16 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Punta Cana

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law
Updated Nov 2, 2023
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With over 30 miles of white-sand beaches, it's no wonder that Punta Cana is one of the Dominican Republic's most popular resort destinations. Sitting on the Dominican Republic's easternmost point, it is home to the Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), which serves the resorts in the area.

Competition for the best service and amenities is tough in this resort mecca, and vacationers reap the benefits, with resorts vying to outdo each other with the best food, the most beautiful grounds, and the most robust activity and entertainment options.

Bavaro Beach in Punta Cana
Bavaro Beach in Punta Cana | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

Adults trying to get away from it all will find kid-free zones, and families can let the kids burn off their energy in the kids' clubs and on-site water parks. Punta Cana's best resorts also offer opportunities for adventure off-site, including snorkeling and water sports lessons, excursions into the nearby tropical forests, and access to the area's 10 seaside golf courses.

The glitzy Cap Cana area, which is best known for its upscale resorts like the twin Hyatt resorts of Ziva and Zilara, Margaritaville Cap Cana, and Secrets, is located just south of the city, about 10 minutes from the airport. Its main beach is Playa Juanillo, which faces the Caribbean Sea.

To the north of the city are the Atlantic-facing beaches, starting with Bávaro Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic, and home to numerous resorts like the adults-only Iberostar Grand Bávaro and the trio of Paradisus properties that give guests access to all three facilities. The more secluded Uvero Alto area sits to the north, home to prime spots like the all-suite Zoëtry Agua and the family-favorite Nickelodeon resort.

Whether you are looking for an adults-only getaway or a family-friendly beach resort, find your perfect vacation getaway with our list of the best all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana.

1. Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana

Photo Source: Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana
Photo Source: Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana

Accommodation: Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana

Located on Playa Juanillo (Juanillo Beach) in the Cap Cana area, just seven miles south of the Punta Cana International Airport, this massive five-star resort offers an astounding range of luxury amenities in a truly lovely setting.

One of the Ziva's biggest draws is its water park, a sprawling space that includes a classic lazy river, a variety of slides, water cannons, splash zones, and multiple pools for all ages, as well as guest suites with swim-up access.

The Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana features six on-site restaurants, including informal options, and rates are truly all-inclusive, with unlimited food and beverages. Adults will enjoy the fitness center, which includes yoga and fitness classes, as well as personal training. Younger children can spend the day at the supervised kids' club, and teens have their own space full of social activities.

Additional resort amenities include nightly live entertainment, karaoke, and a full-service spa; services include babysitting, butler service, and 24-hour room service.

Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana (Adults Only):

Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

While this is an all-ages resort, the Ziva's adults-only twin, Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, sits right next door and provides an option for those who prefer a vacation away from kids and teens. Zilara guests are welcome at the Ziva's water park, too, and there is also an adults-only pool at the Zilara for relaxing away from the little ones.

The beach at Hyatt Zilara
The beach at Hyatt Zilara | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

The Beach: Beach lovers can, of course, enjoy the private stretch of sand along the coast. This resort provides all the equipment, from beach umbrellas to water sports equipment. Although there is enough to keep you occupied without ever leaving the grounds, there are also several nearby activities, including a zipline adventure park and golf.

Address: Boulevard Zona Hotelera, Cap Cana, Punta Cana 23302 Dominican Republic

2. Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana

Photo Source: Live Aqua Beach Resort
Photo Source: Live Aqua Beach Resort

Accommodation: Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana

On a pretty stretch of beach in Punta Cana's Uvero Alta district, Live Aqua Beach Resort is an adults-only, five-star property. A great choice for couples on a romantic vacation, Live Aqua has a few different room classes.

We love the suites with private pools or hot tubs, but if you want to save some cash, the junior suites are good value and have ocean views. All boast contemporary décor throughout. The grounds here are also well-maintained with lots of tropical foliage.

You can swim in the Caribbean Sea out front, or take a dip in one of the expansive swimming pools on-site, including an infinity-edged pool with direct ocean views. Other amenities include a gym, tennis courts, and a state-of-the-art spa (treatments are not included in the rate, however). For meals, there are multiple restaurants serving food from around the globe, including Spanish, Asian, French, and Italian.

Address: Carr. Uvero Alto Km 3.34, Uvero Alto, Punta Cana 23000 Dominican Republic

3. Margaritaville Island Reserve

View over Margaritaville Cap Cana
View over Margaritaville Cap Cana | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

Accommodation: Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana

Located in the exclusive Cap Cana area, Margaritaville is one of the new additions to the resort scene in Punta Cana. This beautiful five-star oceanfront property just opened in late 2021 and has been in operation long enough to have worked out any issues and still has the feel of a new resort.

Margaritaville has a unique vibe that oozes fun and relaxation but still offers luxury and excellence. The service and facilities here are some of the best in Punta Cana, with friendly staff, seemingly endless pools, a range of room styles, a spa, and an entire entertainment district on site. And, the resort has the added advantage of both an adults-only area and a family-friendly offering.

Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Hammock (Adults Only):

View from a villa at Margaritaville
View from a villa at Margaritaville | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

The Hammock side of the resort is for adults only. The main pool in this area is massive, and it becomes a lively scene around 3pm each day when the entertainment team gets going. Just back from the pool are tower rooms, with spacious places that feature balconies and views of the pool and ocean in the distance, some even have their own plunge pool. Another tower closer to the beach offers even better oceanfront views.

Villas: A step up on the adults-only side are the exclusive villas overlooking a private pool for villa guests only. Rooms come complete with a butler. These luxury units are spacious and spectacular with their own plunge pool (2nd floor) or direct pool access from the main floor. The villas are well back from the beach but they are quiet and feel very private. When you've had your fill of all the activity in the main pool, you can come back here to enjoy some tranquility.

Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Wave (Families):

A pool at the Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Wave
A pool at the Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Wave | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

The Wave side of Margaritaville has its own resort entrance and is all about family fun. Tower rooms are similar in nature to the adults-only side but the pools are geared toward splashing about with the kids, with water features and super-shallow sections perfect for toddlers. Drop the kids off at the Parakeets Kids' Club for an afternoon while you relax in the pool.

The family tower and pools are close to the beach and the causal outdoor Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurant is right there for a quick and easy lunch.

Restaurants and Dining: Dining is exceptional with seven restaurants and a buffet serving everything from grilled meats, salads, pasta, and a seemingly endless offering of sweets to finish off your meal. Most of the restaurants are located in the Entertainment Village, a delightful spot with wide walkways and frequently the home to live music. This is a fun area in the evening that you can wander through to see what's going on.

One note about dining, with the exception of one restaurant that is adults-only, every establishment is open to families.

The Beach: The beach is incredibly wide with plenty of space for people who want to spend a day looking out over the ocean. You'll find powdery white sand and an assortment of beach chairs and beds, but the shoreline is a bit rocky. Swimming is best on the left side of the property. Feel the need for a bit of exercise after all the eating? Get up early and walk down the beach to catch the sunrise over the Caribbean Sea.

Address: Playa Juanillo, Blvd. Zona Hotelera, Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic

4. Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa

Accommodation: Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa

Secrets Cap Cana
Secrets Cap Cana | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

This stunning four-star resort situated on Playa Juanillo is highly acclaimed not only for its quality and luxury but also for the picturesque stretch of soft-sand beach in front. The resort boasts the finest section of the beach, where swaying palm trees provide a perfect blend of sun and shade for those who want to sunbathe. A quick walk from your lounger will allow you to indulge in swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, or simply lounging around aimlessly in the shallow, warm waters.

Photo Source: Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa
Photo Source: Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa

The resort offers more than 450 suites, each featuring marble bathrooms with walk-in showers and giant soaking tubs. Each also comes with floor-to-ceiling windows and either a private balcony or a terrace, the perfect spot to enjoy a morning coffee.

To take it up a level, consider booking a suite that has the added bonus of swim-up pool access.

Hammocks lining the beach in front of Secrets Cap Cana
Hammocks lining the beach in front of Secrets Cap Cana | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

All-inclusive activities include scuba lessons in the infinity pool, snorkeling and other non-motorized water sports, beach and pool volleyball, and even dance lessons. There is both indoor and outdoor entertainment nightly, and the resort hosts weekly theme nights and beach movie nights. There is also a full-service spa on-site and three world-class golf courses nearby.

Address: Blvd. Zona Hotelera Playa Juanillo, Cap Cana, Punta Cana 51101 Dominican Republic

5. Iberostar Grand Bávaro

Photo Source: Iberostar Grand Bavaro
Photo Source: Iberostar Grand Bávaro

Accommodation: Iberostar Grand Bávaro

Embrace the elegance of an adults-only all-inclusive resort, where the Mediterranean ambience and refined character will transport you to a world of luxury. Admire the Romanesque style of the buildings, surrounded by meticulously curated grounds that include a central lake and a series of pools that are truly a work of art. Indulge in the ultimate relaxation as you sit under the shade of a private cabana, soak up the sun on a chaise while dipping your toes in the shallow water, or unwind in a hammock next to a winding stretch of cool water.

In addition to a generous buffet, the resort also offers four specialty restaurants, which include American, Italian, Mexican, and Japanese cuisine — and, of course, 24-hour room service. The resort's private beach also has a grill ready to serve up snacks during a day by the sea.

On-site activities include group games and sports, tennis, archery, and group exercise classes. Water activities include snorkeling, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, water polo, and even scuba lessons in the pool. There is also a full-service spa on-site, and there is golf nearby.

Address: Carretera Arena Gorda Playa Bávaro, Bavaro, Punta Cana 23000 Dominican Republic

6. Falcon's Resort by Meliá - All Suites Punta Cana

Paradisus Grand Cana
Photo Source: Falcon's Resort by Meliá - All Suites Punta Cana

Accommodation: Falcon's Resort by Meliá - All Suites Punta Cana

Nestled on Bávaro beach lies the Falcon's Resort, a five-star all-suite resort that boasts luxury and comfort. Enjoy the utmost privacy while indulging in the breathtaking views from your private balcony or taking a dip in the exclusive swimming pool available only to the Swim-Up Suites.

The resort offers a wide array of international cuisines in its eight restaurants, sure to satisfy even the most discerning of food enthusiasts. You can stay active with the full fitness program while enjoying the pristine private beach and complimentary equipment. And for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the full-service spa on-site is the perfect place to unwind.

Families staying at Falcon's will appreciate complimentary admission to Katmandu Park, a local theme park that offers more than just classic rides and activities. In addition to immersive 4-D experiences, you'll find fully interactive quest adventures that all ages will enjoy.

Part of the Melia family of hotels, The Reserve at Paradisus and the Paradisus Punta Cana Resort are also excellent Punta Cana all-inclusives on Bávaro Beach. The Paradisus Punta Cana Resort is a luxury family resort that includes admission to Katmandu Park, Family Concierge, and a dozen restaurants. The Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real is another good family resort in the Melia hotel chain.

7. Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana

Photo Source: Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana
Photo Source: Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana

Accommodation: Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana

If you are looking for a low-key resort on a stretch of undeveloped Caribbean paradise, the Zoetry Agua Punta Cana is the place. Situated at the north end of the stunning beach at Uvero Alto where palm trees outnumber people, this resort offers a variety of all-inclusive options that cater to guests' needs. The property boasts well-appointed suites with private balconies and complimentary room service. There are several pools to choose from, including an adults-only pool, an infinity pool, and a lazy-river style pool that meanders past each guest building.

Guests can enjoy access to the private beach, complete with complimentary beach umbrellas and chairs, as well as water sports equipment such as canoes and fishing gear. For fitness enthusiasts, there is a well-equipped gym with various classes available, and guests can also take advantage of the amenities offered at the resort's sister properties located nearby.

Beach walkers will be in their element here, the beach runs for several miles in either direction, but walking to the left as you face the ocean will take you away from the resorts and eventually to the Río Maimón Natural Park.

Address: Uvero Alto, Punta Cana 23000 Dominican Republic

8. Majestic Mirage Punta Cana

Photo Source: Majestic Mirage Punta Cana
Photo Source: Majestic Mirage Punta Cana

Accommodation: Majestic Mirage Punta Cana

Discover a true paradise at the Majestic Mirage, situated on the breathtaking Arena Gorda Beach in Bávaro. This luxurious resort offers everything you need for an unforgettable vacation, including a private beach and 13 stunning pools with Bali Beds and swim-up snack bars. Stay in one of the exquisite guest rooms or suites, each featuring a private balcony or hot tub.

Indulge in complimentary 24-hour room service, and stay active with the fitness center, basketball and tennis courts, and pro lessons. All-inclusive golf packages are also available, making this the perfect destination for golf enthusiasts.

Other recreation includes complimentary water sports equipment, including kayaks, catamarans, windsurfing, and boogie boards, as well as scuba diving lessons in the pool. There is also a designated teen area that offers a range of games, including darts, pool, and ping-pong.

The resort also features several dining choices and nightly live entertainment.

Address: Carr. El Macao - Arena Gorda Playa Arena Gorda, Bavaro, Punta Cana 23000 Dominican Republic

9. Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana

Photo Source: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana
Photo Source: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana

Accommodation: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana

Located in Punta Cana's Uvero Alto, this all-inclusive theme resort is a top choice for families with kids of all ages, combining five-star luxury with imagination and all your favorite characters. There are a variety of swim-up suites available, and SpongeBob fans will go crazy for the two-story Pineapple Villa suite, which includes two bedrooms, three bathrooms, and authentic Bikini Bottom décor.

Among the resort's favorite activities is getting slimed - a decades-old Nickelodeon tradition - and kids love the character breakfasts and photo ops with the biggest cartoon stars. In addition to the beach and multiple pools, there is a themed water park with slides, splash zones, and more.

There are multiple themed restaurants on the property, and resort rates also include personal valet service, organized activities day and night, and the supervised Club Nick for ages 4-12, so parents can take a break and enjoy a gourmet meal or a day at the spa.

Address: Carretera Uvero Alto, Uvero Alto, Punta Cana 23000 Dominican Republic

10. Excellence Punta Cana

Photo Source: Excellence Punta Cana
Photo Source: Excellence Punta Cana

Accommodation: Excellence Punta Cana

This five-star adults-only resort is located in the north Punta Cana Uvero Alto area and owing to its romantic atmosphere, has long been a favorite spot for couples.

Rooms and suites are spread out in low-rise buildings with private patios and balconies. They are a short stroll away from a dozen unique restaurants, plus poolside snack "shacks" that are more like little bistros.

Guests who want to maintain an active lifestyle in posh surroundings will appreciate the huge fitness center, which offers both group-style classes, including yoga, as well as personal training at no additional cost. In addition to a guest-only stretch of white sand beach, couples can relax by one of the resort's many pools, which are equipped with every amenity for comfort.

Additional services are available for a fee, including treatments and pampering at the full-service Miilé Spa. Guests can also splurge on a Caribbean deep-sea fishing excursion or in-ocean scuba diving lessons with experts.

Don't be surprised to see a bride or two strolling the beach, the resort is a top destination wedding venue.

Address: Playas Uvero Alto, Punta Cana 23000 Dominican Republic

11. Sanctuary Cap Cana

Photo Source: Sanctuary Cap Cana
Photo Source: Sanctuary Cap Cana

Accommodation: Sanctuary Cap Cana

This resort on Cap Cana's Juanillo Beach is a stunning 5-star property built in a Spanish Colonial style reminiscent of an old fortress, complete with towers. It is an adults-only resort, which features suites with private balconies and an extra bathroom. Guests can also enjoy a half-mile of private beach with a full selection of complimentary beach amenities.

Sanctuary Cap Cana has recently undergone a massive $45 million dollar renovation and restoration of the rooms, suites, lobby area, and all restaurants.

In the evening, indulge in delicious cuisine at one of the multiple restaurants, featuring special diet menus, before enjoying nightly live entertainment. Revitalize your mind and body at the state of-the-art fitness center, complete with group lessons, a heated infinity pool, and hot tubs.

Address: Boulevard Zona Hotelera Playa Juanillo, Cap Cana, Punta Cana 23302 Dominican Republic

12. TRS Cap Cana Waterfront & Marina Hotel

Photo Source: TRS Cap Cana Waterfront & Marina Hotel
Photo Source: TRS Cap Cana Waterfront & Marina Hotel

Accommodation: TRS Cap Cana Waterfront & Marina Hotel

Located in the exclusive Cap Cana area, this adults-only hot spot features luxury suites with private balconies or swim-up terraces, 24-hour room service, and even an around-the-clock personal assistant.

There are four in-house restaurants, including one that serves international cuisine, as well as Japanese and Argentinian restaurants and a beach club, plus swim-up snack bars.

The resort is home to the Palladium Spa & Wellness Centre, which offers complimentary use of the sauna, steam room, fitness center, and hot tubs; spa services and treatments are also available. The resort has two pools, as well as a private secluded beach, each well-equipped with chairs, towels, and umbrellas, as well as shaded cabanas.

There are plenty of activities to choose from, as well as entertainment, including live nightly shows on-site and at its sister hotel, the TRS Turquesa Hotel. Also an adults-only resort, this is a "VIP" all-inclusive luxury resort, which offers butler service and an array of activities including water polo, archery, tennis, and petanque among its many on-site sports.

There are also several exclusive fine restaurants on-site, including authentic cuisine from Japan, Italy, India, Argentina, and France, as well as numerous other choices.

Address: Boulevard Fishing Lodge, Cap Cana, Punta Cana 23000 Dominican Republic

13. Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana

Photo Source: Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana
Photo Source: Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana

Accommodation: Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana

Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana is the latest property from the brand and has a fabulous location on Playa Macao. It caters to couples and families alike. The five-star resort offers lodging in 500 well-appointed suites, as well as more spacious villas that are a great choice if you do have the kids on vacation with you.

Amenities here are plentiful. There is a water park with lots of slides and a lazy river that children and adults will love. There are a plethora of activities, including archery and tennis, as well as the usual water sports.

Families can also take advantage of the on-site kids club. If you are in need of a little pampering, book a treatment at the full-service spa (for an extra fee). For dining, you'll also have plenty of choices at multiple restaurants, including a la carte menus and buffets.

Address: Playa Macao, Punta Cana 23301 Dominican Republic

14. Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana

Photo Source: Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana
Photo Source: Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana

Accommodation: Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana

This massive resort occupies 121 acres along Bávaro Beach, home to an 18-hole golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus. In addition to the beach, there are eleven pools, including a designated kids' pool and adult pools, a lazy river, and a water park.

The fitness center has personal and group training, as well as a sauna, and on-site sports including tennis courts. There are nine restaurants to choose from, as well as poolside snacks and 24-hour room service. Entertainment includes nightly live music, and there is plenty to keep the kids occupied between the Kids Club and organized kids' activities. Services like babysitting and butler service are also available.

The resort offers an upgraded all-inclusive option that also includes limitless spa treatments, horseback riding, cruises, snorkeling, offroad tours, cultural tours, and a photo package.

Address: Boulevard Turístico del Este Km.28 No.74 Macao, Bavaro, Punta Cana 23000 Dominican Republic

15. Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana

Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana
Photo Source: Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana

Accommodation: Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana

This 4.5-star beachside luxury resort caters to both families and couples, offering rooms that can accommodate up to six guests. You can take your pick of the seven dining options, including a 24-hour buffet, or have a lazy day and enjoy room service.

This resort boasts a private beach outfitted with sun loungers and umbrellas, a beachside café with shaded seating, and a sprawling pool area with water features and lots of lush tropical greenery. Guest rooms feature private balconies, with pool and ocean-view options.

Kids can take advantage of the kids' and teens' clubs, while adults can head next door to the spa at Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana. Looking for something more active? Sign up for dance lessons, learn to SCUBA dive in the pool, or use the resort's equipment to go kayaking or snorkeling.

Address: Av. Alemania S/N, El Cortecito, Bavaro, Punta Cana 23000 Dominican Republic

16. Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

Photo Source: Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana
Photo Source: Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

Accommodation: Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

This adults-only resort on Bávaro Beach offers rooms and suites with private balconies and beach views, as well as 24-hour room service and amenities like a laptop safe and butler service. Guests can enjoy nightly entertainment and a variety of activities, including karaoke, tennis, and group games.

There is a lazy river and multiple pools, as well as poolside snack bars. Beach chairs and umbrellas are complimentary. There is a fitness center with classes, as well as a sauna and hot tubs. For an extra fee, guests can take advantage of the on-site spa and salon services.

Address: Avenida Alemania S/N El Cortecito, Punta Cana 23000 Dominican Republic

Map of All-Inclusive Resorts in Punta Cana