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Both the Bahamas and Punta Cana are excellent vacation spots for a memorable time in the Caribbean.
In this article, we will compare and contrast both destinations to help you make an informed decision of which place you should visit.
As a general rule, the Bahamas is the better destination for persons who want to visit several islands as well as swim with pigs on Exuma Island. Alternatively, Punta Cana is ideal for persons seeking a vibrant nightlife atmosphere with gorgeous pink and white sand beaches.
Read on for more attributes of Bahamas and Punta Cana. This article was written by a Caribbean national.
Bahamas Vs Punta Cana- Which Destination Is Better
The Bahamas as an entire group of islands have a larger landmass consisting of 5,359 square miles with about 700 islands, cays and islets.
The most populous island is New Providence Island where the capital city of Nassau is located and where over 70% of the population resides.
Punta Cana is only 183.5 square miles and is located in the Eastern region of Dominican Republic.
Furthermore, it is also home to the mountain, Pico Duarte which stands at an elevation of 10, 184 feet making it the tallest in the Caribbean.
Pico Duarte is a key attraction in Punta Cana and a main hiking trail. It takes about three days and two nights to complete in its entirety.
Bahamas Vs Punta Cana- What Are The Official Languages
The official language of both destinations differs. English is the native speech of the Bahamas as the island was a former colony of the United Kingdom.
At the time of writing, the Bahamas is part of the Commonwealth of Nations, which means that His Majesty King Charles II is the Head of State.
Spanish is the official language of Dominican Republic and by extension Punta Cana as it was previous a colony of Spain.
Bahamas Vs Punta Cana- What Are The Official Currencies
The official currency of the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar since the year 1966. The currency is issued and managed by the Central Bank of The Bahamas and is divided into 100 cents.
Bank notes are available 50, 20,10,5 and $1 denominations. Coins are available in 25, 10 and 5 cent pieces. The symbol is B$.
Nevertheless, US dollars and coins are widely accepted by businesses both small and large on the island.
Casinos on the island only accept US dollars and the ATM machines at these locations dispense US dollars.
On the other hand, as a region in the Dominican Republic the official currency of the Punta Cana is the Dominican Peso.
Its symbol is $ with RD$ being used to prevent confusion with other currencies.
The Dominican Peso is issued and managed by the Central Bank of Dominican Republic and is available in bank notes and coins.
Bank notes are available in 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 and 2000 bills. Alternatively, coins are available in 1, 5, 10 and 25 peso.
Nonetheless, the US dollar is widely accepted for financial transactions in Punta Cana. Change is usually given in local currencies.
Bahamas Vs Punta Cana- Which Destination Has Better Beaches
Both destinations can boast of having heavenly white and pink sand beaches with turquoise waters.
Bavaro Beach is one of the best beaches with white and pink sand and turquoise waters in Punta Cana. Many resorts share the shoreline of Bavaro Beach.
Another favorite beach is Playa Macao which is an excellent kitesurfing spot due to its trade winds and swells.
Likewise, the Bahamas also have some exceptional beaches such as Gold Rock Beach, Cable Beach, Cabbage Beach and Tropic of Cancer Beach.
As a group with approximately 700 islands, there are about 2,000 beaches which make the destination perfect for beach hoppers.
The destination is also well loved for Pig Beach which provides one of the most famous tourist attractions on Exuma Island.
Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island is another well-loved beach in this destination which is popular with A- list celebrities.
Bahamas Vs Punta Cana- Which Destination Has Better Nightlife
If nightlife is a priority, Punta Cana is the more vibrant of the two destinations. Drink Point Bavaro and Party Bus Punta Cana are two options to explore for nightlife.
Bahamas is also a great destination for entertainment with much of the nightlife concentrated in the Nassau region.
Both Punta Cana and the Bahamas have a wide range of restaurants and bars with options for high end consumers.
The fundamental difference is the price of goods and services. The Bahamas is much more expensive when compared to Punta Cana.
Bahamas Vs Punta Cana- Unique Excursions In Both Destinations
Garden of the Groves, Bahamas- this is a majestic 12 acres of tropical plants and animals and one of the most visited attractions in Grand Bahama.
This is a perfect activity for a family and is open everyday. The garden is certified as a wildlife habitat by the US.
Scape Park, Punta Cana– this park is ideal for persons who love thrilling and cultural experiences.
Visitors to the park can enjoy excursions such as ziplining, exploring caves, swimming and snorkeling.
Cruises as well as ATV tours can be booked at this park. Activities are suitable for both adults and children.
Final Thoughts
On a whole, the Bahamas is suitable for individuals seeking a bustling nightlife environment, white and pink sand beaches. On the other hand, Punta Cana is ideal for persons who are on a budget seeking an exciting nightlife atmosphere, white and pink sand beaches.
Need More Information?
The mission of Around The Caribbean is to provide our readers with accurate information written by Caribbean nationals to help you make an informed vacation decision.
Feel free to explore more content on Bahamas, Punta Cana and the rest of the Caribbean using the search bar located at the top of this page.
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