Written By: Senior Travel Advisor, Payton Rudolph
Jody Mahoney and I just returned from the Dominican Republic after being invited to celebrate the grand opening of Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana! While there, I also toured five additional all-inclusive resorts, giving me an even better look at what each property has to offer.
As a travel advisor, I love getting to experience resorts firsthand. From room layouts to restaurants and overall atmosphere, these visits help me match my clients with the right vacation. Here's a look at six resorts worth considering for your next Dominican Republic getaway!
Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana
Best for: Couples and adults seeking a quick, modern, entertainment-focused getaway.
One of Hyatt's newest all-inclusive resorts, Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana offers a relaxed atmosphere with a modern design. During my stay, I was upgraded to a spacious Master Suite with an ocean view, featuring a king bed, large sectional, dining table, two balconies, a rain shower, and one and a half bathrooms.
I loved the two pool areas, which offered both lively and laid-back vibes. CocoCafe was another highlight, and the teppanyaki restaurant was my favorite meal of the trip!
The dining leans upscale and globally inspired, although I found myself wishing for a few more classic poolside options. The beach was also affected by sargassum during our visit, so we skipped swimming in the murky water. As a brand-new resort, Hyatt Vivid is still finding its rhythm, and I'm excited to see how it continues to evolve.
Hyatt Zilara & Hyatt Ziva Punta Cana
Best for: Couples wanting upscale amenities and families looking for plenty of activities.
These sister resorts share a property, with adults-only Hyatt Zilara and family-friendly Hyatt Ziva offering different experiences. Zilara guests can enjoy Ziva's amenities, while Ziva guests cannot access Zilara.
I was blown away by the design! The restaurants feature larger-than-life themes, and the property beautifully incorporates Dominican art and culture. The Blind Butcher, an upscale specialty steakhouse with an additional charge, was particularly memorable.
Families will love the expansive water park, while couples can enjoy the restaurants, pools, and entertainment. With wedding and conference facilities, there's plenty here for groups, too.
Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa
Best for: Honeymoons, anniversaries, and couples who value personalized service.
This is a special resort to me as I honeymooned here 5 years ago. Secrets Cap Cana (once again) stood out to me for its attentive service, polished atmosphere, and beautiful beach. The resort has a loyal following of repeat guests, which says a lot about the experience it delivers. And I can vouch for that as my husband is dying to go back!
This time, I toured several room categories, including a Preferred Club Ocean Front Master Suite. Preferred Club is worth exploring if you're looking for an enhanced stay with additional amenities.
Beach conditions vary seasonally, but the resort's beautiful stretch of sand is a major draw. If you're planning a romantic getaway where relaxation and service are top priorities, Secrets Cap Cana deserves a spot on your shortlist.
Dreams Flora Resort & Spa
Best for: Families who love lush tropical surroundings and resort activities.
Located in the Miches area, Dreams Flora has a lush, tropical atmosphere with five pools, five restaurants, a water park, and a spa that impressed me during my visit.
Families should pay close attention to room categories when booking, since sleeping arrangements and occupancy limits vary. Preferred Club swim-out rooms even include a cabana steps away from your patio!
The biggest consideration is location. Dreams Flora is farther from Punta Cana International Airport than resorts closer to the main tourist area. However, travelers seeking a more tucked-away setting near the beautiful Playa Esmeralda may find that trade-off worthwhile.
Dreams Cap Cana Resort & Spa
Best for: Families and multigenerational groups who value convenience.
Dreams Cap Cana is conveniently located near Punta Cana International Airport, making it an appealing option for families who want a shorter transfer after traveling.
The resort has a flat, walkable layout, multiple pools, pickleball and tennis courts, a teen club, and an adults-only villa area. Golfers can also enjoy a nearby Jack Nicklaus-designed course.
One important planning note: Dreams Cap Cana does not offer connecting suites, and room categories have specific occupancy limits. If you're traveling with a larger family, confirming sleeping arrangements before booking is especially important.
So…Which Resort Is Right for You?
Each of these resorts offers something different. Hyatt Vivid is an exciting option for a modern, wellness-focused escape, while Hyatt Zilara and Ziva offer upscale amenities for adults and families alike. Secrets Cap Cana shines for couples seeking personalized service, and Dreams Flora and Dreams Cap Cana offer appealing options for families with different priorities.
The best resort isn't necessarily the one with the prettiest photos. It's the one that fits your travel style, budget, and expectations.
That's where I come in! Having the opportunity to tour these resorts firsthand helps me offer personalized recommendations and find the best fit for each client.