5. Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa
Sitting 13 miles northwest of Punta Cana’s Bávaro resort strip, Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa flanks powdery sands and boasts ample activities, such as snorkeling, rum tastings, Spanish lessons and archery. Plus, the property offers tennis and beach volleyball courts, as well as one of the largest free-form pools in the Dominican Republic. After working up an appetite, guests can choose from one of this Dreams outpost’s eight restaurants. Although travelers offer mixed feedback about the on-site eateries, most say Oceana’s seafood-focused dishes are tasty. When it’s time to bed down for the night, visitors can unwind in their guest room or suite. Each comes equipped with a furnished private balcony or terrace, a stocked minibar, free Wi-Fi access and a cable TV. This AM Resorts property offers the brand’s signature Unlimited-Luxury package, meaning the all-inclusive room rates cover most amenities, including all meals and beverages, nonmotorized water sports equipment rentals and kids and teens club activities.
6. La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort
Stylish and sleek, La Concha boasts striking ocean views from its perch along Condado Beach’s sugary sands. But La Concha’s position on Puerto Rico’s northeastern shoreline isn’t the only reason this Renaissance outpost earns high praise from recent guests. Rooms and suites are comfortable and spacious (albeit slightly dated in some areas). Standard amenities include 37-inch flat-screen TVs, walk-in showers and free Wi-Fi access. Past visitors also attribute a satisfactory stay to La Concha’s plentiful entertainment options. Sun-seekers can sprawl along the beach, while history buffs can head less than 4 miles northwest to explore Old San Juan. Still craving more action? Test your luck at the on-site casino or invigorate your taste buds at one of eight restaurants. Cuisine options range from American to Italian to Japanese. If you participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program, you can earn or redeem points here.