Royalton Bavaro Resort & Spa

First opened in December 2017, the Royalton Bavaro offers a high-end experience from the get-go. The large cobblestoned driveway makes for a pleasant first impression, but it’s the lobby that sets the mood for a luxe yet relaxed vacation. Decked out in polished marble floors decorated with thick rugs in neutral hues, stylish wooden seating with plush pillows, and large metallic ornaments on walls and ceilings, the open lobby feels inviting and modern without being over-the-top. The reception area opens directly onto the central part of the resort and features spacious decks that lend the property a laid-back, relaxing vibe. Deeper into the property, things get a little bit busier, with several pools, lots of bars and restaurants, and multiple kid-friendly areas. However, the atmosphere is not necessarily party-oriented, and there are many areas where one can retreat for a quiet day. One of those areas is the Diamond Club section of the hotel, which is almost a resort within a resort. It is exclusively for guests who choose to upgrade to the Diamond Club and has a more intimate feel, with perks such as a private pool, a bar, an executive lounge with breakfast, snacks and drinks, butler service, and an exclusive area on the beach -- as well as an array of in-room extras. Though this is an excellent option for those wanting a little extra luxury and peace, the standard all-inclusive package at the Royalton Bavaro is also great. It includes free unlimited meals at all a la carte eateries, free Wi-Fi for unlimited devices, and non-motorized water sports, among many other perks. 

Set overlooking a lovely, fine-sand beach in northern Bavaro, the Royalton Bavaro Resort & Spa is flanked on both sides by other beachfront resorts. There isn’t much of general interest within walking distance of the resort, but few guests actually leave the property during their stay. Long walks along the beach are possible, but there aren’t any restaurants or shops nearby that are not part of the neighboring hotels. Those looking to visit local attractions will need to either rent a car or arrange transportation at the resort. Bavaro Adventure Park and Palma Real Shopping Village are each about a 20-minute drive away, as is Punta Cana. The famous Hoyo Azul can be reached in about 40 minutes by car. Punta Cana International Airport is a 25-minute drive away.  

The hotel’s 730 rooms are divided into two main categories: Luxury and Diamond Club. Luxury units are located in the main buildings, which are set along the sides of the lazy river and near restaurants, bars, and the lobby. Diamond Club rooms are housed in their own private buildings, located closer to the beach and the central part of the resort. These units offer the best sea views. Regardless of category, all rooms are decorated in a similar elegant style that combines a neutral palette with darker wood paneling and clean-lined white furniture. Ceiling moldings with recessed lighting, backlit mirrors, and reading lights lend units a warm feeling, while contemporary abstract artworks tie in well with both the palette and the overall style. Rooms start at 602 square feet and are spacious and light, each with enough space for a sitting area outfitted with a sofa bed, a coffee table, and a work desk with a chair. Large glass doors slide open onto furnished balconies offering either resort, pool, or sea views. Some entry-level Junior Suites also offer swim-up access from a pool shared with other units. The largest room here is the four-bedroom, 2,551-square-foot Chairman’s Suite, which features a dining table, a pool table, and an outdoor hot tub. In-room amenities are great across the board, consisting of free Wi-Fi, large flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning and ceiling fans, USB ports, signature beds, minibars, Bluetooth sound systems, and coffeemakers. Diamond Club units come with a number of additional in-room perks, including upgraded room service menus, pillow menus, free minibars restocked daily, robes, and slippers. Bathrooms have an open design with lattice screens separating them from the bedroom -- which some guests have found a tad lacking in privacy. They’re all stylish and upscale, though, with separate jetted tubs and rainfall showers, big vanity areas with double sinks, and separate toilet cabins. 

One of the main draws here is the hotel’s lovely, fine-sand beach, complete with cabanas, food and drink service, and loungers placed under straw umbrellas. Non-motorized water sports are available free of charge here, and guests can book scuba diving tours and day trips for a fee. Additionally, there are several great pools, including a huge lazy river with a grotto bar, an infinity pool overlooking the beach, a FlowRider pool, a splash park for kids, and a family pool. Diamond Club guests have their own lovely pool located next to an area of the beach reserved exclusively for them.The hotel offers a full entertainment program for all ages, ranging from cultural to fitness activities, both indoors and outdoors. Kids have their own designated clubs divided by age, from babies to teens. The spa is relaxing and upscale and offers a wide range of treatments and salon services, along with a hydrotherapy area. The gym is outfitted with cardio and strength-training machines and hosts lots of weekly classes, including Zumba, bootcamp, and yoga. There is also a casino on-site. Dining is a highlight at the Royalton Bavaro, with eight restaurants, nine bars, and 24-hour room service all part of the all-inclusive rate. The main restaurant is the only buffet-style option, while the rest are a la carte, which guests can use unlimited times free of charge during their stay. The most popular options are the Brazilian and Asian restaurants, but there is also a steakhouse, a trattoria, and a lively sports bar. The Culinary Experience, offering a seven-course meal paired with musical selections, is the only restaurant that comes with a cover fee. Diamond Club guests have their own buffet restaurant by the beach, plus three lounges, including one offering breakfast and afternoon snacks and premium drinks.