The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Molten-red sunsets. Aromatic natural tropical surrounds. A selection of pale and airy suites, some of them swim-up. It’s luxury on tap at the Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real, a family-friendly five-star that’ll cater to your every whim. From the sprawling gardens to the Zen-like spa treatments, the vibe is extravagant without being over the top – forget screaming kids and bachelor parties, instead expect tennis courts, daily yoga and 16 bars and restaurants, including the much-loved Mizu for A-grade Japanese.

Your VIP treatment at the exclusive, gated Tortuga Bay Hotel begins with priority clearance as you are whisked through customs and immigration at the airport. In no time you’ll have your feet in the white sand. This is a special property, designed by Dominican fashion legend Oscar de la Renta who turned it into the chicest five-star hotel in Punta Cana. Restaurants are taste sensations – don’t miss the Mediterranean treats at Bamboo. There are only 30 suites – peachy pink, with handsome coraline-stone bathrooms – and with butler service, personal pampering is assured.

Couples get a warm welcome at the Excellence Punta Cana: a glass of champagne, a chilled towel, and you’re immersed in the leisurely luxury of this beautifully manicured all-inclusive resort. The surroundings are a tropical paradise – palm trees, iridescent flowers, lush foliage – and there are even bird-watching areas (you’ll be mesmerized by the flamingos). Or slip off your shoes at secluded Playa Macao, steps from the resort, for a lazy day prior to dinner at one of the nine restaurants – Mexican and steakhouse included.

One of the more exclusive five-star hotels in Punta Cana, Eden Roc Cap Cana is about beachfront luxury, in suites, standalone villas and oceanfront pool bungalows, breakfast included. In the upmarket Cap Cana district, this child-friendly favorite has a private beach, two infinity pools and a romantic cenote – or clear-water sinkhole – for chillaxing dips. Set the young ones up in the adventure park, with zip lines and waterfalls, a five-minute drive away. Then settle in at the resort and indulge – it has many bars and three tasty restaurants. Don’t miss the likes of red-snapper carpaccio at Caribbean-flavored La Palapa.

Forget Caribbean style at Sanctuary Cap Cana – this luxury boutique hotel is modelled on Spanish architecture, hence a distinctly European atmosphere. It’s a striking number, built around pretty pastel-colored buildings dotted about a central moat and impressive castle-style tower – cue iPhone snaps. The moat doubles as a swimming pool, one of the many freeform examples on offer.

For adults only, this five-star favorite focuses on your senses for a unique and memorable stay. Get set to be pampered in a setting of virgin sands and tropical vegetation – even your minibar is restocked daily with soft drinks, juices, bottled water and beer. Every space has an indulgent vibe, from the glittery night lounge to the bedrooms, the latter of which have aromatherapy machines that emit personal scent selections. Hang out by the pool during the afternoon chef’s parade and hoover up freshly made treats, presented to you as you lounge.

The all-inclusive package here is impressive – from the moment you start your day with a freshly squeezed juice, via something a little stronger at the two swim-up bars or beach club, to dinner in one of the many restaurants. The generous deal means you can drink all day, every day – obviously fitting in plenty of soft stuff to beat the heat. If you’d prefer chill time, try the lazy river-style pool, which ambles through the pretty grounds, or the complimentary non-motorized watersports, including stand-up paddleboards, windsurfing boards, kayaks and hobie cats.

Here’s a hidden gem for families, couples and sharers who want to explore the region beyond the hectic, touristy main drag. With just 97 rooms, this all-inclusive resort feels more like an upscale beach community, and the thatched-roof bungalows are designed with a laid-back, island-style design. There’s plenty of food choice in the four restaurants (which also have kid-friendly options) while adults might be tempted by the tequila bar or the impressive spa.