Punta Cana, nestled on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, is a dream destination for families seeking an unforgettable vacation. Renowned for its stunning 30-mile stretch of white-sand beaches meeting the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, Punta Cana offers a plethora of all-inclusive resorts designed to cater to every family’s desires. Imagine a place where powdery sands, thrilling water sports, and world-class hospitality converge to create the perfect backdrop for your family memories.
The beauty of choosing an all-inclusive resort for your family vacation to Punta Cana lies in the sheer convenience and relaxation it offers. Forget about constantly reaching for your wallet or worrying about hidden costs. With everything from gourmet dining to exciting activities bundled into one price, you can truly unwind and focus on what matters most: spending quality time with your loved ones. Whether your family envisions building sandcastles on pristine beaches, exploring vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling, or simply lounging by a sparkling pool, Punta Cana’s all-inclusive resorts promise a carefree and enriching experience for every member of your family.
From resorts boasting exhilarating water parks and engaging kids’ clubs to luxurious havens offering serene spas and championship golf courses, Punta Cana’s all-inclusive scene is incredibly diverse. This curated list showcases 15 of the best all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, each offering unique amenities and experiences to ensure your family vacation is nothing short of spectacular. Let’s dive in and discover the perfect resort to make your family vacation to Punta Cana all-inclusive dreams a reality.
Grand Palladium Palace Resort, Spa & Casino
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Courtesy of Palladium Resorts
Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com
What We Like: The Grand Palladium Palace is a comprehensive beachfront destination, offering a wide array of entertainment options including a casino, sports facilities, dedicated kids clubs, a rejuvenating spa, and access to a diverse selection of restaurants, including those within its sister hotels on the property.
What to Consider: Situated within the extensive Bavaro Beach tourist complex, and adjacent to two sister hotels, the resort is sprawling. Guests should be prepared for significant walking distances or utilizing golf cart transportation to navigate the grounds.
Nestled along the beautiful Bavaro Beach, the Grand Palladium Palace Resort, Spa & Casino is part of a larger complex that includes the Grand Palladium Bavaro Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa. This expansive area is perfect for families, couples, and groups, featuring a world-class casino, the Zentropia Spa & Wellness Center, six inviting pools, and entertainment tailored for all ages, from toddlers to teenagers.
Dining at the Grand Palladium Palace is a treat with eight a la carte restaurants, five buffet dining rooms, six bars, and 24-hour snack availability. The resort boasts 366 well-appointed guest rooms, ranging from comfortable garden view rooms to luxurious beachside suites. For families, the garden view Loft Suite offers two levels, an additional sofa bed, and a convenient half-bath. For a touch of indulgence, the Junior Swim Up Suite provides a private swim-up pool and a furnished terrace.
The all-inclusive package at Grand Palladium Palace is generous, covering unlimited buffet meals, a la carte dinners, snacks, and both domestic and select international beverages at designated bars. Guests also enjoy house wine with lunch and dinner, a stocked in-room mini-bar, non-motorized water sports, fitness facilities, daily activities and entertainment, complimentary access to the disco with drinks, access to neighboring property resorts, and all associated hotel taxes, service charges, and gratuities.
The Details:
- For Families: Onsite entertainment is thoughtfully designed with clubs for babies (1-3 years), kids (4-12 years), and teens (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: Windsurfing, kayaking, and catamarans are readily available. Additional water sports like banana boat rides, fishing excursions, diving courses, glass-bottom boat tours, and catamaran/windsurfing courses are available for an extra charge.
- Distance to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ): 14 miles.
- Outside the Resort: Golf enthusiasts can explore Punta Espada, while families will find attractions like Dolphin Island Park, Bavaro Adventure Park, and Manati Park nearby for off-resort excursions.
- Gratuities: Included.
- WiFi: Yes.
- Rates: Starting at $370 per night.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
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Courtesy of Hyatt
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: Guests at Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana benefit from shared access to the dining and entertainment facilities at the adjacent Hyatt Ziva resort. This makes it an exceptional choice for multi-generational family groups, offering both an adults-only retreat and a family-friendly resort within the same complex.
What to Consider: Similar to many popular resorts, prime poolside lounge chairs may be occupied early in the day, requiring guests to secure their spot promptly.
This luxurious five-star, adults-only resort is ideally located on 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 features a state-of-the-art fitness center, an exciting water park, opulent swim-up suites, and an impressive 25 restaurants and bars, including those at the neighboring family-friendly Hyatt Ziva.
Hyatt Zilara offers 375 suites, ranging from spacious junior suites to lavish beachfront swim-up suites. Guests looking for enhanced amenities can upgrade to club-level rooms, which include an exclusive lounge, premium beverage selections, and private access to the Club Pool. The resort also provides nightly entertainment, engaging dance classes, and optional activities such as golf, deep-sea fishing, and various excursions.
The all-inclusive package at Hyatt Zilara is comprehensive, encompassing dining at all restaurants within both Hyatt Zilara and Hyatt Ziva, gourmet buffets, bars, lounges, casual food carts, and 24-hour suite service. Unlimited premium cocktails, spirits, beer, wine, and soft drinks are included, alongside access to Canapolis Water Park, a beachfront infinity pool, hot tubs, aqua fitness classes, a well-equipped fitness center, live entertainment, vibrant beach parties, dance classes, and daily scheduled activities. Spa treatments and private cabana rentals are available at an additional cost.
The 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 thrilling slides.
- Spa: Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana and Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana share the Larimar Spa, offering a range of treatments for an additional fee.
- World of Hyatt: Members of the World of Hyatt loyalty program can redeem points, ranging from 42,000 to 58,000 points per night, at this Category F property.
- WiFi: Yes.
- Rates: Starting at $464 per night.
Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana
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Courtesy of Hyatt
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana stands out as a luxurious, family-focused resort, offering generously sized all-suite accommodations complemented by impressive amenities like a vast water park, making it perfect for a Family Vacation To Punta Cana All Inclusive.
What to Consider: Popular dining and bar venues can experience peak hour crowding, potentially leading to longer wait times for service.
“Cap Cana is a truly breathtaking stretch of coastline, perfectly positioned between the vibrant Caribbean Sea and the lush landscapes of the Dominican Republic’s eastern region,” remarks Brad Japhe, a contributor for T+L. “Hyatt Ziva provides an ideal, modern vantage point to fully appreciate this setting. From the moment I stepped into the expansive lobby, adorned with verdant hanging greenery and bamboo-lined ceilings, I was thoroughly impressed. My suite was equally stunning—elegantly designed with local cultural touches and offering unobstructed panoramic sea views.”
Guests can enjoy nightly entertainment featuring live musicians and dancers in the resort’s outdoor amphitheater. Hyatt Ziva caters to younger guests with a dedicated kids’ club and supervised games, while teenagers aged 13-17 can enjoy Formula 1 racing experiences at the teen club. It truly embodies everything you would expect from a top-tier, family-friendly all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean.
“I continued to be impressed by the pools and hot tubs, strategically located at the edge of the beach. Dining options are plentiful on the property, including the beachfront Chinola restaurant,” Japhe added. “I found the most exceptional dishes at El Mercado, where the daily buffet highlights the rich flavors of Caribbean cuisine.”
Henley Vazquez, a T+L A-list travel advisor and co-founder of Fora, describes Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana as “a favorite among advisors and travelers alike because it offers fantastic daytime activities for children—including wonderful water slides—along with superb amenities for adults.” She also notes, “The rooms are beautiful, the food is excellent, and the convenience of direct flights into Punta Cana adds to its appeal.”
The Details:
- Inclusions: Comprehensive package including all food and beverages, access to the water park, 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.
Secret Tides Punta Cana
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Courtesy of Secrets Tides
Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com
What We Like: Each accommodation at Secrets Tides Punta Cana is a suite, complete with a private, furnished balcony or terrace, enhancing the guest experience with added space and outdoor relaxation areas.
What to Consider: Guests should be aware that the room rates are structured on a per-person, per-night basis, which may affect budgeting for some travelers.
This adults-only resort emphasizes a romantic ambiance, situated on a secluded beach in Uvero Alto, making it an ideal destination for couples. However, its luxurious service and amenities also make it a great spot for friends seeking a high-end getaway. Dedicated concierges are available around the clock to fulfill special requests, manage dining reservations, arrange activities, and ensure every guest feels pampered. Dining options are plentiful, with nine restaurants including six à la carte venues, a buffet, a grill, and a café. For a relaxed midday meal, the beachside hot dog and burger option is particularly appealing. Guests can start their day with coffee and pastries at Coco Café and enjoy nightly entertainment at the Showtime theater bar.
Daytime fun includes two infinity pools, three hot tubs, and beachside snorkeling and kayaking. Introductory scuba lessons are available, and for an additional charge, guests can embark on a catamaran cruise.
The all-suite resort offers accommodations with views of the pool, garden, or ocean, all featuring soaking tubs, daily refreshed mini-bars, and 24-hour room service. For an elevated experience, the Preferred Club provides upgraded suites in premium locations, access to the exclusive Preferred Lounge and pool area, enhanced mini-bar and room amenities, a dedicated beach section, and an exclusive restaurant.
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana International Airport: 28 miles.
- Pets: Welcomes small dogs and offers special pet amenities.
- Spa: The Secrets Spa, available at an extra cost, includes a sauna, steam room, and hydrotherapy circuit.
- WiFi: Yes.
- Rate: Starting at $213 per person per night, varies by view and location.
Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Hammock
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Courtesy of Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: The Margaritaville Island Reserve app (available on iOS and Android) greatly simplifies vacation planning, allowing guests to easily manage dinner reservations and activity schedules directly from their mobile devices.
What to Consider: This adults-only resort, Hammock, is part of the larger Margaritaville Island Reserve Resort Cap Cana complex, which also includes the nearby family-friendly Margaritaville Cap Cana Wave. Guests should be aware of the distinction between the two for planning purposes.
Located on a private beach in Punta Cana, Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana offers a unique “two resorts in one” experience, featuring the family-friendly Wave and the adults-only Hammock. Across the property, guests will find 519 suites, 40 luxurious villas, 10 restaurants, a spa, and two pools. Guest rooms are equipped with furnished balconies and customizable in-room refreshment centers. The all-inclusive rate covers daily entertainment, water sports, tennis, pickleball, cocktails, meals, beverages, and all taxes and gratuities. For younger guests aged 4 to 12, the Parakeets Kids Club provides daily programs and activities.
The comprehensive all-inclusive experience includes 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, music, and entertainment are all part of the package. Guests can also take advantage of activities at the adjacent Cap Cana Wave resort. Treatments at the St. Somewhere Spa are available for an additional fee.
“As someone from the sun-starved Northeast, I often spend winters planning getaways to places where sun, sand, and surf are the main attractions, and where it’s always ‘wine o’clock somewhere.’ Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, an all-inclusive nestled within Punta Cana’s private, 30,000-acre shoreline, provided a delightful couples’ escape in January 2022,” shared Travel + Leisure contributor Robin Catalano. “During the day, I mostly stayed within Margaritaville’s section of Juanillo Beach and the notably quieter adults-only area of the resort. I also ventured into the St. Somewhere Spa, where I enjoyed hydrotherapy circuits followed by the polar plunge pool, sauna, or a massage.”
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana International Airport: 7 miles.
- Spa: St. Somewhere Spa offers hydrotherapy circuits, massages, and facial treatments, available at an additional cost.
- Activities and Amenities: Guests can access restaurants, lounges, and activities at Cap Cana Wave.
- WiFi: Yes.
- Rate: Starting at $611 per night.
Finest Punta Cana
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Courtesy of Finest Punta Cana
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: Finest Punta Cana enhances the beach experience with palapas, comfortable lounge chairs, hammocks, and dedicated food and beverage service directly on the beach, making relaxation effortless.
What to Consider: The resort is divided into an adults-only Excellence Club area and a family-friendly section featuring splash pools, games, and the Imagine Club for children, catering to different guest preferences within the same property.
Finest Punta Cana offers a diverse range of room categories including suites designed for up to four guests, swim-up suites, private pool suites, and a spacious 1,750-square-foot Family Suite accommodating up to five people. The Excellence Club rooms, situated in the adults-only area, provide access to exclusive adults-only restaurants, a separate pool, and a swim-up bar. Travel + Leisure contributor Alison Fox, during her stay at Finest Punta Cana in the adults-only section, noted in her article, “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 tended to be quieter than the kid-friendly one on the other side.”
Fox also enjoyed the One Spa’s hydrotherapy circuit, commenting, “One hydrotherapy session—complete with a relaxing scalp massage—is included in each Excellence Club and Finest Club room, and it’s worth every minute.” 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 like board games, pickleball, tennis, and beach volleyball. For an additional fee, options include deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and private yacht excursions.
Dining options are extensive, ranging from the casual Market Kitchen to specialty restaurants like Lizo for Mexican cuisine, Italian, French, and Japanese venues, Duke’s Lobster & Seafood, La Cocinita Food Truck, and a healthy cuisine spot.
The 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 waterpark. Room amenities include cribs, high chairs, baby monitors, and more.
- WiFi: Yes.
- Rates: Starting at $375 per night.
Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino
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Courtesy of Lopesan Resorts
Also available to book at Hotels.com
What We Like: Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort welcomes guests of all ages and offers distinct areas catering to different preferences, including family-friendly zones, adults-only sections, and the upgraded UNIQUE experience with enhanced guestrooms and amenities.
What to Consider: The resort is quite large, featuring 1,042 guest rooms and suites, which may not be ideal for guests seeking a more intimate or boutique vacation experience.
Families can choose from a variety of resort rooms, ranging 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 provide ocean views, spacious 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 dedicated children’s pool. Sports activities are abundant, including scuba diving, windsurfing, sailing, and water skiing. The Panchi World Kids’ Club provides supervised activities for younger guests.
Dining options are plentiful with two buffets featuring international and regional cuisine, and a selection of a la carte restaurants offering Mexican, Mediterranean, or Asian dishes, as well as a Steak House and a traditional Italian trattoria.
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: 9 miles.
- WiFi: Yes.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The resort offers a mini-club (ages 3-12), mini-disco, playground, and a VIBE area for teens aged 12-16, all located in a separate zone.
- Spa: Features a spa, hair salon, and fitness area.
- Rates: Starting at approximately $650 per night.
Paradisus Grand Cana
Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com
What We Like: The suites at Paradisus Grand Cana are notably spacious, ranging from the smallest at 796 square feet to the expansive two-bedroom swim-up suite at nearly 3,000 square feet, providing ample room for families.
What to Consider: Guests are encouraged to consider upgrading to premium rooms and services to access enhanced amenities and exclusive areas within the resort.
This all-suite luxury resort offers 683 suites, including swim-up options and several two-bedroom configurations. Welcoming guests of all ages, Paradisus Grand Cana provides 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, with bicycles available for guests to navigate the property. Shuttles also provide convenient transportation 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 features a spa, a fully equipped gym, a spin room, and a casino.
Guests who upgrade to the Royal Service receive access to an exclusive pool, a private beach area, additional restaurants, complimentary spa access, a private lounge, larger suites, and dedicated personal butlers. The Destination Inclusive Program offers cultural experiences, private cooking classes, workshops with local artisans, beachfront yoga, and catamaran rides, and is available with swim-up room bookings.
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: 11 miles.
- Golf: Guests can play golf at the nearby Cocotal Country Club, which features 27 championship holes, for an additional charge.
- Spa: Indoor and outdoor treatment rooms are included with the Royal Service upgrade.
- WiFi: Yes.
- Rate: Starting at approximately $600 per night.
Dreams Flora Resort & Spa
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Dreams Flora Resort & Spa
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: Dreams Flora Resort & Spa is ideally situated near a beautiful beach, providing easy access to the stunning coastline of Punta Cana.
What to Consider: Availability of lounge chairs around the pools can sometimes be limited, particularly during peak times, requiring guests to plan accordingly.
This family-friendly resort offers 520 rooms with unlimited dining, drinks, entertainment, and 24-hour room service. A wide variety of room types includes doubles, queen rooms, junior suites, and connecting suites ideal for family accommodations. Preferred Club-level rooms come with enhanced amenities such as access to the Preferred Club Lounge for all-day food and drinks, personalized check-in and check-out, exclusive pools, an adult-only pool, an exclusive a la carte restaurant for breakfast and lunch, upgraded mini-bar and bath accessories, and dedicated concierge service.
Dining options are abundant with eight venues, including a beachside grill, an international buffet, and a la carte restaurants serving French, Italian, Asian, and Mexican cuisines. Thirteen bars are located throughout the resort, including pool bars, swim-up bars, beach bars, a theater bar, and a mocktail bar for teenagers.
Guests of all ages will find entertainment options to enjoy, including five pools, big-screen movies, theme nights, and dance classes. Scuba diving and fishing excursions can be arranged for an additional cost.
The Details:
- Spa: The spa features a hydrotherapy area, oceanfront palapa massage cabins, and a variety of body treatments, massages, and facials.
- WiFi: Yes.
- Family Activities: On-site waterpark, non-motorized water sports, a 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 movies on the beach.
- Rate: From approximately $600 per night.
Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort
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Meliá Hotels International
Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com
What We Like: With 554 suites, Paradisus Palma Real is smaller and more easily navigable compared to many of the larger resorts in Punta Cana, offering a more intimate experience.
What to Consider: Like many all-inclusive properties, restaurants can often have wait times, so it is recommended to make reservations well in advance.
This elegant resort offers both family-friendly accommodations and The Reserve, a private, adults-only hotel within the resort complex, located in a dedicated adults-only building area. Guests of The Reserve enjoy spacious suites, swim-up options, enhanced in-room amenities, and access to VIP areas. Nikté, designed for families, provides upgraded experiences, revamped rooms, and special amenities catering to family needs.
Guests at The Reserve and Nikté benefit from the services of a Destination Concierge and Destination Inclusive off-site activities, such as workshops with local artisans and private cooking classes. On-site activities include tennis, volleyball, basketball, and dance lessons.
Guest room options range from junior suites to swim-up suites, as well as exclusive adults-only Reserve and family-friendly Nikte suites. Dining options are diverse, featuring Dominican, Italian, Mexican, Mediterranean, Asian, and international cuisines. The resort also offers a variety of cocktail bars and The Winery, which boasts an extensive wine selection.
The 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 have access to a private pool and beach area.
- Golf: Guests enjoy access to the Cocotal Country Club.
- Rate: Starting at approximately $235 per night.
Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana
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Courtesy of Bahia Principe Punta Cana
Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com
What We Like: Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana offers an affordable family getaway with a variety of activities, beach access, multiple restaurants, a water park, and a dedicated mini-club for children, making it a budget-friendly option for a family vacation to Punta Cana all inclusive.
What to Consider: The resort is part of a large complex of four resorts, which means accessing 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 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 a la carte dinners per week, buffet breakfast, access to the water park, fitness center, children’s activities, mini-bar, and one hour per day of free kayaking, snorkeling, tennis, or catamaran rental. Guests can enjoy two main pools, a children’s pool, beach access, nightly entertainment, and off-site activities available at an additional charge.
Guests also have access to nine à la carte restaurants, entertainment venues, activities, and the children’s water park at the nearby Bahia Principe Grand Turquesa. A Mini-Club is available for children aged 4-12. Minibars in guest rooms are restocked daily with snacks, juice, soft drinks, and beer.
“To fully enjoy this all-inclusive destination with its stunning ocean views, make sure to explore the neighboring resorts as well. Staying at Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana grants you access to dining and facilities at the adjacent Grand Bavaro and Grand Turquesa. Pro-tip—after staying at the resort in September 2020—take advantage of all of them and don’t hesitate to explore,” recommends T+L contributor Jesse Scott.
The 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.
- 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 approximately $120 per person per night.
Melia Punta Cana Beach
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Courtesy of Melia Punta Cana
Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com
What We Like: With approximately 400 adults-only rooms, Melia Punta Cana Beach is considered one of the more intimate resorts in the Punta Cana area, providing a quieter and more personalized experience.
What to Consider: Guests are encouraged to consider upgrading to The Level for enhanced room locations, access to private areas, superior dining options, more a la carte restaurant choices, and additional exclusive services.
Guest rooms range from Deluxe and Premium to suites included in The Level upgrade program, featuring beachside, garden, and wellness suites. All rooms include balconies or terraces, minibars, 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 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. Guests at The Level have exclusive access to 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—during a lull in the COVID pandemic and in dire need of a wellness retreat—I opted to stay at Meliá Punta Cana Beach,” T+L contributor Jesse Scott recalled. “It was truly rejuvenating, and for a solo or couples’ wellness adventure, it completely revitalizes across multiple aspects. Built in 2019, the adults-only resort’s rooms are styled with white columns and tan and gold accents, with beachside suites available at a premium. Speaking of premium, Meliá’s Level package is definitely worth the upgrade, including access to a private pool, lounge, wellness ritual, and other perks.”
The 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+.
Grand Bávaro Princess Punta Cana
Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com
What We Like: The suites at Grand Bávaro Princess Punta Cana are spacious, and several upgrade options are available to enhance the stay, providing flexibility for different preferences and budgets.
What to Consider: The expansive grounds of the resort mean that some activities may require long walks, which could be a consideration for families with young children or guests 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 one Presidential Suite. “I’m not usually one for all-inclusive experiences, but the Grand Bavaro is different,” T+L contributor Japhe noted. “It benefits from a relaxed atmosphere, enhanced by the serene beach it calls home.”
The all-inclusive rate covers three meals and snacks daily across 10 restaurants, a coffee shop, two food trucks, and six bars, including a 24-hour sports bar. Guests can enjoy a relaxing swimming pool near the spa and another pool for all ages near 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.
“There’s a lot to explore across the grounds, including an eco-park filled with local flora and fauna,” Japhe added. “I even encountered several peacocks while strolling. Be prepared for a good amount of walking here—for me, that was more of a positive aspect than a drawback.”
The Details:
- Distance to Punta Cana Airport: 10 miles.
- Princess Family Club: Offers a private check-in desk, 164 spacious rooms (some with private pool access), a water theme park with slides, a children’s club, and an exclusive snack bar.
- Platinum Area: Features upgraded rooms, VIP amenities, and personalized service.
- Rate: From approximately $300 per night.
Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana
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Courtesy of Karisma Hotels & Resorts
Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com
What We Like: Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana offers spacious rooms and suites, with connecting room options available, providing flexible accommodation solutions for family groups and larger parties.
What to Consider: Guests may experience longer than expected wait times for room service delivery and at restaurants, especially during peak seasons.
“We spent a week at this vibrant, all-inclusive Nickelodeon Hotel in Punta Cana with our family in spring 2018. Staying in a Swim-Up Suite, my husband, myself, and our two kids were comfortably accommodated with a king-sized bed and a pull-out queen, plus direct access to a shared swimming pool right from our deck,” shared Aimee White Beazley, a Travel + Leisure contributor.
For a truly unique experience, consider staying in The Pineapple, a whimsical accommodation inspired by SpongeBob SquarePants’ famous undersea home. This lodging includes two bedrooms, three bathrooms, and an infinity pool. Dining options range from Italian cuisine to Asian fusion and casual poolside fare. “The hotel’s nine restaurants included a family favorite, BRGRS, and parents appreciated a night out at Verdello Sicilian Kitchen, while the kids were safely entertained at Club Nick, a dedicated kids-only club,” Beazley added.
T+L contributor Madeline Bilis, who visited the resort in 2024, said, “I’m a self-proclaimed Spongebob superfan, and I had a blast watching my favorite episodes in the open-air theater and sipping slime smoothies at the swim-up bar.” This resort, located on Uvero Alto beach, fully embraces cartoon themes from shows like Spongebob Squarepants and Paw Patrol, making it a fun and splashy getaway, perfect for a family vacation to Punta Cana all inclusive.
The Details:
- Aqua Nick: Guests enjoy complimentary access to this extensive water complex.
- Spa: Vassa Spa features cold and warm water pools, treatments, and bubble beds designed for family pampering.
- Pajama Jam: Offers a special sleepover experience with activities, a family breakfast, photos, and entertainment (additional charge).
- Autism Double-Checked: The resort program includes an Autism Concierge and services tailored to specific needs.
- Rate: From $500 per night.
Club Med Punta Cana
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Taylor McIntyre / Travel + Leisure
What We Like: Club Med Punta Cana stands out for offering unlimited land and water sports, including sailing and trapeze, appealing greatly to active families seeking adventure and variety in their vacation activities.
What to Consider: The resort has only three restaurants, which may limit dining variety compared to larger resorts with more culinary options.
Club Med Punta Cana spans 100 oceanfront acres and is Club Med’s flagship family-friendly property. According to Travel + Leisure contributor Lauren Dana Ellman, “Trust me: There’s something for everyone here. The value-packed amenities, like complimentary sailing lessons and a state-of-the-art circus and trapeze facility, blew me away. These are just a few of the over 30 activities included in your stay, including archery, pickleball, snorkeling, kayaking, and tennis and dance lessons.”
“I admit I didn’t travel here with children, but I was impressed with the kid- and family-friendly programming, including exclusive spaces like a dedicated pool. Baby Club Med and Petit Club Med are available for kids 0-2 and 2-3, respectively. Mini Club Med, suited 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, “If you’re traveling with a big crew, stay in one of the newly renovated, tropical-inspired two-bedroom family suites.”
The Details:
- Included: All drinking and dining, unlimited land and water sports, and gratuities are comprehensively included in the package.
- Kids Club: Complimentary for children ages 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 May or May Not Be Worth the Additional Cost
Many resorts offer upgrade programs that often include more desirable room locations, additional dining options, and access to exclusive amenities such as private pools, check-in areas, and lounges. However, 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 whether an upgrade aligns with your needs and budget.
The specifics of all-inclusive programs can vary significantly from one resort to another. Thoroughly review what is included before booking to avoid any misunderstandings. Sometimes, listed amenities and restaurants are only accessible through upgraded programs, so clarifying what is included (taxes, gratuities, activities) upfront is highly recommended.
Consider the Size of the Resort and How You’ll Get Around
Many Punta Cana resorts are very large, sometimes comprising several hotels within the same property, and some may have similar names, which can be confusing. Investigate details such as the distance to the beach, pools, and restaurants, and whether golf cart shuttles are provided for guest convenience. For guests with mobility issues or special needs, confirm the accessibility of lobbies, restaurants, and guest rooms prior to booking.
Most resorts offer airport shuttle services, often at an additional cost. The convenience of pre-arranged transportation, avoiding the need to find a taxi or negotiate fares with local drivers upon arrival, can be well worth the expense. Note that ride-sharing services like Uber may not be reliably available for pickups at the airport.
Make Restaurant Reservations Ahead of Time
Restaurants, particularly the most sought-after a la carte eateries, are often fully booked, especially during peak season. Making reservations in advance is highly recommended, or plan to dine during off-peak hours to avoid long waits. When possible, review menus before making reservations, particularly if traveling with children or anyone with specific dietary preferences, to ensure there are suitable options available.
How We Chose These Hotels
Travel writer Patricia Doherty consulted with fellow journalists, reviewed extensive user feedback, and explored Travel + Leisure editor picks 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 was instrumental in researching and selecting these resorts. These hotel recommendations also align with T+L Hotel Values, ensuring they meet high standards of quality and guest satisfaction.
