Best all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana

When it comes to finding the best all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, you’re in for a treat. This Caribbean paradise offers a little something for everyone.

Picture this: miles of pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear blue waters and a variety of resorts that cater to your every need. Punta Cana has it all, and we’re here to help you choose the perfect spot for your next vacation.

For families with kids who can’t get enough of waterslides, some resorts will make their dreams come true. Imagine your little ones splashing around in a water wonderland, complete with “slime” fountains and their favorite Nickelodeon characters. It’s a recipe for unforgettable family fun.

If you’d rather enjoy some rest and relaxation with your significant other, Punta Cana has some tranquil adults-only options that are perfect for a romantic getaway. Imagine strolling hand in hand along the pristine shores of Bavaro Beach, indulging in daily spa treatments and enjoying intimate dinners by the beach. It’s the recipe for a truly romantic escape.

And for those who want to keep the party going day and night, don’t worry: Punta Cana has you covered, too. Some resorts offer multilevel pools with live DJs, swim-up bars serving expertly crafted cocktails and beachside entertainment that will keep the energy high.

So, whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple or a group of friends, here are Punta Cana’s best all-inclusive resorts.

When to travel to Punta Cana

Punta Cana is a fantastic year-round destination, thanks to its consistently tropical climate. While the region’s hurricane season runs from June to November, it’s usually not a big concern as hurricanes are rare and have minimal impact. Plus, any rain showers tend to be brief. The best time to visit is between March and May. During these months, you’ll avoid the peak tourist rush, enjoy more affordable travel deals and still get to bask in the wonderful beach weather.

Nestled on the private shores of Punta Cana, the Iberostar Selection Bavaro Suites All Inclusive is your perfect beachfront haven. Just steps away, you’ll discover the natural wonders of Bavaro Beach and Macao Beach, offering breathtaking views. For a dose of family fun, nearby attractions like Katmandu Park and Manati Park Bavaro await your exploration.

Water enthusiasts will be delighted with opportunities for scuba diving and exciting eco-tours. Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast buffet, take a swing at the 18-hole golf course or try your luck at the casino — all available right on the resort.

Seeking relaxation? The property boasts a private beach, sun loungers and excellent snorkeling spots for soaking up the sun. For the ultimate pampering experience, indulge in hot stone massages, aromatherapy and reflexology at Spa Sensations Iberostar, conveniently located on-site.

Satisfy your culinary cravings at any of the six fantastic restaurants, where you can relish international cuisine while gazing out at the ocean. Keep active with aerobics and yoga classes at the health club, or dive into beach volleyball, windsurfing or parasailing adventures.

Meanwhile, the rooms are all suites with tropical-hued decor and private balconies. You can opt for garden, pool or ocean views and locations, depending on where you want to spend most of your time.

Enjoy complimentary in-room Wi-Fi, access to a water park and a vibrant nightclub to keep you entertained throughout your stay. The resort also features an outdoor pool, a children’s pool, an outdoor tennis court and supervised childcare options.

Rates for the Iberostar Selection Bavaro Suites start from $383 per night.

This adults-only, all-inclusive resort redefines the meaning of laidback luxury. You’ve got fantastic restaurants and bars, super comfy rooms and live entertainment that keeps the island vibes going strong day and night.

Now, here’s the cool part. They’ve got this adults-only spot called Hammock in Cap Cana. It’s perfect if you and your significant other want to escape from the daily grind. You get to hang out at an adults-only pool, eat at a special restaurant and bar and explore everything at their sister property, Wave. Oh, and if you’re a Margaritaville member, you get a chance to be one of the first to book this spot. It’s right on the stunning Juanillo Beach in Cap Cana. Guests will find all sorts of fun stuff going on, like beach and poolside events, as well as a bustling Gourmet Village with restaurants, bars and live performances. And you can’t miss LandShark Brewery & Grill, which is a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else outside the mainland U.S.

What’s really great is that they make it easy for you to fully embrace the Margaritaville state of mind. You get personalized, laid-back service in a luxurious setting with 516 rooms and 39 luxury villas to choose from, each with nautical decor and in-room refreshment centers. So, just imagine checking in, slipping into your Margaritaville flip-flops and letting the sea breeze carry away all your worries at this ultimate island escape.

Rates for Margaritaville Island Reserve Resort Cap Cana start from $403 per night.

Related: Wasting away again in Times Square: The new Margaritaville Resort is a slice of island paradise in an urban jungle

Perched along the pristine shores of Playa Bavaro, Melia Punta Cana Beach offers a serene adults-only getaway surrounded by lush gardens and the stunning beauty of Bavaro Beach. This resort provides travelers with a comprehensive Caribbean wellness experience called the Wellbeing 360 Experience.

Conveniently situated near attractions like Katmandu Park and Bavaro Beach, the property caters to guests with complimentary amenities such as a daily breakfast buffet, access to a 27-hole golf course and a delightful swim-up bar. Whether you want to unwind on the private beach, enjoy beachfront dining or sip cocktails at the beach bar, relaxation is at your fingertips — the YHI Spa on-site offers indulgent treatments like facials, massages and aromatherapy.

When it comes to dining, you’ll have seven tempting restaurants to choose from, including Vietnamese cuisine. Stay active with yoga, Pilates, beach yoga and beach volleyball, or simply soak up the sun by the pool, complete with comfortable loungers, umbrellas and attentive lifeguards. Additional conveniences include four tennis courts and four outdoor pools.

For travelers seeking the utmost in the luxury department, The Level at Melia Punta Cana Beach is an elite enclave within the resort. It offers private pools, YHI Spa access, a state-of-the-art gym, seven bars and six dining establishments. The Level guests also enjoy exclusive access to Quimera restaurant, a dedicated adults-only pool, a private beach section and The Level Lounge, where daily continental breakfasts, premium beverages and special treats are served. The Quimera Rooftop Bar offers captivating Caribbean sunsets and exquisite cocktails, while a curated experiences menu provides options like in-room dining, beach dinners, romantic breakfasts and engaging workshops.

As far as accommodations go, all the rooms feature a minimalistic design sense with white and tan hues. Even the entry-level rooms have small living areas and balconies.

Rates for Melia Punta Cana Beach start from $253 per night.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana brings the magic of the beloved kids’ TV channel to life. With rooms and suites adorned in Nickelodeon’s signature orange and green, guests can meet cherished characters from “Paw Patrol,” “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and “Dora the Explorer” while even experiencing the iconic sliming at the resort’s water park.

For diehard “SpongeBob SquarePants” fans, the Pineapple Villa is the accommodation to book. It offers a whimsical retreat with its pineapple-shaped entrance and ocean-themed rooms, plus exclusive amenities like a private infinity pool, a spacious patio, an outdoor shower, a personal butler and exclusive access to dining and spa treatments.

No matter which accommodation you choose, you’ll have your pick of multiple dining venues specializing in everything from Sicilian cuisine to Asian fusion fare to burgers served from a food truck. Kids will particularly love the out-of-this-world Spacewalker restaurant and the special character meals every Saturday and Sunday night.

Rates for Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana start from $331 per night.

Related: Slimed! A review of Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, a family all-inclusive

Zoetry Agua Punta Cana is an exclusive, tranquil, all-inclusive resort favored by couples seeking a serene escape. With only 96 suites and a pristine 200-yard beachfront, guests enjoy uncrowded bliss.

The suites pay tribute to the local Taino culture, featuring thatched roofs and natural wood and stone elements. Each suite boasts a private patio with comfortable lounge chairs and romantic bathtubs for two in the bathrooms. Some accommodations include private plunge pools and direct beach access.

The resort offers two infinity pools and complimentary water sports equipment like kayaks, catamarans and snorkeling gear. Additional activities such as kite surfing, scuba diving and fishing are available for an extra fee. The spa provides a relaxing haven featuring a hydrotherapy circuit, couples massages and rejuvenating treatments.

With five on-site restaurants, reservations aren’t necessary. Dining options include Olena for Italian cuisine, Piragua for Caribbean-inspired dishes, Amaya for international fare, Indigo for casual beachside dining and Coco Cafe for snacks and pastries throughout the day.

Rates for Zoetry Agua Punta Cana start from $467 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

If you’re seeking an adults-only, all-inclusive escape, Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic won’t disappoint. This resort offers a touch of sophistication that elevates the typical all-inclusive experience. From contemporary design to expansive pools and a vast beach, it’s a compelling choice.

Imagine savoring a morning mimosa amid well-groomed greenery and stone paths leading to the turquoise sea — a true luxury that blends seamlessly with all-inclusive indulgence. The accommodations feature everything from rooms with private balconies to swim-up suites. If you desire a more immersive experience, swim-up and oceanfront suites provide connected action. In contrast, the Presidential and Club Ocean View Master suites boast vast balconies with waterfront vistas and social spaces. Don’t forget the complimentary minibar stocked with treats like Presidente beers and Pringles.

Dining options abound, with Shutters Beachside serving up delightful breakfasts and Brando’s offering extravagant dinner experiences. Savor Tahitian cru ceviche and grilled shrimp in a coconut and vanilla sauce.

While poolside relaxation is tempting, you can also partake in activities like aqua-cycling and visit the Canapolis Water Park at the adjacent Hyatt Ziva property, accessible to all Zilara guests. For a more serene experience, explore the Larimar Spa, known for signature treatments like the 90-minute body wrap using Dominican noni fruit.

Rates for Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana start from $597 or 40,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Nestled in the quiet, exclusive 30,000-acre beachfront community of Punta Cana, Sanctuary is your ticket to serenity amidst lush tropical surroundings.

This Spanish colonial-style luxury resort recently revamped all 324 rooms. Picture spacious digs with comfy cream-toned furnishings, elegant marble bathrooms and stunning views of the Caribbean waters. If you really want to spoil yourself, consider booking a suite that comes with your very own private indoor plunge pool. Plus, you’ll have a personal concierge and butler on hand to cater to your every whim — they’re all about making your stay extra special.

For the golfers out there, there’s a Jack Nicklaus-designed course waiting for you. And if you’re more into lounging by the pool, take your pick from six on-site options. When hunger strikes, you’ve got seafood, a cozy northern Italian trattoria and a fancy steakhouse to choose from. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for those fun-themed cocktail parties in the evening — a great chance to mingle with other guests and make some new friends.

Rates for Sanctuary Cap Cana start from $474 or 132,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Tucked in the ultra-exclusive gated community of Cap Cana, Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa offers guests total privacy, luxury and romance.

The resort features spacious suites with Caribbean-inspired decor, ocean views and direct access to the gorgeous sugar-sand Juanillo Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. Pamper yourself with unlimited drinks and dining at one of their 10 world-class restaurants. Then, head back to your decadent Presidential Suite, which includes its own furnished terrace with direct swim-out access to your private pool.

The resort is perfect for couples looking for intimate opportunities to rejuvenate together. Secrets Spa By Pevonia has its own massage room for you and your partner. Imagine total tranquility together in a spa serving all-natural products from the world-renowned Pevonia. The spa has its own hydrotherapy areas with plunge pools, a whirlpool and sauna and steam rooms.

Rates for Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa start from $664 or 30,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

When you think of all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic, you might picture rowdy spring break crowds, but that’s not the scene at Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa.

This sprawling property is a real gem, known for its spacious suites and the exclusive Xhale club, which offers top-notch, personalized service for guests in this suite category. Every suite comes with a balcony featuring a private hot tub, and some even have direct swim-up pool access from their terraces.

When it comes to dining, you’re spoiled for choice with a whopping 11 restaurants and eight bars to explore. Craving some beachside bites? The Barefoot Grill has you covered with classics like burgers and grilled fish. For a romantic evening, the Mediterranean-inspired Kibbeh restaurant is a great pick.

After a busy day soaking up the sun, treat yourself to some rejuvenation at the Relax Spa by Pevonia — don’t miss the Sun Lover’s Facial for that post-pool relaxation.

Rates for Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa start from $370 or 23,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

This massive resort is an ideal destination for families seeking a wide range of activities, excitement and dining options. There’s truly something here for everyone. But if you’re craving tranquility, they’ve got you covered with the adults-only Hideaway at Royalton Punta Cana. Plus, there’s the Diamond Club, which offers upgraded accommodations (think in-suite Jacuzzis and swim-out pools) and exclusive facilities.

Now, here’s a fantastic bonus — right next door, you’ve got the water park at Royalton Splash, their sister property. And let’s talk about that beach: It’s pure perfection. Think soft white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, the kind of Caribbean paradise you’ve been daydreaming about.

In terms of breakfast, guests should get ready for a treat. The resort serves up a massive, high-quality buffet with an array of local and international delights to kickstart your day. Feeling a bit lazy? No problem at all. You can order room service straight through your in-room TV — it’s quick and easy, just how it should be.

Royalton Punta Cana really feels like a place for all ages, whether you’re young or just young at heart. Kids have a blast splashing around in the multiple swimming pools, while those on spring break can be found popping bottles and cranking up the music in their private cabanas on the lively beach.

This place is always buzzing with action. From morning aqua aerobics to evening line dancing and even jaw-dropping fire-breathing performances, the entertainment here is set to a backdrop of energetic electronic beats.

Rates for Royalton Punta Cana start from $169 or 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Related: How to book a trip to the Dominican Republic using points and miles

Calling all pool enthusiasts! Get ready to celebrate because Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa has a ton of pool options — a total of five, to be exact.

They’ve got not one but two incredible infinity pools, and if you’ve got little ones in tow, there’s even a saltwater pool designed just for the kiddos. But that’s not all — the resort also boasts an expansive beach perfect for kicking back with a good book. You can enjoy the comfort of an ocean-side chaise lounge under a thatched umbrella while soaking up that refreshing sea breeze. Sounds pretty dreamy, doesn’t it?

Now, when it comes to where you’ll be resting your head, Dreams Onyx has a bunch of room and suite options to choose from. No matter which one you pick, you’ll be treated to a hot tub on your very own private terrace or balcony, plus a complimentary minibar — all included in the all-inclusive rate. And if you’re feeling like splurging a bit, why not consider upgrading to a swankier pool-view or ocean-view junior suite?

There’s no shortage of things to do here, either. You can dive into a free introductory scuba lesson, let the kids and teens have a blast at the clubs designed just for them and indulge in some seriously delicious dining at several restaurants. For a taste of France, head to Mercure, a fantastic French brasserie. And if you’re in the mood for a margarita with a view, SandBar is the place to be.

Rates for Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa start from $394 or 23,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Best credit cards for booking hotels in Punta Cana

There are over a dozen excellent travel rewards credit cards out there for hotel stays. The right one(s) for you will depend on if you’re loyal to a particular program or chain, whether you want premium perks, and if you value benefits like annual free nights, automatic elite status and lucrative earning rates.

Here are three great credit cards to use for booking stays across a variety of hotel chains and independent properties while still enjoying money-saving features and high-end benefits.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Earning rates: This card earns 5 points per dollar spent on airfare purchased directly with the airlines or through the Amex Travel portal (on up to $500,000 of airfare purchases per calendar year). Plus, you’ll earn 5 points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel. All other purchases earn 1 point per dollar. Remember, Amex points transfer to Hilton Honors at a 1:2 ratio, to Marriott Bonvoy at a 1:1 ratio and to Choice Privileges at a 1:1 ratio, and there are sometimes transfer bonuses.

Benefits: This card is absolutely packed with perks, but among the travel-related ones you’ll want to maximize, including some hotel-specific benefits, are:

• Up to a $200 annual hotel credit, in the form of a statement credit, on prepaid Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings with Amex Travel when you pay with your Amex Platinum (Hotel Collection stays require a two-night minimum)*
• Access to Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection
• Complimentary Gold status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy*
• Up to $200 in statement credits annually for incidental fees charged by one airline you select*
• Up to $200 annually in Uber Cash, valid on Uber rides and Uber Eats orders in the U.S. (split into monthly $15 credits plus a $20 bonus in December)*
• Up to $189 in statement credits to cover your Clear Plus annual membership*
• A $100 statement credit for Global Entry every four years or an up-to-$85 fee credit for TSA PreCheck every 4 1/2 years (depending on which application fee is charged to your card first)
• Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Airspace lounges, Escape lounges, Plaza Premium lounges and Delta Sky Clubs (when traveling on same-day Delta flights, limited to six annual visits from Feb. 1, 2025)*

*Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees)

Read our review of the Amex Platinum card.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Earning rates: Earn an unlimited 10 miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5 miles per dollar spent on flights booked through Capital One Travel and an unlimited 2 miles per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Benefits: Cardholders get $300 in credits annually for bookings made through Capital One Travel, plus 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary, starting on your first anniversary (worth $100 toward travel). Through the Capital One Premier Collection, cardmembers can enjoy free breakfast, on-property credits and room upgrades (if available) on stays at participating properties booked through Capital One Travel. They also receive up to $100 in statement credits for either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

Annual fee: $395 (see rates and fees)

Read our review of the Capital One Venture X.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Earning rates: This card accrues 5 points per dollar spent on travel booked through the Chase travel portal, on Lyft purchases (through March 2025) and on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases of $150 or more (through March 2025, with a limit of 25,000 bonus points). It also racks up 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs); 2 points per dollar on all travel not booked through the Chase travel portal; and 1 point per dollar on everything else.

Benefits: Cardholders receive a $50 statement credit on hotel stays purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal upon opening the card and each following cardmember anniversary. They also receive a 10% bonus based on their total spending during the account anniversary year at a rate of 1 point for each $10 spent. This card also has some of the best travel protections in the industry, including trip cancellation insurance, trip delay insurance and primary rental car coverage, among other policies.

Annual fee: $95

Read our review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

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For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, click here.