Planning a trip to Punta Cana and wondering what weather to expect? You’re in for a treat. Punta Cana enjoys a tropical maritime climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging 77-83°F (25-28°C) throughout the year. In fact, with over 300 sunny days annually and Caribbean Sea temperatures perfect for swimming, it’s no wonder this Dominican Republic paradise is a top destination for beach lovers.
This comprehensive guide uses actual 2024 weather data from Open-Meteo meteorological sources to give you accurate expectations for your Punta Cana vacation. Whether you’re planning a winter escape, summer adventure, or trying to find the perfect wedding date, we’ll help you understand exactly what Mother Nature has in store.
Quick Weather Overview: What to Expect in Punta Cana
Before diving into the monthly details, here’s what you need to know about Punta Cana’s climate at a glance:
- Average Temperature: 77-83°F (25-28°C) year-round
- Warmest Months: June through October (82-83°F / 28°C)
- Coolest Months: January through March (77-78°F / 25-26°C)
- Rainy Season: May through November (highest rainfall in June and November)
- Dry Season: December through April (best for guaranteed sunshine)
- Hurricane Season: June 1 – November 30 (peak in August-September)
- Sea Temperature: 79-84°F (26-29°C) – perfect for swimming year-round
- Average Sunshine: 9-11 hours of daylight per day
- UV Index: Very High to Extreme (6-11) – sunscreen is essential
Punta Cana Weather Month by Month (2024 Actual Data)
The following data comes from actual weather recordings in Punta Cana during 2024, giving you the most accurate expectations for your trip.
January Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 78°F (25.6°C) |
| Daily High | 82°F (27.7°C) |
| Daily Low | 75°F (23.9°C) |
| Rainfall | 2.7 inches (70mm) |
| Humidity | 78% |
| Sunshine | 10.2 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 79°F (26°C) |
| Rainy Days | 7-9 days |
January is one of the best months to visit Punta Cana. You’ll escape the cold winter weather back home while enjoying pleasant Caribbean temperatures. Moreover, the humidity is comfortable, rainfall is minimal, and the trade winds keep things refreshing. This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowded resorts. However, the weather makes it worthwhile.
Best activities in January: catamaran cruises, snorkeling, beach days, golf, and outdoor excursions. The calm seas make it ideal for deep-sea fishing and boat tours to Saona Island.
February Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 77°F (24.9°C) |
| Daily High | 81°F (27.3°C) |
| Daily Low | 73°F (23.0°C) |
| Rainfall | 2.7 inches (69mm) |
| Humidity | 75% |
| Sunshine | 10.1 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 79°F (26°C) |
| Rainy Days | 6-8 days |
February offers the driest weather of the year with the lowest humidity levels. Although it’s actually the coolest month, “cool” in Punta Cana still means perfect beach weather. Furthermore, the reduced humidity makes this month exceptionally comfortable for exploring beyond the beach.
Perfect for: buggy adventures, zip-lining, and cultural tours to Santo Domingo. Valentine’s Day and Presidents’ Day bring crowds, so book accommodations early.
March Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 78°F (25.5°C) |
| Daily High | 82°F (27.9°C) |
| Daily Low | 74°F (23.6°C) |
| Rainfall | 2.1 inches (53mm) |
| Humidity | 76% |
| Sunshine | 11.0 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 79°F (26°C) |
| Rainy Days | 5-7 days |
March is arguably the best month for Punta Cana weather. It has the lowest rainfall of the year and the most sunshine hours. Consequently, spring breakers flock here, so expect lively beach parties and resort activities. In addition, the sea conditions remain calm and perfect for water sports.
Ideal for: Spring break trips, destination weddings, parasailing, and sunset cruises. Book Punta Cana tours in advance as popular activities sell out quickly during peak season.
April Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 79°F (25.9°C) |
| Daily High | 83°F (28.1°C) |
| Daily Low | 75°F (24.0°C) |
| Rainfall | 3.4 inches (87mm) |
| Humidity | 79% |
| Sunshine | 11.0 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 80°F (27°C) |
| Rainy Days | 8-10 days |
April marks the transition from dry to rainy season. Temperatures start warming up, and you’ll notice slightly more afternoon showers. Nevertheless, these tropical showers typically last only 20-30 minutes before the sun returns. As a result, Easter holidays bring families, making it a festive time to visit.
Great for: swimming with dolphins, horseback riding on the beach, and exploring eco-parks. The warmer sea temperatures make snorkeling even more enjoyable.
May Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 81°F (27.0°C) |
| Daily High | 85°F (29.5°C) |
| Daily Low | 77°F (24.9°C) |
| Rainfall | 7.9 inches (201mm) |
| Humidity | 84% |
| Sunshine | 10.4 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 82°F (28°C) |
| Rainy Days | 12-14 days |
May officially begins the rainy season with a noticeable increase in precipitation. On the other hand, this is also when you’ll find some of the best hotel deals as tourist crowds thin out. Importantly, rain usually falls in short, intense bursts, leaving plenty of time for beach activities.
Budget tip: May offers excellent value with lower prices on all-inclusive resorts and tours. The rain shouldn’t deter you—it’s still warm and sunny most of the day.
June Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 82°F (27.7°C) |
| Daily High | 86°F (30.1°C) |
| Daily Low | 78°F (25.7°C) |
| Rainfall | 10.4 inches (264mm) |
| Humidity | 83% |
| Sunshine | 10.3 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 83°F (28°C) |
| Rainy Days | 14-16 days |
June is one of the wettest months and marks the beginning of hurricane season. That said, direct hurricane hits on Punta Cana are rare thanks to its eastern Caribbean location. Meanwhile, summer vacation starts, bringing families looking for beach fun despite the occasional rain.
Pro tip: Morning activities are best in June. Plan catamaran tours and snorkeling trips for early hours before afternoon showers develop.
July Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 82°F (28.0°C) |
| Daily High | 86°F (29.9°C) |
| Daily Low | 79°F (26.2°C) |
| Rainfall | 6.8 inches (174mm) |
| Humidity | 81% |
| Sunshine | 10.6 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 84°F (29°C) |
| Rainy Days | 11-13 days |
July actually sees less rain than June, making it a surprisingly good summer month. Additionally, the sea reaches its warmest temperatures, perfect for extended water activities. Because of this, trade winds help manage the heat, keeping evenings pleasant.
Family favorite: July is perfect for adventure parks, ATV tours, and water parks. The warm sea makes it ideal for kids to spend hours in the water.
August Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 83°F (28.1°C) |
| Daily High | 86°F (30.2°C) |
| Daily Low | 79°F (26.2°C) |
| Rainfall | 5.6 inches (141mm) |
| Humidity | 80% |
| Sunshine | 10.7 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 84°F (29°C) |
| Rainy Days | 10-12 days |
August is the hottest month but also drier than you might expect. Indeed, it’s peak hurricane season in the Atlantic, though Punta Cana rarely experiences direct impacts. Therefore, monitor weather forecasts and consider travel insurance for peace of mind.
Beat the heat: Early morning and late afternoon are best for outdoor activities. Midday is perfect for spa treatments, indoor dining, or enjoying your resort’s air-conditioned amenities.
September Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 82°F (28.0°C) |
| Daily High | 87°F (30.5°C) |
| Daily Low | 78°F (25.7°C) |
| Rainfall | 5.4 inches (136mm) |
| Humidity | 82% |
| Sunshine | 10.5 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 84°F (29°C) |
| Rainy Days | 10-12 days |
September offers the lowest prices of the year. It’s the quietest month for tourism, which means you’ll have beaches practically to yourself. Of course, hurricane risk is still present but manageable with proper monitoring and flexible booking policies.
Value seekers: This is THE month for budget travelers. All-inclusive packages, tours, and activities are at their cheapest. Many resorts offer significant discounts and upgrades.
October Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 83°F (28.1°C) |
| Daily High | 87°F (30.6°C) |
| Daily Low | 79°F (25.9°C) |
| Rainfall | 4.7 inches (120mm) |
| Humidity | 79% |
| Sunshine | 10.3 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 84°F (29°C) |
| Rainy Days | 9-11 days |
October weather improves significantly as hurricane season winds down. Similarly, rainfall decreases, and you’ll enjoy warm temperatures with fewer crowds. In contrast, late October sees the beginning of the winter tourist season, with prices starting to rise.
Sweet spot: Early October offers September’s low prices with improving weather. Book private tours for an exclusive experience without the crowds.
November Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 79°F (26.2°C) |
| Daily High | 83°F (28.5°C) |
| Daily Low | 75°F (24.1°C) |
| Rainfall | 9.0 inches (228mm) |
| Humidity | 84% |
| Sunshine | 9.1 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 82°F (28°C) |
| Rainy Days | 13-15 days |
November is unpredictable—it can be the second-wettest month of the year (as seen in 2024) or relatively dry. Subsequently, temperatures begin cooling to more comfortable levels. For example, Thanksgiving week brings American tourists seeking warm weather.
Packing tip: Bring a light rain jacket for November. The weather can change quickly, but sunshine usually returns within an hour of any shower.
December Weather in Punta Cana
| Average Temperature | 78°F (25.6°C) |
| Daily High | 82°F (27.5°C) |
| Daily Low | 75°F (23.9°C) |
| Rainfall | 6.9 inches (174mm) |
| Humidity | 81% |
| Sunshine | 9.3 hours/day |
| Sea Temperature | 80°F (27°C) |
| Rainy Days | 11-13 days |
December kicks off peak tourist season with holiday crowds fleeing cold northern winters. While rainfall can still occur, the weather generally improves through the month. Notably, Christmas and New Year’s are the busiest (and most expensive) times to visit.
Holiday planning: Book excursions and dinner shows well in advance for December visits. Popular tours like Saona Island sell out during the holidays.
Best Time to Visit Punta Cana
The “best” time depends on your priorities. Here’s how to choose:
Best Weather: February – April
For the driest conditions and most sunshine, visit between February and April. Specifically, March stands out as the single best month with only 2.1 inches of rain and 11 hours of daily sunshine. During this time, you’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures, low humidity, and calm seas.
Best Prices: September – October
For budget travelers, September and early October offer the lowest prices on accommodations, flights, and tours. Granted, it’s hurricane season, but direct hits are rare, and you’ll enjoy warm weather with significantly fewer tourists.
Best Balance: May and November
These shoulder season months offer a good compromise between weather and value. As such, prices are lower than peak season, crowds are manageable, and the weather, while occasionally rainy, is still mostly pleasant.
Best for Families: June – August
Summer school holidays make this the top time for family travel. Despite being rainy season, daytime activities are usually unaffected, and kids love the warm sea temperatures (84°F/29°C). Besides, resorts offer excellent kids’ programs during summer.
Best for Weddings: February – March
Destination wedding planners prefer late February through early March for the most reliable weather. Ultimately, low humidity, minimal rain chance, and beautiful golden light create perfect conditions for outdoor ceremonies.
Hurricane Season in Punta Cana
According to the National Hurricane Center, Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, with the peak occurring in August and September. However, Punta Cana’s location on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic actually provides some natural protection.
Why Punta Cana Is Less Affected by Hurricanes
- Geographic position: Most Caribbean hurricanes track northwest, often passing north of the Dominican Republic
- Mountain barrier: The Cordillera Central mountains provide protection from systems approaching from the south
- Quick-moving storms: When storms do approach, they typically move through quickly rather than stalling
Should You Avoid Hurricane Season?
Not necessarily. Although hurricane risk exists, the odds of your trip being affected are relatively low. First, consider these factors:
- Modern forecasting: Hurricanes are tracked 5-7 days in advance, giving plenty of warning
- Travel insurance: Many policies offer hurricane coverage for trip cancellation or interruption
- Flexible booking: Airlines and hotels often waive change fees during named storms
- Resort preparedness: Punta Cana resorts have extensive hurricane protocols and reinforced construction
Our recommendation: Don’t avoid hurricane season entirely, but do purchase travel insurance and book with flexible cancellation policies. After all, the savings can be substantial, and most travelers experience nothing more than a passing shower.
What to Pack for Punta Cana Weather
Year-Round Essentials
- Sunscreen SPF 50+: The UV index in Punta Cana ranges from 6-11 (Very High to Extreme). Apply every 2 hours
- Sunglasses and hat: Protect your eyes and face from intense Caribbean sun
- Light, breathable clothing: Cotton and linen work best in tropical humidity
- Swimwear: Pack multiple swimsuits—they take a while to dry in humid conditions
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Required for snorkeling and eco-tours to protect coral
- Waterproof phone case: Essential for beach days and boat tours
Dry Season Additions (December – April)
- Light jacket or sweater: Evenings can be breezy, especially in January-February
- Long pants: For nicer resort restaurants with dress codes
- Closed-toe shoes: For buggy tours and zip-lining adventures
Rainy Season Additions (May – November)
- Compact rain jacket: Quick-drying and packable for sudden showers
- Waterproof sandals: Water shoes or sport sandals for wet conditions
- Dry bag: Protect electronics and valuables during beach outings
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes are more active after rain
Sunrise and Sunset Times in Punta Cana
Unlike destinations at higher latitudes, Punta Cana’s tropical location means relatively consistent daylight hours year-round. Here’s what to expect:
| Season | Sunrise | Sunset | Daylight Hours |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 7:00-7:15 AM | 6:00-6:30 PM | ~11 hours |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 6:15-6:45 AM | 6:30-7:00 PM | ~12 hours |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 6:00-6:15 AM | 7:15-7:30 PM | ~13 hours |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 6:15-6:45 AM | 6:00-6:45 PM | ~11.5 hours |
Photography tip: The golden hour in Punta Cana produces stunning beach photos. Plan sunset catamaran cruises for the most memorable lighting conditions.
UV Index and Sun Safety
Punta Cana’s proximity to the equator (18.5°N latitude) means intense year-round UV radiation. As a result, current UV index readings typically range from 6-11, categorized as “Very High” to “Extreme” by the World Health Organization.
UV Index Scale for Punta Cana
- 6-7 (High): Winter months, early morning/late afternoon. Sunburn in 25-30 minutes
- 8-10 (Very High): Most common reading. Sunburn in 15-20 minutes
- 11+ (Extreme): Peak summer midday. Sunburn in under 10 minutes
Sun Safety Tips
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours
- Seek shade during peak hours (10 AM – 4 PM) when UV is strongest
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses to prevent eye damage
- Use a rash guard or UV shirt for extended water activities
- Stay hydrated—dehydration increases heat sensitivity
- Watch for heat exhaustion signs: dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating
Important: Tourists from northern climates often underestimate tropical sun intensity. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays penetrate cloud cover. Always wear protection.
Sea Conditions and Water Temperature
The Caribbean Sea in Punta Cana stays warm enough for swimming year-round. As a result, it’s a true tropical paradise for water lovers.
Monthly Sea Temperatures
- January – March: 79°F (26°C) – Refreshing but comfortable
- April – May: 80-82°F (27-28°C) – Warming up
- June – October: 83-84°F (28-29°C) – Bath-water warm
- November – December: 80-82°F (27-28°C) – Still very warm
Wave Conditions
Punta Cana’s beaches are protected by offshore coral reefs, creating generally calm swimming conditions:
- Bavaro Beach: Very calm, perfect for families
- Macao Beach: More wave action, popular for surfing
- Uvero Alto: Slightly choppier, excellent for experienced swimmers
Best for snorkeling: March through May offers the calmest seas and best visibility for snorkeling excursions. The lack of rain means less sediment runoff and clearer water.
Weather Impact on Popular Activities
Understanding how weather affects different activities helps you plan the perfect itinerary. Below, we break down each activity type:
Beach Activities
Ideal conditions: Year-round, but February-April offers the most consistent sunshine. Morning beach time is best during rainy season before afternoon showers develop.
Boat Tours and Catamaran Cruises
Best months: December through May when seas are calmest. Catamaran tours run year-round but may be canceled during heavy weather. Morning departures have smoother sailing.
Snorkeling and Diving
Optimal visibility: February through May. Dry season means less runoff, resulting in crystal-clear water with 60-100 foot visibility. Snorkeling tours operate year-round.
Adventure Tours (Buggies, ATVs, Zip-lines)
Weather considerations: Buggy tours and ATV adventures can actually be more fun after rain (muddy trails). Zip-lining pauses during active thunderstorms but otherwise operates normally.
Golf
Prime season: November through April. Punta Cana’s championship golf courses are playable year-round, but dry season offers the best greens conditions. Early morning tee times avoid afternoon heat.
Deep-Sea Fishing
Fishing calendar: Different species peak at different times. Deep-sea fishing charters run year-round, with mahi-mahi and marlin best from March through July.
Monthly Weather Guides
Planning a trip for a specific month? Our detailed monthly guides provide focused weather information for your travel dates:
Frequently Asked Questions About Punta Cana Weather
What is the best month to go to Punta Cana?
March is widely considered the best month, offering the lowest rainfall (2.1 inches), highest daily sunshine (11 hours), and comfortable temperatures (82°F/28°C high). However, it’s also peak tourist season with higher prices. For the best balance of weather and value, consider late April or early May.
Does it rain a lot in Punta Cana?
Punta Cana receives about 52 inches (1,320mm) of annual rainfall, spread throughout the year. However, tropical rain is different from temperate rain—it typically comes in short, intense bursts lasting 20-30 minutes, followed by sunshine. You can expect some rain year-round, but it rarely ruins an entire day.
Is Punta Cana safe from hurricanes?
While no Caribbean destination is completely immune to hurricanes, Punta Cana is statistically safer than many other Caribbean islands. Its eastern location means most storms pass to the north, and the Dominican Republic’s mountains provide additional protection. Major direct hits are rare—the last significant hurricane impact was in 2017 (Maria) and 2004 (Jeanne).
What is the hottest month in Punta Cana?
August is the hottest month with average highs of 86°F (30.2°C) and average temperatures of 83°F (28.1°C). However, the heat difference between the hottest and coolest months is only about 6°F (3.5°C), making Punta Cana comfortable year-round.
What is the coldest month in Punta Cana?
February is technically the coolest month with average temperatures of 77°F (24.9°C). However, “cold” is relative—you’ll still enjoy daily highs around 81°F (27°C), perfect for beach activities. Evenings might feel slightly cool with lows around 73°F (23°C).
Can you swim in the ocean year-round in Punta Cana?
Yes! Caribbean Sea temperatures in Punta Cana range from 79°F (26°C) in winter to 84°F (29°C) in summer—comfortable for swimming every month. The water is actually warmer than many heated pools.
What should I pack for Punta Cana?
Essential items include: SPF 50+ sunscreen (the tropical sun is intense), lightweight breathable clothing, multiple swimsuits, sunglasses, a hat, and reef-safe sunscreen for water activities. Add a light rain jacket if visiting during rainy season (May-November). Don’t forget closed-toe shoes for adventure activities.
Is Punta Cana humid?
Yes, Punta Cana has tropical humidity averaging 75-84% depending on the season. February is the least humid month (75%), while May, June, and November are the most humid (83-84%). Trade winds help make the humidity feel more comfortable, especially on the beach.
What time does it get dark in Punta Cana?
Sunset times vary from approximately 6:00 PM in December to 7:30 PM in June. Being close to the equator means relatively consistent daylight hours year-round (11-13 hours). Twilight is short in the tropics—it gets dark quickly after sunset.
How strong is the sun in Punta Cana?
Very strong. The UV index regularly reaches 8-11 (Very High to Extreme). You can get sunburned in as little as 10-15 minutes during midday. Always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days—up to 80% of UV rays penetrate cloud cover.
Does Punta Cana have a dry season?
Yes, the dry season runs from December through April. February and March are the driest months with only 2-3 inches of rainfall. However, some rain can occur even during dry season—it’s the tropics. The dry season coincides with peak tourist season and higher prices.
When is the rainy season in Punta Cana?
The rainy season runs from May through November, with the wettest months being June and November. Rainfall averages 5-10 inches per month during this period. Don’t let this deter you—rain typically falls in afternoon showers, leaving mornings and evenings clear for activities.
Plan Your Punta Cana Trip
Now that you understand Punta Cana’s weather patterns, you can confidently plan your Caribbean getaway. Whether you’re seeking perfect beach weather in March, budget-friendly deals in September, or a family summer vacation, Punta Cana delivers warm tropical weather and unforgettable experiences year-round. In conclusion, there’s never a bad time to visit—just different advantages each season.
Ready to start planning? Browse our complete selection of Punta Cana tours and excursions to find the perfect activities for your trip, from catamaran cruises to adventure parks and everything in between.
Weather data sourced from Open-Meteo.com using 2024 actual measurements for Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (18.58°N, 68.40°W). Historical data provides the most accurate expectations for future travel planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to go to Punta Cana?
March is widely considered the best month, offering the lowest rainfall (2.1 inches), highest daily sunshine (11 hours), and comfortable temperatures (82°F/28°C high). For the best balance of weather and value, consider late April or early May.
Does it rain a lot in Punta Cana?
Punta Cana receives about 52 inches of annual rainfall. However, tropical rain typically comes in short, intense bursts lasting 20-30 minutes, followed by sunshine. You can expect some rain year-round, but it rarely ruins an entire day.
Is Punta Cana safe from hurricanes?
While no Caribbean destination is completely immune, Punta Cana is statistically safer than many Caribbean islands. Its eastern location means most storms pass to the north, and the mountains provide protection. Major direct hits are rare.
What is the hottest month in Punta Cana?
August is the hottest month with average highs of 86°F (30.2°C). However, the heat difference between the hottest and coolest months is only about 6°F, making Punta Cana comfortable year-round.
What is the coldest month in Punta Cana?
February is the coolest month with average temperatures of 77°F (24.9°C). You'll still enjoy daily highs around 81°F (27°C), perfect for beach activities.
Can you swim in the ocean year-round in Punta Cana?
Yes! Caribbean Sea temperatures range from 79°F (26°C) in winter to 84°F (29°C) in summer—comfortable for swimming every month of the year.
What should I pack for Punta Cana?
Essential items include: SPF 50+ sunscreen, lightweight breathable clothing, multiple swimsuits, sunglasses, a hat, and reef-safe sunscreen. Add a light rain jacket if visiting during rainy season (May-November).
Is Punta Cana humid?
Yes, Punta Cana has tropical humidity averaging 75-84% depending on the season. February is the least humid (75%), while May, June, and November are the most humid (83-84%). Trade winds help make it feel more comfortable.
What time does it get dark in Punta Cana?
Sunset times vary from approximately 6:00 PM in December to 7:30 PM in June. Being close to the equator means 11-13 hours of daylight year-round. Twilight is short—it gets dark quickly after sunset.
How strong is the sun in Punta Cana?
Very strong. The UV index regularly reaches 8-11 (Very High to Extreme). You can get sunburned in 10-15 minutes during midday. Always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
Does Punta Cana have a dry season?
Yes, the dry season runs from December through April. February and March are the driest months with only 2-3 inches of rainfall. This coincides with peak tourist season and higher prices.
When is the rainy season in Punta Cana?
The rainy season runs from May through November, with the wettest months being June and November. Rainfall averages 5-10 inches per month. Rain typically falls in afternoon showers, leaving mornings clear for activities.
