I love island vacations as much as anyone. Dare I say it: beaches, tranquility, and ultimate relaxation. Still, I’ll admit that not all islands are created equal. Some are perfect for family vacations, others are great romantic escapes, and some are perfect for the ultimate friends getaway. The accommodations are modern and beautiful, the prices aren’t too high, the drinks are endless, and the weather (and tan) seems guaranteed. Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic fits into that category.
This man-made destination in the Caribbean is a quintessential tourist destination, with around 50,000 hotel rooms nestled mostly in all-inclusive resorts (we highly recommend the Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort). Tour services, amusement parks and well-appointed spa experiences are at your disposal, as is unlimited food and drink. But explore the island a little deeper and you’ll find beautiful workout experiences tailored to bachelorette parties, adults-only pools and ocean views, and water sports for all ages. Read on to find out what to do and where to stay.
Stay at Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort
Just 30 minutes from the airport (book your transport with Otium and you’ll have no trouble getting around), this Melia outpost offers a truly luxurious stay. There’s the kid-friendly main resort and the adults-only The Reserve, which has a private pool and beach (this is where my friend and I stayed and highly recommend it). Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a dedicated concierge who is both your guide and your personal travel agent. He or she will book excursions, advise on activities around the property (you can do anything from water aerobics to silent disco), make dinner reservations for party nights, and more (thanks, Alvaro!).
Spacious rooms, perfectly manicured grounds and a nonstop program ensure that your all-inclusive stay will never be boring. The property also has a golf course, a fantastic spa and a kids’ club for those with little ones.
Enjoy private island yoga
Off-resort excursions vary slightly depending on where you’re staying, but it’s worth finding out if a private island yoga experience is on your horizon. At Paradisus Palma Real, you can join a three-hour excursion aboard a catamaran to a secluded private beach. Once on the beach, expert instructors will lead a meditative, restorative yoga class that celebrates the beauty of the island.
I went on a quick getaway with my best friend to celebrate my birthday and couldn’t help but think it was the perfect bachelorette party experience. The class is suitable for all skill levels and the boat ride to the island is pure bliss. It’s an easy way to get some exercise since you’ll be spending most of the trip eating, drinking and sitting.
(Image courtesy of Melia)
Check out water sports
I try my best to spend a day or two lounging on the beach with a good book, but if the urge for activity strikes, you’re in luck. The all-inclusive areas of the island are chock-full of water sports vendors. Contact your hotel to find the most reputable beach vendors, then strap on a life jacket and try your hand at parasailing, jet skiing or wind gliding. The ocean is yours to own. With crystal clear, never-freezing water, this is a fantastic place to enjoy water sports.
See the wildlife
Punta Cana is known for its incredible wildlife, so don’t miss this opportunity. If you’re in the area between mid-January and late March, sign up for a whale watching experience and you might even catch a glimpse of a humpback whale. Travel to Samaná Bay, which is part of the Dominican Republic’s Marine Mammal Sanctuary, where strict rules are in place to ensure the mammals have a safe place to swim, give birth, and enjoy the waters.
If whales aren’t your thing (yes, everyone has their own preferences), consider booking a tour to swim with dolphins, snorkel, and see the area’s incredible coral reefs and diverse fish life. Sign up for a tour to Cabeza del Toro Nature Reserve or off the coast of Catalina Island for some amazing views.
Enjoy a spa treatment
Trust us, being on the beach with friends is like asking the powers that be to sign you up for a spa treatment. The perfect detox before a girls’ night out or the ultimate rest and relaxation activity (this island really depends on how you spend your time), a facial or massage with a view of the picturesque coastline is an absolute must. We highly recommend Yhi Healing Spa, which combines therapies from different cultures. Experience an exotic body massage inspired by ancient Indonesian beauty rituals, breathing exercises incorporating Mayongo techniques, or a foot massage based on Japanese principles.
(Image courtesy of Melia)
Drink it all!
The best part about all-inclusive is the unlimited drinks. Whether you want a frozen piña colada by the beach or a glass of rosé wine with dinner, you’ll have plenty to drink. That’s why it’s ideal for a girls’ getaway: no splitting bills or stressing; it’s all taken care of before you set foot on the sand.
