Three Best Beaches - Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic Beaches

2006-05-18T10:32:00.000-05:00

No way would we have thought of quick divorce and Dominican Republic synonymous. If there were one place in the Caribbean we could point you to for inexpensive resorts and sugar-white beaches, the Dominican Republic would be our destination of choice. It's romantic! And, it's the fastest-growing destination in the Caribbean because of the low prices and beautiful terrain. Especially, the Punta Cana area - what a boom!

Canadians have known about the Dominican Republic for years. The make up the bulk of North American tourists. But Americans are now waking up to the bargain and websites are catering to their every need.

Columbus found the Dominican Republic on his very first voyage to the New World. He said it was, "the most beautiful island in the world". A settlement was founded in 1493 and ruins still remain near Montecristi.

The Dominican Republic is located amongst the islands of Cuba, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. It is on the isle of Hispaniola (meaning Little Spain), and is divided between Haiti on the west and Dominican Republic on the east - about the size of the state of Vermont and New Hampshire combined. Most of the island interior is sugar cane plantations.

The cool thing is that much of what Columbus saw still remains - a natural, virgin landscape - still unspoiled. And, one-third of the island's coastline is the awesome beaches, which we'll review next!

Dominican Republic - BEACH INDEX:

Sand - Most beaches are brilliant white, due to the high content of coral/shell.
Facilities - DR beaches have full facilities near the tourist centers.
Shade - Expect tall coconut palms. Tourist beaches offer umbrellas/shades.
Sports - Full service at tourist centers. Sports fishing great in most areas.
Notes - best time to visit - late November to April, as humidity is lower, temperature cooler. However, resorts are reporting high volume throughout the year due to the great bargains currently found.

Where are the best beaches on the island? Which have dangerously strong currents? Come see - Next! >>

La Romana - Casa de Campo - La Minitas Beach

2006-05-18T08:28:00.000-05:00

It only takes ten minutes to arrive here by shuttle-bus, but as you can see, the trip is well worth breaking away from the resort area.

La Minitas Beach is pristine in anyone's book. And, if you're staying at nearby Casa de Campo, this is the main beach. It is small, but clean even though you'll find a series of bars and restaurants nearby.

Ask the concierge when the shuttle runs, or you can rent a golf cart and drive yourself. Once there, you'll find a myriad of water sports and fun stuff. Here you'll be able to rent kayaks, windsurf boards, paddleboats, hobies, and if you're in to fishing - that can be arranged, right on the beach.

Look around for the special massage room - and get a massage right on the beach with the surf gently coming ashore.

Then there's the fully staffed La Palapa - or beach hut - designed for kiddos to play supervised games and sports. The staff there will watch your kids while you treat yourself to some fun in the sun.

There's a variety of restaurants around La Minitas Beach. Plan a sunset meal - recommended.

La Romana - La Minitas - BEACH INDEX:

Sand - medium grain/coral based.
Facilities - full
Shade - umbrellas/shade tents.
Sports - all for rental here.
Notes - can get crowded during high season.

Further out, a crescent sandy beach with snorkeling and diving that's out of this world - Next! >>

La Romana - Casa de Campo - Bayahibe Beaches

2006-05-17T08:43:00.000-05:00

Still here in La Romana, the trendy, international hotspot for world polo matches and some of the best golf on the planet - this city grew out of the need for center of commerce for the surrounding sugar plantations. Gustavo Cisneros calls it his home away from home, and many of the jet set have homes along the sea. And why not? This area of Dominican Republic is growing at a rapid pace. Rock along with beautiful bays make for a heavenly setting. One area is specifically breathtaking.

They couldn't help that it just happens to be by one of the best beaches on the island, Bayahibe. These pristine beaches of Bayahibe are laid back and peaceful. True, many hotels have popped up along the coast, but Bayahibe is graced with tiny islands that host an ecological haven.

Two main wildlife preserves, Catalina and Saona, are easily accessible from Bayahibe. Any hotel can help you with transportation. Some scientists still call the nearby Eastern National Park their temporary home as they continue to be thrilled by remnants of the ancient Taino civilization.

Here's a tip: the beaches of Bayahibe are largely undeveloped and secluded. So if you love to get away from the crowd - this is your place.

Just down the road from Bayahibe, stop at the Altos de Chavon. It's a recreation of a 16th century Italian village, complete with artisan workshops, an archeological museum, cobblestone streets, and architecture to boot. Of course, you'll just have to buy a piece of local work to take home! Be advised - it takes about a day to see everything.
Begun in 1976 by Charles Bluhdorn, then chairman of Gulf + Western, Altos de Chavon is a flourishing Caribbean art center near the Chavon River and the sea. What a wonderful gift to the world.

Casa de Campo - Bayahibe BEACH INDEX:

Sand - medium bright white powder/coral based.
Facilities - at main beaches.
Shade - umbrellas/huts at main beaches. Palm trees elsewhere.
Sports - diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, hobie cat, banana-boat, more. Fishing - some of the biggest snook ever recorded were caught here. Golf - Golf magazine called Casa de Campo the finest golf resort in the world!
Notes - can get crowded at holidays. Cruise ships use some beaches. Ask locals for best picks. Don't miss Altos de Chavon on your way out. Local art work is high class. T-shirts from the silk-screen workshops are among the most sophisticated in the Caribbean. - recommended.

Guess what beach village Julio Iglesias hangs out at? It's the same digs celebrity designer Oscar de la Renta now calls home - and it's up ... Next! >>

Punta Cana - Cap Cana Resort Beach

2006-05-16T11:03:00.000-05:00

If you've never heard of Cap Cana, near Punta Cana, don't worry. It's new. But it's being billed as the "best kept property secrets" in recent times. A planned community with five miles of pristine ocean-front just south of the eastern most tip of the Dominican Republic, Cap Cana will certainly become a jewel of the Caribbean.

Since it's on a point, Cap Cana has the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south. The resort isn't quite finished, but plans are grand. Three Jack Nicklaus signature golf courses are planned. Word is Cap Cana gave the Nicklaus group free choice of property before beginning the design of the town.

A large marina (as in "largest in the Caribbean") is being built as well as a yacht club - right near one of the finest, white sand beaches in the country. And someone is thinking and planning well. The villas are all on the water - fingers of land protrude out into the water affording each home a waterfront view. Homes will have ocean access, as well.

The beach is long, typical of most of the beaches on this coast. One thing we noted was that the shoreline recedes slowly - there are no drop-offs at Cap Cana as there are to the north.

Most of the resorts are to the north. The resort pictures we offer are taken by amatuers, so you get a good feel for what it will really be like when you arrive (how crowded, surf action, etc.)

Cap Cana Resort - BEACH INDEX:

Sand - brilliant white with very little debris. Nice shoreline faces southeast. No sunsets, but plenty of spectacular sunrises.
Facilities - soon to be one of the best on the island. Most areas near beach are completed.
Shade - palms and umbrellas/tents/huts.
Sports - full water sports facility on the property.
Notes - once complete, this spectacle will be as charming as anywhere in the world. The weather is perfect here - dry days, rain sometimes at night. Invest?

Next up, a stroll up the beach to see pictures of each resort we could find. Right here! >>

Playa Monte Cristi, Montecristi - Dominican Republic

2006-05-15T14:42:00.000-05:00

In the far north-west corner of the Dominican Republic, is the province of Montecristi. This is home to Monte Cristi Beach, or Playa Monte Cristi. Since Monte Cristi Beach sits on the Atlantic, again we are faced with some rough waters at times. Columbus first sighted this island in this area. As a matter of fact, ruins can still be found in the area from the first European settlement.

Certain areas of Montecristi have been nominated to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre. So, when you're not enjoying the beach - take a tour through this historic city.

There is no escaping the huge "El Morro" next to the small island named Pablillo. That's where our beach is found. It's semi-circular and has significant surf, for the most part. You can surf and boogie board here. You will note that the sand is more golden here. This is because of the mix from the rock.

El Morro Beach (or Montecristi) is rarely crowded and mainly secluded. The beach is rocky in places.

Since you're not far from the Haitian border, the food here is worth checking out. There's a mix you'll not find elsewhere. So, enjoy your time here - remember that there is not much in the way of food or facilities near the beach. Always take a buddy.

The sand here is special, because much of it is from the the mountain. You'll find it a special hue and nicely packed. We found hardly anyone on the beach - so you'll have it to yourself, most likely. There's a small island right offshore that makes for a picturesque scene, which can lead to beautiful sunsets.

Surf? It can get rough here and there is a significant drop off, so be prepared. There are some rocks in the water as well. Make sure you wear protective footwear if you venture out in the surf. This is worth a visit if you are in the area. Our interest was in the Christopher Columbus connection. Think of what the Dominican Republic would have looked like to a crew. Wonder what they thought of the land they gazed upon?

Playa Monte Cristi - BEACH INDEX:

Sand - rocky, heavy grained.
Facilities - must walk back up path to beach. Plan accordingly.
Shade - none.
Sports - nice surf for boogie boarding, some surfing.
Notes - not a family beach. Dramatic landscape.

Playa Grande, Cabrera - Dominican Republic

2006-05-13T21:16:00.000-05:00

Playa Grande, in the Rio San Juan/Cabrera area is probably known best for serious golfers. Many golfers consider the course here at Playa Grande to be the best in the Dominican Republic. A few have even compared it to Pebble Beach. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Ten of its holes border the Atlantic Ocean. These are atop dramatic cliffs overlooking our featured beach. Playa Grande has some serious beach front as well.

Located 120 km east of Puerto Plata, Playa Grande Beach was once rated as one of the top ten most beautiful beaches in the world by Conde Nast Travel magazine. As you can see, this expanse of white sand, coconut palm lined paradise is a must see.

Each end of Playa Grande Beach is anchored by rugged coral formations and beautiful cliffs. Some great surfing and boogie boarding can be done at certain places along the beach. Keep your eye out for some of the locals who know the area and surf well.

Behind the tree line are a number of food vendors who offer up some of the finest in traditional Dominican cuisine. And some of the seafood is incredible. You won't go hungry here - so plan on spending the day.

And if you're a golfer, well, you won't want to miss playing a round at the Playa Grande Golf Course. Even if you do poorly, the view is unforgettable.

Playa Grande BEACH INDEX:

Sand - white/beige coral/rock mix.
Facilities - full service.
Shade - trees, umbrellas.
Sports - full service.
Notes - can get crowded. Recommended.

Playa Dorada, Puerto Plata - Dominican Republic

2006-05-12T18:16:00.000-05:00

Playa Dorada Beach is located in Puerto Plata on the Dominican Republic north "Amber Coast". Amber was actually discovered here. This is one of the Dominican Republic's most established resort areas. The newer resorts are in La Altagracia, Punta Cana. Playa Dorada Beach is a great area as each of the resorts here have their own piece of the beautiful, beige beach.

There are some nice reefs here, as well. Just offshore, and even close-in along the strand, you'll find some of the best snorkeling on the north shore of the Dominican Republic.

The Ventana Beach Resort is on one end of the hotel area. From there, you can see right up the Playa Dorada Beach with a spectacular vista of the region. This ocean here makes for great windsurfing and kiteboarding. Some waterskiing can be found, however, ocean waves make skiing tiresome.

Remember that the "Amber Coast" faces the turbulent Atlantic - water can be rough. Another thing to note about the area is that it does rain a lot during the winter months. Because this coast is well developed, it can get crowded.

Playa Dorada BEACH INDEX:

Sand - powdery white to beige, coral/rock based.
Facilities - full along the strand.
Shade - umbrellas abound.
Sports - many kiosks dot the beach.
Notes - can get crowded with locals and tourists. Try Luperon Beach to the west for relief.

Dominican Republic Punta Cana RIU Resort

2006-05-10T21:06:00.000-05:00

I'm not a rookie traveler. We have been to Punta Cana four times as well as other places throughout the Caribbean. The RIU Resort complex contain 5 resorts, all next to each other. If you stay at the Macao, then you can eat and drink at all the other ones, except the Punta Cana.

Not as reserved as the RIU Punta Cana the Macao is somewhat of a reserved atmosphere, but not as fun as the atmosphere at the RIU Bambu. It was just right for us.

As if on some fancy European cruise ship, everyone dresses up in the evening, My wife and I are not complainers seriously: but "AVOID the Japanese restaurants!!!" It will be a waste of an evening dinner because it's not possibly edible. Honestly: Buy raw chicken, don't wash it, microwave it until it is cooked, then cut it up and serve- uuhgg- the smell of this chicken will make you gag-that is a brief insight into the Japanese restaurant. The Maitre'd told me most who eat at the Japanese complain, but the RIU owners refuse to change it-$$$.

The Buffet was actually not bad, and the buffet was better than all the other restaurants. Wwe used the other resorts pools, this is small and only 4 ft deep.
Entertainment was so absurd we spent it laughing at times when the "Act" was suppose to be serious, think lip syncing chubby dancer rolling on the floor in attempts to be seriously dramatic. My wife and I glanced around the audience... everyones jaw hung in shock and disappointment. Other than that the beach alone is worth this trip, we did not want to come out of it(and we are not beach bums). The sand is as fine as sugar, no sea weed, blue warm water. The service is impeccable compared to other Dominican Resorts. No Mosquitoes... not one. Rooms are nice, rich dark cherry wood everywhere about this resort. Lots of pool aerobics, but no pool volleyball or other games.

The one night club was over by the side of RIU Naiboa- the club was lively, fun, dancing, packed a really good time. The Naiboa and Taino, by the way are nice but think younger spring break crowd, and also think the type of crowd that would pay less for a resort, You'd still enjoy and fun there though.

The RIU Punta Cana by the way is gorgeous.... stunning, but only for one night. The RIU Punta Cana is BORING! There is absolutely nothing going on there, except maybe read a book. It's really older couples in slacks and polo shirts smoking and chatting it up day and night... Many tables of about 4-6 older people travel together, they talk and sip during lunch, talk and sip during dinner then go to sleep at 8pm. Very reserved and empty atmosphere... think ghost town after 8pm. All of the younger people at this resort ended up spending most of there time at the other resorts.
The Bambu is where everyone is happy, beautiful resort, better entertainment, the atmosphere/decor/people/workers all memorable.

Macao:
Pros:Nice looking hotel with good ground work upkeep. Impeccable service, not alot of kids (though there were some) everywhere. No spring breakers (they stayed at the Taino). Lots of class. Nice beach.

Cons: Food needs improvement, entertainment is dismal, Beer is no frills (not Presidente), hotel somewhat reserved(though mush less than the Punta Cana).
Overall: Will return to Dominican Republic, but I would sooner go to the RIU Bambu which has a happier atmosphere combined with hotel beauty. Or go back to Iberostar Bavaro-better food,entertainment,grounds etc...

So if you are reading this review to figure out where to stay:
Riu Bambu/Iberostar Bavaro/ if not then seriously consider RIU Macao, you won't regret it.

Punta Rusia Beach, Montecristi - Dominican Republic

2006-05-10T15:30:00.000-05:00

Punta Rusia is one of the most picturesque beaches on the Dominican Republic's north shore. Lined with beautifully green coconut trees and speckled with a few fishing boats makes Punta Rusia one sleepy and delightful beach. Remember that picture in your mind you had as a kid of that laid back Caribbean beach? This is it.

And a special treat; on Sundays you'll find local musicians playing bouncy meringue tunes everywhere along Punta Rusia. What's even more special, is that there is plenty of beach here to go around - so even on weekends - you won't feel crowded out.

Shade abounds with thatched huts in various locations along the strand. Umbrellas can be rented as well. There's a small reef that follows the beach in some areas, so snorkeling can be good if the surf is low. Otherwise, there is too much silt to see much. A local operator can run you out to "Paradise Island" where snorkeling is perfect. On the way back, you can pass by mangroves and check out the wildlife.

Punta Rusia Beach is shallow. The bottom is silty and sometimes muddy. Another thing to note is that there may be a few dogs along the beach. This is normal. Some are strays - some belong to the local food vendors at the beach.

Punta Rusia - BEACH INDEX:

Sand - beautiful gold, mostly coral but some rock/silt mix.
Facilities - full service.
Shade - huts, umbrellas, trees line the beach.
Sports - banana boats, speed boats to Paradise Island for snorkeling. Nice swimming beach.
Notes - major tourist beach in the area. Not crowded.

Playa Sosua, Puerto Plata - Dominican Republic

2006-05-09T21:42:00.000-05:00

Playa Sosua, near Puerto Plata, and the Playa Dorada, is probably one of the main tourist attractions in the north. The beautiful turquoise of the Atlantic, and the great expanse of the white sands lends to a magic that one must experience in person. Sosua Beach is perfect for that long stroll - so inviting to just send your cares away on the next set of waves.

Whereas Europeans tend to visit the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana and surrounds, North Americans have been returning to the Puerto Plata area. With the golfing at Dorada, and the tranquility of Playa Sosua - it's little wonder.

Lush mountains make their way down to the coconut palms that line Sosua Beach. A few hotel complexes (much fewer than neighboring Dorada) jut into the sand as if to hold the beach in place. And you can still see the silver-gray trees whose leaves Columbus saw in 1502 and named this bay area "Silver Port" - Puerto Plata.

The beach here is lined with shrubs, those coconut palms and an occasional tropical almond tree. Mixed with the normal vendors who walk the beaches, you'll find those gals who braid hair for next to nothing so your daughter can wear them back home as a reminder of the fun in the sun.

Playa Sosua - BEACH INDEX:

Sand - rich, golden medium grain.
Facilities - full service.
Shade - palms and umbrellas.
Sports - all types, operators standing by.
Notes - much quieter than Playa Dorada.

Playa Cofresi, Puerto Plata - Dominican Republic

2006-05-09T21:05:00.000-05:00

Cofresi Beach is located close to Puerto Plata and was named after an infamous Puerto Rican pirate, Captain Roberto Cofresi. This town began much like Buzios, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; a tiny fishing village that went on for years as a sleepy bay on the Atlantic.

Today, Cofresi has changed but only slightly, with high-end hotels and condos offering great views of both Cofresi Beach and the nearby mountains. What a fantastic bay - golden sand blending into crystal clear water. There is only one entrance to the town; a narrow road that runs all the way to the beach. Mountains peak at either side of the city.

Close to Cofresi Beach is the Ocean World & Water Park which houses the world's largest dolphin lagoon. There is also a sea lion encounter claimed to be best in the world; but what some come for is the world's first shark interaction pool. Check this out when you're not at the beach. If you're in Cofresi, ask anyone for directions.

While here, make sure you check out the local Dominican coffee, which locals say is second only to Colombian. And the cuisine here is special as well. If you can, get a local to shop at Puerto Plata with you for the best choices at the markets. Later, experiment some of the great dishes served in this country. Culture not to be missed.

Playa Cofresi - BEACH INDEX:

Sand - golden, coral/rock content.
Facilities - full service.
Shade - trees along the strand, some huts/umbrellas.
Sports - full service.
Notes - charming beach not likely to be overrun with tourists.

Playa Rincon, Samana - Dominican Republic

2006-05-08T12:35:00.000-05:00

Las Galeras, the once small fishing village has awakened. It was once untouched, with a natural beauty found only in the most remote spots. But, because it is close to the city of Samana, wealthy Dominicans made it their weekend paradise.

Since that time, Las Galeras has been set on the map mainly by abundance of beaches and the landscape that is majestic and simple, all at the same time. Las Galeras Beach is here, as well as the more famous Playa Rincon.

Rincon is a quiet beach, usually deserted, on a small bay - but with no hotels in site. And, no vendors, booths, signs, radios - all the paraphernalia that comes with a popular beach. Nearby, a fresh-water lagoon to rinse off in. Sweet.

You don't need a boat to get to Playa Rincon, Dominican Republic. You can get a taxi out of Las Terrenas or Samana to Las Galeras. Just before Las Galeras you'll see the turn-off to Playa Rincon. The road is pretty rugged from here, so plan accordingly (timewise).

Plan to eat at Playa Rincon as the fish and langosta are reportedly the best in the Dominican Republic. And, if time permits, take a tour down to beautiful Playa Bonita. It's romantic and peaceful.

Las Terrenas is busy; Las Galeras somewhat less, and Playa Rincon is sleepy. Enjoy.

Playa Rincon - Beach Index:

Sand - medium grain.
Facilities - few, some food huts.
Shade - palms, trees.
Sports - none.
Notes - pretty deserted - enjoy!

Cayo Levantado, Samana - Dominican Republic

2006-05-07T14:40:00.000-05:00

Cayo Levantado is a small island in Samana Bay. Legend claims that bounty hunters came here long ago. Pirates of the Caribbean? Well, if they didn't find treasure, they did find paradise. And, due to the fact that this island is pristine, many other modern-day treasure seekers have Cayo Levantado on their radar. Construction is booming here. Hopefully the island will retain some of its ancient charm. Time will tell.

The sand here is white and powdery; the turquoise waters crystal clear - perfect for swimming and snorkeling. And, there is plenty to eat here. A few huts and facilities will have you trying all the local cuisine. Sun, beach, food, sand... paradise indeed.

Cayo Levantado is also called Bacardi Island because some of the palm trees look like the ones in the Bacardi ads. Remember that because of the popularity of paradise (Cayo Levantado), several hundred tourists venture here daily. And, cruise ships often use the island for a visit.

Cayo Levantado - Beach Index:

Sand - white/coral based.
Facilities - full service.
Shade - umbrellas, huts and palms abound.
Sports - full service.
Notes - can get quite crowded at times. Plan on having company.

And now, on the southeast side of the island where the new hotel is going up there's an intimate beach curving around to a point, a few yards beyond which is a rocky islet. Between them, an outlet leads to a lagoon that has to be some kind of paradise. The natural untended lawn is almost like a golf course. A boatman will take you for a few pesos and pick you up later. Ask at Cayo, and... Enjoy!

Our thanks to Leonard Faber of the Dominican Republic for the above tip.

Superclubs Breezes Punta Cana, Bavaro, Dominican Republic (East)

2006-05-04T17:08:00.000-05:00

This hotel was formerly the Secrets Excellence Punta Cana - now Hotel Barcelo Premium.

Overall a very nice holiday. The rooms are average, food was average but the beach is great. They say this is on one of the 10 best beaches in the world. The beach is groomed. Pool is good, games room is a good past time when it rains. The Tokyo restaurant has the best food. If you walk down the beach about 1 hr, you'll get to a market, lot's of anything you might need. Obs - If you leave a tip or candy or something on your pillow, you'll get your room cleaned faster. Otherwise you have to wait until about 5-6 pm. Bring candy, that way you can treat even the adults you meet anywhere, and they will remember you. Just like a tip, it goes a long way. We brought US 1.00 bills to tip those who normally don't get tipped, gardeners, laundry personnel, the coke guy, the pool guy, etc. it was well appreciated. We preferred this to vacationing in Mexico.

Secrets Excellence Punta Cana, Bavaro, Dominican Republic (East)

2006-05-04T16:55:00.000-05:00

Known as the "New Caribbean", Punta Cana lies on the easternmost coast of The Dominican Republic and is the fastest growing resort area in the Caribbean.

Punta Cana is a nature's paradise with miles of unspoiled white sugary beaches surrounded by dense palm groves. Secrets Excellence Punta Cana is accessible by both Punta Cana Int'l Airport and La Romana Int'l Airport.

Effective December 31, 2006: All travelers, including U.S. citizens, and travelers to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada, to and from the Americas including Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda must have a passport or other accepted document to enter or re-enter the United States. For more information please visit The U.S. Department of State.

NEXT: Sirenis Cocotal Beach Resort Casino & Spa

Sunscape the Beach, Punta Cana - Dominican Republic

2006-05-04T16:43:00.000-05:00

Get away from it all with first-class fun in the sun at Sunscape The Beach Punta Cana. Sunscape has it all, and it’s all included. Sunny beaches. Shady palm groves. Wild water sports. Awesome entertainment. Clubs and activities for kids of all ages. Spectacular dining and best of all, no worries, no reservations, no wristbands! Escape to Sunscape The Beach Punta Cana and have an amazing time with family, friends and loved ones.

Along one of the finest oceanfronts on this Caribbean island, facing a pristine beach and blue waters stretching to the horizon, Sunscape The Beach Punta Cana offers a glorious sea view from the majority of guest accommodations.

This beautiful resort is wrapped around an expansive, free form swimming pool that meanders from the lobby down to the beach and is complete with waterfalls, a swim-up bar and themed restaurants and venues throughout. For friends, families, and couples the place for outstanding scenery, tranquility and hospitality is right here.

Sirenis, Punta Cana - Dominican Republic

2006-05-04T16:32:00.000-05:00

The Sirenis Cocotal Beach Resort Casino & Spa ***** and Sirenis Tropical Suites Casino & Spa ***** form a five star hotel complex, situated on the eastern side of the Dominican Republic, on the Uvero Alto-Macao beach in the Higüey region, and set amongst one of the most beautiful coconut groves in the Caribbean, bordering a totally virgin beach extending some 400 metres.

The Sirenis Cocotal is situated on the beach front at Uvero Alto fringed by crystal clear waters, and set in a wonderful spot with endless streches of soft sand with one of the most beautiful coconut groves.

One hour from the international airport of Punta Cana. All inclusive resort, unlimited national drinks, snack and activities are included.

I must say I was really nervous about going to this resort after reading some on the comments. I spent a week and I can say that without a doubt this was the most relaxing vacation I have every been on. The resort has all the features you could need or even want in a holiday.

Please do not listen to any of the negatives, I felt it was the most authentic Caribbean experience you could have. The resort is immaculately keep and with a lot of the palm rooftops it is very beautiful. The grounds have many colorful flowers and water features. The beach was spectacular, I have included some photos so that you can see for yourself.

This was my first all inclusive holiday, but not my first Caribbean trip. I have traveled to Bahamas, Barbados and Jamaica.

The food was great, lots of variety and with 7 restaurants what more can you ask for. They also have a disco, casino, spa and a covered but not enclosed theatre for nightly entertainment. You also had the option of participating in daily activities, beach aerobics, volleyball, and more.

Yes, it is a longer ride from the airport and the roads are not the greatest. People this is not Canada or the USA, it is a poor Caribbean Island. They are working on a new road just outside the airport area. You need to keep in mind that this will be a VACATION experience different from your everyday life. If you want the same things you get at home "STAY HOME"

Enjoy as we did =:)

2 Happy Travelers from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

Punta Cana, La Altagracia - Dominican Republic

2006-05-04T15:28:00.001-05:00

We get more request for information about Punta Cana, the resorts around this area and photos, that we've decided to give you a complete directory of all the resorts we could find info for. Naturally, we haven't visited all of them, but you will get a very good idea from the photos what the resort looks like through the eyes of tourists.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic is made up of Cap Cana (Juanillo), Punta Cana, Cabeza de Toro, Bavaro, El Cortecito, Arena Gorda, Macao, and Uvero Alto. Thousands make these East Coast beaches their choice for vacation - and little wonder. The miles and miles of sand and palms is incredible.

Bill and Hillary Clinton came here in April of 2001, just after leaving the White House. But Punta Cana was well known before then. Mainly to Europeans, who have been coming here for years, and Canadians. Americans have now seen the light and are coming in the thousands.

Punta Cana is upscale resorts along the sandy beaches. Most are gated. Once out of these complexes, you are in the Dominican Republic - sometimes rugged, a tad less modern than what you might expect. Nevertheless, it pays to venture out and experience Dominican culture.

Here is a listing of the resorts. Some have awesome videos for you to see. Others are simply breathtaking photographs of the resorts. Enjoy!

Secrets Excellence video
Sirenis
Sunscape the Beach
SuperClubs Breezes video
Grand Paradise video
Bahia Principe video
RIU video
Iberostar video
Ocean Blue
LTI
Punta Cana Princess
Caribe Club Princess
Paradisus
Bavaro Princess
Occidental Flamenco
Fiesta
Cortecito Inn
Carabela
Ocean Bavaro
Tropical Bavaro
Sueno
Los Corales
Melia
Villas Bavaro/IFA
Barcelo
Natura Park
Occidental Allegro
Sunscape
Catalonia
Club Med
Punta Cana Beach
Cap Cana

Bahia Principe, Punta Cana - Dominican Republic

2006-05-03T11:19:00.000-05:00

Gran Bahía Príncipe Punta Cana is located on the east coast of the Dominican Republic, just 20 km from Punta Cana airport (30 minutes by car) and 70 km from La Romana airport (60 minutes by car). It is 30 minutes from the town of Higüey, in the province of La Altagracia.

Gran Bahía Príncipe Punta Cana is set above a beach of white sand, with 500 m of beach front. It extends over half a million square metres and has numerous tropical gardens, holding paths where clients can walk and, at the same time, enjoy the soft sea breezes and the freshness of their natural surroundings.

Enjoy our facilities: two large, lake-type pools with a children's section. Spacious solariums and gardens with sunshades and loungers. Towel service at the pools and beach. Mini-club for children. Amphitheatre for entertainment and shows. Tennis courts, mini golf, aquatic activity centre and sub aqua centre. Spa. Fitness centre. Meeting rooms (300 people capacity).

Grand Paradise Bavaro, Punta Cana

2006-05-02T16:48:00.000-05:00

From the resort website:

The unparalleled white sands and crystal water of its beach, tall coconut trees and colorful landscapes, award this tropical resort the title of "jewel". Superior room - Offer two double beds or one King size bed, air conditioning, cable TV, full bath, mini bar (soft drinks), hair dryer, iron and ironing board (available on request), telephone, safety deposit box ($), terrace or balcony, garden, pool or partial ocean view. 6 bars & 6 restaurants - 3 pools

We are happy to introduce one of our latest additions to the Amhsa Marina Hotels and Resorts. Grand Paradise Bavaro is a 4-star, 504 room, 24 hours a day - all inclusive property just 35 minutes from the International Airport of Punta Cana and 90 minutes from La Romana International Airport.

Video Clip supplied by Thomson Holidays

Iberostar Punta Cana Review

2006-05-01T15:38:00.001-05:00

Iberostar Punta Cana is perfect for families or couples looking for excellent value. Iberostar Punta Cana is een eersteklas hotel van alle gemakken voorzien en waar u verzekerd bent van een topvakantie! Officile categorie: 5 sterren.

Spend active days enjoying the land and water sports, or spend a mellow afternoon relaxing on a hammock in the garden. In the evening dine at a sumptuous buffet, take in a show, then head to the disco and dance the night away. Spend active days enjoying the land and water sports or spend a mellow afternoon relaxing on a hammock in the garden. In the evening dine at a sumptuous buffet, take in a show then head to the disco and dance the night away.

Drinks: Plenty of beer (local) available but no frozen drinks (other than those from a machine). Most mixed drinks tasted the same, all like Planters Punch but we did not find any of them tasting watered down! Drinks: The drinks were plentiful but got kind of old. The beer there is terrible! Drinks were good, but there is no service on the beach. You get your own.

Reservations are required for the a la carte restaurants. Families: A maze of seemingly endless pools flow through lavish gardens right to the edge of a white sand beach. A child's dream! Time restrictions may apply for water sports.

Guests can have dinner in one of the 5 specialty restaurants (Tropical, Mexican, Oriental, Gourmet and Steak House), reservation is required (twice a week included). For dinner at the specialty restaurants - dress code (long trousers for gentlemen).

Guest rooms are well decorated and come equipped with the basic amenities including private bathrooms. At the in-house restaurants you will enjoy . Guests arriving by car may use car parking and garage facilities. In addition, there is a pharmacy, nightclub and Internet access (at an additional charge).

Guests at the Iberostar Punta Cana are allowed to use all of the facilities at the Dominicana and everything but the bars and restaurants at the Bavaro. This is because the Bavaro is a higher ranked hotel and I guess they don't want you getting something you didn't pay for.