Punta Cana: Parasailing, Snorkel Cruise & Virgen Beach Day

Summary

Parasailing thrill, coral reef snorkeling and quiet virgin beach escape in Punta Cana

You’ll feel your heart race as you parasail high above Bávaro Beach, then slow down floating over coral reefs while snorkeling with tropical fish. Sip drinks on a lively catamaran cruise before relaxing at a quiet virgin beach far from crowds. It’s equal parts thrill and calm — perfect if you want both sides of Punta Cana in one day.

What’s the experience like?

“Wait, we’re really going up there?” That’s what I blurted when our guide Luis pointed to the parachute already filling with morning breeze at Bávaro Beach. I could smell sunscreen and that salty Caribbean air — kind of sticky on my skin. The harness felt snug but safe. Suddenly we were rising, feet dangling, wind louder than I expected. Looking down, the water was this wild patchwork of turquoise and navy — you could spot the coral reefs even from 500 feet up. My friend kept laughing about how tiny the catamaran looked below us. Parasailing in Punta Cana is way more surreal than it looks on Instagram.

After landing (legs a bit wobbly), we hopped onto the double-decker boat where music was already going — bachata, I think? The crew handed out fresh fruit and these little fried things I never caught the name of. We cruised along the coast until Luis gave us masks and fins for snorkeling. The water was so clear it almost looked fake. There were flashes of yellow fish everywhere; one brushed my arm and I nearly squeaked underwater. Our guide dove down to point out a spiky sea urchin — he called it “erizo” and warned us not to touch (I didn’t need convincing). It’s weird how quiet everything gets with your head underwater.

We drifted for a while before anchoring at this stretch of virgin beach — no hotels or crowds, just palm trees leaning over pale sand. Some folks wandered off for photos; I just sat on a log watching tiny crabs scuttle sideways. The bartender mixed up Cuba Libres for anyone who wanted one (I stuck to pineapple juice after that sun). Someone started a game of dominoes under an umbrella; others just floated in the natural pool where the water barely reached your waist. There was music but also these long moments where you could hear nothing but waves and laughter drifting by. Honestly, I still think about that view sometimes when I can’t sleep.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Parasailing, snorkeling, and beach tour

• Transfer to Bávaro Beach
• Briefing on flight safety procedures
• Parasail 500 feet above water
• Admire aerial views of coral reefs
• Board double-decker catamaran
• Snorkel in calm waters
• Observe colorful reef fish
• Enjoy snacks and tropical fruits
• Drink tropical cocktails and relax
• Sail along Punta Cana coast
• Marvel at Caribbean seabed
• Sip beer or Cuba Libre

Top questions

How high do you go parasailing in Punta Cana?

You’ll reach up to 500 feet above Bávaro Beach during the parasailing part of this tour.

Is hotel pickup included for this Punta Cana tour?

Yes, roundtrip transportation from your hotel is included with your booking.

Can kids join the parasailing & snorkel cruise?

The minimum age is 2 years old, but minors must be accompanied by an adult until age 17.

Are drinks included during the cruise?

Yes, there’s an open bar with unlimited national drinks and refreshments onboard.

What’s special about the virgin beach stop?

This beach is far from hotels—quiet, undeveloped, surrounded by nature and clear water.

How deep is the snorkeling area?

The snorkeling spot ranges from 2 to 4 meters deep (about 6–13 feet).

Is lunch provided on this tour?

No full lunch is served, but you’ll get snacks and tropical fruits during the cruise.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip hotel pickup in Punta Cana, all safety equipment for parasailing and snorkeling adventures, stops at a beautiful virgin beach plus time at Bavaro’s natural pool, unlimited national drinks from an open bar along with snacks and tropical fruits onboard, music and entertainment throughout—all guided by friendly local staff before returning to your hotel later on.