Carretera Arena Blanca, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic | (809) 221-6640
(Mostly) renovated rooms and bathrooms; rooms have seated balconies
Large freshwater pool with children’s areas and jacuzzis
Prime stretch of beach with shaded palapas
Good a la carte restaurant options and no reservations needed
Snacks and beverages available round-the-clock
Romantic evening vibe; more peaceful than most resorts
A free fitness center, non-motorized water sports, and tennis courts
A spa with couples' treatment rooms and quality products
Unique eco-conscious amenities such as the power system
Pretty easy walking distance around most points of the resort
Kids' club and daily activities
Evening entertainment with live musicians and theater performances
Diving, sailing, golf and horseback riding excursions available (for a fee)
Not all rooms have been renovated
Low prices means basic surroundings (no coffeemakers)
The pool does not have a swim-up bar
Daily fees for in-room safes
There's a weekly fee for Wi-Fi and it only connects in the lobby
The casino, disco and fitness center have seen better days
Not ideal for those looking for party action
Shaded palapas get snatched early
Beware of time-share pitches
This 447-room property, offering basic all-inclusive surroundings and consistent low prices, is popular with families and charter groups from North America and Europe. The compact size and relaxed vibe is key: most three-story buildings are an easy walk to the lobby, restaurants, large freshwater pool, and beautiful beach. Guests get unlimited use of non-motorized water sports (make sure to take advantage of the free 30-minute catamaran ride). Renovated rooms have nice tile floors, white linens with simple Caribbean accents, updated bathrooms (some with rain shower heads), and wicker balcony furniture. There's evening entertainment in the theater, and for those brave enough, an outdated disco and an almost laughable casino -- not surprisingly this is not well-used. Reservations are not required at any of the a la carte restaurants, allowing a bit more freedom. There is no reliable Wi-Fi, anywhere -- best to leave the computer at home.
