Dominican Republic honeymoon All Inclusive

Pros

• All-inclusive family-friendly and spring break-friendly property
• Large pool area with swim-up bar and lively scene
• Walkable - easy to get around the entire resort (no shuttle!)
• Great beach location and swimming conditions
• Access to two golf courses (for an extra charge)
• Grandiose entrance, lobby, and outdoor fountain (picture-worthy!)
• Bathrooms come with separate whirlpool tubs and walk-in showers
• Privilege upgrade, for a low fee, offers more amenities
• Non-motorized water sports, soccer, tennis, archery and a fitness center
• Free Wi-Fi

Cons

• Some room types feel a bit dark
• Not the most romantic ambiance - honeymooners, beware!
• Extra fee for name-brand liquors
• Lounge chairs - especially shaded areas - get snatched early
• Beware of sales people and their excursion pitches

Bottom Line

This lively 658-room resort, not to be confused with the more romantic adults-only Royal property, is situated on a pretty section of Bavaro Beach. It appeals to a mix of families, spring breakers, and wedding groups, as well as to a mix of Canadians, Europeans, and Russians of all ages. No guest shall go hungry or thirsty with the wide range of bars, a la carte restaurants, and even a 24-hour pizzeria for those needing a late-night fix. The resort is more walkable that other mega-resorts in the area (it's shuttle-free). Rooms have modern tropical style, whirlpool tubs, and balconies, but they are not the highlight here. Golf fans will love having easy access to the 18- and 9-hole golf courses, and other activities include biking, tennis, archery and a range of free non-motorized water sports (wind surfing, too!. Plenty of people are around to sell extra excursions - start practicing "no, gracias."

Categories

Oyster Hotel Photos

Scene

A fun, lively atmosphere for families and groups of all ages

This resort surely wins points for first impressions. Guests pass a picturesque tree-lined golf course and a series of international flags before reaching the lovely lobby with pillars, high ceilings, and welcome fruit punch. Straight ahead is a large fountain that looks spectacular at night, providing a photo-worthy background in changing colors. To the right is a man-made pond with lily pads, statues, and individual pathways that lead toward a la carte restaurants and the casino. On the other side is the main bar and lounge - El Palmeral - a lively spot for drinks and sporting events on televisions throughout the afternoon and evening.

Behind the lobby is a wide pedestrian path that leads to the main buffet and outdoor theater, and toward a garden with a white wedding gazebo. A short walk through this garden takes guests to the the pool and beach. The pool - especially in the presence of the animation team - is likely to have a party scene, and many lounge chairs, especially in the shade, are snatched early.