Macao Beach, Punta Cana: Where to Swim, Surf and Eat

Why Macao is different

Most of Punta Cana’s coastline is lined with all-inclusive resorts. Macao isn’t. One large resort sits on the beach, but most of the bay is open: a long curve of golden sand, palm trees, a small cluster of beach shacks and surf schools, and limestone cliffs framing one end. Fishermen still bring their boats in here, and on weekends Dominican families come out from the surrounding towns.

It’s also the Atlantic side of the island, which gives Macao its character: real waves. That’s great for surfing and dramatic for photos, and it means you should pick your swimming spot with a bit more care than at the calm lagoons further south.

Where to swim safely

This is the one section to read carefully if you’re coming with kids or aren’t a strong swimmer.

• The end by the cliffs is usually the calmest and shallowest part of the beach. The cliffs break the swell and it’s where most people swim.
• The middle and far stretches get heavier surf and strong undertow. That’s where the surf schools work, for a reason.
• Flags: if a red flag is up, stay out of the water. On windy afternoons conditions can change within an hour.
• Lifeguards: don’t assume there is one. Swim where other people are swimming, and never alone.

Surfing at Macao

Macao is Punta Cana’s best-known surf spot, and one of the few places in the region where beginners can learn on real waves. Two established schools run lessons right on the beach:

A two-hour group lesson with board typically costs around US$40–60; private lessons cost more. Prices change, so book directly with the school and ask what’s included (board, rash guard, transport, photos).

Beginner tips: book a morning session, when the wind is lighter; wear reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard, since you’ll spend more time in the water than you expect; and don’t skip the beach briefing. It’s where you learn where the currents run.

Buggies, ATVs and when to avoid the crowds

Macao is the classic final stop on Punta Cana’s buggy and ATV tours: a muddy ride through farmland and palm groves, then a splash in the sea. It’s good fun if you’re on the tour and less fun if you came for a quiet swim, because groups tend to arrive around late morning and early afternoon.

The fix is timing. Arrive by around 9 am and you’ll have calm water and space to yourself. Late afternoon is quieter again, with softer light for photos. On Sunday afternoons the beach is at its liveliest with local families, which is great for atmosphere but not for peace.

What to eat: the beach shacks

Lunch at Macao means the row of simple beach restaurants behind the sand. Expect whole grilled or fried fish, shrimp, tostones (fried green plantain), rice and salad, cold Presidente beer and coconuts cut open in front of you.

• Ask the price first, especially for fish sold by weight. Agree on the total before it goes on the grill.
• Bring cash in Dominican pesos or small US dollar bills. Cards aren’t guaranteed.
• Lounger and umbrella rentals are usually offered by the restaurants or vendors; agree on a price, or bring your own towel and find a palm tree.
• Vendors will offer everything from jewelry to massages. A friendly “no, gracias” is enough.

Getting there

• Car: the easiest option. There’s parking near the beach access points, but it fills up on weekends. Arrive early. Our car rental guide covers insurance and driving tips.
• Taxi: agree on the fare before you get in, and arrange the pickup time for the return, since cars don’t wait around the beach.
• Tours: surf schools and buggy tours often include transport from Bávaro and Punta Cana hotels.

What to bring

• Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and a rash guard; shade is limited to palms and restaurant roofs
• Cash in pesos or small USD bills
• Water, especially if you plan to surf
• A towel (or rent a lounger)
• A dry bag for your phone; spray from the waves reaches further than you think
• Your own snacks for the kids; the shacks cook to order, which takes time

Macao Beach, Cana Bay Beach Club or a Hard Rock day?

If you’re staying in the Hard Rock / Cana Bay area, you have three very different beach days within a few minutes of each other:

Details for the other two are in the Cana Bay Beach Club guide and theHard Rock day pass guide.

Stay close to Macao

Macao is at its best early in the morning, which is much easier when you’re staying minutes away rather than in Bávaro. Our apartment in Cana Bay is in the Hard Rock resort area, a short drive from Macao, and has a private terrace that opens straight onto the pool for when you’re back from the waves. See the apartment, or read where to stay in Punta Cana to compare areas.