefs and the amazing coastline are perfect for people who want to go scuba diving in Cancun. A jungle park sanctuary is a perfect place to enjoy the natural habitat as you explore the best that Mexico has to offer.

On the other hand, Punta Cana does not have many historic sites or ancient ruins. However, there is so much that you can learn about the culture and diversity of the local people. The beaches, spa, and Santo Domingo sightseeing tour will give you a different perspective on this fantastic destination. If you want to explore the ancient culture of the people, then it is a perfect place to do so.

More to read: Bahamas or Jamaica

Dining and nightlife

It is important to note that both destinations offer a perfect all-inclusive environment where you can enjoy your stay during your stay. Cancun has all-inclusive resorts that usually provide lunch and breakfast buffets. If you like to venture out, the restaurants in Cancun close at around midnight, and you can sample the local Mexican or international cuisine. There is so much that you can check out the local dining scene. You can dine as you watch the sunset on some waterfront restaurants around the area. These restaurants serve fresh seafood, international and Mexican cuisine. The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 years, and you will find many entertainment joints around the area. The party never stops, and you can hit the nightclubs in the room with a vibrant scene.

More to read: Jamaica or Puerto Rico

Punta Cana is a destination that many visitors enjoy visiting because of the all-inclusive resorts. Here, you will get all your meals in one place and enjoy some of the best local and international cuisine. Their fresh seafood dishes are tempting, and if you are feeling adventurous, you can explore the local restaurants check out what the locals consume. You can get your drinks at the nightclubs in the area, and whether you want local or international cuisine, you are likely to get everything you want in Punta Cana. There is a golf resort in the area, and you can enjoy your romantic getaway at the resort that has VIP options and celebrity chefs from Spain.

Accommodations

The accommodation in Punta Cana and Cancun is almost similar, with major differences. The main tourist attraction site in Cancun is referred to as the hotel zone, and it covers a stretch of 15 miles on the beachfront. You will find over a hundred hotels, luxury all-inclusive resorts, and small hostels that you can stay in during your stay in Cancun. The all-inclusive resorts are renowned for their exquisite luxury suites, five-star dining, beachfront access, and fantastic ocean views. Dining in these hotels is excellent. It is important to note that you can get a small hostel room for $50 and pay for a room at the luxurious hotel for $2000 per night.

Like Cancun, Punta Cana is a rich destination with over a hundred all-inclusive resorts, and there are luxury suites if you are looking for a luxurious place with an ocean view. The beachfront access is a major inclusion in the hotel in Punta Cana. There is also an adult-only option, and if you are going on a getaway, you are sure to have the time of your life. The accommodation in Punta Cana is not limited to the few rich people; you can still access some of the rooms in hostels, Airbnb’s, condos, and mid-range hotels from $50 per night to as high as $1500 per night. The hotels in Punta Cana are spaced, and you can enjoy a ride from one location to another.

Accessibility

Accessibility

When it comes to accessibility, both locations are highly accessible whether you are coming from the United States or the European continent. Cancun is located on the Yucatan peninsula, and it is easy to access for people from the Midwest or the east coast united states. Numerous airlines operate on this route, and you are sure that you will find a flight to take you to this incredible destination. The airport and hotel crew are fluent in English, and they can guide you appropriately. In addition, you can hire a private taxi for $40 to your hotel or have the hotel chauffeur you to your room.

Punta Cana is situated in the eastern part of the Dominican Republic, and it is at the junction of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The Punta Cana international airport usually receives air traffic from different parts of the world, and you can access this destination easily. Whether you are coming from the continental USA or Europe, it is easy to reach your holiday destination. You can book a private taxi or take your hotel to your hotel. The taxi prices vary in this location hence the need to carry some cash.

More to read: Bahamas or St.Lucia

Weather

Cancun has excellent weather throughout the year, and the average daily temperature is around 74 degrees Fahrenheit. There is little rainfall in the area, and when it rains, it is torrential rains which usually occur from May through September. The Caribbean Sea has tropical storms or hurricanes, and Cancun can often be affected from June through November.

Punta Cana is ideally located at the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea junction. It is a safer place because hurricanes and storms do not interfere with the island, and you are sure that you can enjoy your holiday in this awesome destination. The weather in Punta Cana is around 78 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a relatively cool place where you can soak your sunshine throughout your holiday. The rains are torrential and last for less than 15 minutes.

More to read: Belize or Bahamas

Cost

Cost of travel

The average weekly cost for you if you are traveling to Cancun your weekly spending will be around $700 per day if you are going for a budget-friendly option. However, if you want to live largely and enjoy the luxury, the budget remains limitless, and you can get all the luxury amenities on the beachfront with fine dining from gourmet chefs.

Punta Cana is a relatively expensive location, and you will spend around $720 per week if you are a budget traveler. However, there are plenty of options that you can get while in the region. You are not restricted to the expensive options only. The people are friendly, and you can find restaurants around the area. On the other hand, if you are going on a luxurious cruise, you can explore all the options Punta Cana will give you.

Safety

Cancun is a relatively safe destination, and the crime rate is low. However, you should take adequate precautions with your belongings as a tourist. For example, you should not flash cash or jewelry while moving around because you might attract thieves. On the other hand, if you stick to your location, you will be safe and enjoy your vacation.

Punta Cana is a safe destination, and as much as crimes are a risk everywhere in the country, you will enjoy your time with ease while in this location. You must stay safe at your location and do not tempt muggers or thieves by flashing jewelry and money around. Punta Cana promises a lifetime experience that you can only get in this region.

Summary

When choosing your next holiday destination, you should have a criterion of what you are looking for in a location. When you visit a location on a budget, you should look at the cost, accommodation, meals, and places to visit. Generally, these two locations provide anyone with the most memorable vacation you can have in the world. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning, you should always review your destinations before making a final decision.

Aurimas Bio

Hi there! I’m Aurimas, a man behind Go Look Explore. I’m passionate about hiking, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and everything outdoors related. Let’s connect.