Punta Cana, nestled on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, is a sought-after beach destination. Renowned for its 30 miles of pristine white-sand beaches meeting the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, it’s also home to a plethora of resorts. Visitors are spoiled for choice with activities ranging from snorkeling and scuba diving to boating and fishing. For those seeking relaxation, lounging by the pool, indulging in spa treatments, or enjoying a round of golf on one of the many scenic courses are popular options.
To elevate the vacation experience, Punta Cana’s all-inclusive resorts offer the convenience of upfront cost clarity. Guests can relax without the worry of constantly checking expenses for meals and drinks, knowing their vacation budget is well-defined from the outset.
Whether you’re looking for adults-only escapes or family-centric hotels brimming with water parks and kids’ clubs, Punta Cana’s all-inclusive resorts cater to a diverse range of vacationers desiring a hassle-free getaway.
Here are 15 of the best all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, perfect for families seeking an unforgettable vacation.
Grand Palladium Palace Resort, Spa & Casino
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What Families Will Love: The Grand Palladium Palace stands out as a comprehensive beachfront destination. It’s packed with entertainment, featuring a casino, various sports facilities, engaging kids clubs, a luxurious spa, and diverse dining options, including access to restaurants at neighboring sister hotels within the complex.
Keep in Mind: Situated within the extensive Bavaro Beach tourist complex, and adjacent to two sister hotels, the resort grounds are expansive. Guests should expect to do a fair amount of walking or rely on golf cart transportation to navigate the property.
Located directly on the shores of Bavaro Beach, the Grand Palladium Palace Resort, Spa & Casino is part of a trio of resorts, along with Grand Palladium Bavaro Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa. This area is perfectly suited for families, couples, and groups, offering a world-class casino, the Zentropia Spa & Wellness Center, six swimming pools, and a wide array of entertainment options designed for all ages, from toddlers to teenagers.
Dining at the resort is a delight with eight à la carte restaurants, five buffet dining rooms, six bars, and 24-hour snack availability. Accommodation options are plentiful with 366 guest rooms, ranging from comfortable garden view rooms to luxurious beachside suites. For families, the garden view Loft Suite provides two levels, an additional sofa bed, and a half-bath. For a touch of indulgence, the Junior Swim Up Suite features a private swim-up pool and a furnished terrace.
The all-inclusive package is generous, including unlimited buffet meals, à la carte dinners, snacks, domestic and selected international beverages in certain bars, house wine during meals, a stocked in-room mini-bar, non-motorized water sports, fitness center access, daily activities and entertainment, free entry to the disco with drinks, access to the facilities of the other resorts within the complex, and all taxes, service charges, and gratuities.
The Family Details:
- For Families: The resort offers supervised entertainment for all age groups, including a Baby Club (1-3 years), a Mini-Club (4-12 years), and a Junior Club (13-18 years).
- Spa: Access to the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness Center’s wet areas (hot tubs, pool, sauna, steam baths) incurs a daily fee of $10 per guest, although this is included for Royal Suites guests and Palladium Travel Club members.
- Water Sports: Complimentary windsurfing, kayaking, and catamaran sailing are available. For an extra charge, guests can enjoy banana boat rides, fishing trips, diving courses, glass-bottom boat tours, and snorkeling excursions. Catamaran and windsurfing courses are also offered at an additional cost.
- Distance to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ): 14 miles.
- Outside the Resort: Golf enthusiasts can visit Punta Espada Golf Club. Family-friendly attractions nearby include Dolphin Island Park, Bavaro Adventure Park, and Manati Park.
- Gratuities: Included.
- WiFi: Included.
- Rates: Starting from $370 per night.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
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What Families Will Love: Guests of Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana benefit from reciprocal access to the dining and entertainment facilities at the adjacent Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana, a family-friendly resort. This setup is ideal for multi-generational groups, providing an adults-only retreat alongside family-oriented amenities in one location.
Keep in Mind: As common in many popular resorts, securing poolside lounge chairs may require early reservation each day.
This luxurious five-star, adults-only resort is situated on the beautiful Juanillo Beach within the exclusive gated community of Cap Cana. Recognized as a winner in Travel + Leisure’s 2023 World’s Best Awards, Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana boasts a state-of-the-art fitness center, a thrilling water park, luxurious swim-up suites, and a remarkable 25 restaurants and bars, including those at the neighboring family-friendly Hyatt Ziva.
Hyatt Zilara offers 375 suites, ranging from spacious junior suites to opulent beachfront swim-up suites. Guests can enhance their stay by upgrading to club-level rooms, which include exclusive amenities like a private lounge, premium beverage selections, and exclusive access to the Club Pool. The resort also provides nightly entertainment, dance classes, and optional activities such as golf, deep-sea fishing, and various excursions.
The all-inclusive package covers dining across all restaurants within both Hyatt Zilara and Hyatt Ziva, including gourmet buffets, bars, lounges, casual food carts, and 24-hour suite service. Unlimited premium cocktails, spirits, beers, wines, and soft drinks are also included. Guests enjoy complimentary access to Canapolis Water Park, a beachfront infinity pool, hot tubs, aqua fitness classes, a fully-equipped fitness center, live entertainment, vibrant beach parties, engaging dance classes, and daily scheduled activities. Spa treatments and private cabana rentals are available at an additional cost.
The Family Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana International Airport: 7.5 miles.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Canapolis Water Park, accessible to all guests, features a lazy river with a grotto cascade, water cannons, and seven exciting water slides.
- Spa: The Larimar Spa, shared between Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana and Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, offers a range of treatments at an extra charge.
- World of Hyatt: Members of the World of Hyatt loyalty program can redeem points for stays here, with redemption rates ranging from 42,000 to 58,000 points per night, classifying it as a Category F property.
- WiFi: Included.
- Rates: Starting from $464 per night.
Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana
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What Families Will Love: Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is celebrated as a luxurious, family-focused resort, offering spacious all-suite accommodations and outstanding amenities, notably its expansive water park.
Keep in Mind: Dining venues and bars can become busy, potentially leading to wait times for seating and service during peak hours.
“Cap Cana presents a stunning stretch of coastline, beautifully positioned between the azure Caribbean Sea and the lush Dominican Republic interior,” notes Brad Japhe, a contributor to T+L. “Hyatt Ziva provides the perfect contemporary setting to fully appreciate this. From the moment I stepped into the grand lobby, adorned with verdant hanging greenery and bamboo-lined ceilings, I was thoroughly impressed. My suite was equally captivating; elegantly furnished with local cultural touches, and offering unobstructed panoramic sea views.”
The resort offers nightly entertainment with musicians and dancers performing in an outdoor amphitheater. Dedicated kids’ and teen clubs provide supervised activities and games for younger guests, with teenagers aged 13-17 able to enjoy a Formula 1 racing experience at the teen club. Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana delivers everything expected from a top-tier, family-friendly all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean.
Japhe further commented on his experience: “I especially enjoyed the pools and hot tubs, located right at the edge of the beach. Dining options are plentiful, including Chinola, a delightful beachside restaurant. For the most impressive culinary experience, El Mercado stands out, with its daily buffet showcasing the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean.”
Henley Vazquez, a T+L A-List travel advisor and co-founder of Fora, describes Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana as “popular with both travel advisors and travelers because of its incredible daytime activities for children—including fantastic water slides—and equally appealing amenities for adults. The rooms are beautiful, the food is excellent, and the convenience of direct flights into Punta Cana adds to its appeal.”
The Family Details:
- Inclusions: The all-inclusive package covers all food and beverages, access to the water park, both land and non-motorized water sports, and live entertainment.
- Kids Club: Complimentary access for children aged 3-17.
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: 11.5 miles.
- Rates: Starting from $599 per night.
Secrets Tides Punta Cana
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What Families Will Love: Every accommodation at Secrets Tides Punta Cana is a suite, each featuring a private furnished balcony or terrace, ensuring comfort and space for families.
Keep in Mind: It’s important to note that the room rate is structured on a per-person, per-night basis, which may affect budgeting for larger families.
This adults-only resort emphasizes a romantic ambiance, nestled on a private beach in Uvero Alto. While ideal for couples, it also provides a luxurious setting for friends seeking a high-end getaway. Dedicated concierges are available around the clock to fulfill guest requests, from dining reservations to activity arrangements, ensuring a pampered experience. Dining options are extensive with nine restaurants, including six à la carte venues, a buffet, a grill, and a café. The option to enjoy hot dogs or burgers right on the beach is particularly appealing for a relaxed lunch. Guests can start their day with coffee and pastries at Coco Café and enjoy nightly entertainment at the Showtime theater bar.
For daytime activities, the resort boasts two infinity pools and three hot tubs, along with snorkeling and kayaking directly from the beach. Introductory scuba lessons are available, and catamaran cruises can be arranged for an additional fee.
The all-suite resort offers accommodations with views of the pool, garden, or ocean, all equipped with soaking tubs, daily refreshed mini-bars, and 24-hour room service. For an enhanced luxury experience, the Preferred Club offers upgraded suites in prime locations, access to exclusive Preferred Lounge and pool areas, premium mini-bar and room amenities, a dedicated beach section, and an exclusive restaurant.
The Family Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana International Airport: 28 miles.
- Pets: Welcomes small dogs and provides special pet-friendly amenities.
- Spa: The Secrets Spa offers treatments at an additional cost, featuring a sauna, steam room, and hydrotherapy circuit.
- WiFi: Included.
- Rate: Starting at $213 per person per night, varying by view and location.
Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Hammock
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What Families Will Love: The Margaritaville Island Reserve app (available on iOS and Android) simplifies vacation planning, allowing guests to easily manage dinner reservations and activity schedules.
Keep in Mind: This adults-only resort is part of the larger Margaritaville Island Reserve Resort Cap Cana complex, which also includes the family-friendly Margaritaville Cap Cana Wave, situated nearby.
Located on a private beach in Punta Cana, Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana offers a unique dual-resort experience: the family-oriented Wave and the adults-exclusive Hammock. Across both properties, guests can enjoy 519 suites, 40 luxury villas, 10 restaurants, a spa, and two pools. Guest rooms are well-appointed with furnished balconies and customizable in-room refreshment centers. The all-inclusive rate covers daily entertainment, water sports, tennis, pickleball, all meals and beverages including cocktails, and gratuities. For younger guests aged 4 to 12, the Parakeets Kids Club provides daily programs and activities.
The all-inclusive experience extends to all meals, specialty snacks, access to the fitness center and classes, 24-hour room service, and premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Beach volleyball, pickleball, bocce ball, cornhole competitions, cooking and mixology classes, and various music and entertainment options are also included. Guests also have the benefit of accessing activities at Cap Cana Wave. Treatments at the St. Somewhere Spa are available for an additional charge.
“As someone from the sun-deprived Northeast, I often spend winters planning getaways to sunny destinations where the beach is the main attraction and time is measured by ‘wine o’clock’,” shares Travel + Leisure contributor Robin Catalano. “Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana provided an enjoyable couples escape in January 2022. During the day, I primarily stayed at Margaritaville’s section of Juanillo Beach and the quieter adults-only area of the resort. I also visited the St. Somewhere Spa, where I enjoyed hydrotherapy circuits followed by the polar plunge pool, sauna, or a relaxing massage.”
The Family Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana International Airport: 7 miles.
- Spa: St. Somewhere Spa offers hydrotherapy circuits, massages, and facial treatments at an additional cost.
- Activities and Amenities: Guests are welcome to use the restaurants, lounges, and participate in activities at Cap Cana Wave.
- WiFi: Included.
- Rate: Starting at $611 per night.
Finest Punta Cana
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What Families Will Love: Finest Punta Cana makes beach days luxurious with palapas, comfortable lounge chairs, hammocks, and dedicated food and beverage service right on the sand.
Keep in Mind: The resort features distinct areas: the adults-only Excellence Club and a family-friendly section complete with splash pools, games, and the engaging Imagine Club for children.
Finest Punta Cana offers a variety of room categories, including suites designed to accommodate up to four guests, swim-up suites, private pool suites, and expansive Family Suites at 1,750 square feet, ideal for families of five. The Excellence Club rooms are located in the adults-only area and include access to exclusive adults-only restaurants, a separate pool, and a swim-up bar. Travel + Leisure contributor Alison Fox, during her stay in the adults’ area, noted, “I was staying in the hotel’s adults-only side, the Excellence Club, which included its own check-in area, exclusive club-only restaurants, and a pool that was generally quieter than the family-oriented pool.”
Fox also experienced the One Spa’s hydrotherapy circuit, commenting, “One hydrotherapy session—complete with a relaxing scalp massage—is included with each Excellence Club and Finest Club room, and it’s absolutely worth the time.” The resort also features a fitness center, live music entertainment, seven pools, six hot tubs, yoga classes, and lessons in dancing, Spanish, and cooking. Guests can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, or games such as board games, pickleball, tennis, and beach volleyball. For an additional fee, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and private yacht excursions are available.
Dining options are diverse, ranging from casual options like Market Kitchen and La Cocinita Food Truck, to specialty restaurants such as Lizo for Mexican cuisine, Italian, French, and Japanese restaurants, and Duke’s Lobster & Seafood, plus a healthy cuisine spot.
The Family Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: 22 miles.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The One Spa offers treatments for younger guests, and the Imagine Kids’ Club provides supervised activities and a mini water park. Room amenities include cribs, high chairs, baby monitors, and more to cater to families.
- WiFi: Included.
- Rates: Starting at $375 per night.
Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino
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What Families Will Love: Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort is designed to welcome guests of all ages, featuring distinct areas tailored for families, adults-only, and UNIQUE guests, the latter offering upgraded rooms and exclusive amenities.
Keep in Mind: With 1,042 guest rooms and suites, the property is quite large and may not be ideal for those seeking a more intimate resort atmosphere.
Families can select from a range of accommodations, from junior suites to swim-up and two-bedroom suites. The adults-only Club Rooms, located in a separate area, also offer swim-up suites and views of the pool and the Caribbean Sea. The UNIQUE rooms are distinguished by ocean views, private terraces, and prime locations within the resort.
The resort boasts seven freshwater pools, including a striking bi-level infinity pool, a 16,000-square-foot water park, an adults-only pool, and a dedicated children’s pool. Water sports activities include scuba diving, windsurfing, sailing, and water skiing. The Panchi World Kids’ Club provides supervised activities for younger guests.
Dining options are plentiful, with two international and regional cuisine buffets, and à la carte restaurants specializing in Mexican, Mediterranean, and Asian dishes. Guests can also enjoy a meal at the Steak House or in a traditional Italian trattoria.
The Family Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: 9 miles.
- WiFi: Included.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The resort offers a mini-club for children ages 3-12, a mini-disco, a playground, and the VIBE club for teens aged 12-16, located in a separate area.
- Spa: Guests can enjoy a spa, hair salon, and fitness area on-site.
- Rates: Starting around $650 per night.
Paradisus Grand Cana
What Families Will Love: The suites at Paradisus Grand Cana are notably spacious, starting from 796 square feet up to nearly 3,000 square feet for the two-bedroom swim-up suite, offering ample room for families.
Keep in Mind: Guests are encouraged to consider upgrading to premium rooms and services to fully experience the resort’s higher-end offerings.
This all-suite luxury resort features 683 suites, including swim-up options and several two-bedroom configurations. Welcoming guests of all ages, Paradisus Grand Cana includes a water park and a Kids Camp with games, crafts, and supervised activities for younger visitors. The resort is arranged in a circular layout across a large area, and bicycles are available for guests to navigate the property. Shuttles are also provided for transport around the resort and to the beach, which is a short ride away.
Dining options include a steakhouse, a sushi and Asian cuisine restaurant, and an international indoor/outdoor gastro hall. The resort also houses a spa, a fully equipped gym, a spin room, and a casino.
Upgrading to Royal Service provides access to exclusive amenities such as a private pool, a private beach area, additional restaurants, complimentary spa access, a private lounge, larger suites, and personal butler service. The Destination Inclusive Program further enhances the experience with cultural activities, private cooking classes, workshops with local artisans, beachfront yoga, and catamaran rides, particularly beneficial for guests in swim-up rooms.
The Family Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: 11 miles.
- Golf: Guests can play golf at the Cocotal Country Club, which features 27 championship holes, for an additional fee.
- Spa: Indoor and outdoor treatment rooms are included with the Royal Service upgrade.
- WiFi: Included.
- Rate: Starting around $600 per night.
Dreams Flora Resort & Spa
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What Families Will Love: The resort’s location near a beautiful beach is a major draw for families seeking sun and sand.
Keep in Mind: Securing lounge chairs around the pools may sometimes be challenging due to high demand.
This family-friendly resort offers 520 rooms, with an all-inclusive package covering unlimited dining, beverages, entertainment, and 24-hour room service. Accommodation choices are diverse, including double rooms, queen rooms, junior suites, and connecting suites ideal for family stays. Guests opting for Preferred Club-level rooms enjoy enhanced amenities such as the Preferred Club Lounge with all-day food and drink, personalized check-in and check-out, exclusive pool areas, an adults-only pool, an exclusive à la carte restaurant for breakfast and lunch, upgraded mini-bar and bath products, and dedicated concierge service.
Dining options are plentiful with eight venues, including a beachside grill, an international buffet, and à la carte restaurants serving French, Italian, Asian, and Mexican cuisines. Thirteen bars are available, including pool bars, swim-up bars, beach bars, a theater bar, and a mocktail bar for teens.
Entertainment and activities abound with five pools, big-screen movies, theme nights, dance classes, and more, catering to all ages. Scuba diving and fishing excursions can be arranged for an additional cost.
The Family Details:
- Spa: The spa features a hydrotherapy area, oceanfront palapa massage cabins, and a variety of body treatments, massages, and facials.
- WiFi: Included.
- Family Activities: On-site water park, non-motorized water sports, game room, childcare services, Explorers’ Club (ages 3-12) with games, crafts, and campouts, and Core Zone Teens’ Club (ages 13-17) with social events, video games, and beach movies.
- Rate: From about $600 per night.
Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort
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What Families Will Love: With 554 suites, Paradisus Palma Real is smaller compared to many Punta Cana resorts, making it easier to navigate, especially for families with young children.
Keep in Mind: Like many all-inclusive resorts, restaurants can get busy, so making reservations early is recommended to avoid wait times.
This elegant resort caters to both families and adults with The Reserve, a secluded adults-only hotel within the resort complex, offering accommodations in an exclusive adults-only area. The Reserve suites offer spacious layouts, swim-up access, enhanced in-room amenities, and entry to VIP areas. For families, Nikté provides upgraded experiences, newly renovated rooms, and special family-focused amenities.
Guests of The Reserve and Nikté enjoy personalized services from a Destination Concierge and access to Destination Inclusive off-site activities, including workshops with local artisans and private cooking classes. On-site activities include tennis, volleyball, basketball, and dance lessons.
Accommodation options range from junior suites to swim-up suites and exclusive adults-only Reserve and family-friendly Nikte suites. Dining is diverse with Dominican, Italian, Mexican, Mediterranean, Asian, and international cuisines available, along with a variety of cocktail bars and The Winery, offering an extensive wine selection.
The Family Details:
- Spa: YHI Spa offers traditional therapies and modern body and facial treatments.
- Family Activity: The Kidsdom provides games, activities, shows, and crafts for younger guests.
- The Reserve: Guests of The Reserve enjoy access to a private pool and beach area.
- Golf: Guests have access to the Cocotal Country Club.
- Rate: Starting at about $235 per night.
Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana
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What Families Will Love: Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana offers an affordable family vacation option, complete with a beach, water park access, multiple restaurants, and a kids’ mini-club.
Keep in Mind: As part of a larger complex of four resorts, getting to the beach or certain restaurants and activities may require using a shuttle service or a considerable walk.
The resort features nearly 800 guest rooms and suites, all with balconies and modern bathrooms, including two-bedroom suites that can accommodate up to four adults or three adults and two children. The all-inclusive rate includes three à la carte dinners per week, buffet breakfasts, water park access, fitness center use, children’s activities, a stocked mini-bar, and one hour per day of free kayaking, snorkeling, tennis, or catamaran rental. Two main pools, a children’s pool, beach access, nightly entertainment, and optional off-site activities provide ample choices for recreation.
Guests have access to nine à la carte restaurants, entertainment venues, activities, and the children’s water park at the neighboring Bahia Principe Grand Turquesa. A Mini-Club is available for children aged 4-12. Guest room mini-bars are replenished daily with snacks, juice, soft drinks, and beer.
“To fully enjoy this all-inclusive destination with stunning ocean views, take advantage of the neighboring resorts,” advises T+L contributor Jesse Scott. “Staying at Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana grants you access to dining and facilities at the adjacent Grand Bavaro and Grand Turquesa. Pro-tip: explore them all and don’t hesitate to indulge in everything they offer.”
The Family Details:
- Spa: Bahia Principe Spa offers a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, cold plunge, and a range of treatments.
- Shopping: Pueblo Principe Village is located within the resort complex for convenient shopping.
- Golf: Access to golf is available at Punta Cana Golf Club and White Sands Course for an additional charge.
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: 7 miles.
- Rates: Starting at about $120 per person per night.
Melia Punta Cana Beach
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What Families Will Love: With approximately 400 adults-only rooms, Melia Punta Cana Beach is among the more intimate resorts in the Punta Cana area, offering a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
Keep in Mind: Guests are encouraged to upgrade to The Level for enhanced room locations, access to private areas, superior dining options, more à la carte restaurant choices, and additional exclusive services.
Accommodation options range from Deluxe and Premium rooms to suites within The Level upgrade program, including beachside, garden, and wellness-focused suites. All rooms feature balconies or terraces, mini-bars, and walk-in showers. Marketed as a Wellness Resort, Melia Punta Cana offers Wellness Experience Rooms equipped with yoga mats, exercise weights, thermal mattresses, healthy mini-bar 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. Guests of The Level can access The Level Lounge, which offers daily continental breakfast, premium beverages, exclusive dining at the Quimera Restaurant, and a private pool and beach area.
“In September 2020, seeking a wellness retreat during a lull in the COVID situation, I chose to stay at Meliá Punta Cana Beach,” shares T+L contributor Jesse Scott. “It was rejuvenating and, for a solo or couples wellness-focused trip, it’s incredibly revitalizing on many levels. Built in 2019, this adults-only resort features rooms adorned with white columns and tan and gold accents, with beachside suites available at a premium. Meliá’s Level package is definitely worth considering for the upgrade, offering access to a private pool, lounge, and wellness rituals, among other perks.”
The Family Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: 10 miles.
- Spa: YHI Spa offers wellness treatments, massages, and facials.
- Rate: From $415 per night (The Level suite Beachside from $610).
- Adults Only: 18+ only resort.
Grand Bávaro Princess Punta Cana
What Families Will Love: The suites at Grand Bávaro Princess are spacious, and multiple upgrade options are available to enhance your stay.
Keep in Mind: The expansive resort grounds may require significant walking to access some activities, which could be a consideration for families with young children or those with mobility concerns.
This all-suite resort, located on Bávaro Beach, features 1,290 spacious suites, including 266 Platinum Suites, 836 Bungalow Suites, 22 Honeymoon Suites, and a Presidential Suite. “I’m not typically drawn to all-inclusive experiences, but the Grand Bávaro is different,” remarks Japhe from T+L. “It has a relaxed atmosphere, enhanced by the tranquil beach setting it enjoys.”
The all-inclusive rate covers three daily meals and snacks across 10 restaurants, a coffee shop, two food trucks, and six bars, including a 24-hour sports bar. Guests can enjoy a peaceful swimming pool near the spa and another pool suitable for all ages closer to the beach. Access to non-motorized water sports, a fully equipped gym, tennis courts, and a kids’ club for ages 4-12 are also included.
“The grounds offer plenty to explore, including an eco-park with local flora and fauna,” Japhe added. “I even encountered several peacocks during my walk. While there is considerable walking involved, for me, this was more of a positive aspect than a drawback.”
The Family Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: 10 miles.
- Princess Family Club: Offers a private check-in desk, 164 spacious rooms (some with direct pool access), a water theme park with slides, a dedicated children’s club, and an exclusive snack bar.
- Platinum Area: Features upgraded rooms, VIP amenities, and personalized service.
- Rate: From about $300 per night.
Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana
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What Families Will Love: The spacious rooms and suites, with options for connecting rooms, provide flexible accommodation solutions for family groups of various sizes.
Keep in Mind: Guests may experience longer wait times for room service and at restaurants compared to other resorts.
“We spent a week at the vibrant, all-inclusive Nickelodeon Hotel in Punta Cana with our family in spring 2018. Staying in a Swim-Up Suite, my spouse and I, along with our two kids, were comfortably accommodated with a king-sized bed and a pull-out queen sofa, plus direct access to a shared swimming pool right from our deck,” recalls Aimee White Beazley, a Travel + Leisure contributor.
For a truly unique experience, consider staying in The Pineapple, a distinctive villa inspired by the iconic undersea home from SpongeBob SquarePants. This special lodging includes two bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a private infinity pool. Dining options are diverse, featuring Italian cuisine, Asian fusion, casual poolside dining, and more. “The hotel’s nine restaurants included a family favorite, BRGRS, and parents appreciated a night out at Verdello Sicilian Kitchen, while the kids were well-entertained at Club Nick, the dedicated kids’ club,” Beazley shared.
T+L contributor Madeline Bilis, who visited the resort in 2024, noted, “As a self-professed Spongebob superfan, I had a blast watching my favorite episodes in the open-air theater and enjoying slime smoothies at the swim-up bar.” This resort, situated on Uvero Alto beach, fully embraces cartoon themes like Spongebob Squarepants and Paw Patrol, making it a lively and splash-filled destination for families and children.
The Family Details:
- Aqua Nick: Guests enjoy complimentary access to this extensive water complex.
- Spa: Vassa Spa offers cold and warm water pools, a variety of treatments, and bubble beds designed for family pampering.
- Pajama Jam: Offers a special sleepover experience with activities and a family breakfast, including photos and entertainment (additional charge).
- Autism Double-Checked: This program provides specialized Autism Concierge services and support to meet specific needs.
- Rate: From $500 per night.
Club Med Punta Cana
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What Families Will Love: Club Med Punta Cana is ideal for active families, offering unlimited land and water sports, such as sailing and trapeze, included in the stay.
Keep in Mind: The resort has a limited number of dining options, with only three restaurants available.
Club Med Punta Cana spans 100 oceanfront acres and is recognized as Club Med’s premier family-friendly resort. According to Travel + Leisure contributor Lauren Dana Ellman, “Believe me, there’s something for everyone here. The value-packed amenities, such as complimentary sailing lessons and a state-of-the-art circus and trapeze facility, were truly impressive. These are just a few of the over 30 activities included in your stay, which also include archery, pickleball, snorkeling, kayaking, and both tennis and dance lessons.”
“Although I visited without children, I was impressed by the comprehensive kid- and family-focused programs, including dedicated spaces like a special pool. Baby Club Med and Petit Club Med cater to children aged 0-2 and 2-3, respectively. Mini Club Med, for ages 4-10, offers activities like sailing and archery lessons. There’s also Teen Club Med (ages 11-13) and Chill Pass Club Med (ages 14-17).” Ellman suggests, “For larger family groups, consider staying in one of the newly renovated, tropical-inspired two-bedroom family suites.”
The Family Details:
- Included: The all-inclusive package covers all dining and drinks, unlimited land and water sports, and gratuities.
- Kids Club: Complimentary for children aged 4-17. Clubs for ages 0-4 are available at an additional cost.
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: 6 miles.
- Rates: Starting at $170 per person per night.
Know Before You Go
Upgrades: Consider if They’re Worth the Extra Cost
Many resorts offer upgrade programs that may include more desirable room locations, additional dining options, and access to exclusive pools, check-in areas, and lounges. Some guests have reported feeling pressured to upgrade upon arrival, which can unexpectedly increase vacation costs. It’s advisable to research and decide in advance if an upgrade is beneficial for your needs.
All-inclusive program details can vary significantly between resorts. Thoroughly review what is included (e.g., taxes, gratuities, activities) before booking to avoid any misunderstandings. Sometimes, advertised amenities and restaurants are only accessible through upgraded programs.
Resort Size and Getting Around
Punta Cana resorts are often very large, with multiple hotels within the same property, sometimes with similar names, which can be confusing. Check details such as the distance to the beach, pools, and restaurants, and whether golf cart shuttles are available. For guests with accessibility needs, confirm the accessibility of lobbies, restaurants, and guest rooms.
Airport shuttles are generally offered by most resorts, usually at an additional cost. The convenience of pre-arranged transportation, avoiding taxis or negotiations with local drivers upon arrival, can be worthwhile. Note that Uber pickups might not be permitted at the airport.
Restaurant Reservations are Recommended
Restaurants, especially popular à la carte options, often get fully booked. Making reservations in advance is highly recommended, or plan to dine during off-peak hours. When possible, review menus beforehand, especially if traveling with children who may have dietary preferences or restrictions.
How We Chose These Hotels
Travel writer Patricia Doherty consulted with fellow journalists, reviewed user feedback, and explored Travel + Leisure editor selections and World’s Best Award winners to curate this list of top all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana. Her extensive experience as a travel writer and long-time traveler contributed to the research process. These hotel recommendations align with T+L Hotel Values, ensuring they meet high standards of quality and guest satisfaction.
