Other Hotel Choices

Punta Cana is awash in hotels. Those recommended here are our favorites, but there are others worth considering, such as:

Bávaro Princess All Suites Resort, Spa & Casino Some aspects of this Princess (one of four hotels within this kingdom, with one adults-only) make you feel as if you're in a fairy tale. Take the infinity pool, for instance, with its palm-studded islets and swim-up bar; the graceful lobby with lush tropical plants and white pillars is another wonder. Upgrading to a higher-level package is worth the charge here. Be Queen for the Day and marry in the white-domed rotunda with the azure sea as your photographic backdrop—it's included in some packages. The Chopin international restaurant is a favorite among diners; there are also six others. There's a casino on the complex, as well as a popular disco. Bávaro. 809/221-2311. www.princessbavaroresort.com.

Hotel Grand Oasis Punta Cana is a handsome, British-Caribbean style all-inclusive resort with 450 rooms along Cabeza de Toro beach. The lobby is bright and inviting, with an ivory-toned, marbleized floor, buttercup-yellow walls and elegant, spiral staircases with iron railings. A similar palette is used in the guest rooms, which have four-poster beds, Jacuzzi tubs, and a balcony or terrace. There's a pretty pool, and the beach is fetching, with white sand and palm trees sprouting up everywhere. The Metamorphosis Spa, with a meditation garden, offers a sleek sanctuary; conversely, there's a fun casino and a disco. There's also a gym, tennis courts, and activities for the kids. Cabeza de Toro, Bávaro. 809/686-9898. www.hotelesoasis.com.

NH Royal One of the newcomers to the all-inclusive scene in Bávaro, this adults-only resort has attractive, contemporary design elements, pretty grounds, and a dazzling beachfront. Where some guests say it falls short is in the two à la carte restaurants and buffet that are exclusively for guests here; there's also the option of six other restaurants at the neighboring sister resort, the family-friendly NH Real Arena, where Royal guests have access to all facilities. Within walking distance from shopping centers, restaurants, beach cafes, and golf, the location is tough to beat. Avenida Alemania, El Cortecito, Bávaro. 809/285-6517. www.nh-hotels.com)..