best hotel in dominican republic – Beautiful design, sparkling rooms, pampering service, and the best food available are a few of the factors we consider as we review more than 150 hotels throughout the Dominican Republic. Here’s our list of the best luxury hotels in the DR, from the country’s most famous (and most expensive) resorts to emerging designer boutiques.
Tortuga Bay Hotel Puntacana Resort & Club
Advantage
In an exclusive gated community eight minutes from the PUJ airport
On a pristine postcard-worthy beach, possibly the best in Punta Cana
Sparkling pool in a lush garden; with drink service and a hot tub
Designer suites with whirlpool tubs, luxury bathrooms, and ocean-view balconies
Personalized butler service is accessible through a dedicated cell phone
The gourmet Bamboo restaurant offers outdoor seating and 24-hour room service, plus a free breakfast
Impressive Six Senses Spa with massages and salon treatments
Private VIP transportation to/from Punta Cana International Airport
VIP service through immigration, baggage retrieval, and customs; plus the use of the airport lounge
Each suite includes cruiser bikes and a private golf cart
Access to the 18-hole La Cana golf course, designed by Pete Dye
Free Wi-Fi and valet parking
The boutique sells Oscar de la Renta items
Access to the long list of services in the surrounding Puntacana Resort
Cons
No nightlife to speak of
Some of the highest prices in the DR and no all-inclusive fees
No taste of the real Dominican Republic
No private pools or pool access
Summary
In Punta Cana, competing with the five-pearl Hotel Tortuga Bay for luxury, VIP treatment, and boutique intimacy is almost impossible. Instead, the property designed by Oscar de la Renta (a local legend born in nearby Santo Domingo) offers some of the most elegant accommodations on the island. All services, including Bamboo Restaurant, white sand beach, free airport transfers, expedited immigration service, and Six Senses Spa, are world-class. The 30 spacious and sophisticated suites are luxuriously appointed with whirlpool tubs, beautiful bathrooms, private butler service, and ocean-view balconies/terraces. Cruiser bikes and golf carts come with each suite. If guests balk at anything here, the price and lack of nightly entertainment are likely. Though it lacks the same sophistication, The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club offers a similar location and amenities on an adjacent beach for lower rates.
Eden Roc at Cap Cana
Advantage
Upscale beachfront property with a quiet, secluded vibe
Air-conditioning with smart iPads, marble bathrooms, and outdoor rainfall showers
Many rooms have ocean views and/or private pools.
All villas include free golf cart rentals (but they’re five minutes from the beach)
Three restaurants serve seafood and international cuisine: and two have ocean views.
Complimentary breakfast is included with all stays.
The lovely private beach rarely crowded, with plenty of loungers
Two infinity pools, including one with a walk-up pool bar
Pleasant spa and fitness room with modern cardio and resistance equipment
Two kids’ clubs with playgrounds and free (limited) childcare
Access to Cap Cana’s Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course and a marina
Free airport transfers, Wi-Fi, and welcome cocktails
Cons
No water sports like kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, or Hobie cat catamarans
Not an all-inclusive, meals and drinks add up quickly
Nothing within walking distance – a car or taxi to explore
Villas are a five-minute golf drive from the beach
The pool bar open only during high season or high hotel occupancy
Summary
Eden Roc at Cap Cana is a luxury hotel with an oceanfront beach club in Punta Cana’s posh Cap Cana enclave. Its 60 air-conditioned units are a mix of oceanfront units with sophisticated European interiors and contemporary villas. More classic with king beds, flat-screen TVs, smart home systems, private plunge pools, and oversized marble bathrooms. The resort has three tasty restaurants and multiple bars, but only breakfast is included in the rates. Hotel amenities include a gorgeous private beach, two infinity pools, two fitness centers, a spa, two kids’ clubs, and a romantic natural cenote. Welcome cocktails and airport transfers are free. As an alternative, the Tortuga Bay Punta Cana Resort and Club is an oceanfront boutique hotel that adds Oscar de la Renta-designed interiors and water sports (the latter surprisingly lacking at Eden Roc).
Country House Resort & Villas
Advantage
3 Pete Dye golf courses; Tooth of the Dog is considered one of the best in the Caribbean
pristine white sand beaches
The large elegant rooms have flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, Wi-Fi, and balconies.
Excellent food in its more than twelve restaurants, including a branch of the famous Le Cirque.
An intimate, full-service spa includes specialty water treatments, an outdoor meditation area, and organic products.
Bathrooms have separate showers and tubs.
Clay pigeon and pit shooting range (one of the best in the world)
Horse stables and equestrian center
All-inclusive option available includes food, drinks, and activities.
Cons
Pools are small compared to other D.R. properties.
Restaurants are expensive
The all-inclusive plan only offers the six restaurants owned by the resort; additional fees may apply for some menu options.
10-minute golf cart ride to the beach (all rooms come with a golf cart)
Summary
The classiest and most famous resort in all of the D.R. since 1974, the Casa de Campo hotel is part of a massive 7,000-acre resort community. It includes three world-renowned golf courses, a pristine beach, a marina, the picturesque “village” of Altos de Chavon, and numerous other on-site activities. It may take some time to get from one place to another, but each spacious room includes a golf cart for guest use. Although the Eden Roc offers more luxurious rooms, the Casa de Campo offers more activities, and some prefer its elegant but more relaxed atmosphere.
The Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real
Advantage
A sizeable aquatic complex with children’s areas, slides, and an inflatable pool
A spectacular spa with gym and yoga classes
Family concierge service with activities and special services
An impressive children’s area with a climbing wall and trampoline
Excellent dining options, bars, and an impressive variety of food at the buffet
Beach access, special services, and restaurants at sister property next door
Various types of spacious suites, some with terraces connected to the pool
Rooms with classic decor, good-quality toiletries, and minibars
Lots of activities are available, such as marine excursions and nightly entertainment
Careful spaces and quiet environments
Tennis courts, plus passes to play golf at Cocotal Golf & Country Club
Free Wi-Fi all over the place
Cons
It is not directly on the beach (there is a regular shuttle service)
More space means long distances to go from one place to another
Suite amenities vary. Make sure to specify the type of room when making the reservation
The best restaurants tend to fill up quickly, and making reservations is difficult
Drink service and Wi-Fi can be slow
Summary
With fewer than 200 suites, this family-friendly section of the all-inclusive Paradisus Palma Real offers a serene and luxurious atmosphere. The property offers sprawling grounds, winding pathways, and high-end amenities such as a world-class spa, yoga, and a seemingly endless pool. Couples will find that the well-behaved children here are hardly ever a bother. Guests have free access to services, facilities, and restaurants adjacent to the Palma Real, especially the beach area, which this property lacks. Parents will likely appreciate the area’s kid-friendly services and childcare, while everyone can enjoy daily excursions, quality restaurants and bars, and a personal concierge service.
Sea Horse Ranch
Advantage
Secure, 24-hour gated luxury resort between Cabarete and Sosua
Luxury villas, all with private pools, some with sea views
Services may include personal chefs and maids
Ocean Front, Close to Beach and Grocery Store
Beach Club Restaurant – open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Oceanfront pools feature natural landscaping and plenty of shade
Tennis Club and Academy, with private and evening classes
Equestrian Center, with organized tours along seven miles of trails
Summer camp for children
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
free parking
Cons
No actual beach (but a water inlet, at least)
Summary
The laid-back Sea Horse Ranch sits on the north shore of Cabarete and spans over 250 acres. The resort features sophisticated luxury villas with private pools and a host of pampering services — like a personal chef and maid service. The grounds are also home to an equestrian center, tennis academy, and an impressive waterfront restaurant with monthly live music nights. Although there are two gorgeous pools and two beaches within a short drive, the property lacks its own truly swimmable shoreline. Nothing even comes close to comparing to the level of luxury in the area, but young couples wanting stylish rooms with more of a social vibe might prefer Ultraviolet Boutique Residences down the road — rates there will be much lower.
The Reserve at Paradisus Punta Cana
Advantage
Relaxed all-inclusive boutique section of the hotel
Ideal for the family, and yet also suitable for romantics
Access to excellent dining and entertainment options, both here and next door
Several pool options, including one for children
Suitable for bicycles; numerous bike stations located around the property
Pleasant reception area with welcome drinks and snacks
Large one-bedroom units with separate living/dining areas and kitchenettes
All units have balconies and enormous bathrooms with whirlpool tubs for two
Asian-style spa with pools and indoor or outdoor treatments
Modern fitness center and yoga studio with natural light
Free golf course fee at Cocotal Golf & Country Club
Cons
Showers have high-tech nozzles that can be difficult to operate
It takes a walk, a ride, or a bike ride to get to the beach and other areas
Reservations at the restaurant can be a challenge
Not all restaurants are included in the price.
Summary
Despite its kid-friendly mantra, this luxury boutique resort is relaxing and an appealing option for couples and families. The Reserve is more expensive than its larger sister property next door, the Paradisus Punta Cana, but for a good reason. The 132 classic one-bedroom units (some adjoining) have separate living/dining areas, sofa beds, and spacious bathrooms with whirlpool tubs for two. Reserve guests can access the amenities and restaurants next door (minus Royal Services), so they don’t miss out on the attractions by staying there. The beach area is quite a walk, but tangerine bikes are handy for getting around, and it’s not far to walk to the large pool complex, gym, yoga studio, and Asian-themed spa.
Sanctuary Cap Cana by Playa Hotels & Resorts
Advantage
It resembles a Spanish castle and has an amazing location on a cliff.
Lovely rustic-chic rooms, all with outdoor space and some with sea views
Excellent white sand beach
Six pools, including one with a swim-up bar and poolside service.
Buffet, Asian, Italian, and Grill dining options; Room service 24 hours
Oceanfront Thatched Roof Seafood Restaurant Blue Marlin
Extensive spa area with its own juice bar, massage cabanas, and private pool
Free transportation to nearby Punta Espada, a renowned 18-hole par 72 golf course.
15 minutes by taxi from Punta Cana International Airport
Only for adults as of December 2015 (a con for some)
Cons
Away from the rest of Punta Cana, There are no nearby activities or dining.
Several elevators were out of order during our visit.
Fee for the use of Wi-Fi in the room
Summary
This 174-room all-inclusive luxury resort resembles a Spanish castle town. It sits on an oceanside bluff in the still-developing resort of Cap Cana, close to the airport but a bit off the beaten track. Its beautifully decorated pools, spa, and restaurants are among the best in the Dominican Republic; the Zoetry Agua Punta Cana is one of only a handful of comparable resorts in this similarly priced area.
Xeliter Balconies of the Atlantic
Advantage
Less than a 10-minute drive from the bars, restaurants, and lively center of Las Terrenas
It is located on a beautiful clean white sand beach.
All apartments have gourmet kitchens, large terraces, multiple flat-screen TVs, and air-conditioning.
Rooms are enormous, ranging from 1,100 to 4,000 square feet
Multiple pools, hot tubs, and a kiddy pool
Opposite the Porto, the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Complimentary basic breakfast of fruit, bread, and coffee
The Fitness center has cardio machines and weights
Free parking in a secure, gated lot
free bottled water
Cons
Rooms are located across the street from the lobby, restaurant, and beach
No sea view from the room (the website states otherwise)
daily fee for Wi-Fi and use of water sports equipment
restaurant food quality varies
gym located in an abandoned building and, for a fee
Summary
With multiple pools, a mile-long stretch of pristine white-sand beach, and one of the area’s largest and most beautiful open-air restaurants, the four-and-a-half-pearl Xeliter Balcones del Atlántico is more like a resort than its own. Individually owned condo complex that it is. The gated, secure property feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Las Terrenas, yet it’s only a 10-minute drive to the city’s restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Thirty-five enormous villa suites are among the largest and most luxurious in the area and include gourmet kitchens and spacious terraces. Note that there’s a daily fee that covers Wi-Fi and sports equipment and an additional fee to use the gym. For more of a bed-and-breakfast vibe, check prices at Casa La Nouba, but they lose access to the beach.
Le Sivory Punta Cana By PortBlue Boutique
Advantage
Remote beachfront location on quiet grounds
Spacious, modern rooms with sleek bathrooms and furnished outdoor spaces.
Some rooms have direct beach access, hot tubs, and/or private pools
Beautiful pool with poolside bar and ocean views
Four restaurants and two bars, including Mediterranean and Asian cuisine.
All-inclusive rates cover meals, drinks, and activities.
Tranquil spa with a sauna and outdoor pool, plus a small fitness center
Event space for up to 150 people for meetings and weddings.
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Cons
Bumpy 50 minute’s drive from the airport
Weak Wi-Fi and phone signals throughout the complex
The gym is small and only has a couple of machines.
Kids are not allowed (a pro for some)
Summary
One of the few luxury boutique hotels in Punta Cana, the luxurious Le Sivory is a laid-back, adults-only, all-inclusive property in a secluded beachfront location a 50-minute drive from the airport. The 55 rooms here are spacious and elegant, with terraces or patios (some with hot tubs or private pools) and luxurious bathrooms. Four dining options range from stellar gourmet dining to a casual open-air restaurant overlooking the beach. Other features include a beautiful pool, spa, and fitness facilities, as well as a beach free of street vendors and crowds of tourists. Travelers with kids will have to look elsewhere. It might be worth comparing rates with the nearby Zoetry Agua Punta Cana, which is arguably more luxurious but is allowed for kids.
Zoetry Agua Punta Cana
Advantage
Uncrowded private beach with turquoise waters and non-motorized water sports
Unlimited gourmet dining at the resort’s four a la carte restaurants and cafeteria
Unlimited premium alcoholic beverages at all three bars, including the refined Canoa lobby bar
24-hour room service and all-day dining
All suites include private butler service and luxurious bathrooms
All suites have a large flat-screen TV with a DVD player, iPod dock, and free WiFi
Oceanfront Suites are located directly on the ocean, and some have pool access
A pristine, uncrowded main pool with a swim-up bar and on-site sommelier
The magnificent spa has a pool and hydrotherapy circuit, as well as a gym
Free activities include yoga, snorkeling, cigar rolling, and a horseback ride
Fruits, alcoholic beverages, coffee, and handmade beach bags in the rooms are all free.
Its lush and well-kept gardens are very peaceful and relaxing.
Cons
Remote location, 45 minutes from the airport
Some rooms do not have ocean views
No kids’ club (which may be a plus for some)
Little to do at night
Summary
The Zoetry Agua is one of the most luxurious and tranquil all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic. The rustic vibe and Zen energy are the exact opposite of what you’ll find at the all-inclusive around Bávaro, frequented by booze aficionados. Zoetry offers an uncrowded white-sand beach, 96 spacious suites with butler service, a long, pristine pool, and one of the best spas in the area. In addition, the resort is proud to offer the Endless Privileges service, which includes 24/7 check-in and check-out. There is also unlimited premium alcoholic beverages, free laundry service, four gourmets a la carte restaurants (no buffets), a coffee shop, and three bars (one aquatic). Guests can also enjoy a 20-minute massage and free horseback riding on the beach. It’s a 45-minute drive from the airport, about as far as you can get in Punta Cana. This hotel is kid-friendly, but if you’re looking for a more family-friendly option, check out the rates at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana.
