The Dominican Republic: top all-inclusive resorts

The Dominican Republic is a long-favourite Caribbean destination. Stay at our handpicked all-inclusive resorts and you'll find quality gourmet dining, top-shelf drinks and imaginative activities – all at unbeatable value. We've put the spotlight on a few of our favourite couples and family resorts along with tips on when to go and what to see.

The Dominican Republic in a nutshell

The 'Dom Rep' has all the makings for a perfect tropical beach escape. As the Caribbean's second largest island, it’s no surprise that the coastline has over 200 beaches, all lapped by waters a thousand shades of blue. The all-inclusive resorts here range from peaceful adult hideaways to lively family zones, while the island itself offers hikes in rich rainforests, a colonial capital, ocean activities and a natural theme park for thrill-seekers.

The best time to visit

The Dominican Republic has a balmy climate all year round. From December to May, the weather is drier and cooler, making it the most popular time to visit, when beaches and resorts are full of life. From June to November, expect fewer tourists, tropical showers and attractive off-season rates. The shoulder season is a fantastic time to go; November and May offer a quieter Caribbean experience without the high-season crowds.

Where to stay

We've scoured the island and cherry-picked the prime spots. In Punta Cana, known as the ‘Coconut Coast’, stretch out on Blue Flag sands, hit the links at championship golf courses or discover hidden waterfalls on a hiking tour.

Cap Cana offers a high-end, luxurious experience in a gated community, complete with a glitzy marina and an equestrian centre. Then there’s La Romana, home to some of the island’s most picturesque white sand beaches. Whether you’re travelling with family or looking for a romantic getaway, we’ll recommend the right resort for you.

All-inclusive holidays in the Dominican Republic

Forget bland buffets and bothersome wristbands. In the Dominican Republic, all-inclusive resorts raise the bar and don’t hold back on value-for-money offerings. Here are a few of our top picks.

For endless activities and great locations

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas

The vibe: Elite elegance

Highlights: World-renowned golf course, equestrian centre, marina

Included perks: Horseback riding, non-motorised watersports, diverse dining

Celebrity-approved Casa de Campo Resort & Villas has been a Dominican Republic icon for over 50 years. You have everything you could want from a tropical beach holiday here: inviting pools, a private beach lined with palm trees and plenty of sunshine. But there’s much more to enjoy.

For the active types, there’s tennis, a shooting range, fishing and horseback riding on the beach. And pro golfers can tick off the Teeth of the Dog®, the top course in the Caribbean. When the sun sets, indulge in Spanish tapas or Peruvian cuisine and sip cocktails at Genesis nightclub – a free ticket is included with your stay.

Hilton La Romana

The vibe: Pick your pace

Highlights: Infinity pools, New waterpark, forest-meets-beach location, casino

Included perks: Reservation-free dining, snorkelling gear, non-stop activities and entertainment

You couldn’t want for more at this all-inclusive complex, split into two resorts so there’s a scene for everyone: Hilton La Romana, An All-Inclusive Family Resort and Hilton La Romana, An All-Inclusive Adults-Only Resort. Over on the family side, there’s a bunch of tempting restaurants, kids’ fun from foam parties to beach bonfires and a aquapark with white-knuckle slides.

In the adults-only resort, things move at a more relaxed rhythm with refreshing pools and grown-up activities like merengue lessons and paddleboard yoga. But you can easily amp things up – adults-only guests have access to all the buzz and bites in the family resort too.

Fun-filled family havens

Sunscape Dominicus La Romana

The vibe: Family-friendly and vibrant

Highlights: All-day kids’ club, connecting rooms, top beach location

Included perks: Dine-around restaurants, unlimited drinks and snacks, non-motorised watersports

This family-friendly resort is perched on one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Kids and teens will be living their best lives at the all-day clubs with shows, games and beach movies, giving you time to catch up on your holiday reading. The natural surroundings will captivate kids just as much as the entertainment – they'll be wowed by the colourful reefs and sea life as well as the gardens home to starfruit and mango trees. For dining, travel the world without leaving the resort; top picks include Chopsticks for authentic Asian eats and Tiki Taco for a Mexican fiesta.

Dreams Flora Resort and Spa

The vibe: Pool fun and pampering

Highlights: Waterpark with seven slides, kids' club with themed activities

Included perks: Unlimited-Luxury® inclusions, Sip, Savour and See Dining Experience*, 24-hour room service

Dreams Resorts knows how to elevate the all-inclusive experience, and Dreams Flora Resort & Spa is no exception. The dining scene alone is enough to win anyone over, with eight delectable restaurants offering everything from seaside grills and Italian favourites to hearty steakhouse classics.

There are swim-up bars, lively entertainment venues and even a teens-only mocktail bar. While younger ones are racing down the water slides, roasting marshmallows on a camping trip or hustling at the pool table in the Core Zone, parents can slink off for a spa day or lounge by the palm-lined beach with premium drinks on tap.

For couples to relax and connect

Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana

The vibe: Reset by the sea

Highlights: Beachfront yoga, private dinners, a luxe spa

Included perks: Sunset horseback rides, welcome bottle of rum, Endless Privileges® inclusions

From the moment you arrive at Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana and are handed a lavender-scented towel and a chilled glass of Champagne, you know you’ve struck gold. This intimate beachfront sanctuary is a honeymooner's dream. While wellbeing takes centre stage with spa hydrotherapy, yoga and meditation classes, indulgence is never an afterthought. Feast at five gourmet restaurants serving organic fare or venture out with the Sip, Savour and See Dining* at nearby resorts.

Wine aficionados can revel in rare vintages in the wine cellar, while cultural experiences like horseback riding, cigar rolling and Caribbean cooking classes add a local twist. After a day of nourishing your mind and soul, retreat to your gorgeous suite for a well-earned siesta.

Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa

The vibe: Luxurious and romantic

Highlights: Sugar sand beach, world-class spa, gourmet dining

Included perks: Unlimited-Luxury® inclusions, branded spirits, watersports, introductory scuba lesson

Secrets puts romance centre stage, so you can enjoy peaceful moments in paradise, sans kids. Spend sun-warmed days together dozing in a hammock by the infinity pool or strolling hand-in-hand down the powdery white sands of Juanillo beach. Foodies will revel in the culinary delights; gourmet dining includes teppanyaki theatrics, fresh seafood and late-night bites served well into the wee hours. For an extra treat, book a swim-out suite to glide from bed to pool in seconds or upgrade to a Preferred Club Suite for enhanced amenities and access to exclusive areas.

Island adventures

Explore beyond the resort walls and discover the spirited charm of the Dominican Republic. Visit the Adventure Scape Park, where you can zip-line through the jungle and cool off in natural pools. Spend the day snorkelling in crystal-clear waters off the shores of Catalina Island or Saona Island. Or, immerse yourself in history and culture with a trip to Santo Domingo, where you can wander through the cobblestone streets and see the sights of the oldest city in the New World.

*Sip, Savour and See Dining Experience

With Unlimited-Luxury® and Endless Privileges®, you can dine, drink and take in live entertainment at selected sister resorts. It's a fantastic way to mix up your dining routine and explore more of the Dominican's incredible resorts.

This feature was created on 15th August 2024. The information within this feature is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of print. Feature by Heather Flanagan.