Visit Macao Beach (Playa Macao) in the Dominican Republic

Macao Beach Punta Cana (Playa Macao) is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. With golden sand, turquoise water, and an authentic local atmosphere, it feels different from the resort beaches nearby. You can surf, ride horses on the shore, take a dune buggy tour, or enjoy fresh seafood right by the sea. Once a quiet fishing spot, it began to welcome more visitors after Dreams Macao Beach Resort opened in 2020, and today the adults-only Secrets Macao is being built to bring even more luxury to the area. Still, Playa Macao keeps its natural beauty and Dominican charm, making it one of the top beaches to experience in Punta Cana. Plan your visit or book a tour to see it for yourself.

Table of Contents

• How to Get to Macao Beach

• Dreams Macao Resort and Secrets Macao Beach

• Excursions & Activities at Macao Beach

• Local Vendors & Restaurants

• What to Pack for a Visit to Macao Beach

• Tips for Visiting Macao Beach

How to Get to Macao Beach

Macao Beach is about 40 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) and only 20 minutes from the Bávaro area. Here are the main ways to get there:

Taxi and Ride-Sharing
The fastest and most common way to reach Macao is by taxi. They’re easy to find at resorts and around Bávaro, but they can be expensive, so agree on the fare before the ride. Uber also works in Punta Cana and is usually cheaper, though finding a return ride from Macao can sometimes be tricky. To avoid stress, arrange your pickup in advance.

Guided Excursion
Many visitors experience Macao Beach as part of a tour. Popular choices include dune buggy rides through the countryside, ATV safaris, and horseback riding right on the sand. These excursions come with hotel pick-up and drop-off, which makes them one of the easiest and most fun ways to see the beach without worrying about transportation. A lot of people visit Playa Macao as part of a tour. These often include activities like dune buggies. We’ll dive into the best excursions later in this blog post.

Rental Car
Renting a car gives you full flexibility. You can come and go on your own schedule, pack everything you need for a beach day, and avoid waiting for taxis or tour buses. The road to Macao is smooth, parking is free, and rentals are widely available in Punta Cana. Book your car in advance on trusted platforms like Booking.com or EnjoyTravel to secure the best rates.

Public Transportation
For the adventurous, local buses called guaguas run between Bávaro and Macao. They’re very cheap and give you a taste of Dominican daily life, but expect loud music, packed seats, and no set schedule. It’s not the most reliable option, but it’s an authentic experience if you’re up for it.

For more details on getting around, check out our full guide to Transportation in the Dominican Republic

Dreams Macao Resort and Secrets Macao Beach

On the soft sands of Playa Macao you’ll find Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana, the first luxury resort built directly on this beach. Opened in 2020, it’s an all-inclusive property that blends comfort with Macao’s natural charm. Families love the kids’ and teens’ clubs, while couples enjoy ocean-view suites, an infinity pool, a full-service spa, and gourmet dining. There’s even a water park, nightly entertainment, and plenty of activities for all ages. Guests can step right from the resort onto the public side of Playa Macao to enjoy the local vibe. Check rates and availability at Dreams Macao and plan your stay.

Right next door, a new addition is on the way: Secrets Macao Beach Punta Cana, an adults-only luxury resort set to open in 2026. It will feature over 400 suites, including swim-out and rooftop options, along with nine restaurants and nine bars. One highlight will be a farm-to-table restaurant in an organic garden, offering fresh regional flavors in a unique setting. Guests can also look forward to three pools, including a rooftop pool with panoramic Atlantic views, plus full access to all of Dreams Macao’s facilities. Secrets will bring Hyatt’s signature Unlimited-Luxury® experience, designed for couples and travelers who want a private, romantic escape. Keep an eye out for updates and book early once reservations open.

Excursions & Activities at Macao Beach

Playa Macao is more than a beautiful stretch of sand. It is one of the few beaches in Punta Cana where you can mix adventure with authentic local life. From learning to surf and riding horses by the water to exploring the countryside on an ATV, Macao offers experiences that make a day at the beach unforgettable.

Surfing

Macao Beach is one of the best surfing spots in the Dominican Republic. Unlike other beaches in Punta Cana, it has waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. You can rent boards or take lessons at Macao Surf Camp, which offers classes for all levels.

Horseback Riding

Few experiences compare to riding a horse along the wide golden shore with the sound of the waves at your side. Local operators also combine these rides with visits to nearby villages or cocoa farms, giving you a glimpse of Dominican culture beyond the beach.

Dune Buggy and ATV Adventures

For pure adrenaline, Macao is famous for its buggy and ATV tours. These trips take you off-road through muddy tracks, palm groves, and even hidden caves, before ending with a swim in the ocean. It is messy, fun, and one of the most popular excursions in Punta Cana.

Book Macao Beach excursions on Viator and add adventure to your trip.

Local Vendors & Restaurants

At Playa Macao, food and small shops are part of the beach experience. As soon as you arrive, you’ll notice souvenir stalls, vendors walking the shore, and the smell of seafood on the grill drifting from simple shacks by the sand.

Souvenir stands display jewelry, wooden carvings, cigars, and Dominican coffee. Bargaining is part of the fun, and most vendors are happy to chat. For more tips, see our shopping guide for the Dominican Republic.

Food is what makes Macao stand out. Fish is grilled to order, lobsters are pulled straight from the sea, and plantains are fried into golden tostones. El Fogón de Lissette is the most popular spot for seafood and rice, while other beach shacks serve grilled fish, fried snacks, and cold drinks. A Presidente beer or a rum cocktail fits perfectly with the setting. For something refreshing, try a coconut split open right in front of you. If you want to explore even more traditional dishes, check out our guide to Dominican food.

What to Pack for a Visit to Macao Beach

A small backpack or beach bag is the easiest way to carry your things, and a waterproof beach bag keeps everything safe from sand and splashes. A quick-dry towel is essential since none are available at the beach. Protect your phone with a waterproof phone case if you want to take photos near the water, and consider a GoPro or action camera for capturing surfing or buggy rides. A reusable water bottle or insulated tumbler will keep drinks cool while you spend hours under the Caribbean sun.

There are no ATMs at Macao, so bring cash in Dominican pesos or USD for food, tips, and souvenirs. To stay comfortable, pack an extra swimsuit and a light cover-up for the trip back. Flip-flops are perfect for the sand, while water shoes are helpful if you explore rocky areas.

The Caribbean sun can be intense, so don’t forget polarized sunglasses, a wide-brim sun hat, and reef-safe sunscreen. Buying sunscreen before you travel is usually cheaper than picking it up at tourist shops. A small bottle of bug spray is also smart to have on hand. Mosquitoes aren’t common, but sandflies can show up, especially if you stay into the evening.

Pack light but smart, and you’ll have everything you need for a full day at Playa Macao. For a complete checklist covering all of your vacation needs, see our full Dominican Republic packing guide.

Tips for Visiting Macao Beach

Playa Macao is one of Punta Cana’s most beautiful beaches, but a few tips will make your visit smoother. The waves can be strong, the midday sun is intense, and it is always smart to keep an eye on your belongings. For practical advice on swimming, sun, and safety by the water, see our Dominican Republic beach safety guide.

A piña colada served in a pineapple is a must-try, and cocktails are part of the island’s beach culture. For more drinks to try during your trip, see our guide to cocktails in the Dominican Republic. If you stay for the evening, Macao also offers some of the best sunsets in Punta Cana.

For a calmer visit, come early in the morning or later in the afternoon after the tour buses leave. The beach is quieter, and the light is perfect for photos.

Book a Macao Beach tour on Viator and make it part of your trip.

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