Oyster reporters have investigated more than 70 all-inclusive hotels in the Punta Cana area of the Dominican Republic, each seemingly larger and more amenity-laden than the last. To help you take the guesswork out of booking one of these properties, our researchers ranked the best all-inclusive deals they visited. Look at the list of the best all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana.
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 any-time check-in and check-out, unlimited premium alcoholic beverages, and free laundry service. There are also 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.
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 area. 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.
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 huge 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
Only some 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. In addition, Reserve guests can access the amenities and restaurants next door (minus Royal Services), so they can experience 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.
Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort
Advantage
The lobby is elegant and has a view of the sea
Service is a main area of concentration, and it shows
The attractive pool area doesn’t feel crowded
The beach is spectacular, with palapas and lounge chairs
The food and beverage program stands out, plus the 24-hour room service
Impressive a la carte selection from Michelin-starred chefs and restaurant
Shared access with a neighboring family-oriented property
The Higher Royal Service category is available with an elegant lounge and swimming pool
Suites have classic decor, and coffeemakers and minibars are stocked daily
An Asian-style outdoor spa
Golf players can play for free at the nearby golf club
Free Wi-Fi all over the place
Cons
Some furnishings show some wear.
Showers have high-tech nozzles and gadgets that can be difficult to use
Sometimes it is a challenge to book the restaurant
Certain areas are for Royal Service guests only (not appreciated by many guests of the main resort)
Summary
One of four Paradisus resorts in Punta Cana, the exclusive 554-room Palma Real hotel has a romantic Caribbean setting. It appears larger than its sister properties, with a palatial lobby that leads to a jaw-dropping courtyard, pool and lounge area, and beach. The food and drink offering here is the highlight; there are impressive international buffets and a la carte restaurants (one from a Michelin-starred chef) that will appeal to adults and honeymooners. Suites are decorated with classic mahogany wood furnishings and marble tile floors and have coffeemakers, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. For a more luxurious experience, the Royal Service offers additional facilities and special access to an elegant lounge. A lovely spa is also available.
Paradisus Punta Cana Resort
Advantage
Spacious all-inclusive resort with a tranquil garden setting
Good beach area with a fun bar scene, both day and night
Access to several pools, including one for children
Impressive international buffets and romantic a la carte restaurants
Bike friendly with numerous stations located throughout the property
Contemporary rooms with coffeemakers and minibars
Deluxe Royal Service section with private lounge and personal butlers
Asian-themed spa, with pools and treatments inside and outside
A state-of-the-art fitness center with a separate yoga studio
A picturesque wedding gazebo and beach area
Lots of activities and nightly entertainment
On-site tennis courts and free use of the Cocotal Golf & Country Club
Cons
This property is extensive and, therefore, may require a lot of walking or vehicle transportation.
Restaurant reservations and bike rentals can be a bit of a hassle
Only some restaurants are included in the price.
Shaded beach and pool diving boards tend to get busy early in the morning.
Summary
It’s the largest of Punta Cana’s four Paradisus resorts, has 683 rooms, and can still feel uncrowded due to its expansive grounds. Guests can expect to walk or get a ride to the resort’s beach, pools, luxury spa, yoga studio, and fantastic restaurants on a regular shuttle. There is also a bike station for those who prefer it. The beach doesn’t quiet down at night as it can in other resorts but instead comes alive with a party scene appealing to young and old. The Royal Service (you will be given an introduction on arrival) gives you access to the private lounge, separate pool, and beach area. The resort is slightly more luxurious (and slightly more expensive) than its neighbors, the Bavaro Princess All Suites Resort and the Iberostar Bavaro.
Sanctuary Cap Cana by Playa Hotels & Resorts
Advantage
It resembles a Spanish castle and has an impressive 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 and is perched on an oceanside bluff in the still-developing resort of Cap Cana, close to the airport but a bit off the beaten track. Complex. 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.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana
Advantage
A huge all-inclusive beachfront hotel with better services than many Punta Cana hotels
Spacious, elegant rooms with luxury bathrooms and free liquor dispensers
Decoration and paraphernalia of the Hard Rock chain throughout the venue
The 4,180-square-meter casino is the largest (and best) in the entire Dominican Republic
13 varied dining options, 23 bars, and a nightclub
Food served throughout the property is surprisingly good for an all-inclusive
13 pools, including one for adults only and one with water slides for children
Lovely big beach with lots of lounge chairs
A beautiful spa and a well-equipped gym
18-hole golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus
Great family amenities like a kids’ club, arcade, and miniature golf
A continuous schedule of concerts in the nightclub and the theater on site
6,040 square meters of meeting and event space
Parking and free Wi-Fi
Cons
As it is a huge property, it is challenging to get around, and you have to walk a lot.
Most guests who need to get around rely on the shuttle, which runs infrequently.
Rooms have very thin walls.
Hot tubs in rooms may cause privacy issues for some
Most rooms do not have ocean views
Summary
With 1,790 rooms, 13 pools and restaurants, 23 bars, an 18-hole golf course, 6,038 square meters of meeting space, a giant spa, a fitness center, and the largest casino in the Dominican Republic, the word “huge” doesn’t even It doesn’t even seem big enough to describe the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana. But the Hard Rock isn’t just about size: The large luxury property also happens to be one of the best all-inclusive hotels in Punta Cana. Suitable for families, couples, and those just looking to have fun. With so much space, it’s easy for every group to find the right spot, and with the hotel’s extensive list of services, everyone is sure to find something to keep them occupied. Travelers not looking for something quite as big should check out the equally luxurious Paradisus Palma Real, a much smaller property with fewer amenities and similar nightly rates.
Barcelo Bavaro Palace
Advantage
The magnificent white sand beach is always kept in perfect condition
Modern rooms have iPod docks and flat-screen TVs
Numerous pools that are rarely crowded
Beautiful spa with several beauty treatment rooms and an open-air salon
Golf course designed by Pete Dye
Lots of dining and nightlife options, including buffets, a seafood restaurant, a 24-hour casino, and a nightclub
Family-friendly atmosphere with a kids’ club and a very laid-back crowd
Pirates Island Water Park has a wave pool
Cons
The large size of the complex can mean long walks that require a certain amount of time (the complex offers a shuttle service)
Long lines for check-in and check-out (except for guests in “Premium Level” rooms)
Additional fee for Wi-Fi connection (free for “Premium Club” guests)
Summary
The 1,402-room Barceló Bávaro Palace complex boasts various features, including an attractive spa, 24-hour casino, four pools, and eleven restaurants. But aside from the sizable lines at the front desk, the resort’s sheer number of guests rarely shows: There are always spaces for guests to line up at the pools and on the beach, and restaurant reservation requests keep these well-organized. As a result, couples, families, and partiers mingle seamlessly on the property. Although the neighboring adult-only property has a slightly more romantic vibe, many couples choose to stay here, as most tourist attractions are located here. Hotel rooms feature iPod docks, flat-screen TVs, and attractive, stylish decor.
Majestic Colonial Punta Cana
Advantage
The sprawling pool complex runs the length of the resort; plenty of loungers for all
Set on a beautiful beach with free unmonitored water sports
Eight all-in-one restaurants, including sushi, buffet, and Caribbean options, plus a late-night snack bar
11 all-in-one bars feature premium alcohol and strong drinks
Fabulous suites with marble floors, jetted tubs, and free minibars stocked with liquor; some suites have direct pool access
Adults-only Colonial Club guests get butler service, a dedicated pool, and restaurant areas
A nightclub, casino, and a night snack bar
Lovely spa with hydrotherapy circuit and pool (costs extra)
Tennis courts and fitness center, plus free yoga and aqua aerobics
Fun outdoor kids’ club with separate pools and slides
Charismatic and memorable animation team that organizes games and, twice a week, foam parties
Free Wifi in the entire hotel
The conference hall can hold up to 600 people, popular for weddings
The casino has slots and gaming tables.
Cons
The beach gets crowded, and the water can be too rough for water sports.
The use of an uncomfortable bracelet is mandatory.
Food quality has mixed opinions (although diversity is good)
Rooms facing the pool may experience noise issues
Bathroom layout in some room types lacks privacy
Summary
The Majestic Colonial Punta Cana is one of three exclusive all-inclusive sister properties on a gorgeous stretch of Playa Bavaro. The property was completely closed for two months in 2017 to meticulously renovate the lobby and restaurants. It now operates almost as two resorts: the family side and the adults-only Colonial Club side. The 658 suites are alluring, with marble floors, jetted tubs, and some ocean views. Upgrades to suites with direct pool access are available. Food is above average at eight restaurants, including two nice buffets and a fun sushi restaurant. Dedicated entertainment staff keeps the tone lively at foam parties twice a week. A lazy 1,300-foot river-style pool winds its way to the center of the property, and loungers are always available here, though the beach gets crowded. For cheaper rates but slightly less exciting rooms, check out the prices next door at the Majestic Elegance Punta Cana.
Grand Palladium Bavaro Suites Resort & Spa
Advantage
All-inclusive family resort with a lovely beach.
Four separate pools and plenty of food and drink options.
Renovated rooms with contemporary decor, coffeemakers, and minibars
A quality kids’ and babies’ club (ages one to 13) in a castle.
Large gym and spa.
The Romance Suites have huge Mayan-style showers.
Some of the new units have pools.
Nightly entertainment, casino, and disco.
Windsurfing, catamarans, and tennis courts.
Free train rides from the main areas of each resort.
Free wifi in the lobby.
Access to the services of two sister properties.
Cons
Prepare to do a lot of walking.
The buffets (especially during breakfast and lunch) are pretty busy.
Registration can be a slow process.
The beach can be very crowded.
Some unrenovated rooms with outdated decor.
Summary
With its 674 rooms, the Grand Palladium Bávaro is spread over extensive grounds (guests also have access to two sister properties), offering 15 bars, five buffets, and eight restaurants. Walking shoes are recommended, but family-friendly amenities, lower prices than some neighboring resorts, and updated rooms are the big draws. In 2014, the resort added 178 units, including a beach-view pool option (an excellent pick for honeymooners — or else, romantics may want to check out the adults-only Royal Turquesa next door). ). On the other hand, kids and their parents will appreciate the outstanding kids’ club, but the beach can get crowded.
Punta Cana Princess All Suites Resort & Spa
Advantage
Exclusive vacation complex for adults only
Elaborate welcome drinks on arrival
Good beach location with a cafe bar and drink service
Fun atmosphere in the pool with a swim-up bar and entertainment
Five dining options that include very romantic places like the Mediterranean and the fondue
Nightly entertainment in the lobby
All rooms are suites with Jacuzzis and separate living areas
The Honeymoon Suites have more services, such as a welcome basket
Some rooms have beautiful views of the sea
Access to services at the other Princess resorts, such as a nightclub, theater, and casino
Tennis and non-motorized water sports are included.
Outdoor mini spa offering couples massages by the sea
Cons
Balconies are very small and have plastic furniture
While the beach is lovely, it’s not as big and wide as those at neighboring resorts
Pool chairs are provided on request and can be snapped up early
Annoying street vendors roam the beach at times
Summary
Of the four Princess resorts in Punta Cana, this 263-room all-inclusive is the most expensive, an adults-only option. It’s a bit more elegant than the other three, though honeymooners should try to choose one of the seven Honeymoon Suites that offer more romance. The resort can sometimes feel like an adult party, especially the pool in the afternoon, the lobby entertainment, and the 24-hour beach bar. Those looking for a quieter experience can head to the beach, grab a lounger for the day, and have drinks served by a waiter there — though vendors can sometimes be a nuisance. Five restaurants are available, including a romantic beachside Mediterranean option, and guests have access to nightlife at the other resorts, ensuring plenty of variety.
