Dominican Republic, Central America & Caribbean
Punta Cana in September
The heart of hurricane season; Fiona made landfall nearby in September 2022. Cheapest time of year for a reason.
The straight answer
September is a month to think twice about visiting Punta Cana. The heart of hurricane season; Fiona made landfall nearby in September 2022. Cheapest time of year for a reason.
- Weather
- Peak storm season, highs near 88F (31C), humid
- Crowds
- 1 of 5
- Prices
- 1 of 5
What September is like in Punta Cana
September is the heart of hurricane season. It is hot and humid, with highs near 88F (31C), and storms are a real possibility: Hurricane Fiona made landfall near Punta Cana in September 2022. Some resorts close for renovations, and boat trips can be canceled in rough seas. It is the cheapest month of the year for a reason.
Avoid September unless you are very flexible and value price above everything else. Families with fixed dates should not risk it. For a cheap trip with far better odds, go in late November to mid December or in May.
Make the most of September
What is especially good about Punta Cana this month.
Lowest prices of the year
Resorts that stay open offer their deepest discounts, often with free nights.
Nearly empty beaches
Crowds are at their thinnest, so pools and beaches are quiet.
Short-notice deals
If the forecast looks clear, last-minute bookings can be very cheap.
What to pack for September
- A reliable rain jacket
- A dry bag for documents and phone
- Quick-dry clothes
- Insect repellent
Our timing tip
If you do go, book refundable, buy insurance that covers hurricanes, and check the forecast the week before you fly.
Book Punta Cana for September.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for September
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Punta CanaOpens a hotel search for Punta Cana in September, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Punta CanaWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Punta CanaTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Punta Cana for September. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Punta Cana
Saona Island
Catamaran or speedboat trips from Bayahibe to palm beaches and the shallow natural pool with starfish. Choose a small-group operator to avoid the crowds.
Hoyo Azul at Scape Park
A blue freshwater sinkhole at the base of a cliff, part of the Scape Park adventure park in Cap Cana. Go early for the clearest light and fewer people.
Macao Beach
A wide, less-developed beach north of Bavaro with surf schools and local seafood shacks.
Whale watching in Samana Bay
From mid January to around the end of March, boats see humpbacks in the bay. It is a long day trip from Punta Cana by road or a short flight.
Altos de Chavon
A replica Mediterranean village above the Chavon River near La Romana, with views, an amphitheater, and art shops.
Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone
The oldest continuously inhabited European city in the Americas, with the first cathedral and cobbled streets. About two and a half to three hours by road.
Beat the crowds
- Aim for mid January to mid February, or late November to mid December, for dry-season weather without holiday pricing.
- Book Saona Island trips with smaller operators or early departures; the big tour boats arrive mid morning and fill the natural pool.
- If sargassum is heavy, check south-coast Bayahibe or book Saona Island days; the south coast often, though not always, fares better.
- Avoid Semana Santa if you want calm public beaches; locals fill the coast that week.
Know before you go
- Most resorts stay open year-round, but some close for renovations in September and October. Check before booking.
- Saona Island and Samana boat trips can be canceled in rough seas or storms, especially in the fall.
- During Semana Santa, and on election days, alcohol sales can be restricted outside resorts.
- Sargassum conditions change weekly. Resorts can rake the beach but cannot control the water, so check recent guest photos before booking in summer.
Punta Cana in September, quick answers
Is September a good time to visit Punta Cana?
September is a month to think twice about visiting Punta Cana. The heart of hurricane season; Fiona made landfall nearby in September 2022. Cheapest time of year for a reason.
What is the weather like in Punta Cana in September?
Peak storm season, highs near 88F (31C), humid.
Is Punta Cana crowded in September?
September is one of the quieter months in Punta Cana; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Punta Cana.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in September
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
Sponsored links. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Visit Faye
Travel insurance.
FayeA missed connection, a bag that never turns up, a hospital abroad: far cheaper to cover before departure than to argue about after.
- Visit Saily
eSIM data.
SailySet up an eSIM before you fly so your phone has data the moment you land, without roaming charges.
Our top-rated travel gear
Whatever you decide, this is the gear we actually travel with: verified, priced, and ranked. Live price check on each.
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.