Discovering Paradise
Quick Facts
🏝️
Sand Color
Golden
💧
Water Color
Deep blue
🌡️
Water Temp
27°C / 81°F
🌊
Current
Strong
⏰
Best Time
Morning
📅
Best Months
November - April
💰
Entry Fee
Free
📏
Beach Length
3000m
🛟
Lifeguards
No
🚶
Access
Easy
🅿️
Parking
Free lot
🌴
Shade
Limited
🏘️
Nearest Town
Macao
✈️
Nearest Airport
PUJ - Punta Cana International
⚠️ Warnings:Strong waves and undertowNo coral reef protection - open Atlantic surfLimited lifeguard coverage
🐠 Marine Life:Tropical fishPelicans
Macao Beach is a wild, unspoiled stretch of golden sand about 20 minutes north of Bavaro. Unlike the calm resort beaches of Punta Cana, Macao faces the open Atlantic with powerful waves that attract surfers and bodyboarders from around the world. It was named one of the best beaches in the Caribbean by UNESCO.
This public beach has remained refreshingly undeveloped compared to its neighbors, with local vendors, small seafood shacks, and a rugged natural beauty that feels authentically Dominican. The wide beach is backed by limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, creating dramatic scenery that sets it apart from the manicured resort coastline to the south.
Macao is also the launching point for popular ATV and buggy excursions that wind through the countryside before arriving at the beach. On weekends, Dominican families flock here for barbecues, dominos, and a day of strong waves and cold Presidente beers.
Low
Moderate
High
Very High
| Month | Temp | Waves | Crowds | Sargassum | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 26° | 1-1.5m | Very Good | ||
| FebNOW | 26° | 1-1.5m | Very Good | ||
| Mar | 26° | 0.5-1m | Good | ||
| Apr | 27° | 0.5-1m | Very Good | ||
| May | 28° | 0.5-1m | Good | ||
| Jun | 28° | 1-1.5m | Good | ||
| Jul | 29° | 0.5-1m | Good | ||
| Aug | 29° | 1-1.5m | Fair | ||
| Sep | 29° | 1-1.5m | Good | ||
| Oct | 28° | 1-1.5m | Very Good | ||
| Nov | 27° | 1-1.5m | Very Good | ||
| Dec | 27° | 1-1.5m | Very Good |
Water temperature in °C
Macao Beach is exposed to the open Atlantic Ocean without the protective reef found at Bavaro. This means significantly stronger waves and currents. The surf can range from moderate (1-2 meters) on calm days to powerful (2-4 meters) during winter swells from November to March.
The southern end of the beach tends to be calmer and is the best area for swimming. The central and northern sections are popular with surfers and bodyboarders. Strong undertow and rip currents are common, so non-swimmers and children should exercise extreme caution.
Surf lessons are available from local instructors for RD$1,500-2,500 (USD $25-45) per session including board rental. The beach break is forgiving for beginners when the swell is manageable. Water temperature mirrors Bavaro at 26-29 degrees Celsius year-round. Visibility varies with wave action but can be excellent on calm days.
Macao Beach is located about 35 minutes north of Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) and roughly 20 minutes north of the Bavaro hotel zone. Take the main highway north toward Miches and look for the well-marked Macao Beach turnoff.
From Bavaro, a taxi costs approximately RD$1,500-2,500 (USD $25-45) each way. Many visitors combine a Macao visit with an ATV tour, which includes transportation from Punta Cana hotels (typically USD $60-90 per person). Public transportation is limited -- guaguas stop on the highway, leaving a 2 km walk to the beach.
There is a large parking area near the beach where you can park for RD$200-300. Motorcycles and mopeds are popular with locals and can be rented in Bavaro for about RD$1,500-2,000 per day. The road to the beach is paved and in good condition.
Macao is less developed than resort beaches, so come prepared:
- Sunscreen and shade: Limited natural shade; bring an umbrella or pop-up shelter
- Plenty of water: Vendors sell drinks but can run out on busy days
- Cash in Dominican pesos: No ATMs nearby; vendors do not accept cards
- Towel and change of clothes: The powerful waves will get you sandy and salty
- Water shoes: Helpful for rocky sections, especially at the far ends of the beach
If you plan to surf, you can rent boards on the beach for RD$500-1,000 per hour, but quality varies. Serious surfers should bring their own equipment. Don't forget a waterproof bag for your valuables -- there are no lockers here.
The best time for swimming is during the calmer months from May to September, when the Atlantic swells are smaller. Surfers prefer November to March, when consistent north swells deliver the biggest waves.
Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends. On Sundays and Dominican holidays, the beach fills with local families and the atmosphere becomes a lively party with music and food. If you want solitude, visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning.
Arrive before 10 AM for the calmest conditions and the best shade spots. Afternoon winds pick up around 1-2 PM, making the surf choppier. Late afternoon (4-5 PM) offers beautiful light for photography and more comfortable temperatures, but the waves can be rougher.
Walk to the far northern end of Macao Beach where the cliffs meet the sand. This secluded area has tide pools and dramatic rock formations perfect for photos. Very few tourists make it this far, and on weekdays you may have it entirely to yourself.
Local secrets:
- The small seafood shacks along the beach serve freshly caught fish grilled over charcoal for RD$400-800 -- far cheaper and more authentic than resort restaurants
- Ask for "pescado con coco" (fish in coconut sauce) -- it's the local specialty not on any menu
- Negotiate ATV tour prices at the parking lot rather than booking through a hotel -- you'll save 30-50%
- The best surf break is about 200 meters north of the main swimming area, near a distinctive rock outcropping
If you visit on a weekend, embrace the Dominican vibe -- bring a cooler, dominos, and a speaker. The locals are incredibly welcoming and you might end up sharing food and dancing bachata on the sand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Macao Beach safe for swimming?
Macao Beach has strong waves and undertow, so swimmers should exercise caution and stay in the designated swimming areas. The beach is popular for boogie boarding and surfing precisely because of its powerful surf. Families with small children should stick close to shore where the water is shallow.
Is Macao Beach developed with resorts?
Macao Beach remains one of the most undeveloped beaches in the Punta Cana area, which is a large part of its appeal. There are a few small restaurants and vendors near the main access point, but no large resorts directly on the beach. This gives it a raw, natural character that many visitors prefer.
Can I do ATV or buggy tours at Macao Beach?
Yes, Macao Beach is one of the most popular destinations for ATV and dune buggy excursions in Punta Cana. Several tour operators run trips that end at the beach, giving you time to swim and relax. Tours can be booked through your resort or local operators and typically last 3-4 hours.
How do I get to Macao Beach from Punta Cana resorts?
Macao Beach is about 25-30 minutes north of the main Bávaro hotel zone. You can take a taxi, rent a car, or join an organized excursion. There is a parking area near the beach entrance. Many visitors combine a Macao Beach visit with a stop at a local chocolate or coffee plantation nearby.
Nearby Beaches
More beaches to explore near Macao Beach
Plan Your Beach Day
Get directions, check conditions, and explore more beaches in the area.
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