Dominican Republic Beaches

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! >>

Punta Cana - Cap Cana Resort Beach

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! >>

Dominican Republic Punta Cana RIU Resort

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.

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

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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