Playabachata Resort Review: What To REALLY Expect If You Stay

Pros

Large beach is pleasant for lounging and swimming
Several pools with activities such as volleyball
Bottom-shelf liquor “on tap” in the rooms
Daily children’s activities at the kids’ club
On-site spa has a beachside massage hut
Activities such as tennis and water sports

Cons

Rooms are drab and outdated
The beach can get crowded
Numerous complaints of bland food
No free in-room Wi-Fi

Bottom Line

This budget-friendly property attracts families, couples, and solo travelers with its many features and affordable rates. Rooms are outdated and there are numerous complaints about the food being bland, but those seeking an inexpensive getaway can enjoy the hotel’s large beach and numerous pools.

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Hotel & Amenities Photos

Amenities

Standard Room

The Hotel

Beach

Restaurants and Bars

Children's Pool

Pool

Amenities

Cribs
Fitness Center
Internet
Kids Club
Pool
Spa

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Oyster Awards

Scene

Budget travelers of all types hang by the pool and on the beach.

PlayaBachata Resort feels a lot like the many budget properties along the beach in Puerto Plata. Sprawling grounds are well kept and the airy common spaces have a laid-back, casual feel with worn wicker furniture and tropical accents. Though the resort features several pools and a large beach, crowds of guests -- everyone from spring breakers to families to couples to solo retirees -- gather early in the day to soak up the sun. Even though PlayaBachata Resort isn’t particularly tranquil (especially considering the daytime activities that take place poolside), it has a relaxed vibe.

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Location

In the westernmost part of Puerto Plata

PlayaBachata Resort sits on a large beach in the westernmost part of Puerto Plata. Surrounded by rolling farmland, the property is about a five-minute drive from the closest town, which is a tiny area called Maimon, home to several restaurants and bars. Cofresi, where the popular Ocean World Adventure Park is located, is about a seven-minute drive from the property, and guests can also drive about 10 minutes to reach the main area of Puerto Plata, where they can find numerous restaurants and shops, and a lively nightlife scene.

Most guests, however, choose not to leave the resort once they arrive. The Puerto Plata Airport is about a 30-minute drive from the hotel, which costs about $40 USD each way.

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Features

Numerous on-site features add value.

With numerous pools, a beach, and a long list of on-site activities, the PlayaBachata Resort offers a solid value. Guests can play volleyball in one of the three pools or on the sand, and water sports, tennis, and organized daytime activities are also available. Families will likely appreciate the kids’ club, playground, and game room, and while the fitness center is relatively sparse, it does have a couple cardio and weight-training machines, as well as free weights. There is also a game room, a theater, and a spa.

Food here is mediocre at best. There are six restaurants, with the most popular being the buffet. Several of the restaurants are duplicates in order to accommodate the crowds, so the range of cuisine available is not particularly extensive.

Free Wi-Fi is available in the lobby daily, and operates on a time limit.

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Things You Should Know About Playabachata Resort

Also Known As

Rui Merengue
Riu Merengue Dominican Republic
Club Hotel Riu Merengue
Clubhotel Riu Merengue Hotel
Riu Merengue Puerto Plata
Clubhotel Riu Merengue Puerto Plata
ClubHotel Riu Merengue

Room Types

Standard Room
Suite

Address

Carretera Navarrete, Bahia de Maimon, Puerto Plata 57000, Dominican Republic

Phone

(809) 320-4000

Website

Playabachata Resort