Question 1

What is the "Jet Ski Damage Claim Scam" scam in Punta Cana?

Accepted Answer

Jet ski rental operators on Bávaro Beach and at Arena Gorda rent equipment for a quoted $60–80 per hour, then claim pre-existing scratches or engine damage were caused by the tourist after the ride. The operator shows the damage — which existed before the rental — and demands $200–500 in cash on the spot, sometimes with an accomplice blocking the path back to the resort. Victims who refuse are threatened with police involvement. Film a 360-degree video of the jet ski before and after the rental, capturing all existing scratches, dents, and the hull number. Use only operators with fixed pricing boards and printed receipts. Never pay a damage claim in cash without an official written incident report, and walk calmly back to the resort to call POLITUR (809-200-3500) if confronted.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Amber and Larimar Jewellery" scam in Punta Cana?

Accepted Answer

The Dominican Republic is famous for amber and larimar gemstones, but many vendors sell plastic or glass imitations at genuine stone prices. This is especially common in street markets. Buy amber and larimar only from certified jewellery shops. Request a certificate of authenticity and test amber with a UV light (genuine amber fluoresces blue-white).

Question 3

What is the "Counterfeit Dominican Rum" scam in Punta Cana?

Accepted Answer

Bottles sold by unlicensed vendors and unofficial shops in Bávaro market areas may be labelled as Brugal or Barceló rum but contain inferior or potentially dangerous spirits. Buy spirits only from licensed stores or duty-free. Verify factory seals on all bottles.

Other Tourist Scams in Punta Cana

Jet Ski Damage Claim Scam

Fake Amber and Larimar Jewellery

Counterfeit Dominican Rum

Experienced a scam here?