Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa

Secrets Cap Cana opened in November 2016 and the oceanfront property’s manicured grounds are full of colorful tropical landscaping, small grassy fields, and palm trees that stretch in seemingly every direction. That layout does a lot to cultivate the resort's away-from-it-all and exclusive vibe -- particularly helpful given this property's adult-only, all-inclusive policy. At first glance, things can seem a little livelier than one might expect of a self-proclaimed romantic getaway. The lobby is a hopping spot, and guests often hang about in its plush armchairs and couches -- especially near the Starbucks-style coffee shop and lobby bar. Those impressions aside, the resort has a tranquil vibe overall -- but it might be trying a bit too hard to impose tranquility. We were a bit confused (and unsettled) by the strange sepia-toned videos on all of the TVs (including in guest rooms) of kids, animals, and elephants slow-motion, frolicking to a soundtrack of downbeat meditation music. Even so, for a package chain resort, the style here is pleasantly up to date and attractive, particularly for couples who are in search of romance and don't want to be bothered with keeping track of details. Keep in mind that like most AMResorts, Secrets Cap Cana has a pricey Preferred Club option with members-only amenities like a private pool, private beach area, and exclusive dining. Expect to see mostly couples of all ages here. 

Secrets is located along Cap Cana's Juanillo Beach, but keep in mind that there’s nothing within walking distance and it's an expensive taxi ride to get anywhere. A marina with a nightclub and multiple restaurants serving seafood, Italian, and Spanish cuisines is a five-minute drive away, serving as the closest development of any sort. A Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course with breathtaking ocean views is a 15-minute drive from the resort, and it's about the same distance to Punta Cana Village, which has open-air shopping and dining. Scape Park -- with its breathtaking cenote, waterfalls, and a private beach -- is an 18-minute drive from Secrets. A bit farther from the resort is an adventure park with a paintball field, mountain bike trails, zip lines, and climbing wall. It takes about 30 minutes to reach by car. Santo Domingo, home to a UNESCO-listed colonial zone, is a two-hour-and-15-minute drive away. Getting to and from this part of Punta Cana from abroad is relatively easy, though, as the airport is only a 15-minute drive away. 

The air-conditioned rooms here are a nice step up from most chain resorts, with a modern polish that only amplifies the garden, pool, or ocean views. All rooms have a king or two queen beds with blue bed runners, violet throw pillows, and built-in hardwood headboards. Wooden doors and built-ins give everything an upmarket finish, while metal pendant lamps contrast artsy woven tapestries that hang over the beds. Tan love seats further complement the overall effect with matching cushions and purple throw pillows. Minibars are stocked with beer, soda, juice, and Champagne, and rooms have Nespresso coffeemakers as well. Both are free for guests, though those on Preferred Club plans do receive upgraded minibars, plus extras like pillow menus and butlers. Standard features include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, iPads for ordering 24-hour room service, safes, robes, slippers, bath robes, irons, and ironing boards. The hotel's mobile app also allows for free calls to the U.S. and Canada. Wall-mounted USB plugs are helpful for those who have excess charging needs. All rooms have balconies or terraces with armchairs, and some also feature whirlpool tubs, swim-out pools, or giant wraparound balconies. The marble-floored bathrooms include dual sinks and rainfall showers plus hairdryers, scales, and lots of toiletries. It's worth noting that the resort has initiated some eco-friendly policies, including motion-triggered energy supplies. However, this does mean that the power occasionally goes off when guests aren't moving around in their rooms. 

Like most of the huge resorts in Punta Cana, features are numerous at Secrets Cap Cana, but the gorgeous palm-tree lined beach is a standout. It's lined with lounge chairs, thatched umbrellas, and hammocks. Get there early, though, as seats fill up early and early-morning seat saving isn't uncommon. There's also beach volleyball and bocce ball for those who prefer a little more activity. Additionally, non-motorized water sports are free and include kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, wind-surfing boards, and Hobie Cat catamarans. Free introductory Hobie Cat sailing lessons are also available. Secrets has two freshwater, zero-entry infinity pools that overlook the beach. These have shallow areas for lying in the pool, and are surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas. They also have walk-up pool bars and warm-water whirlpool tubs. It’s worth noting that one of the pools is only for Preferred Club members (the resort’s pricey upgrade plan). With nine restaurants, there are plenty of food options, but many of the outlets get mixed reviews. We also heard reports that the menu at Markets Buffet -- the lunchtime dining spot for most guests -- doesn’t change and gets repetitive. Himitsu is the Asian fusion restaurant with teppanyaki tables and a sushi bar. El Patio serves Mexican fare and overlooks the pool, while Bordeaux is Secrets' French restaurant. Seafood, steaks, and Italian fare are also available, and all restaurants are included in the hotel's rates. Reservations are never required, but some have dress codes, so check ahead. The resort also puts on themed dinners, like barbecues on the beach. Room service is available 24 hours a day. Eight bars are scattered throughout the property, so it's never a long walk for a cocktail or beer, and the coffee shop in the lobby is perpetually busy. Beer, wine, and top-shelf liquor are all included in the resort's all-inclusive packages, as are juices and soft drinks. The resort's theater hosts nightly live entertainment like jazz, classical, and vocal performances and -- of course -- the property comes with a full-fledged nightclub for livelier evenings. The gym is stocked with modern Life Fitness treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, weight machines, dumbbells, and free weights. Free yoga and pool aquatics classes are available, but there are no tennis courts or personal trainers. Secrets Spa by Pevonia offers spa services like massages, manicures, pedicures, fish pedicures, hydrotherapy pools, a sauna, and a steam room. While treatments there will cost extra, other resort freebies include bike tours to the nearby marina, Spanish lessons, and introductory scuba classes.In the lobby, there’s an ATM and multiple shops selling souvenirs, jewelry, beachware, sundries, and cigars. Like other AMResorts, Secrets has a Preferred Club upgrade which comes with additional amenities like private check-in, a private pool, exclusive beach area, and a la carte breakfasts at Oceana. There’s a book exchange with board games like Scrabble and checkers, but it’s located in the Preferred Club area, so guests not staying in the pricier rooms don’t have access to them. The resort has meeting rooms, laundry service, and an app that allows free calls to the United States, Canada, and local land lines. There’s also free Wi-Fi throughout the property.