Planning a trip to Punta Cana can be tough. With so many resorts to choose from, it’s hard to know which one is right for you. You want a place that’s fun, safe, and worth your money.
But how can you be sure you’re making the right choice?
Punta Cana is home to over 80 all-inclusive resorts. Each one offers something different. This blog post will give you honest reviews of the best places to stay in Punta Cana. We’ll share real experiences from guests and tips to help you pick the perfect resort.
Get ready for a stress-free vacation in paradise!
Key Takeaways
- Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana rates 4.0 out of 5 stars, offering varied dining options and family-friendly amenities like kids’ pools and a lazy river.
- Many resorts in Punta Cana face issues with long dinner wait times, poor service, and lackluster entertainment, as reported by guests.
- Impressive Punta Cana Resort features five a la carte restaurants, two buffets, and a large pool area with a swim-up bar and easy beach access.
- Packing essentials for Punta Cana include high SPF sunscreen, lightweight clothing, zip-lock bags for humidity protection, and reef-safe sunscreen for marine life conservation.
- Local markets in Punta Cana offer unique souvenirs like handmade crafts, Larimar jewelry, and traditional Dominican products such as cigars and coffee.
Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana
Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana offers a slice of paradise in the Dominican Republic. This all-inclusive resort boasts a 4.0 out of 5 rating for its top-notch service, prime location, and restful rooms.
Guests can indulge in a variety of dining options, from Japanese and Italian cuisines to a casual pizza and burger bar. The resort caters to families with kid-friendly pools and a lazy river, while adults can unwind at swim-up bars or lounge on the pristine beach.
Despite its many perks, some guests note persistent sales pitches from staff and beach vendors as a downside. The resort provides nightly shows for all ages, though some visitors find the entertainment lacking.
Management actively responds to feedback, working to improve dining and service quality. For those seeking a tropical getaway with oceanfront views and luxury amenities, Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana might just fit the bill.
Moving on to our next resort, let’s explore the Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort.
Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort
Moving from Dreams Royal Beach, we turn our attention to another popular resort in Punta Cana. Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort sits on the beautiful beaches of Bavaro. This all-inclusive resort promises luxury, but recent reviews paint a different picture.
Guests report major issues with food quality and service at Paradisus Palma Real. The buffet offers poor choices, and only two restaurants open for dinner each night. This leads to long waits for seating and hungry, unhappy visitors.
Staff members often seem inactive, leaving guests feeling ignored. Even the night entertainment falls flat, lacking excitement or quality. One disappointed traveler shared:.
Grand Bavaro Princess
I stayed at Grand Bavaro Princess and left feeling disappointed. The resort fell short in many areas. Dinner options were limited, with only two restaurants open each night. This led to long waits and frustrated guests.
The staff seemed uninterested in helping, and service was poor overall. Even the night shows were boring, lacking the energy you’d expect at a beach resort.
The food quality at the buffet was another letdown. Many travelers complained about bland and unappetizing meals. With so many negative experiences, it’s no surprise this review sparked lots of discussion online.
It got 20 responses and 117 comments from other travelers sharing their thoughts. If you’re planning a Punta Cana trip, you might want to look at other resorts for a better vacation.
Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino
Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino sits on a prime beachfront spot in Punta Cana. This Dominican Republic gem boasts lush gardens and spacious rooms with verandahs. Guests can try their luck at the casino or unwind at the spa.
The resort’s 4.0 rating comes from 5,632 reviews, with prices starting at $623 per night, including breakfast. While the grounds impress, some guests grumble about long waits at the two dinner restaurants.
The buffet options and service quality often fall short of expectations.
Next, let’s explore another popular resort option in Punta Cana: Caribe Deluxe Princess.
Caribe Deluxe Princess
Caribe Deluxe Princess left many guests feeling let down. Lisa Stentvedt, who spent two weeks in the Dominican Republic, shared some tough feedback about this all-inclusive resort.
Long waits at dinner spots and poor service topped the list of gripes. Guests found staff members standing around instead of helping. The night shows fell flat too, failing to spark any real excitement.
Bad reviews piled up for Caribe Deluxe Princess. One guest went as far as telling others to avoid booking there at all costs. This warning caught fire, sparking 20 responses and 117 comments from other travelers.
It seems the resort struck out on key areas like food, staff, and fun. These misses can make or break a beach getaway in Punta Cana. Sadly, Caribe Deluxe Princess missed the mark for many visitors seeking a dream Dominican vacation.
Meliá Caribe Beach Resort
Meliá Caribe Beach Resort sits just a short walk from Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana. At $433 per night, guests get breakfast and can make fully refundable bookings. The resort boasts free parking, Wi-Fi, pools, and beachfront access.
Despite these perks, many of the 6,818 guest reviews paint a less rosy picture. Travelers often gripe about poor service, inactive staff, and long waits for dinner seating. The buffet food quality has left much to be desired for several guests.
While the resort offers all-inclusive options, the reality may fall short of expectations. Guests have reported waiting over an hour for a table at restaurants. This delay can put a damper on vacation plans and leave travelers feeling frustrated.
The next section will explore another popular Punta Cana destination, Zel Punta Cana.
Zel Punta Cana
Zel Punta Cana falls short of expectations for many guests. Only two restaurants open for dinner each night, causing long waits. Staff often seem idle, leading to poor service. One guest tried to pour their own beer out of frustration.
The resort’s food quality disappoints many travelers. Night shows lack excitement, leaving guests bored. With 20 responses and 117 comments on one review, opinions vary widely. Some visitors suggest better options like Vista Sol or Grand Bavaro Princess instead of booking at Zel Punta Cana.
Punta Cana Princess
Moving from Zel Punta Cana, we now turn our attention to Punta Cana Princess, another popular resort in this Caribbean paradise. Sadly, this all-inclusive beachfront property falls short in several key areas.
Guests report long wait times at the two dinner restaurants, often struggling to find seating. The staff’s service leaves much to be desired, with many employees appearing idle and unresponsive to guest needs.
One frustrated traveler even faced resistance when trying to pour their own beer, prompting an odd response from three servers.
Nightlife at Punta Cana Princess lacks excitement, earning a lackluster “blah” rating from visitors. The buffet restaurant serves up disappointing fare, further dampening the vacation experience.
These issues have led many guests to advise against booking this resort, suggesting alternatives like Vista Sol and Grand Bavaro Princess instead. The high number of responses and comments on these reviews shows that many travelers share these concerns about Punta Cana Princess.
Despite its prime location, this resort seems to miss the mark on customer service and overall guest satisfaction.
Tropical Deluxe Princess
The Tropical Deluxe Princess offers a slice of paradise in Punta Cana. This resort boasts lush gardens and pristine beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. Guests can bask in the warm Caribbean sun or take a dip in one of the many pools.
The rooms blend comfort with island charm, giving visitors a cozy spot to relax after a day of fun.
Food lovers will enjoy the range of dining options at the resort. From local dishes to global fare, there’s something for every taste bud. The resort also hosts nightly shows and events, keeping guests entertained throughout their stay.
For those seeking adventure, water sports and nearby excursions offer plenty of thrills. The Tropical Deluxe Princess truly lives up to its name, providing a royal tropical getaway.
Barcelo Bavaro Palace All Inclusive Resort
Moving from the Tropical Deluxe Princess, we now turn our attention to the Barcelo Bavaro Palace All Inclusive Resort. This resort has sparked mixed feelings among guests. Many visitors have voiced concerns about long waits for dinner, with only two restaurants open each night.
The staff’s poor service has left a sour taste in guests’ mouths. One frustrated visitor even tried to serve themselves, only to be stopped by suddenly active employees.
Sadly, the resort’s entertainment falls flat, lacking the spark needed to keep guests engaged. Food quality has also been a major letdown, especially at the “koliderscpe buffet.” These issues have led to a flood of negative feedback from unhappy guests.
Some have gone as far as to warn others against booking here, suggesting Vista Sol or Grand Bavaro Princess with platinum upgrades as better options. This feedback paints a picture of a resort that may need to step up its game to meet guest expectations.
Royalton Splash Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection Resort & Casino
Royalton Splash Punta Cana offers a perfect mix of fun and luxury for families and couples. This beachfront resort boasts a huge water park with thrilling slides and pools. Guests can enjoy all-inclusive perks like tasty meals at various restaurants and cool drinks at the bars.
The resort also has a casino for adults who want to try their luck at games.
The rooms at Royalton Splash are comfy and modern, with great views of the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can relax at the spa, work out at the gym, or join in beach activities. For those planning a wedding, the resort provides beautiful spots for ceremonies and receptions.
With its blend of excitement and relaxation, Royalton Splash Punta Cana gives guests a true Caribbean vacation experience.
Supplementary Reviews
Supplementary reviews offer extra insights on resorts, dining, pools, and activities. Read on for more details about Punta Cana’s top spots!
Impressive Punta Cana Resort Overview
Impressive Punta Cana Resort offers a tropical getaway with two main sections: Impressive Punta Cana and Impressive Premium. This beachfront property boasts a 4.0 out of 5 rating, with high marks for location, service, and sleep quality.
Guests can enjoy five a la carte restaurants and two buffet options, plus table service for drinks.
The resort’s large pool area is a highlight, featuring a swim-up bar and easy beach access. Families will love the kids’ pools and lazy river pool. For a fun twist, guests should pack zip-lock bags for salt and pepper shakers.
With its mix of luxury and family-friendly amenities, Impressive Punta Cana Resort caters to all types of travelers seeking a Caribbean escape.
Dining and Drinking Experience
At Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana, guests can enjoy a tasty trip around the world. The resort offers Japanese, Italian, and beachside pizza options. Smart visitors bring zip-lock bags for salt and pepper shakers to fight the humid air.
Over at Impressive Punta Cana, food lovers have five fancy restaurants and two big buffets to pick from. You’ll need to book a table at the fancy spots. Both resorts make sure you’re well fed and having fun.
They mix good food with fun events to keep everyone happy, from families to grown-ups looking for a night out.
Pools and Beaches
Punta Cana boasts top-notch resorts with stunning beaches and clear waters. Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana offers a big pool area with different depths and swim-up bars. Guests can lounge on comfy chairs and sip drinks while soaking up the sun.
The beach at Dreams Royal Beach is a treat for preferred guests. They can enjoy brunch at the seaside grill while taking in ocean views.
Some resorts need to step up their game. At Impressive Punta Cana, the pool had some trash floating around. This shows they could do better with upkeep. Beach vendors can be a bother too.
Many guests say they get bugged a lot while trying to relax on the sand. Despite these small issues, Punta Cana’s pools and beaches still offer a great escape for most visitors.
Activities and Events
Punta Cana resorts offer a wide range of fun activities and events. At Dreams Royal Beach, families can enjoy nightly shows and games. Adults can watch special performances after dark.
Many resorts provide exciting options like ATV rides, snorkeling trips, and city tours. These let guests explore the area’s natural beauty and culture.
Impressive Punta Cana stands out with its five restaurants and mix of relaxation and adventure. Guests often rave about scuba diving, day trips, and spa treatments at various resorts.
Water sports, cultural outings, and wellness options are popular choices for visitors. The next section will cover dining and drinking experiences in Punta Cana.
Exploring Local Markets and Souvenirs in Punta Cana
Punta Cana offers a vibrant local market scene for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs. Visitors can find unique mementos and experience the local culture through shopping adventures.
- Local vendors sell handmade crafts at Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana resort.
- Secrets Resort provides extra shopping options for guests staying nearby.
- Simply Dominican organizes exclusive market tours for an authentic local experience.
- Travelers can buy traditional gifts like handwoven textiles and wooden carvings.
- Artisanal products such as coconut oil soaps and natural beauty items are popular.
- Food lovers enjoy culinary experiences at local markets, tasting fresh tropical fruits.
- Zip-lock bags come in handy for buying salt and pepper shakers due to high humidity.
- Cultural souvenirs like Larimar jewelry showcase the Dominican Republic’s blue gemstone.
- Market tours often include stops at small family-run shops for unique finds.
- Bargaining is common at local markets, so tourists should practice their haggling skills.
- Authentic local items like cigars and coffee make great gifts to bring home.
- Resort dining experiences sometimes feature local dishes, giving a taste of Dominican cuisine.
Tips for Booking Your Stay in Punta Cana
Booking a stay in Punta Cana can be exciting and overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Choose a resort with good ratings. Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana has a 4.0 out of 5 rating.
- Look for all-inclusive packages. These often cover meals, drinks, and activities.
- Check out the dining options. Many resorts offer Japanese and Italian cuisine.
- Consider the weather. Punta Cana has high humidity, so pack accordingly.
- Bring zip-lock bags. They’re great for protecting salt and pepper shakers from moisture.
- Find family-friendly amenities. Look for kids’ pools, lazy rivers, and swim-up bars.
- Read reviews about staff behavior. Some guests report issues with staff solicitation.
- Check the TV service quality. Some resorts have poor TV reception.
- Pack lightweight clothing. The tropical climate calls for breathable fabrics.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen. It protects both you and the local marine life.
- Research alternative resorts. Vista Sol and Grand Bavaro Princess might offer better experiences.
- Ask about entertainment options. Many resorts host nightly shows and activities.
- Inquire about local cuisine. Some resorts offer authentic Dominican dishes.
- Check for beachfront access. Not all resorts have direct beach access.
- Look into customer service ratings. Good service can make or break your vacation.
Packing Essentials for Punta Cana
Packing for Punta Cana requires careful planning to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Here’s a list of essential items to pack for your tropical getaway:
- Sunscreen with high SPF to protect your skin from the strong Caribbean sun.
- Sunglasses to shield your eyes from glare and UV rays while lounging on the beach.
- A wide-brimmed sun hat for extra face and neck protection during outdoor activities.
- Beach towels for use at the pool or seaside, as some resorts may not provide them.
- Flip-flops or sandals for easy walking on hot sand and around resort areas.
- Multiple swimsuits to alternate between beach days and pool lounging.
- Lightweight, breathable shorts and shirts for casual daytime wear.
- Sundresses or collared shirts for evening dining at resort restaurants.
- Reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life while swimming or snorkeling.
- A beach bag to carry your essentials during day trips or beach outings.
- Travel-size toiletries to save space in your luggage and comply with airline rules.
- Zip-lock bags to protect electronics and store small items in humid conditions.
- A good book or e-reader for relaxing by the pool or on the beach.
- Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes during evening activities.
- A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or air-conditioned indoor spaces.
Conclusion
Punta Cana offers a wealth of resorts for every taste and budget. From luxury all-inclusive stays to family-friendly spots, you’ll find your perfect match. Our candid reviews aim to guide you to the best fit for your dream vacation.
It’s helpful to pack wisely and learn some Spanish phrases to enhance your stay. Consider exploring local markets for unique souvenirs. Your Punta Cana adventure awaits with pristine beaches, exciting activities, and unforgettable memories.
FAQs
1. What’s the scoop on Punta Cana’s best all-inclusive resorts?
Picture this: you’re sipping a frosty piña colada, toes buried in warm sand, with the Caribbean Sea stretching out before you. That’s the Punta Cana dream. I’ve stayed at a bunch of spots, and let me tell you, some shine like polished pearls while others… well, let’s just say they’re more like cubic zirconia. The cream of the crop? Places like Breathless Punta Cana and Excellence El Carmen. They’re like the Beyoncé of resorts – they’ve got it all and then some.
2. Are there any hidden gems off the beaten path?
You bet your bottom dollar there are! While everyone’s flocking to the big names, I stumbled upon a little slice of paradise called Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana. It’s tucked away like a secret love note, and boy, is it a charmer. Think intimate vibes, top-shelf spirits flowing like water, and a spa that’ll make you feel reborn. It’s the kind of place where you can hear yourself think – and trust me, all you’ll be thinking is “how soon can I come back?”
3. What about family-friendly options that won’t break the bank?
Now we’re talking! Not everyone’s rolling in dough, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a blast with the kiddos. I’ve got just the ticket: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana. It’s like Disneyland met the beach and had a beautiful, budget-friendly baby. The little ones can hang with SpongeBob while you sneak off for some grown-up time. It’s a win-win situation that won’t leave your wallet crying for mercy.
4. How do I avoid tourist traps and find authentic experiences?
Ah, the million-dollar question! Look, Punta Cana’s got more tourist traps than a mouse has cheese, but there’s gold in them hills if you know where to dig. My secret weapon? I always chat up the locals. They’re like living, breathing guidebooks with insider info you can’t Google. Try venturing out to Macao Beach – it’s raw, it’s real, and it’s as authentic as abuela’s empanadas. And speaking of food, ditch the resort buffet for at least one night and hit up a local joint like Jellyfish Restaurant. Your taste buds will throw you a parade, I promise.
References
- https://www.booking.com/reviews/do/hotel/now-larimar-punta-cana.html
- https://travel.usnews.com/hotels/review-now_larimar_punta_cana-punta_cana-dominican_republic-88457/
- https://www.catherinescraze.com/resort-review-paradisus-palma-real-punta-cana/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g3176298-d149397-Reviews-Grand_Bavaro_Princess-Bavaro_Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Republic.html
- https://www.lopesan.com/en/hotels/dominican-republic/punta-cana/playa-bavaro/costa-bavaro/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g3176298-d13973616-Reviews-Lopesan_Costa_Bavaro_Resort_Spa_Casino-Bavaro_Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Domi.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g3176298-d292867-r589839086-Caribe_Deluxe_Princess-Bavaro_Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Republ.html
- https://nittygrittytravelers.com/melia-caribe-beach-punta-cana-review/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g3176298-d1717417-r198430678-Zel_Punta_Cana-Bavaro_Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Republic.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g3176298-d313884-r934921762-Punta_Cana_Princess-Bavaro_Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Republic.html
- https://www.princess-hotels.com/en/punta-cana/tropical-deluxe-princess/reviews/
- https://nittygrittytravelers.com/barcelo-bavaro-palace-review/ (2023-05-17)
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g147293-i28-k14650783-Royalton_Splash_Punta_Cana_review-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Republic.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g15338858-d15025732-r926785899-Impressive_Punta_Cana-El_Cortecito_Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominica.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g147293-d266625-r916724849-Grand_Sirenis_Punta_Cana_Resort-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Repub.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g3176298-d897108-r976893408-Dreams_Royal_Beach_Punta_Cana-Bavaro_Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g147293-d266625-r935844325-Grand_Sirenis_Punta_Cana_Resort-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Repub.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g147293-d12510875-Reviews-Mercadillo_del_Guineo_Maduro-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Republi.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g147293-d1163894-r886320072-Bahia_Principe_Grand_Punta_Cana-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Repu.html (2023-04-15)
- https://www.puntacanaadventures.com/what-to-pack-for-punta-cana/ (2022-11-24)
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g147293-i28-k2754052-o10-First_Trip_2_Punta_Cana_Help_with_my_packing_list_Ocean_Blue-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Pro.html (2016-05-29)