71 Best Hotels in Dominican Republic

One of the country's oldest and most famous resorts, which set the benchmark for luxury travel in the Caribbean when it was built in the mid-1970s, is in the top tier of the Dominican Republic's luxury properties. The striking beauty of the minimalist design and decor utilizes rich woods and open spaces set off by splashes of jewel tones. Rooms and villas are outfitted with fine European linens, large flat-screen TVs, and high-tech lighting; each comes with a golf cart, though there's also an efficient shuttle system. There are numerous restaurants and nightlife options, and there's an annual array of festivals and special events. The spa, with its private water-treatment section, is a pleasurable place to relax and revive.

Within Cap Cana, the most luxurious resort is unquestionably this all-suite boutique hotel with interior decor straight from the mid-century French Riviera. The glamorous interiors juxtapose French classicism with sleek modern accessories. Guest rooms similarly fuse creature comforts and technology, including LCD TVs, iPads that can control everything in the room (even the lighting), sumptuously comfortable beds with fine linens, and outdoor and indoor showers with multiple shower heads. These glorious sanctuaries (with private pools) are ideal for honeymoons and landmark celebrations, and larger units are suitable for groups. Four new infinity pool villas with unique architecture and interior design are oceanfront and overlook the Beach Club. The Koko Kid's Club is for children 4–12. The new, 30,000 square foot Solaya Spa and Wellness Center has yoga, indoor/outdoor cabanas, and a juice bar. The Mediterraneo restaurant has exquisite cuisine, professional service, and silver candelabras that Liberace would envy. Meal plans are available, but they do not include drinks.

This luxury all-inclusive is a visual showstopper. The average suite, with flat-screen TV, terrace, and semi-open marble bathroom with jet showers and a Jacuzzi for two, is spacious. Family-oriented, the Reserve, a private self-contained group of 190 luxurious suites, has an optional, signature, family-concierge plan that includes lavish attention for kids, who get their own check-in, welcome backpacks, and minirobes and slippers. The miniclub offers sports activities in the multiadventure park (climbing wall, trampolines) and arts and crafts activities (mask-making and cooking among them). The resort's restaurants are trendy, opulently decorated, though in some cases the decor may outshine the food; Royal-level guests have a new exclusive Italian Palazzo Restaurant. Four spas shared across Paradisus properties offer a soothing experience.

The gorgeous stone facade of this adults-only resort—a stellar keystone of Cap Cana—is reminiscent of the 16th-century Alcázar de Colón in Santo Domingo, and the interior public spaces are influenced by Dominican colonial-style mansions. Standard accommodations are junior suites with patios, some with water views and beach access (larger suites have Caribbean views). Room decor is chic, with rich woods, marble baths, fine linens, plump pillows, and silk robes. Villas have a separate reception area in "The Fortress," where champagne and other delights welcome guests. The resort has five pools and a luxurious spa and fitness center. Restaurants have been upgraded and are now quite good. Easy access to the Marina Cap Cana increases the number of high-quality restaurants.

This stylish marina complex smack on the Bay of Samaná has changed the face of tourism in this area and become the social center for the upscale residents, a safe harbor for visiting yacht owners, and a deluxe, yet reasonably priced option for international visitors. The open lobby area that segues to the marina is dramatic, with contemporary pillars, a proliferation of white and neutral shells, and commodious white seating facing forward. It's a stunner. The cuisine is memorable, from an exceptional alfresco Italian lunch at Le Regata trattoria to a gourmet lobster dinner at Ocean Club. The Bannister has an ambient spa, which is as relaxing as the chill music that gently plays and the massages (moderately priced) that put you on another plane.

For adults only, this edgy resort with a sexy yet whimsical vibe is particularly good for singles, filling a void that's been lacking in Punta Cana. The contemporary decor with its explosion of vibrant colors—orchid, orange, flamingo pink—strong lighting, dangling sculptures, and retro-styled furniture may indeed leave you breathless. A social hub is the Plaza, where video concerts are streamed and where guests move over to Wink for their cocktails. Events and holidays are especially popular here, and parties are big celebrations. The spa is a favored amenity, and there's a fitness center, as well as 11 dining venues. If feasible, upgrade to the club level, called Xhale, where you will be catered to as you chill. The beach is gorgeous, with beach parties often midday.

The best rooms are the Master Ocean Suites and swim-up rooms.

This boutique property southwest of Santo Domingo, formerly a family estate, has style normally associated with urban hotels and views that take in mountains and the sea. Accommodations are in 5 deluxe rooms. Villa Bonita, suitable for a small group of up to six, has its own solarium terrace and infinity pool, while the exceptional riverfront suites have a private outdoor jacuzzi and private terraces that overlook Rio Sito. Most repeat guests know to take the hotel's meal plan, its restaurant being one of the only options in the area—and certainly the best—for haute Dominican cuisine. The Tanama Spa is tranquil, including a Taíno steam bath, and offers riverside massages. As there are few activities in this rural area, other than ecotours, owner Polibio Schiffino installed a zipline (open to all); trekking, hiking, mountain biking, and fishing excursions can also be arranged.

Designed by architect Sara Garcia, sophisticated Casa Colonial, a boutique property exuding refinement and relaxation on the quiet end of the long beach, is a surprise among the all-inclusives of Playa Dorada. The suites are sumptuous—with Frette linens and an inviting open bath-to-bedroom floor plan—but those that do not overlook the beach are not as stellar as the public areas. The rooftop sundeck is close to heaven—an infinity pool and four warm Jacuzzis overlooking the ocean as well as an eatery here and on the ground floor facing the ocean; spa devotees will savor the Bagua Spa. The hotel's popularity as a wedding venue and for family and group sell-outs is escalating. If you like exclusive, small hotels, this is the best choice on the North Coast, and if you book directly they'll include free breakfast for your trip.

This unique hotel concept comprises six former colonial residences that date back to the 16th century (hence the name) that have been restored and modernized by celebrity designer Patricia Reid; each house has its own allure. Casa de los Mapas has a pool set in a garden with ancient fruit trees; Casa del Arbol boasts the most exquisite library and salon (book room H-4); Casa Macorís has glorious interiors and a dipping pool in the courtyard; and Casa del Pozo has a pool made from an ancient well found on the property. You can book one room or whole houses. Each casa has a butler, and guests are given their WhatsApp to call them if they need so much as a fork. Your mayordomo also prepares a delicious breakfast and will pour you a nightcap.

This adults-only haven, with meticulously kept grounds and a magical central lake with fountains, is a perfect example of how an all-inclusive resort can offer top-tier hospitality without the herd mentality. All rooms offer a pillow menu, turn-down service, 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi, and large flat-screen TVs. Exclusive Suites and Pools—duplexes—have floor-to-ceiling windows (with remote-controlled curtains) that open out onto a terrace with your own infinity plunge pool. One main pool offers an upscale feel with Balinese sun beds; there's also a snazzy beach bar. Royal guests have access to all the facilities of its sister property, the family-friendly and more economical Catalonia Bavaro Beach, Golf & Casino Resort. You don't have to make reservations for the resort's three restaurants, but there may be waits. The only buffet is at breakfast, and it's a notch up. Steps away are a 9-hole golf course run by the resort, with an 18-hole course nearby. By night, the Piano Bar is a social hot spot with fun bartenders and talented entertainers.

The adults-only CHIC Punta Cana has been designed with active, younger (twenty- to thirtysomething) partiers in mind, so there is entertainment all day and night, Las Vegas style. The resort has a South Beach vibe and there is a reason for the Detox Oxygen Bar. The decor of the large rooms is contemporary and beautiful and pretty similar over all room categories (though there are differences in sizes and amenities). Standard rooms are behind the lobby, but those farther from the pool are quieter. The pool with sculpture-like elements becomes a party zone after 2 pm, when some guests leave to find a quiet place on the beach to hide. Come nightfall, there are DJs or live bands and plenty of theme nights. Food here is generally good, with kudos going to the steak house and Middle Eastern venues, but service can be inconsistent. Most guests agree that the Diamond Club upgrade is worth the extra cost; those rooms have the best views, and only Diamond guests can make reservations at restaurants (through their butlers). The Chic Mansion is an adjacent party house marketed to groups who want to party among themselves, like bachelor or bachelorette contingents, along with the luxury service the resort can offer.

Whimsy and camaraderie are characteristic of this family-friendly resort—Punta Cana's original all-inclusive—situated on 75 tropical acres, with a coastline of incredibly white sandy shores and a separate luxury reserve for adults only. While regular rooms are not luxurious, 78 brand-new deluxe guests rooms in the Reserve offer spalike bathrooms, outdoor spaces with plush daybeds, and sleek, flat-screen TVs with a complimentary movie library. The five Trident Tiara family suites offer a lovely pool area, free Wi-Fi, high-end liquor, and its own happy hour. The Kids' Club is still a major draw for families. The plush L’Occitane Spa offers two VIP Couples Suites, as well as plenty of individual treatment rooms, though prices are particularly high, while the large gym has state-of-the-art equipment added. The spirited Indigo Beach Lounge offers à la carte dining with waiter service all day, starting with breakfast, and by night it’s for adults only; later still it's a trendy nightclub. Club Med has partnered with Cirque du Soleil so that all guests can delight in learning many of the exciting circus acrobatics and artistic activities.

This outstanding all-inclusive resort sits on an exceptional palm-fringed ribbon of white sand, protected by a coral reef that offers great snorkeling from the (Blue Flag) beach. The glorious sea-view pool and Oceana restaurant form an impressive complex and are often the site of weddings. The renovated spa is exceptional, especially the gym. The Kids' Explorers Club (open until 10 pm) raises the resort's family profile. The property also includes a fun disco, a glam casino, a Core Zone for teenagers, and 11 restaurants (plus 24-hour room service). The lobby is enhanced with tropical plantings and stylish European furnishings.

This adults-only, all-inclusive is particularly appealing to couples (honeymooners, for sure) and wedding parties, and attracts a younger, fun clientele. Basic rooms at the all-suite property are junior suites, and the swim-out rooms are most in demand. The spacious suites have double Jacuzzis. Honeymooners love the round-the-clock room service, but the restaurants are serving up fine fare like the excellent French restaurant. A very good spa—with a Zen fountain, indulgent massages, and other well-given treatments, plus hot-and-cold-water tubs—has a special couples’ menu. The fitness-cardio conditioning center is impressive, too, plus there's yoga and Pilates. The resort offers a full range of water sports and other activities, including guided horseback rides. Special nights, like the upscale barbecue, are energized with cool, live music.

The best deals are on the resort's website.

Hard Rock's first all-inclusive property has its own unique identity, different from any other Dominican resort, and it's a great choice if you want nightlife and a busy, fun atmosphere. The oversize rooms and suites are deluxe, but you need to decide if you’d prefer to be where the action is—closer to reception, restaurants, and the casino—or closer to the beach. Because of the resort's sprawl, you have to be shuttled from the beach or to the lobby, and transportation waits can be long. Overall food is better than most area AIs, and a new Kids' Program appeals to the family market. This 121-acre property has one of the Caribbean’s largest casinos. And then there's the Rock Spa, a 68,000-square-foot, bi-level facility. Despite its size, the hotel, particularly its sensual suites, can be romantic. The nightly entertainment in the many lounges is levels above the usual Punta Cana offerings. And then there are the big-name entertainers, everyone from Ringo Starr to Snoop Dogg, who draw thousands of fans.

This historic boutique hotel now owned by Hodelpa Hotels was sculpted from the residence of the first governor of the Americas, and it just might be the best thing to happen in the Zona Colonial since Diego Columbus's palace was finished in 1517. Colonial-style rooms have tall ceilings, original stone window benches, and shutters. Some guests prefer the sunny, less expensive (albeit smaller) rooms in the contemporary annex—with river views, they're smart examples of French minimalist style. Overlooking the river, trees and tropical plantings shade the pool, and swimmers leave the sun for a fitness break in the gym. The bar is a social scene, and a DJ comes on around 10 pm. Special rates are available for cruise-ship passengers who want a pre- or post-cruise stay. Staffers are professionals, especially the concierge.  The hotel books up early, so make reservations as soon as you can.

This adults-only resort is the star of the five Riu resorts in Macao. Rooms range from junior suites to full one-bedroom suites, and all have double sinks, flat-screen TVs, the signature Riu liquor dispenser, and extras you don't often find at AIs, including turn-down service. Unfortunately, not many have water views; it's worth the upgrade for one of those. Waiter service is an option at the beach and the pool, so you can kick back and keep the Banana Mamas coming. Food deserves its now favorable comments; the chic, pier-side Krystal restaurant is the standout, followed by the steakhouse and the buffet not far behind. It's a short stroll to the complex's shops on Caribbean Street, the gym and wellness (not glamour) spa, and the popular Pacha disco.

Iberostar's adults-only resort—an architectural gem—is a knockout from the moment you walk into the glamorous lobby and is one resort where the term "no expense was spared" is actually true. Suites are elegant, with contemporary lighting, dreamy beds, and plush bedding; juices and premium liquor are stocked in the minibar. The Club level has its own efficient concierge staff and personal butlers who try hard to accommodate, and Club suites have whirlpools on balconies. There are boutiques and activities befitting a more sophisticated clientele. Honeymooners are treated like royalty, as are incentive groups. But what you won't forget are the Spanish galleon–theme dance club (music cranks up at 11 pm); the glorious two-story oceanfront spa with a gym and beauty salon; the sea views; the pool complex at the stunning beach; and the theater, with crimson velvet, classy glitz, and deep, cushy seats. The nightly shows are a cut above those of most AIs.

Simply put, this property belonging to Marriott’s luxury brand is a charmer and may be the best hotel in the capital, with stunning lobby decor, a great restaurant, and a wonderful pool area. Service throughout is admirable, as if the staff were handpicked. And, of course, the hotel sits atop the upscale Blue Mall, a destination itself. The main drawback is that some guest rooms—standard and above—are as narrow as the bathrooms are petite, though the mattresses and bedding as just as comfortable as anything you'll find in a luxury hotel back home; ask for one of the oversize rooms on the 16th floor. But where else can you can watch the TV news in the mirror as you shave? The hotel has become a destination for locals, who come to party and conduct business. Vertygo101 Lounge remains very popular, and the hotel is a common venue for local weddings. Even if you aren't staying here, a day-pass will allow you to enjoy the lavish buffet (on Sunday) and spend the day at the infinity pool.

If a reasonably priced contemporary and spacious apartment with remarkable ocean vistas is your tropical dream, this small condo resort delivers. A pool looks out onto the powdery beach, where kites dance across the baby-blue sky. Interior decor is a study in black and white with lots of leather, and a well-equipped Euro-style kitchen feels new. Just three steps up from the pool, Aqua and Yalla restaurants offers three meals daily as well as room service; it is the place to hang for sunset cocktails. Other valued amenities include the full-service Andari Spa, where caring therapists will pamper you for a moderate price, and the new beauty salon.There's a two-night minimum, but the longer you stay the less you pay; 18% tax is charged on top of rates.

Number 212, a deluxe one-bedroom, is adjacent to the bar, reception, and spa; two-bedroom penthouses offer phenomenal views.

The lobby at this sceney, adults-only all-suites resort is like a modern art gallery, but the Caribbean-accented guest rooms do not quite match these high expectations, though the white-sand beach is glorious. Five à la carte restaurants serve up a variety that includes American, French, Pan-Asian, and Mexican. Preferred Club guests get access to Olio, a Mediterranean restaurant serving all three meals. Basic junior suites have playful contemporary decor and furnishings. Rooms views range from garden to oceanfront. Upgrade to the Preferred Club if possible, where extra perks and pampering are worth the up-charge and access to the private infinity pool, access to the lazy river, and better suites. Fun activities include tennis clinics and big-screen movies on the beach.

With dramatic, contemporary architecture that allows each suite water views, this resort offers one-bedroom suites and large two- and three-bedroom condo accommodations with designer kitchens and living rooms, two flat-screen TVs, and a balcony that looks down upon the inviting labyrinth of swimming pools lined with draped sun beds. Larger groups can take advantage of the many villas available at this location; almost all have balconies and Jacuzzis. Service is attentive, caring, and efficient, and most staffers are relatively fluent in English. The golden Atlantic beachfront is dramatic and unspoiled, and guests vie for a beachfront massage by a professional therapist, sheltered by a bamboo privacy wall. Yoga in the gazebo is free, as is Wi-Fi, which is available throughout the property. Water sports equipment is complimentary (paddleboards, kayaks, bodyboards, snorkeling equipment).

Shuttered French windows that open to grand vistas of the sea and a cotton-white private beach are hallmarks of this luxury-villa enclave within the grounds of Puntacana Resort & Club. Originally designed by the late Oscar de la Renta, the property's elegant style includes four-poster beds clad in Frette linens and breathtaking stone bathrooms. Minibars are stocked with premium liquors, and there's a desk and a huge flat-screen TV in each suite; you can rent a laptop, and Wi-Fi is free. Personal attention is big, and your villa comes with its own manager. A golf cart is included, and zipping along the gorgeous coastline is one of the joys here. Larger groups will enjoy the privacy of Tortuga Bay's multiroom villas, which open directly onto the beach. Villa guests also have an exclusive restaurant, Bamboo (also designed by de la Renta), plus access to all the facilities of the main resort, including the impeccable golf courses, The Grill restaurant, and the glorious Six Senses Spa.

This enclave of private homes, each with large front- and backyards and private pool, is an elite bastion set within a vast country club–like setting near Cabarete. This tropical resort community has some exquisite homes with many walking paths; certain homes are available as rentals with either weekly or nightly rates. The equestrian center, with dozens of horses grazing on wide expanses, is a stellar feature. There are five groomed clay tennis courts as well (ball boys are included with a paid lesson). Though all homes include a Dominican housekeeper who cooks breakfast (you supply the groceries) and a gardener, you can also request a chef. Sea Horse Ranch will stock your villa for you for a modest charge, and the complex can also provide a nanny. The Beach Club, the enclave's restaurant overlooking a dramatic cove, delivers to the villas from its international menu.

The stunning, contemporary entrance flanked by slender white pillars leads to the attractive lobby at this adults-only resort, which offers both incredible value and many complaints. For decades an all-inclusive, the resort now offers that as an option that is worth accepting. Standard and standard-plus rooms are basic and small (rooms near the stage can be noisy until 11 pm); if possible, upgrade to the spacious, quiet villas with Jacuzzis and more contemporary bedding. Some rooms have been redecorated in recent years. What remains inviting is the international buffet, from raw oysters to a real turkey dinner, depending on the nightly theme. The ambience is more relaxing at the à la carte restaurants, where reservations are needed and the food is not necessarily as good. House wine is swill, beer is better. There aren't many organized activities anymore besides the pool games. Canadians and Brits seem to be the most pleased.

This condominium complex shares the grounds of the Hotel Blue Jack Tar, providing an upscale option to the generally moderately priced Playa Dorada. The rather plain facade does not prepare you for the stunning interior decor behind closed doors, most especially the swoon-worthy penthouse. All of the condos, from two-bedrooms up, have spacious layouts and high-end, contemporary furnishings, even on their terraces. The quality of construction is top-notch. Renters can enjoy this good life for a night, a week, or longer for a value price, all the while enjoying the facilities of the adjoining hotel.

This small, hacienda-style adobe hotel also has a decent restaurant and is a standout in this quiet neighborhood. Wrought-iron gates open to a courtyard that's candlelit by night, and most of the rooms face the pool in the rear garden. The simple rooms include studios with kitchenettes, and are furnished with comfortable mattresses, minibars, cable TV, and a safe; some have hand-painted tropical murals. The proud owners are an accommodating Dutch couple. Most rooms have been completely renovated; poolside rooms are the quietest and have patios. This inn may be cheap, but it is a good value.

This small, family-run hotel offers a lush island getaway from atop a mountain overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The rooms are pretty and sparsely decorated with pops of color that seem pulled from the landscape. Much of the decor, made of bamboo and rattan, are locally handmade. The outdoor pool is breezy and cool and offers more stunning views below of the ocean and surrounding green areas. All rooms come with air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. The best views are in building 20 on the second floor, where balconies overlook the ocean. Guests will enjoy the tennis court and access to the on-site restaurant, which also has views. It's widely considered the best in the area and indeed plates are brilliantly executed, but don't expect anything local, and expect to pay for the quality. This property is best for couples and families; singles without cars may find the experience too lonely. If you want to explore surrounding areas, you'll need to rent a car. Cabo Frances in El Breton is 5 minutes away, and larger, more well-known Playa Grande is 25 minutes away.