Bávaro is centrally located along the eastern coast and is a hub of tourist activity. Many of the region's all-inclusive resorts are on Playa Bávaro, and shopping plazas, restaurants, nightlife, and services have sprung up nearby to accommodate the burgeoning number of visitors.
El Cortecito is a charming fishing village within Bávaro. It's home to a vibrant and colorful artisan market, where you can browse for souvenirs in the open-air stalls, as well as snack bars, restaurants, and vacation apartments. Also within Bávaro, farther north along the coast is a stretch of beach known as Arena Gorda, literally "fat sand." About 20 mi (32 km) from Punta Cana International Airport, it's an area replete with coconut groves and is home to several resorts.