Punta Cana, nestled on the eastern shores of the Dominican Republic, is a Caribbean paradise renowned for its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a plethora of all-inclusive resorts. For families seeking a stress-free and memorable vacation, the Dominican Republic, and specifically Punta Cana, presents an idyllic destination. With miles of pristine coastline and a variety of resorts catering to every taste and budget, planning a family getaway here promises sun-soaked days and unforgettable experiences. The beauty of choosing an all-inclusive resort lies in its simplicity and upfront cost certainty, allowing families to fully relax and enjoy their time together without worrying about constant meal and activity expenses. From dedicated kids’ clubs and thrilling water parks to serene spa treatments for parents, these resorts are designed to cater to every family member’s desires.
Here are some of the best family all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana, offering exceptional experiences for your next family vacation.
Grand Palladium Palace Resort, Spa & Casino
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Grand Palladium Palace Resort, Spa & Casino, situated on the beautiful Bavaro Beach, is a comprehensive beachfront destination perfect for families seeking a blend of relaxation and entertainment. As part of a larger complex of three resorts, guests enjoy access to a wide array of amenities and services, making it an excellent choice for multi-generational families or groups traveling together.
What We Like: The resort’s extensive facilities include a casino for adult entertainment, diverse sports options, engaging kids’ clubs for different age groups, and the Zentropia Spa & Wellness Center for relaxation. Families will appreciate the access to restaurants and facilities across the sister hotels within the complex, expanding dining and activity choices.
What to Consider: Being part of a large complex means the property is spread out. Families should be prepared for walking or utilizing golf cart transportation to navigate between different areas and amenities.
Grand Palladium Palace Resort boasts a prime location on Bavaro Beach, sharing facilities with Grand Palladium Bavaro Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa. This setup creates a vast playground for families, couples, and groups, offering a world-class casino, the Zentropia Spa & Wellness Center, six refreshing pools, and tailored entertainment programs for children from toddlers to teenagers.
Dining is a delight with eight à la carte restaurants, five buffet dining rooms, and six bars, ensuring varied culinary experiences. For families with varying tastes, the 24-hour snack availability is a convenient perk. The resort features 366 guest rooms, ranging from comfortable garden view rooms to luxurious beachside suites. Families might consider the garden view Loft Suite, offering two levels, an extra sofa bed, and a half-bath, or the Junior Swim Up Suite with a private swim-up pool and furnished terrace for added convenience and luxury.
The all-inclusive package is comprehensive, encompassing unlimited buffet and à la carte meals, snacks, and a selection of domestic and international drinks. Families can enjoy house wine with meals, a stocked in-room mini-bar, non-motorized water sports, fitness facilities, daily activities, and entertainment, including free entry to the disco with drinks. Access to sister property resorts and all taxes and gratuities are also included, simplifying the vacation budget.
The Details:
- For Families: Dedicated clubs cater to all age groups: Baby Club (1-3 years), Mini-Club (4-12 years), and Junior Club (13-18 years), ensuring age-appropriate activities and supervision.
- Spa: The Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness Center offers a range of treatments, with a daily fee of $10 per guest for wet areas, included for Royal Suites guests and Palladium Travel Club members.
- Water Sports: Enjoy windsurfing, kayaking, and catamarans included in the package. Additional water sports like banana boats, fishing, diving, and boat tours are available for an extra charge.
- Distance to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ): 14 miles, making transfers relatively quick and easy for families with young children.
- Outside the Resort: Explore nearby attractions like Punta Espada Golf Club, Dolphin Island Park, Bavaro Adventure Park, and Manati Park for family outings.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive package.
- WiFi: Complimentary for guests.
- Rates: Starting from $370 per night, offering competitive value for a family all-inclusive experience.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
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Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana is an exclusive, adults-only, all-inclusive resort located on the stunning Juanillo Beach in Cap Cana. While technically adults-only, its proximity and shared amenities with the family-friendly Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana make it an attractive option for multi-generational family trips where adults desire a sophisticated retreat while still being close to family fun.
What We Like: Guests of Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana have reciprocal access to the dining and entertainment options at the adjacent Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana. This arrangement is ideal for families with adult members seeking a tranquil escape while still being connected to family members staying at the family-friendly resort next door.
What to Consider: Like many popular resorts, securing poolside lounge chairs might require early reservation, especially during peak seasons.
This five-star resort, recognized as a winner in Travel + Leisure’s 2023 World’s Best Awards, offers luxurious amenities including a state-of-the-art fitness center, Canapolis Water Park shared with Hyatt Ziva, swim-up suites, and an impressive selection of 25 restaurants and bars across both resorts.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana features 375 suites, ranging from junior suites to beachfront swim-up suites, all designed with elegance and comfort in mind. For an enhanced experience, guests can opt for club-level rooms, which provide access to an exclusive lounge, premium beverages, and a private Club Pool area. Nightly entertainment, engaging dance classes, and optional activities like golf and deep-sea fishing ensure there’s always something to do.
The all-inclusive offering is generous, covering dining at all restaurants within both Hyatt Zilara and Hyatt Ziva, including gourmet buffets, diverse bars and lounges, casual food carts, and 24-hour suite service. Unlimited premium cocktails, spirits, beer, wine, and soft drinks are also included. Access to Canapolis Water Park, beachfront infinity pools, hot tubs, aqua fitness classes, a comprehensive fitness center, live entertainment, beach parties, and daily activities are all part of the all-inclusive package. Spa treatments and private cabana rentals are available for an additional charge, allowing for personalized pampering.
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana International Airport: A short 7.5 miles from the airport, minimizing travel time for families.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Access to Canapolis Water Park at Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana, featuring a lazy river, water cannons, and seven thrilling slides, ensures fun for all ages.
- Spa: The Larimar Spa, shared with Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana, offers a wide range of treatments at an additional cost, perfect for parents seeking relaxation.
- World of Hyatt: Members can redeem points (42,000 to 58,000 points per night) at this Category F property, adding value for loyal Hyatt guests.
- WiFi: Complimentary WiFi access throughout the resort.
- Rates: Starting from $464 per night, reflecting the luxury and extensive amenities offered.
Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana
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Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is a luxurious, family-oriented all-inclusive resort situated in the exclusive Cap Cana area of Punta Cana. Known for its spacious all-suite accommodations and exceptional amenities, including the impressive Canapolis Water Park, Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is designed to provide a memorable vacation for families of all ages.
What We Like: The resort is lauded for its spacious suites, making it comfortable for families. The standout feature is Canapolis Water Park, providing endless fun for kids and adults alike.
What to Consider: During peak times, restaurants and bars can become crowded, potentially leading to longer wait times. Families should plan dining times accordingly, perhaps opting for off-peak hours.
Travel + Leisure contributor Brad Japhe describes Cap Cana as “a stunning stretch of sand sandwiched between the azure seas of the Caribbean and the verdant interior of the eastern Dominican Republic,” noting Hyatt Ziva as “the perfect contemporary perch from which to absorb it all.” The resort lobby impresses with lush greenery and bamboo-lined ceilings, setting a tone of sophisticated relaxation. Suites are sleekly appointed with local cultural accents and offer stunning seaside views.
Nightly entertainment in the outdoor amphitheater, a dedicated kids’ club with supervised games, and a teen club featuring Formula 1 racing simulators ensure that guests of all ages are entertained. Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana delivers everything expected from a top-tier family-friendly Caribbean all-inclusive resort.
Dining options are plentiful, including the beachside Chinola and El Mercado, known for its Caribbean flavors. T+L A-list travel advisor Henley Vazquez highlights the resort’s popularity among advisors and travelers, praising its “incredible activities for kids during the day — including great water slides — and lovely amenities for adults, too.” She also notes the beautiful rooms, great food, and the convenience of direct flights to Punta Cana.
The Details:
- Inclusions: The all-inclusive package covers all food and beverages, access to Canapolis Water Park, land and non-motorized water sports, and live entertainment, providing excellent value.
- Kids Club: The complimentary kids’ club caters to children and teens aged 3-17, offering age-specific activities and ensuring younger guests are well-cared for and entertained.
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: Approximately 11.5 miles from Punta Cana International Airport, allowing for a reasonably short transfer.
- Rates: Starting from $599 per night, reflecting the upscale experience and extensive amenities for families.
Secrets Tides Punta Cana
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Secrets Tides Punta Cana, an adults-only resort in Uvero Alto, emphasizes romantic and luxurious experiences. While primarily geared towards couples, its high level of service and amenities also make it suitable for groups of friends or adult family members seeking a sophisticated and relaxing getaway.
What We Like: Every guest room is a suite with a private furnished balcony or terrace, ensuring a comfortable and private retreat for guests.
What to Consider: Guests should be aware that the room rate is typically per person per night, which can affect the overall cost calculation for couples or groups.
This resort focuses on providing attentive and personalized service with 24-hour concierge availability to assist with special requests, dining reservations, and activity arrangements. Dining is diverse with nine restaurants, including six à la carte options, a buffet, a grill, and a café. Casual beachside lunches are made easy with a hot dog and burger option. Guests can enjoy coffee and pastries at the Coco Café and nightly entertainment at the Showtime theater bar.
Daytime activities include relaxing at two infinity pools, three hot tubs, and enjoying snorkeling and kayaking at the beach. Introductory scuba lessons are available, and catamaran cruises can be arranged for an additional charge.
Accommodations are all-suite with views of the pool, garden, or ocean, each featuring soaking tubs, daily refreshed mini-bars, and 24-hour room service. For enhanced luxury, the Preferred Club offers upgraded suites in premium locations, access to exclusive lounges and pool areas, upgraded amenities, a dedicated beach area, and an exclusive restaurant. While not strictly a “family” resort in the traditional sense, adult families seeking a luxurious escape together will find Secrets Tides Punta Cana appealing due to its high-end amenities and tranquil atmosphere.
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana International Airport: Approximately 28 miles, requiring a slightly longer transfer.
- Pets: Secrets Tides Punta Cana is pet-friendly, welcoming small dogs with special amenities.
- Spa: The Secrets Spa offers a comprehensive wellness experience with a sauna, steam room, and hydrotherapy circuit, available at an extra cost.
- WiFi: Complimentary WiFi is available for guests.
- Rate: Starting at $213 per person per night, varying based on room view and location, positioning it as a luxurious but potentially more costly option for families.
Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Hammock
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Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Hammock, set on a private beach in Punta Cana, offers a unique “two-resorts-in-one” concept. It includes the adults-only Hammock and the family-friendly Wave, providing options for different travel styles within the same complex. This setup is excellent for families with diverse needs or those traveling with adult members seeking adults-only tranquility.
What We Like: The Margaritaville Island Reserve app enhances guest convenience for planning dinner reservations and activities, streamlining the vacation experience.
What to Consider: While Hammock is adults-only, it is located within the larger Margaritaville Island Reserve Resort Cap Cana, adjacent to the family-friendly Margaritaville Cap Cana Wave. Families should be mindful of the shared resort environment.
The resort complex features 519 suites, 40 luxury villas, 10 restaurants, a spa, and two pools, offering a wide range of amenities. Guest rooms include furnished balconies and customizable in-room refreshment centers. The all-inclusive rate covers daily entertainment, water sports, tennis, pickleball, meals, beverages, and all taxes and gratuities. For families with children aged 4-12, the Parakeets Kids Club offers daily programming and activities.
The all-inclusive experience extends to all meals, specialty snacks, fitness center access, 24-hour room service, and premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Activities like beach volleyball, pickleball, cooking and mixology classes, music, and entertainment are included, and guests can also access facilities at Cap Cana Wave. The St. Somewhere Spa offers treatments at an additional cost for those seeking relaxation.
Travel + Leisure contributor Robin Catalano enjoyed a couples getaway at Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, highlighting the quieter adults-only section and the St. Somewhere Spa. The resort provides a balanced experience, catering to both families and adults seeking a relaxed Caribbean escape.
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana International Airport: A short 7 miles from the airport, making it ideal for families wanting to minimize travel time post-flight.
- Spa: St. Somewhere Spa offers hydrotherapy circuits, massages, and facial treatments for an additional fee, providing a tranquil escape for adults.
- Activities and Amenities: Guests have access to restaurants, lounges, and activities at the family-friendly Cap Cana Wave, ensuring options for all family members.
- WiFi: Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the resort.
- Rate: Starting at $611 per night, reflecting the premium location and extensive amenities.
Finest Punta Cana
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Finest Punta Cana is designed for both families and couples, offering luxury all-inclusive experiences with dedicated areas for adults and families. Its beachfront location and comprehensive amenities make it a top choice for discerning travelers.
What We Like: The resort excels in providing beachside comfort with palapas, lounge chairs, hammocks, and attentive food and beverage service, making beach days exceptionally enjoyable.
What to Consider: Finest Punta Cana features both an adults-only Excellence Club and a family-friendly area, which may lead to a slightly divided atmosphere depending on guest preferences.
Room categories are diverse, including suites that accommodate up to five guests, swim-up suites, private pool suites, and spacious Family Suites. The Excellence Club rooms are located in the adults-only section, offering exclusive restaurants, a separate pool, and a swim-up bar for a more serene environment. Travel + Leisure contributor Alison Fox praised the adults-only Excellence Club side for its quieter atmosphere and exclusive amenities.
The One Spa offers a hydrotherapy circuit, with one session included for Excellence Club and Finest Club room guests. The resort also boasts a fitness center, live music, seven pools, six hot tubs, yoga classes, and various lessons like dancing and Spanish. Water sports, including kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing, are available, with additional options like deep-sea fishing and scuba diving for an extra charge.
Dining options are abundant, ranging from casual to gourmet, including Mexican, Italian, French, Japanese, and seafood restaurants, as well as a food truck and healthy cuisine options, ensuring something for every palate.
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: Located 22 miles from the airport, requiring a moderate transfer time.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The One Spa offers treatments for youngsters, and the Imagine Kids’ Club provides supervised activities and a mini water park. Family-friendly room amenities include cribs, high chairs, and baby monitors.
- WiFi: Complimentary WiFi access for guests.
- Rates: Starting from $375 per night, offering a balance of luxury and family-friendly amenities.
Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino
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Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino is a large, all-ages resort in Punta Cana, offering distinct areas for families, adults-only, and upgraded UNIQUE experiences. Its extensive amenities and beachfront location make it a versatile choice for different types of travelers.
What We Like: The resort’s welcoming atmosphere for guests of all ages, with designated areas for families, adults, and UNIQUE guests, caters to diverse preferences.
What to Consider: With 1,042 guest rooms and suites, the resort is quite large, which may not appeal to guests seeking a more intimate or boutique experience.
Families can choose from a range of accommodations, from junior suites to swim-up and two-bedroom suites. The adults-only Club Rooms offer swim-up suites and views of the pool and Caribbean Sea. UNIQUE rooms provide ocean views, terraces, and prime locations within the resort.
The resort boasts seven freshwater pools, including a bi-level infinity pool, a 16,000-square-foot water park, an adults-only pool, and a children’s pool, ensuring aquatic fun for everyone. Sports activities include scuba diving, windsurfing, sailing, and water skiing. The Panchi World Kids’ Club offers supervised activities for younger guests.
Dining options are plentiful with two buffets serving international and regional cuisine, and à la carte restaurants specializing in Mexican, Mediterranean, Asian, and steakhouse fare, as well as a traditional Italian trattoria.
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: Approximately 9 miles from the airport, providing easy access.
- WiFi: Complimentary WiFi available for guests.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Extensive facilities include a mini-club (ages 3-12), mini-disco, playground, and VIBE for teens aged 12-16 with a dedicated area, ensuring entertainment for all children and teens.
- Spa: The resort features a spa, hair salon, and fitness area for relaxation and wellness.
- Rates: Starting around $650 per night, reflecting the comprehensive amenities and large-scale resort experience.
Paradisus Grand Cana
Paradisus Grand Cana is an all-suite luxury resort designed for families seeking a high-end all-inclusive experience in Punta Cana. Its spacious suites and family-focused amenities make it a standout choice.
What We Like: The suites are exceptionally spacious, ranging from 796 square feet to nearly 3,000 square feet for two-bedroom swim-up suites, providing ample room for families.
What to Consider: The resort encourages upgrades to premium rooms and services, particularly the Royal Service, which may add to the overall vacation cost but enhances the experience.
This sprawling resort features 683 suites, including swim-up options and several two-bedroom suites. Family-friendly amenities include a water park and Kids Camp with games, crafts, and supervised activities. The resort’s circular layout is expansive, and bicycles are available for getting around, with shuttles also provided for beach access and resort transportation.
Dining options include a steakhouse, sushi and Asian cuisine, and an international gastro hall. The resort also offers a spa, a well-equipped gym, a spin room, and a casino.
Upgrading to Royal Service provides access to exclusive amenities such as a private pool, beach area, additional restaurants, complimentary spa access, a private lounge, larger suites, and personal butler service, elevating the luxury experience. The Destination Inclusive Program offers cultural experiences, cooking classes, and catamaran rides, particularly beneficial for guests in swim-up rooms.
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: Approximately 11 miles from the airport, allowing for a straightforward transfer.
- Golf: Guests have access to golf at the Cocotal Country Club with 27 championship holes for an additional fee.
- Spa: Royal Service upgrades include access to indoor and outdoor treatment rooms at the spa.
- WiFi: Complimentary WiFi is available for guests.
- Rate: Starting around $600 per night, positioning it as a luxury family all-inclusive option.
Dreams Flora Resort & Spa
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Dreams Flora Resort & Spa is a family-friendly resort located near a beautiful beach in Punta Cana. It offers a wide range of amenities and room options, designed for a relaxing and enjoyable family vacation.
What We Like: The resort’s proximity to a beautiful beach is a major draw for families seeking sun and sand.
What to Consider: Securing lounge chairs around the pools can be challenging at times, indicating potential crowding during peak periods.
This resort features 520 rooms with all-inclusive dining, drinks, entertainment, and 24-hour room service. Room types range from doubles and queen rooms to junior suites and connecting suites, ideal for families. Preferred Club-level rooms offer enhanced amenities, including access to a private lounge, personalized check-in, exclusive pools, an adult-only pool, and upgraded services.
Dining options are plentiful with eight choices, including a beachside grill, an international buffet, and à la carte restaurants serving French, Italian, Asian, and Mexican cuisines. Thirteen bars, including pool and beach bars, ensure refreshment is always nearby.
Entertainment for all ages includes five pools, big-screen movies, theme nights, and dance classes. Scuba diving and fishing excursions can be arranged for an additional cost. The resort’s water park and kids’ clubs make it particularly appealing for families with children.
The Details:
- Spa: The spa offers a hydrotherapy area, oceanfront massage cabins, and a variety of treatments, providing relaxation for parents.
- WiFi: Complimentary WiFi access throughout the resort.
- Family Activities: On-site water park, non-motorized water sports, game room, childcare services, Explorers’ Club (ages 3-12), and Core Zone Teens’ Club (ages 13-17) ensure age-appropriate activities and entertainment for children and teens.
- Rate: Starting from approximately $600 per night, offering a comprehensive family vacation package.
Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort
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Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort is an elegant resort offering both family-friendly and adults-only experiences in Punta Cana. The resort is known for its sophisticated ambiance and comprehensive amenities.
What We Like: With 554 suites, Paradisus Palma Real is smaller and more navigable than many larger Punta Cana resorts, potentially appealing to families who prefer a more intimate setting.
What to Consider: Restaurant wait times can occur, particularly at popular à la carte eateries, so making reservations in advance is recommended.
The resort caters to both families and adults, with The Reserve, an adults-only section within the resort. Spacious suites, swim-up options, enhanced in-room amenities, and access to VIP areas are offered in The Reserve. The Nikté section is designed for families, offering upgraded experiences and special amenities.
Guests in The Reserve and Nikté enjoy personalized Destination Concierge services and Destination Inclusive off-site activities. Resort activities include tennis, volleyball, basketball, and dance lessons.
Guest rooms range from junior suites to swim-up suites and exclusive Reserve and Nikte suites. Dining options are diverse, including Dominican, Italian, Mexican, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisines, along with cocktail bars and The Winery for wine enthusiasts.
The Details:
- Spa: YHI Spa offers traditional therapies and modern treatments for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Family Activity: The Kidsdom provides games, activities, shows, and crafts for younger guests, ensuring kids are entertained.
- The Reserve: Guests of The Reserve enjoy access to a private pool and beach area, enhancing the adults-only experience.
- Golf: Access to Cocotal Country Club for golf enthusiasts.
- Rate: Starting at approximately $235 per night, offering a range of options from family-friendly to luxury adults-only.
Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana
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Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana is a family-friendly resort offering an affordable all-inclusive getaway with a variety of activities and amenities. As part of a larger complex, guests have access to even more facilities.
What We Like: Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana provides an affordable family vacation option with a beach, restaurants, a water park, and a kids’ club, offering good value for families on a budget.
What to Consider: As part of a large complex of four resorts, getting to certain areas like the beach or restaurants may require shuttle service or a considerable walk, which may be inconvenient for some families, especially those with young children or mobility concerns.
The resort features nearly 800 guest rooms and suites with balconies and modern bathrooms, including two-bedroom suites that can accommodate larger families. The all-inclusive rate includes a generous offering of a la carte dinners, buffet breakfast, water park access, fitness center, kids’ activities, mini-bar, and complimentary hour-long use of kayaks, snorkeling gear, tennis, or catamaran rental daily. Two main pools, a children’s pool, a beach, nightly entertainment, and off-site excursions (additional cost) provide ample activities.
Guests can access nine à la carte restaurants, entertainment venues, and the children’s water park at the neighboring Bahia Principe Grand Turquesa. A Mini-Club for children ages 4-12 ensures younger guests are entertained. Guest room minibars are restocked daily with snacks and beverages. Travel + Leisure contributor Jesse Scott recommends taking advantage of access to neighboring resorts within the complex to maximize the all-inclusive experience.
The Details:
- Spa: Bahia Principe Spa offers a range of facilities including a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, and various treatments, providing relaxation for adults.
- Shopping: Pueblo Principe Village within the complex offers shopping and additional entertainment options.
- Golf: Access to Punta Cana Golf Club and White Sands Course for golf enthusiasts (additional charge).
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: Approximately 7 miles from the airport, ensuring a quick transfer.
- Rates: Starting around $120 per person per night, making it one of the more budget-friendly family all-inclusive options in Punta Cana.
Melia Punta Cana Beach
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Melia Punta Cana Beach is an adults-only, wellness-inclusive resort, offering a more intimate and health-focused all-inclusive experience in Punta Cana. It’s ideal for couples or adult family members seeking relaxation and wellness.
What We Like: With around 400 adults-only rooms, Melia Punta Cana Beach is relatively smaller and more intimate compared to many large resorts in the area, appealing to those seeking a quieter atmosphere.
What to Consider: The resort encourages guests to upgrade to The Level for enhanced room locations, private areas, superior dining, more à la carte options, and additional services, which may be perceived as necessary to get the full experience.
Guest rooms range from Deluxe and Premium to suites included in The Level upgrade program, offering beachside, garden, and wellness-focused options. All rooms feature balconies or terraces, minibars, and walk-in showers. Wellness Experience Rooms include yoga mats, exercise weights, thermal mattresses, healthy minibar snacks, Vitamin C-infused showers, and complimentary bicycle rental. Stays of five nights or more include one complimentary spa treatment and The Level premium services.
Dining options include an international breakfast buffet, Vietnamese cuisine at Muoi, and the Mosaico international buffet. The Level guests have exclusive access to The Level Lounge, offering daily breakfast, premium beverages, exclusive dining at Quimera Restaurant, and a private pool and beach area. Travel + Leisure contributor Jesse Scott highlighted the resort’s wellness focus and the benefits of The Level package for an enhanced experience.
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: Approximately 10 miles from the airport, providing convenient access.
- Spa: YHI Spa offers wellness treatments, massages, and facials, emphasizing the resort’s wellness focus.
- Rate: Starting from $415 per night (The Level suite Beachside from $610), positioning it as a mid-range to premium adults-only option.
- Adults Only: Resort is exclusively for guests aged 18 and over.
Grand Bávaro Princess Punta Cana
Grand Bávaro Princess Punta Cana is an all-suite resort set on Bávaro Beach, offering spacious accommodations and a range of upgrade options. Its expansive grounds and variety of amenities cater to families and couples alike.
What We Like: The suites are spacious, and multiple upgrade options are available to tailor the experience, providing flexibility for different budgets and preferences.
What to Consider: The large resort grounds may require considerable walking to access various activities and amenities, which could be a drawback for families with young children or those with mobility issues.
This all-suite resort features 1,290 spacious suites, including Platinum Suites, Bungalow Suites, Honeymoon Suites, and a Presidential Suite. Travel + Leisure contributor Brad Japhe noted the resort’s laid-back feel and serene beachfront setting. The all-inclusive rate covers meals and snacks at 10 restaurants, a coffee shop, food trucks, and bars, including a 24-hour sports bar. Two swimming pools, one near the spa and another for all ages near the beach, cater to different preferences. Guests can enjoy non-motorized water sports, a gym, tennis courts, and a kids’ club for ages 4-12.
The resort grounds include an eco-park with local flora and fauna, adding a unique element to the resort experience. While the expansive grounds require walking, Japhe considered this a positive aspect, encouraging exploration.
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: Approximately 10 miles from the airport, making transfers straightforward.
- Princess Family Club: Offers private check-in, spacious rooms, pool access, a water park with slides, a kids’ club, and an exclusive snack bar, enhancing the family experience.
- Platinum Area: Features upgraded rooms, VIP amenities, and personalized service for a more luxurious stay.
- Rate: Starting from approximately $300 per night, offering a mid-range family all-inclusive option with upgrade possibilities.
Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana
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Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is a vibrant, cartoon-themed all-inclusive resort perfect for families with kids who are fans of Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob SquarePants and Paw Patrol. Its playful atmosphere and family-centric amenities make it a unique and fun vacation destination.
What We Like: The spacious rooms and suites, with connecting options, offer flexibility for family groups of various sizes.
What to Consider: Guests have reported that wait times for room service and at restaurants can be longer than expected, particularly during peak seasons.
Travel + Leisure contributor Aimee White Beazley highlighted the comfort of the Swim-Up Suites for families and the memorable experience of The Pineapple villa, an homage to SpongeBob’s undersea home. Restaurants include family favorites like BRGRS and more upscale options like Verdello Sicilian Kitchen. Club Nick kids’ club provides supervised entertainment for children.
T+L contributor Madeline Bilis enjoyed the resort’s cartoon theme, noting the open-air theater and swim-up bar serving “slime smoothies”. The resort’s focus on cartoons and family fun makes it a splashy and engaging getaway for families with young children.
The Details:
- Aqua Nick: Complimentary access to this extensive water complex is included, providing endless water-based fun for families.
- Spa: Vassa Spa offers family pampering options with cold and warm water pools, treatments, and bubble beds.
- Pajama Jam: A unique sleepover experience with activities, breakfast, photos, and entertainment is available for an additional charge, creating special family memories.
- Autism Double-Checked: The resort offers an Autism Concierge and services tailored to specific needs, making it inclusive for families with autistic children.
- Rate: Starting from $500 per night, reflecting the unique theme and family-focused amenities.
Club Med Punta Cana
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Club Med Punta Cana is a flagship family-friendly property spanning 100 oceanfront acres. Known for its active atmosphere and extensive included sports and activities, it’s ideal for families who enjoy being active on vacation.
What We Like: Club Med Punta Cana offers unlimited land and water sports, including unique options like sailing lessons and a trapeze school, appealing to active families seeking adventure.
What to Consider: The resort has only three restaurants, which may limit dining variety compared to larger resorts with more options.
Travel + Leisure contributor Lauren Dana Ellman highlighted the value-packed amenities, including complimentary sailing lessons and the state-of-the-art circus and trapeze facilities. Over 30 activities are included, such as archery, pickleball, snorkeling, kayaking, and tennis and dance lessons.
Club Med Punta Cana offers extensive kids’ and family programming, including dedicated spaces and clubs for babies, toddlers, children, and teens, ensuring age-appropriate activities and supervision. Family suites are available for larger groups. Ellman recommends Club Med Punta Cana for families seeking a value-driven, activity-rich vacation.
The Details:
- Included: The all-inclusive package covers all dining and drinks, unlimited land and water sports, and gratuities, simplifying budgeting.
- Kids Club: Complimentary kids’ clubs are available for children aged 4-17, with clubs for younger children (0-4 years) available at an additional cost.
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: A short 6 miles from the airport, minimizing travel time for families.
- Rates: Starting at $170 per person per night, offering excellent value for an activity-rich, all-inclusive family vacation.
Know Before You Go
Upgrades: Consider Value Carefully
Many resorts offer upgrade programs promising better room locations, additional dining choices, and exclusive access to pools and lounges. While upgrades can enhance your vacation, assess if the added cost aligns with your family’s needs and budget. Some guests report pressure to upgrade upon arrival, so decide beforehand if an upgrade is truly worthwhile for your family.
All-Inclusive Details Matter
All-inclusive programs vary significantly. Thoroughly review what’s included at your chosen resort—are premium restaurants included, or are they extra? Clarify if taxes, gratuities, and specific activities are part of the base package to avoid unexpected costs. Understanding the inclusions ensures a smooth and budget-friendly vacation.
Resort Size and Getting Around
Punta Cana resorts can be massive, sometimes housing multiple hotels within one complex. Consider the resort’s size and layout, especially if traveling with young children or anyone with mobility issues. Check distances to key amenities like the beach, pools, and restaurants, and inquire about shuttle services, such as golf carts. Accessibility features in lobbies, restaurants, and guest rooms are also essential considerations for families with specific needs.
Restaurant Reservations: Plan Ahead
Popular à la carte restaurants often book up quickly. Make reservations in advance, especially for peak dining times. If possible, review restaurant menus beforehand, particularly if traveling with picky eaters or children with dietary restrictions, to ensure suitable dining options are available for your family.
How We Chose These Hotels
These hotel selections were curated by travel writer Patricia Doherty, incorporating insights from fellow journalists, user reviews, Travel + Leisure editor picks, and World’s Best Award winners. Patricia’s extensive experience in travel writing and as a seasoned traveler informed the research process, aligning these recommendations with Travel + Leisure Hotel Values to ensure top-quality, family-friendly all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana are highlighted.
