(Updated January 2025)

Although shopping is certainly not the main reason that drives millions of tourists to visit Punta Cana every year, this destination offers a delightful shopping experience for visitors looking to take home a piece of paradise. From bustling local markets to high-end boutiques, Punta Cana’s shopping scene caters to all tastes and budgets, providing a mix of traditional crafts, luxury goods and everyday essentials.

Downtown Mall Punta Cana

Nestled in the heart of Punta Cana, the Downtown Mall is a vibrant destination that caters to locals and tourists alike. Known for its diverse offerings and modern design, this bustling commercial hub is much more than just a shopping center—it’s a one-stop destination for leisure, dining and entertainment. Its strategic location has made it a favorite stop for both visitors exploring the area and residents seeking a central spot for their daily needs.

Visitors can find clothing, accessories, electronics, souvenirs and more. The variety ensures that everyone leaves with something special. The Downtown Mall also caters to everyday needs with practical amenities like grocery stores, pharmacies, and banking services. Its well-planned layout ensures a seamless experience for all visitors, with ample parking, free Wi-Fi and a welcoming ambiance.

Whether you’re looking for a quick shopping spree, a gourmet dining experience or a fun family outing, the Downtown Mall has something for everyone.

Operating daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, Downtown Mall Punta Cana is situated on Avenida Barcelo Km 8, Bavaro

San Juan Shopping Center

Located next to Downtown Mall, San Juan Shopping Center has been a premier shopping destination since its opening in 2010. It offers a diverse range of stores and services, including clothing boutiques, jewelry shops, a supermarket (La Sirena) and a seven-screen movie theater. Additionally, essential services such as pharmacies, banks and mobile phone providers like Claro and Altice are available, ensuring visitors can address various needs during their visit.

With the opening of the new Downtown Mall right next door, this shopping plaza had lost some of its appeal in recent years. However, the new opening of the IKEA store in this same space has brought this shopping center back to its former glory.

BlueMall

Punta Cana is also home to several upscale shopping destinations that cater to those with a taste for luxury. BlueMall Punta Cana is a premier shopping destination located approximately 2 kilometers from Punta Cana International Airport. The mall features a single-level layout, housing a wide range of high-end brands, international fashion labels and premium services. This air-conditioned mall is perfect for a leisurely shopping spree, with stores featuring everything from designer clothing and accessories to fine jewelry and perfumes.

In addition to retail stores, BlueMall boasts a variety of dining options, a cinema and entertainment spaces, making it a one-stop destination for relaxation and leisure. Its clean and sophisticated ambiance makes it particularly appealing for families and couples looking to combine shopping with other activities.

Operating hours: Monday to Saturday : 10:00 am to 9: 00 pm. Sundays and holidays : 10:00 am to 8:00 pm. 

Punta Cana Village

Another notable luxury shopping destination is Punta Cana Village, a charming area that combines retail with a community vibe. This boutique shopping strip features a mix of local and international brands, as well as specialty shops offering unique items. Visitors can explore artisanal products, high-quality beachwear and even gourmet foods while enjoying the serene atmosphere of this quaint village.

Palma Real Shopping Village (Currently Closed)

If we go back in time ten years ago, Palma Real Shopping Center was one of the premier retail destinations in the whole Dominican Republic. A magnet for tourists and locals alike, this upscale shopping complex offered a blend of luxury, culture and entertainment, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region. Its proximity to major hotels ensured that visitors could  easily access the center, whether by shuttle, taxi or a leisurely stroll.

Palma Real Shopping Center was renowned for its diverse range of retail outlets, a wide variety of dining options and many entertaining activities like live music performances, cultural events and holiday celebrations. 

In recent years, things have changed drastically. This mall was partially closed in 2019 to make way (unsuccessfully) for a new theme park called Katmandu, which finally opened in 2023 after many delays due to the covid pandemic and closed suddenly just a year later due to poor public reception.

Nowadays this commercial square is still waiting to know its near future. In the meantime it is almost completely closed except for the Italian restaurant Dolce Italia located inside and currently fully operational.

Beach Markets

For those eager to immerse themselves in Dominican culture, Punta Cana’s local beach markets are a must-visit. These markets are brimming with handcrafted goods, vibrant artworks and traditional souvenirs that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. One of the most popular markets is the Bibijagua Market, located in Bávaro Beach. Here, visitors can browse a wide selection of handmade jewelry, colorful paintings, wood carvings and traditional Dominican dolls.

Shopping in these markets is more than just a transaction; it’s an experience. Vendors are often eager to share the stories behind their crafts, adding a personal touch to your purchases. Bargaining is a common practice, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices to secure the best deals. Beyond souvenirs, you’ll also find local delicacies like Dominican coffee, cacao and rum, which make for perfect gifts or personal indulgences. 

Other markets can be found along Bavaro Beach in the areas of Los Corales, El Cortecito and Jellyfish beach as well as in the area of Cabeza de Toro.

Cigar Shops

Cigars are another hallmark of Dominican culture and Punta Cana is an excellent place to purchase authentic, hand-rolled cigars. Stores like Don Lucas Cigars provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the cigar-making process while choosing from a wide selection of premium cigars. These shops often include tasting rooms and knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the different varieties and blends.

Shopping for Food and Drinks

No trip to Punta Cana would be complete without exploring its culinary offerings, and shopping for local food and drinks is an adventure in itself. Supermarkets like Nacional and Jumbo are great places to stock up on Dominican staples, such as fresh tropical fruits, local spices and packaged snacks.

For a more specialized experience, visit shops dedicated to Dominican coffee and cacao. The Dominican Republic is renowned for its high-quality coffee and purchasing it locally ensures you’re getting the freshest beans. Similarly, artisanal chocolate made from locally grown cacao is a treat for the senses and a thoughtful gift for loved ones back home.

Rum enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, as Punta Cana is home to a variety of premium rum brands, including Barceló and Brugal. Many shops offer tastings, allowing you to sample different varieties before making your selection. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual drinker, bringing home a bottle of Dominican rum is a quintessential way to remember your trip.

Practical Tips for Shopping in Punta Cana

To make the most of your shopping experience in Punta Cana, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Currency: While the official currency is the Dominican peso, US dollars are widely accepted in most shopping areas. It’s a good idea to carry small bills for convenience, especially when shopping at markets or with beachside vendors.
2. Bargaining: Negotiating prices is common in local markets and with street vendors, but it’s not practiced in malls or high-end stores. Approach bargaining with a friendly attitude and a sense of humor.
3. Transportation: Many shopping areas, especially those in resort zones, are easily accessible by taxi or shuttle. Some malls, like BlueMall Punta Cana, even offer complimentary shuttle services for tourists.
4. Authenticity: When purchasing local crafts, cigars, or jewelry, ensure the authenticity of the items. Look for reputable shops or ask for certifications to avoid counterfeit products.
5. Customs Regulations: If you’re planning to bring back items like rum, cigars or food products, familiarize yourself with your country’s customs regulations to avoid issues at the airport.

Conclusion: A Shopper’s Paradise

Punta Cana’s shopping scene is as diverse and vibrant as its natural beauty. Whether you’re searching for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, indulging in luxury goods or exploring the flavors of the Dominican Republic, there’s something for everyone. The blend of traditional markets, upscale malls, and artisan shops ensures that every visitor can find a memorable keepsake to take home.

Shopping in Punta Cana is more than just acquiring goods—it’s about engaging with the local culture, supporting talented artisans  and experiencing the island’s unique charm. So, on your next visit to this tropical paradise, set aside some time to explore its retail treasures. You’re bound to leave with more than just great purchases; you’ll take home memories that last a lifetime.