If you’re by the Caribbean Sea, you absolutely need to indulge in its bounty. Forget anything frozen or flown in—the real magic of dining in Punta Cana is found in the fresh, vibrant seafood caught just hours before it lands on your plate.
The Soul
From rustic beach shacks serving whole fried fish to elegant eateries with gourmet lobster, the region is a paradise for seafood lovers.
We’ve cast our net wide to bring you the five absolute best Seafood Restaurants in Punta Cana, ensuring every bite is as fresh as the ocean breeze. Get ready to experience the true taste of the Caribbean.
Top 5 Seafood Restaurants in Punta Cana for the Freshest Catch
1. Captain Cook
$$ | SEAFOOD SHACK | 📍 Bibijagua Beach, Bávaro, Punta Cana 23000
The Hook: The Quintessential, Toes-in-the-Sand Beach Shack Experience.
The Breakdown: No list of Seafood Restaurants in Punta Cana is complete without Captain Cook. This iconic spot,located directly on Bibijagua Beach, is famous for its ridiculously fresh catches. The main event here is the Whole Fried Fish (Pescado Frito), often red snapper or mahi-mahi, caught that very morning. Served simply with a side of tostonesand a squeeze of lime, it’s the ultimate, no-frills, authentic seafood feast.
2. La Yola
$$$ | GOURMET SEAFOOD | 📍 Puntacana Resort & Club, Marina Cap Cana 23000
The Hook: Exquisite Oceanfront Dining with Mediterranean Flair.
The Breakdown: For a truly upscale Seafood Restaurants in Punta Cana experience, La Yola stands unmatched.Located directly over the water at the Puntacana Resort & Club Marina, this award-winning restaurant specializes in Mediterranean-inspired seafood. Expect perfectly grilled lobster, ceviches bursting with flavor, and creative fish preparations, all enjoyed with the gentle lapping of waves beneath you. It’s ideal for a romantic evening or a special celebration.
3. Jellyfish Restaurant
$$$ | BEACHFRONT SEAFOOD | 📍 Bibijagua Beach, Bávaro, Punta Cana 23000
The Hook: Stunning Ambiance and Top-Tier Seafood Right on the Beach.
The Breakdown:Jellyfish Restaurant is renowned for its breathtaking setting and equally impressive menu. Its distinct,rustic-chic architecture, made from natural elements, creates an unforgettable atmosphere right on the beach. Specializing in fresh seafood, their menu features everything from grilled snapper and shrimp to elaborate seafood platters designed for sharing. It’s one of the most picturesque Seafood Restaurants in Punta Cana, perfect for a luxurious lunch or dinner by the sea.
4. Noah Restaurant & Lounge
$$ | LATIN FUSION / SEAFOOD | 📍 Plaza Paseo de San Juan, Carretera Barceló, Punta Cana 23000
The Hook: Innovative Seafood Dishes with a Modern, Urban Twist.
The Breakdown: While known for its Latin Fusion, Noah Restaurant & Lounge offers some of the most innovative Seafood Restaurants in Punta Cana dishes. Their approach to seafood is fresh and contemporary, often incorporating local ingredients with international techniques. Think creative sushi rolls, perfectly seared scallops, and vibrant ceviches that push the boundaries of traditional Caribbean flavors. It’s a chic, lively spot for those who appreciate gourmet seafood.
5. Dona Macao Restaurant
$$ | CARIBBEAN SEAFOOD | 📍 Av. Barceló, Plaza San Juan Shopping Center, Punta Cana 23000
The Hook: A Lively Celebration of Local Seafood and Caribbean Spirit.
The Breakdown:Dona Macao brings a vibrant, festive energy to the seafood scene. It’s a fantastic option for Seafood Restaurants in Punta Cana that offer both excellent quality and a lively atmosphere. Their menu highlights fresh local catches, often prepared with traditional Caribbean spices and presentations. From perfectly grilled fish to succulent shrimp dishes, Dona Macao delivers an authentic and delicious seafood experience in a beautifully designed space.
RPC’s Pro-Tip for Seafood Lovers
- Ask for the Catch of the Day: Don’t hesitate to ask your server what was caught fresh that morning. Many of the best Seafood Restaurants in Punta Cana pride themselves on their daily specials.
- Pair with a Local Drink: A crisp local white wine, a cold Presidente beer, or a fresh jugo natural (natural juice) like passion fruit or lime makes the perfect accompaniment to fresh Caribbean seafood.