Are you looking for the perfect location for your Punta Cana wedding photos? Congrats! Its breathtaking beaches, lush jungles and vibrant culture make it the perfect place to capture some amazing wedding photos. Choosing the right spot for your pictures can be tough, so we’re here to help.
This guide will give you a rundown of the best locations for taking stunning shots on your special day. For the areas behind those spots, from Bávaro to Macao, see our Punta Cana photography and videography page. Get ready to discover some truly stunning backdrops that will make your photos stand out!
The Beach
You’ll find plenty of beautiful beaches where you can capture your special day in all its glory. Let’s start with Uvero Alto and Macao Beach, two of the most popular choices.
Uvero Alto is a spectacular stretch of white sand fringed by bright blue water and soaring palm trees, creating the perfect backdrop for romantic photos. It’s also incredibly easy to access, making it an ideal spot for larger wedding parties that need space and convenience. And while there can be some crowds here at times, make sure to get there early to secure your spot!
Then there’s Macao Beach, which looks like something straight out of a postcard! This gorgeous beach features pristine white sand surrounded by lush greenery, an unbeatable combination for illustrating the beauty of your love.
Waterfalls
A waterfall session is an adventure rather than a quick stop, so plan it for a different day than the wedding and bring clothes you do not mind getting wet.
La Jalda, in El Seibo, is the tallest waterfall in the Caribbean. It is around two hours by road from Punta Cana, followed by a guided walk to reach the base, and that effort is exactly why the images you bring back look like nobody else’s. Its cascades and dense green surroundings give you something no beach can.
If you have the classic Dominican waterfall in mind, that is El Limón, with its 164 foot drop. It sits in Samana though, roughly four and a half hours from Punta Cana, so it only makes sense if you are extending your trip. We cover that area on our Samana wedding photography page.
Historic Sites, a Short Drive Away
If you want a touch of history in your wedding photos, you will need to leave the beach for a few hours. Punta Cana and Bávaro were built as resort areas over the last fifty years, so what you find here is modern architecture, gardens and coastline rather than old stone. The country’s historic settings are still within reach, and each of these works well as a half day or full day trip before or after the wedding.
Higüey, about 40 minutes away
The closest option by far. The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia is the most visited church in the country, and its enormous concrete arch photographs beautifully. The streets around it give you colour and everyday Dominican life, a real change of scene after a week of resort backdrops.
Altos de Chavón, about one hour away
A stone village built above the Chavón river, in La Romana. Cobbled streets, an amphitheatre and the church of St Stanislaus give you old world texture, and the terraces over the river are some of the most photogenic viewpoints in the country. Set aside a full afternoon for it. If you are staying in that area, see our La Romana wedding photography page.
Santo Domingo, about two hours away
The Zona Colonial is the oldest European settlement in the Americas and the one place in the country with genuine colonial architecture at scale. Sixteenth century churches, cobblestone streets and shaded plazas give your photos a timeless feel. This is a full day out, so it suits couples who are staying on for a few extra days.
Jungle
The Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve consists of 12 lagoons and streams that can provide some great opportunities for taking pictures. You’ll also be able to explore a variety of trails as well as keep an eye out for its remarkable birdlife. Plus, there’s even a butterfly garden where you can get some truly unique shots!
Additionally, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Reserve’s underground river. It’s definitely not the most conventional choice when it comes to wedding photos, but it will undoubtedly stand out. With its winding pathways, vibrant flowers and abundance of natural beauty, this destination will make your special day even more memorable.
Cenotes
If you’re in the mood for an underwater adventure, then why not check out one of Punta Cana’s many cenotes? The Hoyo Azul cenote is a particular favourite among snorkelers and scuba divers alike. Its crystal-clear waters and exotic marine life make it a fantastic spot to capture some truly unique wedding photos.
Not only will you be able to explore its vibrant coral reefs, but you can also take advantage of its colourful fish population. And don’t forget about the dramatic limestone formations that make this destination so special. It’s definitely an ideal place for couples who want their pictures to stand out from the rest!
Plus, with the help of a professional guide, you can even arrange for a romantic swim in one of the side pools, where you’ll get to experience breathtaking views as well as dip into some fascinating history. From its mysterious cave system to its natural underground river, Hoyo Azul will provide plenty of inspiring backdrops for your big day.