The 10 Best Dominican Republic Hotels in the Caribbean

The Dominican Republic is known for its white sandy beaches, tropical gardens and the extraordinary hospitality of the locals. Comfortable water temperature (about 30ºC) and excellent visibility during diving attract tourists from all over the world. In the Caribbean Sea, there are a huge number of places for diving, you can look not only at coral reefs, but also at underwater caves and sunken ships. Those who like to stay afloat will like the variety of waves: there are beach waves, peak waves, and reef waves. Staff in popular places speaks English, and sometimes even Russian.

Dominican hotels meet international standards, but the prices in most of them are lower than in other resort countries.Many hotels have 5 *, however, among 4 * and 3 * there are worthy options. We reviewed hotels of different categories and collected the top ten. We took into account their rooms, the view from the windows, the presence of swimming pools, parks and entertainment on the territory. We looked at the reviews of visitors and identified the strengths and weaknesses of each place.

TOP 10 best hotels in the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean

10 Coson Bay 4*

Situated on the picturesque coast of the Caribbean Sea, Coson Bay 4 * offers an inexpensive vacation in simple but clean rooms. People come here for white sand and unique views. The hotel is located on a small island that has retained its authentic atmosphere. Wi-Fi and free parking are available to visitors, and each room has a seating area and minibar. The bathroom is not very big, but is equipped with all necessary accessories. Towels, linen and breakfast are included in the price. The hotel has a small outdoor pool and a fitness centre.

Coson Bay 4 * offers a huge number of excursions around the island. Guests in the reviews are advised to watch whales, only for this, 30 thousand tourists come to Las Terrenas annually. You can go on a coffee tour, visit plantations and buy fragrant natural products. The most active tourists like to climb the mountain on horseback under the supervision of an instructor. From December to September, kitesurfing is available, a school and equipment rental are open. In general, the hotel deserves attention, despite a few shortcomings. Pets are not allowed, and air conditioners often break down.The beach at the hotel is quite small, in season everything is packed with sunbeds. When entering the water, sharp stones come across, some advise wearing rubber slippers.

9 Royalton Bavaro Resort & Spa All Inclusive 5*

Royalton Bávaro Resort & Spa All Inclusive 5 * offers guests privacy on the shores of Punta Cana and a luxurious vacation for the whole family. The hotel wins over others in this price range with spacious but not ostentatious rooms, gourmet restaurants and plenty of entertainment programs for children and adults. Older children like visiting the water park, and the little ones ride along the river, equipped with safe rides. The territory is divided into 2 sectors: one for children, the other for adults. The first has a lot of animators, babysitters and small water slides, and the second has night bars, alcohol, big attractions and a beach where smoking is allowed.

The hotel opened its doors in 2017 and is the newest in the ranking. All rooms are equipped with large showers, refillable minibars, balconies or terraces, charging stations. The reception is open 24 hours, the staff speaks 5 languages ​​(no Russian). Guests with kids go to a kindergarten where a nanny works, show cartoons and teach the traditions of the Dominican Republic. The only thing that stops some from visiting the hotel is that there is nothing authentic here, the same buildings are in any other southern country. There are always a lot of people, and street vendors are very insistent on buying souvenirs.

8 Casa Esferica 3*

Casa Esferica 3 * is located one kilometer from the beach of Las Balenas and is one of the best in this price category. Guests have access to an outdoor swimming pool and walks in a well-kept garden. Many rooms have balconies, you can see the sea. Free Wi-Fi and parking are available throughout the property, although space is limited. Rooms are fan-cooled, air-conditioned and equipped with a TV, as well as a compact shower room. The price includes a continental breakfast, and for lunch and dinner, guests go to the nearest restaurants and bars (5 minutes walk).

The hotel has an interesting pricing policy - the amount is determined not only by the rank of the room, but also by the workload. If you purchase a ticket in advance or during the low season, the discount will be up to 40%. But for the full price of the rooms are quite affordable. The hosts organize activities for tourists, including helping to find an instructor for horseback riding, diving, whale watching and boat trips. It is recommended to visit the Los Haitises National Park and see the caves, waterfalls, bays and animals. Despite the many positives, we did not rank the hotel higher due to hidden paid services. For example, a sunbed on the beach costs up to $50, to visit the gym you need to pay $15 daily. They do not warn about this in advance, but put it before the fact.

7 Eden Roc At Cap Cana 5*

Eden Roc At Cap Cana 5 * is located next to one of the most beautiful beaches of the Caribbean Sea and is the epitome of a luxurious vacation.It offers relaxation in a hammock to the sound of the waves, massages by the sea, swimming in large pools and dining in luxury restaurants. Fans of active pastime also have something to do: tennis, snorkeling, kayaking, and this is not the whole list. Many celebrate cruises around the island in the evening and afternoon in the city center, which has preserved the local atmosphere.

Each room has a balcony or large terrace, while the apartments have spacious living rooms. Luxury options overlook the rooftop with a private pool and sun loungers. Water sports include boat racing, wakeboarding, swimming in the azure sea and water skiing. Many people like to look at fish and corals; there is a rental of the necessary equipment on the beach. After swimming enough, visitors go to yoga, massages and spa centers. There are no complaints about service and accommodation. However, many do not advise trying food at a local restaurant. It is said that the chef prepares only simple dishes, while the prices are greatly inflated. The cost of ordinary wine can reach thousands of dollars, not to mention more unique options.

6 Hotel El Quemaito 3*

Hotel El Quemaito 3 * is located 5 minutes walk from the beach of Santa Cruz de Barahona, it can be seen from the rooms. It features a swimming pool, a local restaurant and free parking. A 15-minute walk takes you to the picturesque Neiba Bay with a refreshing drink from the bar. The hotel is located in a small quiet town, not far from the center, and there are markets, cafes and restaurants. Guests live in spacious rooms with a King size bed and a large shower room.It is recommended to order food in the restaurant at the hotel in advance, otherwise you will have to wait a long time. The road to the institution is not framed, but it is surrounded by palm trees and flowers. Visitors are greeted by the owners, they are attentive to the wishes of the guests.

The hotel has several areas for relaxation, sunbeds and chairs are arranged there, everything is aimed at a relaxing holiday. Guests say that local plants grow around, sometimes you can pick fruit right from the tree. Toward evening, the owners illuminate the pool and stairs with candles, complementing the atmosphere of comfort. City noises do not reach the hotel. There are only a few complaints: there is nothing in the bathroom except soap. The rest of the accessories will have to be purchased. They give 2 towels for free, you have to pay for the rest.

5 Casa de Campo Resort & Villas 5*

In the middle of the rating is the hotel complex Casa de Campo Resort & Villas 5 *, which is the largest in the Caribbean. More than a thousand cottages are available to guests, on the territory of their own airport and the exotic village of Altos De Chavon. Here, locals learn acting skills and conduct excursions. These 5 stars are like a small town, there is no need to leave it. Performances and shows for different ages are regularly held, a large swimming pool is built near the open amphitheater. Each vacationer receives a small car that can drive to the beach.

A distinctive feature of the hotel is The 3 Pete Dye golf, which is the best in the Caribbean.In addition, guests are welcome at the Minitas Beach Club to learn water sports, and the Equestrian Center offers horseback riding. There are always many visitors, but there is no flea market, there is enough space for everyone. The hotel has 3 private beaches, souvenir shops, masseurs, a hairdresser, a beauty salon and car and bicycle rentals. Of course, the cost in all establishments in the territory is greatly inflated, and others will take several hours to get to. Distances are the main drawback of the hotel, even the beach is about 15 minutes away by car.

4 Luxury Bahia Principe Samana 5*

Luxury Bahia Principe Samana 5 * offers guests relaxation at large indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, jacuzzis, massage rooms and baths. A sports hall and various entertainments on the water contribute to active pastime. In the morning a buffet is served, for lunch and dinner guests go to expensive restaurants at the hotel. They mainly serve Italian and international cuisine, but there are also traditional dishes. Nearby is the largest coconut plantation in the world, where excursions are organized. Near the shore you can see humpback whales, dolphins and manatees. In terms of vivid impressions, these 5 stars have no equal.

Guests note that tropical gardens are visible from each room, some overlook a private beach. Powerful air conditioners, a TV and a fan work inside. A mini-fridge and a safety deposit box are available for a surcharge. The pool bar offers refreshing cocktails and a wide range of snacks. Couples and parents without children come here, the hotel is always quiet and calm.However, the guys and party-goers have nothing to do here, there are no animators or entertainment at night.

3 Hotel Casa Valeria 3*

We couldn't help but add 3 stars to the list of the best, and Hotel Casa Valeria 3* deserves a high place due to its excellent location and affordable prices. The hotel is located in the center of Sosua on a small street that borders beach access, nightclubs and bars. The picturesque bay and the sea are only 5 minutes on foot, about the same time it takes the road to the main attractions of the town. Here you can feel the peaceful atmosphere of the Dominican Republic, and guests talk about respectful attitude and ease of communication. The hotel has 9 rooms in cottages around the pool.

In the reviews, visitors enthusiastically note the tropical garden that surrounds the building. Non-smoking rooms are available upon request. The rooms were renovated a few years ago and have everything you need. Breakfast is included in the price, with a choice of local and national cuisine. However, guests warn that while eating, street vendors come inside and persistently offer to buy something. The bathroom occupies most of the room, there is not much free space. And the standard problem of the Dominican Republic did not bypass the hotel - the water in the shower heats up slowly, within 2-3 minutes.

2 Hotel Panoramica Barahona

Hotel Panoramica Barahona 4 * is located on the coast, offering guests a vacation by the Caribbean Sea at a low cost. The property features an outdoor pool, free parking and a café. The rooms are equipped with a large shower room, air conditioning and a fan. A breakfast buffet is included in the price and there are many restaurants and bars around the hotel with local food and drinks. One of the "chips" is the order of food in the room, which is quickly delivered from neighboring establishments. Many are attracted by the clean Playa La Meseta beach and the Science Park amusement park within a 10-minute walk.

According to reviews, it can be seen that guests are pleased with the view from the window and friendly staff. Many say that the atmosphere is conducive to relaxation and rest. Residents like to swim in the pool, there is a small area for children. The only thing that stops some visitors is the lack of Wi-Fi in many rooms, this must be mentioned at the time of booking. But it is in all public places around the hotel and on the beach.

1 Luxury Bahia Principe Esmeralda 5*

Luxury Bahia Principe Esmeralda 5 * became the best in the rating due to its excellent location, many reviews of excellent service and spacious rooms. There are several outdoor and indoor pools on site, and free bikes are available. The beach is just a few minutes walk, Wi-Fi is everywhere. Guests are welcome at the spa, restaurants and bars. The hotel serves a buffet, mainly international cuisine.Local food can be sampled at the luxury restaurant Takara, and meat can be sampled at the Brazilian steakhouse. Children are entertained by animators, and adults are waiting in a nightclub. There are babysitting and laundry services.

According to the reviews, it is clear that many people like a variety of active water recreation, especially diving, windsurfing and snorkeling. The spacious rooms are equipped with a TV, fan and powerful air conditioning. Each room has a balcony, and inside there is a mini-bar regularly replenished daily. The bathroom has all the necessary accessories, there are no complaints about cleaning. The only thing guests talk about is a busy private beach, there are not enough sunbeds for everyone.

Popular vote - which Dominican hotel in the Caribbean is the best?
Vote!

Luxury Bahia Principe Esmeralda 5*

Hotel Panoramica Barahona

Hotel Casa Valeria 3*

Luxury Bahia Principe Samana 5*

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas 5*

Hotel El Quemaito 3*

Eden Roc At Cap Cana 5*

Casa Esferica 3*

Royalton Bavaro Resort & Spa All Inclusive 5*

Coson Bay 4*

Total voted: 17

Vote results