This upscale resort sits on a pretty white-sand beach that is filled with fun water sports and sans annoying crowds. Perhaps due to slightly higher rates, the Dreams lacks a raucous spring break crowd and instead attracts families and couples with its large, pristine pool, lovely spa, kids’ club, and daily entertainment. Another major draw is the above-average food, which can be hard to come by at all-inclusives in the D.R.
This upscale resort sits on a pretty white-sand beach that is filled with fun water sports and sans annoying crowds. Perhaps due to slightly higher rates, the Dreams lacks a raucous spring break crowd and instead attracts families and couples with its large, pristine pool, lovely spa, kids’ club, and daily entertainment. Another major draw is the above-average food, which can be hard to come by at all-inclusives in the D.R.
Gansevoort Dominican Republic is a swish, four-pearl property set on a peaceful beachfront just outside Sosúa. The location puts guests within walking distance of a few restaurants and shops, but it's pleasantly removed from downtown, which can feel seamy at times. The property’s 48 suites and penthouses are sophisticated and inviting, equipped with generously-sized kitchens, living areas, and balconies or terraces. Gansevoort’s portfolio of fashionable amenities includes two pools, a spa, and a couple of scenic dining venues -- plus the free breakfast is exceptional. Guests looking for upmarket, apartment-style accommodations might want to compare amenities and rates with Sea Horse Ranch in Cabarete.
Gansevoort Dominican Republic is a swish, four-pearl property set on a peaceful beachfront just outside Sosúa. The location puts guests within walking distance of a few restaurants and shops, but it's pleasantly removed from downtown, which can feel seamy at times. The property’s 48 suites and penthouses are sophisticated and inviting, equipped with generously-sized kitchens, living areas, and balconies or terraces. Gansevoort’s portfolio of fashionable amenities includes two pools, a spa, and a couple of scenic dining venues -- plus the free breakfast is exceptional. Guests looking for upmarket, apartment-style accommodations might want to compare amenities and rates with Sea Horse Ranch in Cabarete.
Opened in November 2013, the 750-room Breathless Punta Cana is an adults-only all-inclusive resort along a beautiful beach, and it’s one of the most luxurious options in the area. The property is massive, so guests rarely feel overwhelmed by crowds, whether they are in one of the several a la carte or buffet restaurants, lounging by one of the many swimming pools, or relaxing on the gorgeous white-sand beach. A stellar full-service spa, fitness center and classes, entertainment, and non-motorized water sports are all also available, alongside a casino. The Unlimited Luxury rates include everything from the food and alcohol to the water sports and themed pool parties, but some guests complain that the food and service at the restaurants lag. Xhale club guests get access to exclusive lounges and pools, plus upgraded minibars and room service menus. The Breathless is a stylish property catering to a young clientele, but it’s worth comparing rates with the similar and nearby Excellence Punta Cana.
Opened in November 2013, the 750-room Breathless Punta Cana is an adults-only all-inclusive resort along a beautiful beach, and it’s one of the most luxurious options in the area. The property is massive, so guests rarely feel overwhelmed by crowds, whether they are in one of the several a la carte or buffet restaurants, lounging by one of the many swimming pools, or relaxing on the gorgeous white-sand beach. A stellar full-service spa, fitness center and classes, entertainment, and non-motorized water sports are all also available, alongside a casino. The Unlimited Luxury rates include everything from the food and alcohol to the water sports and themed pool parties, but some guests complain that the food and service at the restaurants lag. Xhale club guests get access to exclusive lounges and pools, plus upgraded minibars and room service menus. The Breathless is a stylish property catering to a young clientele, but it’s worth comparing rates with the similar and nearby Excellence Punta Cana.
Despite its kid-friendly mantra, this upscale boutique resort is a relaxing, appealing pick for both couples and families. The Reserve is pricier than its larger sister property next door, the Paradisus Punta Cana, but for good reason. The 170 classic one-bedroom units here (some adjoining) have separate living/dining areas, pull-out sofas, and spacious bathrooms with jetted tubs for two. Reserve guests can access the amenities and restaurants next door (minus Royal Services), so they don't lose out on features by staying here. The beach area is a good hike away, but the tangerine bikes are useful for getting around, and it's not too far to walk to the large pool complex, fitness center, yoga studio, and Asian-themed spa.
Despite its kid-friendly mantra, this upscale boutique resort is a relaxing, appealing pick for both couples and families. The Reserve is pricier than its larger sister property next door, the Paradisus Punta Cana, but for good reason. The 170 classic one-bedroom units here (some adjoining) have separate living/dining areas, pull-out sofas, and spacious bathrooms with jetted tubs for two. Reserve guests can access the amenities and restaurants next door (minus Royal Services), so they don't lose out on features by staying here. The beach area is a good hike away, but the tangerine bikes are useful for getting around, and it's not too far to walk to the large pool complex, fitness center, yoga studio, and Asian-themed spa.
Casa Valeria Boutique Hotel is an appealing, three-pearl property located in a low-key area of Sosúa, a short walk from Playa Alicia beach. The hotel’s nine rooms and apartments are basic but inviting, featuring minibars and colorful decor. The slim lineup of amenities includes a small outdoor pool and a lovely restaurant, which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner (free breakfast is included). While the hotel is set in one of the less edgy areas of Sosúa, the town tends to be a bit seedy, which could be a problem for some guests. Travelers may want to compare amenities and rates with nearby Hotel Sosua Sunrise.
Casa Valeria Boutique Hotel is an appealing, three-pearl property located in a low-key area of Sosúa, a short walk from Playa Alicia beach. The hotel’s nine rooms and apartments are basic but inviting, featuring minibars and colorful decor. The slim lineup of amenities includes a small outdoor pool and a lovely restaurant, which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner (free breakfast is included). While the hotel is set in one of the less edgy areas of Sosúa, the town tends to be a bit seedy, which could be a problem for some guests. Travelers may want to compare amenities and rates with nearby Hotel Sosua Sunrise.
One of 15 resorts located inside the safe Playa Dorada complex, the Puerto Plata Village is about a 10-minute walk off the beach, surrounded by a golf course. Despite a spirited staff -- many of whom are there to sell time-shares, the resort's primary moneymaker -- the resort's food, rooms, and features are all bested by the nearby Grand Paradise resort.
One of 15 resorts located inside the safe Playa Dorada complex, the Puerto Plata Village is about a 10-minute walk off the beach, surrounded by a golf course. Despite a spirited staff -- many of whom are there to sell time-shares, the resort's primary moneymaker -- the resort's food, rooms, and features are all bested by the nearby Grand Paradise resort.
At the end of a rough, residential dirt road, the rustic, two-pearl La Loma-Cita sits high atop a hill with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and rolling landscape of Las Galeras. Surrounded by local fruit trees and a well-tended garden, the vibe is akin to staying at a rural farmhouse. However, it's still a proper bed-and-breakfast where the French owners are hands-on -- serving home-cooked meals throughout the day and chatting with guests in the common areas. Five rooms and villas incorporate rustic design and modern bathrooms. The owners are clear that they offer no-frills, off-the-beaten-path accommodations, so expect few traditional hotel amenities. For those who require beach access, check rates at Chalet Tropical Village.
At the end of a rough, residential dirt road, the rustic, two-pearl La Loma-Cita sits high atop a hill with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and rolling landscape of Las Galeras. Surrounded by local fruit trees and a well-tended garden, the vibe is akin to staying at a rural farmhouse. However, it's still a proper bed-and-breakfast where the French owners are hands-on -- serving home-cooked meals throughout the day and chatting with guests in the common areas. Five rooms and villas incorporate rustic design and modern bathrooms. The owners are clear that they offer no-frills, off-the-beaten-path accommodations, so expect few traditional hotel amenities. For those who require beach access, check rates at Chalet Tropical Village.
The lower-middle-range Acuarium is a laid-back, retro hotel offering 72 one- and two-bedroom apartments surrounded by green lawns and palm trees. Guests appreciate the great rates, free Wi-Fi, and the nice courtyard pool, but dated rooms and maintenance issues are the norm here. (The newer wing is generally more sought after.) Freebies include Wi-Fi and (basic) buffet breakfast. Food and drinks are generally of good quality and well priced, too. Acuarium resides in a residential neighborhood with authentic local flavor, but the area may not be as safe as other parts (sex workers are a common sight); walking around at night isn’t advised, and families with young kids may prefer to stay elsewhere. Travelers seeking affordability with a more modern feel could try W&P Santo Domingo.
The lower-middle-range Acuarium is a laid-back, retro hotel offering 72 one- and two-bedroom apartments surrounded by green lawns and palm trees. Guests appreciate the great rates, free Wi-Fi, and the nice courtyard pool, but dated rooms and maintenance issues are the norm here. (The newer wing is generally more sought after.) Freebies include Wi-Fi and (basic) buffet breakfast. Food and drinks are generally of good quality and well priced, too. Acuarium resides in a residential neighborhood with authentic local flavor, but the area may not be as safe as other parts (sex workers are a common sight); walking around at night isn’t advised, and families with young kids may prefer to stay elsewhere. Travelers seeking affordability with a more modern feel could try W&P Santo Domingo.
In sharp contrast to the oversized all-inclusive resorts for which the Dominican Republic is known, the two-and-a-half-pearl Cabana Elke is a cheap and cheerful property with a few nice-to-haves in a no-nonsense package. The 18 rooms are bright and spacious, but dated, and include free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and small patios or balconies. This is a simple place to recharge after a day at the beach or hiking, and the the clean, garden-style pool and eclectic Italian restaurant are welcome additions. It's only a 10-minute walk to the public sands at Dominicus Beach. Alternatively, Villa Baya Aparta-Hotel promises similar amenities, except for a pool, in the heart of downtown Bayahibe for less money.
In sharp contrast to the oversized all-inclusive resorts for which the Dominican Republic is known, the two-and-a-half-pearl Cabana Elke is a cheap and cheerful property with a few nice-to-haves in a no-nonsense package. The 18 rooms are bright and spacious, but dated, and include free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and small patios or balconies. This is a simple place to recharge after a day at the beach or hiking, and the the clean, garden-style pool and eclectic Italian restaurant are welcome additions. It's only a 10-minute walk to the public sands at Dominicus Beach. Alternatively, Villa Baya Aparta-Hotel promises similar amenities, except for a pool, in the heart of downtown Bayahibe for less money.
Opened in 1980, Tropix Hotel was one of Sosua’s first resorts. Not much has changed since then, including the decor and much of the staff. A budget hotel, Tropix is a peaceful, family-friendly alternative to many of the sex tourism driven properties downtown. The 10 guest rooms are tropically inspired but also seriously dated, with cheap, uncomfortable furniture and air conditioners that hardly work. The unplugged nature of the property also means there are no TVs or phones, but there is free Wi-Fi. There's a communal kitchen, and the hotel serves an a la carte breakfast for a fee each morning. Guests are within a short walk of the beach and a grocery store. Travelers would be hard-pressed to find a better hotel for this rock-bottom rate, though the beachfront Velero Beach Resort and Hotel Villa Taina in nearby Cabarete often aren't too much pricier.
Opened in 1980, Tropix Hotel was one of Sosua’s first resorts. Not much has changed since then, including the decor and much of the staff. A budget hotel, Tropix is a peaceful, family-friendly alternative to many of the sex tourism driven properties downtown. The 10 guest rooms are tropically inspired but also seriously dated, with cheap, uncomfortable furniture and air conditioners that hardly work. The unplugged nature of the property also means there are no TVs or phones, but there is free Wi-Fi. There's a communal kitchen, and the hotel serves an a la carte breakfast for a fee each morning. Guests are within a short walk of the beach and a grocery store. Travelers would be hard-pressed to find a better hotel for this rock-bottom rate, though the beachfront Velero Beach Resort and Hotel Villa Taina in nearby Cabarete often aren't too much pricier.