Shopping · Punta Cana · Dominican Republic
Shopping in Punta Cana
Shopping streets, markets and souvenirs worth the suitcase space.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Quick answer
Shopping focuses on Dominican specialities — larimar, amber, cigars, rum and coffee — sold in resort shops, open-air plazas and craft markets. Bargaining is normal at stalls. Best souvenirs: Larimar, Dominican amber and Cigars.
Key facts
- Shopping areas
- 3
- Markets
- 1
- Top souvenir
- Larimar
Where to shop
Palma Real Shopping Village
Open-air shopping centre in Bávaro with brand stores, restaurants and a cinema.
Los Corales and El Cortecito
Beachside souvenir shops and craft stalls.
Altos de Chavón
Artisan workshops and galleries in the replica village.
Markets
Bávaro craft markets
Rows of stalls near Bávaro beaches selling paintings, carvings and jewellery; bargain politely.
What to buy
Larimar
A blue pectolite stone found only in the Dominican Republic, sold as jewellery; buy from reputable shops.
Dominican amber
Amber jewellery and pieces with trapped insects; check authenticity before buying.
Cigars
The Dominican Republic is a major cigar producer; buy from established shops.
Mamajuana
Bottles of bark and herbs ready to fill with rum and wine at home.
Coffee and cacao
Locally grown coffee and chocolate products.
Faceless dolls
Ceramic dolls without faces, a well-known Dominican craft symbolising the country's mixed heritage.
Streets and markets worth a wander
Neighbourhood · Los Corales and El Cortecito
Los Corales and El Cortecito
The most walkable part of the coast, with beach bars, seafood restaurants, souvenir shops and fishing boats pulled up on the sand at El Cortecito.
- Time needed
- 2–3 hours
- Cost
- Low cost
- Food
- Shopping
- After dark
- Couples
Food and drink to take home
Edible souvenirs travel best when they are dry or sealed: consider Tostones, Mamajuana, Morir soñando and Presidente beer. Every Dominican restaurant and beach shack. Check your home country's rules on bringing food and drink back.
Shopping by neighbourhood
| Area | Price level | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Los Corales and El Cortecito | $$ | Walkable beach village of small hotels, condos and local restaurants |
| Punta Cana Resort area | $$$$ | Low-rise resorts, golf and the ecological reserve near the airport |
| Cap Cana | $$$$ | Gated luxury development with a marina, golf and Juanillo Beach |
| Macao | $$ | Undeveloped public beach with surf schools and fried-fish shacks |
Paying and bargaining
Prices are in DOP. Even in all-inclusives, small tips in US dollars or pesos are customary for housekeeping, bar staff and waiters. Restaurants add a 10% service charge, and an extra 5–10% for good service is common; tip tour guides and drivers too.
- Greet people with 'buenos días' or 'buenas'; politeness matters in shops and taxis.
- Paying in Dominican pesos at local shops and restaurants is often cheaper than paying in dollars.
When to shop
Shops and markets are quietest in September; the busiest months are January–March.
- December: Christmas and New Year celebrations at resorts and in local towns
Staying near the shops
Questions travellers ask
+What should I buy in Punta Cana?
Larimar, Dominican amber, Cigars and Mamajuana.
+Where is the best shopping in Punta Cana?
Palma Real Shopping Village: Open-air shopping centre in Bávaro with brand stores, restaurants and a cinema.
+What are the best markets in Punta Cana?
Bávaro craft markets.