Best Honeymoon Hotels in the Dominican Republic

On the outskirts of Punta Cana, Sivory has just 55 luxurious suites, all of which feature couples’ showers and large soaking tubs, plus modern features like flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi. Honeymoon and Ysla Bonita Suites clock in at 950 square-feet and include large soaking tubs, outdoor showers, and an ocean view Jacuzzi. The all-inclusive property allows kids but draws mainly couples, perhaps lured by its 8,000 bottle wine cellar.

Natura Cabanas’ eleven eco-friendly cottages are large, rustic and romantic. Flower petals are placed absolutely everywhere in the bathroom, from the sink, to the nooks in the tub, to the top of the toilet seat. At $180/night (including breakfast) it is a great budget option, though it lacks TVs and radios -- but their absence allows couples to enjoy the noises of birds singing and waves pounding the shore in the background instead. The resort’s private beach, near kite-surfing mecca Cabarete, is great for body-surfing. The freshly-prepared food is delectable, and service is unbelievably friendly.

With just 15 spacious, modern suites decorated by Oscar de la Renta, Tortuga Bay is the DR’s most luxurious resort. Amenities include world class golf, a private marina, an ecological preserve, and VIP service at the airport. Luxuriously-appointed suites feature Jacuzzis, four-poster beds with Frette linens, flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes, and massive ocean-view terraces. Service is at once discreet and shockingly attentive—guests receive pre-programmed cell phones and are encouraged to call in round-the-clock requests.

The north coast’s only true luxury resort, Casa Colonial is great for honeymooners who want to be close to the airport (20 minutes), the beach, and the area’s many outdoor pursuits. The rooftop infinity pool and four Jacuzzis look out over the Atlantic and are open 24 hours. Couples can book private nighttime Jacuzzi sessions under the stars. Room highlights include enormous marble bathrooms with a separate shower and Jacuzzi, and private terraces that look out to the ocean or the property’s lushly landscaped grounds.

Punta Cana’s Agua Resort consists of 53 sumptuous suites spread across a series of thatched-roof bungalows and villas. A serpentine pool bisects the property, culminating in a magnificent ocean-front infinity pool that looks out on a peaceful white sand beach. Agua’s atmosphere is hushed and serene, punctuated only by the sounds of waves lapping the shore. Rooms are massive and chic, service is doting, and the food is upscale, if a little limited.

La Romana’s Casa de Campo spans 7,000 manicured acres and has everything from trap and skeet shooting, to an equestrian center, to a replica 16th-century Mediterranean village, though it’s most famous for its world class golf course, Teeth of the Dog. The beach is also topnotch, and the 20+ restaurants are headlined by an outpost of New York’s legendary Le Cirque. Rooms are large and elegant, but less modern than other Dominican luxury resorts.

Couples-only Catalonia Royal Bavaro is a good all-inclusive budget option in Punta Cana. The beach is spectacular, rooms are clean, quiet and spacious, and service is surprisingly attentive. In addition to Jacuzzis and stand-up showers, all rooms feature canopied beds, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. The only downside is that no rooms front the ocean. Dining options are a definite step up from most Dominican all-inclusives, and the resort features quality name-brand liquor and 24-hour room service.