Ocean Blue/Ocean Sand Golf & Beach Resort

Ocean Blue/Ocean Sand Golf & Beach Resort Review

Designed like a small town, with restaurants, shops, and nightlife concentrated near a central public square, this huge resort still has many positive attributes considering its moderate price range—but it used to be better. Yet thousands cross its portals every year and give moderately good feedback. The lobby and lounge for the VIP club continue to dazzle. A trolley crosses the lovely, expansive grounds, which are especially pretty at night. All rooms have a balcony or patio, but you pay extra to be near the exquisite beach; many guest rooms need a face-lift. (Go for Buildings 3, 4, and 5; they have been renovated and are close to the pool and beach.) Upgrades to premium suites—which have been redecorated and have oversize marble bathrooms, Jacuzzi tubs, 24-hour room service, free in-room Wi-Fi, and a VIP lounge—are worth the extra $110 per double room in high season. Honeymoon suites are delightful, with their breezy, romantic decor, second-level Jacuzzi, and outdoor shower (private, but with a view of the beach). The pool is divided into two sections, one designated for activities and the other for relaxation. Again, the food used to be better, especially at the à la carte restaurants. (Get there early before they start to run out of items.) The variety at the main buffet is still good. The resort's authentic Dominican restaurant is "cutsey," pastel-pretty with gingerbread; it is modeled after a traditional local home. If you're craving Americana with a side of fries, try the retro Route 66 diner. Mike's Coffee Shop serves made-to-order frozen coffees and other hot and cold java drinks and herbal teas. An outstanding club for teens will keep them occupied for hours with six Wii stations, a pool, board games, movies, and their own disco. The resort itself has a bowling alley and casino. Service everywhere is prompt and friendly, and there's free Wi-Fi for all guests, but only in the lobby. Good conference facilities have attracted big companies such as Coca-Cola and Sprint. The resort is transitioning to become almost entirely no-smoking.