Pros

  • Massive family-friendly all-inclusive resort in popular Bavaro area of Punta Cana
  • Gorgeous white-sand beach lined with loungers and palm trees
  • Well-sized rooms have rainfall showers, iPod docks, and furnished balconies
  • Most rooms have whirlpool tubs and ocean views
  • Numerous pools -- one for adults only -- that rarely feel over-crowded
  • 11 restaurants include Japanese, Spanish, Italian, buffet, and Dominican options
  • Several bars for unlimited cocktails, and a 24-hour tapas bar
  • 24-hour casino and a disco, plus evening shows
  • Pretty spa features several treatment rooms and an outdoor lounge
  • Kids' Club and pirate Island water park with a wave pool
  • Water sports such as kayaking, plus ample sports facilities
  • Pete Dye-designed golf course
  • Wedding packages and event spaces
See More Pros

Cons

  • Huge size means getting around can take some time (the resort provides a shuttle)
  • Generally long lines for check-in/check-out (except for Premium Level guests)
  • Fees for Wi-Fi and room service (except for Premium Level guests)
See More Cons

Bottom Line

The 1,402-room, upscale Palace Deluxe is the main all-inclusive resort at the family-friendly Barcelo Bavaro Palace, located on a lovely beach a 25-minute drive from the airport. It has tons of on-site features including an attractive spa, a 24-hour casino, four swimming pools – one for adults only and another for kids – and 11 restaurants. But aside from lines at the front desk, the guest capacity of the resort rarely shows: visitors do not have to search for spots at the pools and beach, and reservation requirements keep restaurants well-organized. Couples, families, and partiers all mingle seamlessly at the property. Though the adults-only sister property has a slightly more romantic vibe, plenty of couples opt to stay here as it’s where most of the features are located. Contemporary rooms feature free minibars, rainfall showers, and outdoor spaces – plus most have whirlpool tubs and ocean views. For a more intimate family-friendly vibe, consider The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real.

See More Bottom Line

Oyster Hotel Review

Barcelo Bavaro Palace

What Are the Design and Scene Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Families, couples, and partiers all mingle seamlessly at this all-inclusive mega-resort along the beach.

With over 1,4000 rooms, the Barcelo Bavaro Palace could feel overwhelming -- but plenty of space, an open, airy design, and a well-organized restaurant scene help minimize crowding issues. One downside, however, is that while guests from the adjacent 400-room, adults-only Barcelo Bavaro Beach can access the facilities here, the reverse is not true; guests in search of a slightly more intimate atmosphere should consider the resort's sister property.

With size comes broad appeal, and the resort draws couples, partiers, and families: There are a high-end spa, an adults-only pool, a disco, a swim-up bar (that is more dignified than your average Punta Cana pool scene), a kids' club, and tons of other on-site features.

The resort is part of the Spanish Barcelo chain, and attracts numerous European travelers as well as Americans. Pool and beachside activities such as volleyball and dancing take place daily, but unlike at some resorts that line the beach, the music isn't too loud here and the hotel staff doesn't pressure guests to join. Those who do participate did seem to having a good time, however, and the pool bar scene is lively.

The resort is extremely well-maintained, and has lots of greenery. The beach here is a real highlight and is considered one of the nicest in the area.

See More What Are the Design and Scene Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Where Is the Barcelo Bavaro Palace Located in Punta Cana?

The hotel sits along a beach in tourist-centric Bavaro, a 25-minute drive from Punta Cana International Airport.

The Barcelo complex is in Bavaro, the tourist-centric area north of Punta Cana International Airport. It is about a 25-minute drive from the airport. The beaches along this northern stretch of the coast generally see much stronger waves and have steeper drop off than those to the south in central Punta Cana. Bavaro is also home to a limited smattering of restaurants and nightclubs, mostly in and around the town of Friusa, that offer locals and tourists a change of pace from the dominant presence of resorts. However, most guests choose to stay within the resort grounds.

See More Where Is the Barcelo Bavaro Palace Located in Punta Cana?

What Are Rooms Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Rooms feature simple, beachy decor and modern technology, plus most have jetted tubs and ocean views.

The Palace Deluxe is a massive resort and has 1,400 rooms grouped in sections. Most are in the main resort area by the beach, restaurants, and pools, but some are clustered around the Pete Dye golf course. The color scheme varies depending on the section of the hotel the room is located in, but all rooms are spacious and modern, and have furnished balconies or terraces. The majority of rooms provide ocean views and whirlpools.

Open floor plans keep the rooms feeling airy and beachy. While the rainfall shower and toilet are behind frosted glass doors, the vanity in all rooms is open to the rest of the room. All but the Superior Rooms and Family Duplex Rooms feature large jetted tubs on the balconies. Standard amenities consist of iPod docks, large flat-screen TVs, free daily restocked minibars, laptop-sized safes, and closets with ironing facilities and bathrobes. Wi-Fi is available but it requires an additional fee except in Club Premium rooms.

Upgrading to a Premium Level Room means receiving extra perks such as free Wi-Fi, free 24-hour room service, champagne, fruits, and chocolates upon arrival, access to the Premium Level Lounge (with a private check-in and check-out area), and access to La Comedie French restaurant, the nicest restaurant on the property.

See More What Are Rooms Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What's the Beach Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

The beautiful beach has soft white sand and loungers.

Barcelo Bavaro Palace’s beach is one of the most beautiful in Bavaro and Punta Cana. The water and sand are clean and inviting, and though seaweed debris can accumulate during the day, an army of rakers clear the sand early in the morning to maintain the pristine setting. Guests shouldn't expect to swim far from shore or find large secluded swaths of sand, as the waves can get rough and the beach is certainly crowded. Loungers and palm trees line the sand.

Most non-motorized sports, such as kayaking, windsurfing, and snorkeling, are covered in the all-inclusive package.

See More What's the Beach Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What Are the Pools Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Four swimming pools include a kids' water park, an adults-only pool, and a main pool with swim-up bar.

The swimming pools (aside from the spa pool) at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace are clustered by the beach in the central area of the resort. They are kept in pristine condition (they close in the evening for cleaning) and are very large (which is important at a resort of this size).

The main pool features a swim-up bar, pretty water features, and tiled loungers for sunbathers looking to get tan while keeping cool in the water. Palm trees surrounding the pool add to the relaxing atmosphere and the pool has a direct view of the beach. A kiddy pool is nearby, as is an adults-only pool with a secluded feel, extra greenery, sexy cabanas, and its own bar. About a five-minute walk away, guests can find the kid-friendly Barcy water park, which is complete with waterslides, bridges, and colorful sea creatures for climbing. It also has a bar for parents looking to take the edge off.

See More What Are the Pools Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What's the Fitness Center Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

The well-equipped fitness center features a Pilates studio and a cycling studio.

The big fitness center is located just off of the spa and features both a Pilates studio -- stocked with mats and balls -- and a spinning studio. The main area includes plenty of cardio machines as well as weight-lifting machines and free weights, and guests should never have to wait for the use of a machine. The only downside is that machines do not have personal TVs, but there are three large flat-screen TVs.

A small boutique sells exercise clothes, tennis shoes, and even sports bathing suits for guests who forget their gear. Sports facilities, fitness classes, and games are all offered here.

See More What's the Fitness Center Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What's the Spa Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

A variety of wellness treatments are available at the small, tranquil spa that feels upscale yet laid-back.

U-Spa at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace has an intimate feel with several indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, a pretty infinity pool, and a salon. After treatments, guests can relax in the lounge area where gentle music plays and staff brings fruit, water, and tea.

See More What's the Spa Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Is the Barcelo Bavaro Palace Family-Friendly?

Tons of family-friendly features include a water park, a kids' club, and a teen club.

The resort attracts lots of families with its relaxed vibe and numerous on-site features.

  • Barcy Water Park with waterslides and bridges
  • Pirate Island water park with a wave pool
  • Children's pool with fun water features
  • Barcy Kids' Club
  • Teen club and teen disco
  • Mini-golf
  • Numerous family room options
  • The restaurants feature kids' menus
See More Is the Barcelo Bavaro Palace Family-Friendly?

What Restaurants and Bars Are Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

There are numerous bars and a whopping 11 restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines such as Japanese, Italian, and Mexican.

The Barcelo Bavaro Palace is an all-inclusive restaurant, so all food and drink are covered in the room rate. The property has 11 on-site restaurants that offer several types of cuisine: There are French, Mexican, Spanish, Japanese, Italian, and seafood options, among others. While these restaurants are a la carte and only open for dinner, two buffet restaurants -- one serving international fare, the other Dominican -- are open for all three meals. Reservations are required at all of the a la carte options, and La Comedie, the French restaurant, is only for Premium Level guests. There is also a 24-hour sports bar.

La Comedie is largely considered the best option in terms of quality. Food elsewhere is somewhat average, although the buffet restaurants offer enough variety that guests should be able to find something to their liking. The 13 bars offer cocktails, wine, and beer. There is also a bar in the 24-hour casino as well as the disco. And minibars come stocked with local beer.

See More What Restaurants and Bars Are Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What's Covered by the All-Inclusive Package at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Almost everything is free here, such as meals and alcoholic drinks, though room service only free for Premium Level guests.

As at most all-inclusive properties in Punta Cana, almost all services at the hotel are covered, including all meals, alcohol, and non-motorized water sports. Amenities that require an additional fee include a round at the golf course and treatments at the spa.

Premium Level guests receive additional freebies such as Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and dinner at La Comedie. All other guests must pay extra for these services.

Guests older than 18 can access the restaurants or facilities at the adjacent Barcelo Bavaro Beach - Adults Only. Note that there's an additional fee per person, per day.

See More What's Covered by the All-Inclusive Package at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What Entertainment Is Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

A theater features daily and nightly shows for kids and adults.

The resort features a massive theater, where there are several shows daily -- some geared towards families and some towards adults. The theater's balcony features a bar where attendees can order a drink. The on-site casino and disco are also popular spots for adults.

See More What Entertainment Is Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What Golf Course Is Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

The 18-hole Pete Dye golf course is a major draw for golfers.

The 18-hole Lakes Barcelo Golf Course by Pete Dye at the resort is a major draw for golfers and features well-kept greens and challenging holes. Though most would argue that it can't compare to the Jack Nicklaus course at Eden Roc in Cap Cana or Dye's Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo in La Romana, it’s one of the best courses in Punta Cana. There's also an 18-hole mini-golf course.

See More What Golf Course Is Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Things You Should Know About Barcelo Bavaro Palace

Also Known As

  • Barcelo Bavaro Palace Deluxe
  • Barceló Bávaro Palace

Room Types

  • Deluxe Golf Room
  • Deluxe Room
  • Family Deluxe Room
  • Family Golf Duplex
  • Family Junior Suite
  • Junior Suite Deluxe
  • Junior Suite Deluxe Ocean Front View Club Premium
  • Master Suite Deluxe Club Premium
  • Panoramic Suite Club Premium
  • Presidential Suite Club Premium

Address

Carretera Bavaro, Km. 1, Bavaro 23301, Dominican Republic

Phone

(800) 227-2356

Website

Oyster Hotel Review

Barcelo Bavaro Palace

What Are the Design and Scene Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Families, couples, and partiers all mingle seamlessly at this all-inclusive mega-resort along the beach.

With over 1,4000 rooms, the Barcelo Bavaro Palace could feel overwhelming -- but plenty of space, an open, airy design, and a well-organized restaurant scene help minimize crowding issues. One downside, however, is that while guests from the adjacent 400-room, adults-only Barcelo Bavaro Beach can access the facilities here, the reverse is not true; guests in search of a slightly more intimate atmosphere should consider the resort's sister property.

With size comes broad appeal, and the resort draws couples, partiers, and families: There are a high-end spa, an adults-only pool, a disco, a swim-up bar (that is more dignified than your average Punta Cana pool scene), a kids' club, and tons of other on-site features.

The resort is part of the Spanish Barcelo chain, and attracts numerous European travelers as well as Americans. Pool and beachside activities such as volleyball and dancing take place daily, but unlike at some resorts that line the beach, the music isn't too loud here and the hotel staff doesn't pressure guests to join. Those who do participate did seem to having a good time, however, and the pool bar scene is lively.

The resort is extremely well-maintained, and has lots of greenery. The beach here is a real highlight and is considered one of the nicest in the area.

See More What Are the Design and Scene Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Where Is the Barcelo Bavaro Palace Located in Punta Cana?

The hotel sits along a beach in tourist-centric Bavaro, a 25-minute drive from Punta Cana International Airport.

The Barcelo complex is in Bavaro, the tourist-centric area north of Punta Cana International Airport. It is about a 25-minute drive from the airport. The beaches along this northern stretch of the coast generally see much stronger waves and have steeper drop off than those to the south in central Punta Cana. Bavaro is also home to a limited smattering of restaurants and nightclubs, mostly in and around the town of Friusa, that offer locals and tourists a change of pace from the dominant presence of resorts. However, most guests choose to stay within the resort grounds.

See More Where Is the Barcelo Bavaro Palace Located in Punta Cana?

What Are Rooms Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Rooms feature simple, beachy decor and modern technology, plus most have jetted tubs and ocean views.

The Palace Deluxe is a massive resort and has 1,400 rooms grouped in sections. Most are in the main resort area by the beach, restaurants, and pools, but some are clustered around the Pete Dye golf course. The color scheme varies depending on the section of the hotel the room is located in, but all rooms are spacious and modern, and have furnished balconies or terraces. The majority of rooms provide ocean views and whirlpools.

Open floor plans keep the rooms feeling airy and beachy. While the rainfall shower and toilet are behind frosted glass doors, the vanity in all rooms is open to the rest of the room. All but the Superior Rooms and Family Duplex Rooms feature large jetted tubs on the balconies. Standard amenities consist of iPod docks, large flat-screen TVs, free daily restocked minibars, laptop-sized safes, and closets with ironing facilities and bathrobes. Wi-Fi is available but it requires an additional fee except in Club Premium rooms.

Upgrading to a Premium Level Room means receiving extra perks such as free Wi-Fi, free 24-hour room service, champagne, fruits, and chocolates upon arrival, access to the Premium Level Lounge (with a private check-in and check-out area), and access to La Comedie French restaurant, the nicest restaurant on the property.

See More What Are Rooms Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What's the Beach Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

The beautiful beach has soft white sand and loungers.

Barcelo Bavaro Palace’s beach is one of the most beautiful in Bavaro and Punta Cana. The water and sand are clean and inviting, and though seaweed debris can accumulate during the day, an army of rakers clear the sand early in the morning to maintain the pristine setting. Guests shouldn't expect to swim far from shore or find large secluded swaths of sand, as the waves can get rough and the beach is certainly crowded. Loungers and palm trees line the sand.

Most non-motorized sports, such as kayaking, windsurfing, and snorkeling, are covered in the all-inclusive package.

See More What's the Beach Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What Are the Pools Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Four swimming pools include a kids' water park, an adults-only pool, and a main pool with swim-up bar.

The swimming pools (aside from the spa pool) at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace are clustered by the beach in the central area of the resort. They are kept in pristine condition (they close in the evening for cleaning) and are very large (which is important at a resort of this size).

The main pool features a swim-up bar, pretty water features, and tiled loungers for sunbathers looking to get tan while keeping cool in the water. Palm trees surrounding the pool add to the relaxing atmosphere and the pool has a direct view of the beach. A kiddy pool is nearby, as is an adults-only pool with a secluded feel, extra greenery, sexy cabanas, and its own bar. About a five-minute walk away, guests can find the kid-friendly Barcy water park, which is complete with waterslides, bridges, and colorful sea creatures for climbing. It also has a bar for parents looking to take the edge off.

See More What Are the Pools Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What's the Fitness Center Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

The well-equipped fitness center features a Pilates studio and a cycling studio.

The big fitness center is located just off of the spa and features both a Pilates studio -- stocked with mats and balls -- and a spinning studio. The main area includes plenty of cardio machines as well as weight-lifting machines and free weights, and guests should never have to wait for the use of a machine. The only downside is that machines do not have personal TVs, but there are three large flat-screen TVs.

A small boutique sells exercise clothes, tennis shoes, and even sports bathing suits for guests who forget their gear. Sports facilities, fitness classes, and games are all offered here.

See More What's the Fitness Center Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What's the Spa Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

A variety of wellness treatments are available at the small, tranquil spa that feels upscale yet laid-back.

U-Spa at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace has an intimate feel with several indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, a pretty infinity pool, and a salon. After treatments, guests can relax in the lounge area where gentle music plays and staff brings fruit, water, and tea.

See More What's the Spa Like at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Is the Barcelo Bavaro Palace Family-Friendly?

Tons of family-friendly features include a water park, a kids' club, and a teen club.

The resort attracts lots of families with its relaxed vibe and numerous on-site features.

  • Barcy Water Park with waterslides and bridges
  • Pirate Island water park with a wave pool
  • Children's pool with fun water features
  • Barcy Kids' Club
  • Teen club and teen disco
  • Mini-golf
  • Numerous family room options
  • The restaurants feature kids' menus
See More Is the Barcelo Bavaro Palace Family-Friendly?

What Restaurants and Bars Are Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

There are numerous bars and a whopping 11 restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines such as Japanese, Italian, and Mexican.

The Barcelo Bavaro Palace is an all-inclusive restaurant, so all food and drink are covered in the room rate. The property has 11 on-site restaurants that offer several types of cuisine: There are French, Mexican, Spanish, Japanese, Italian, and seafood options, among others. While these restaurants are a la carte and only open for dinner, two buffet restaurants -- one serving international fare, the other Dominican -- are open for all three meals. Reservations are required at all of the a la carte options, and La Comedie, the French restaurant, is only for Premium Level guests. There is also a 24-hour sports bar.

La Comedie is largely considered the best option in terms of quality. Food elsewhere is somewhat average, although the buffet restaurants offer enough variety that guests should be able to find something to their liking. The 13 bars offer cocktails, wine, and beer. There is also a bar in the 24-hour casino as well as the disco. And minibars come stocked with local beer.

See More What Restaurants and Bars Are Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What's Covered by the All-Inclusive Package at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Almost everything is free here, such as meals and alcoholic drinks, though room service only free for Premium Level guests.

As at most all-inclusive properties in Punta Cana, almost all services at the hotel are covered, including all meals, alcohol, and non-motorized water sports. Amenities that require an additional fee include a round at the golf course and treatments at the spa.

Premium Level guests receive additional freebies such as Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and dinner at La Comedie. All other guests must pay extra for these services.

Guests older than 18 can access the restaurants or facilities at the adjacent Barcelo Bavaro Beach - Adults Only. Note that there's an additional fee per person, per day.

See More What's Covered by the All-Inclusive Package at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What Entertainment Is Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

A theater features daily and nightly shows for kids and adults.

The resort features a massive theater, where there are several shows daily -- some geared towards families and some towards adults. The theater's balcony features a bar where attendees can order a drink. The on-site casino and disco are also popular spots for adults.

See More What Entertainment Is Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

What Golf Course Is Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

The 18-hole Pete Dye golf course is a major draw for golfers.

The 18-hole Lakes Barcelo Golf Course by Pete Dye at the resort is a major draw for golfers and features well-kept greens and challenging holes. Though most would argue that it can't compare to the Jack Nicklaus course at Eden Roc in Cap Cana or Dye's Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo in La Romana, it’s one of the best courses in Punta Cana. There's also an 18-hole mini-golf course.

See More What Golf Course Is Available at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace?

Best Rates

Amenities

  • Air Conditioner

  • Airport Transportation

  • Babysitting Services

  • Balcony / Terrace / Patio

  • Beach

  • Beauty / Hair Salon

  • Business Center

  • Cabanas

  • Cable

  • Casino

  • Children's Pool

  • Concierge

  • Cribs

  • Fitness Center

  • Free Breakfast

  • Full Kitchen

  • Gameroom / Arcade

  • Golf Course

  • Internet

  • Jacuzzi

  • Kids Allowed

  • Kids Club

  • Laundry

  • Meeting / Conference Rooms

  • Mini Bar (with liquor)

  • Pool

  • Poolside Drink Service

  • Rental Car Service Desk Onsite

  • Room Service

  • Separate Bedroom / Living Room Space

  • Spa

  • Supervised Kids Activities

  • Swim-Up Bar

  • Tennis Court

Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.