A new player appeared on the general scene and quickly rose to prominence. The 340-room W Punta Cana debuted in August as the world’s first all-inclusive W hotel. This was a fascinating opportunity to see how popular brands can put their own spin on an all-encompassing concept. And I wasn’t disappointed with what I found.
Located in Uvero Alto, about 45 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport, W Punta Cana is a refreshing departure from your average beach resort. The first thing I noticed was how rich and rooted in nature the design was. Rather than concrete-encased terrain, W Punta Cana is adorned with thatched-roofed promenades that wind over lush greenery. Towering palm trees and tropical plants border the beautiful pool and beach.
We were also impressed by the contemporary architecture and stylish interior design, which makes good use of local materials and fine finishes, including Dominican black granite, Samana marble, and coral stone. The overall look is clearly W. The atmosphere is contemporary and bold, yet comfortable and relaxed.
W style accommodation
I toured multiple room categories and found all rooms to be spacious and well-designed. But my favorite was where I stayed. A 2,530 square foot oasis suite with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and two balconies.
Credit: 2025 W Punta Cana
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The stunning main bathroom had an outdoor soaking tub, and the largest balcony deck featured a large plunge pool and lounge chairs. I also appreciated the eye-catching decorations. Sculptural light fixtures enhance the living and dining areas, and thoughtful additions include a KitchenAid ice maker, wine refrigerator, and snack bar stocked with both savory and sweet items. The mini fridge was stocked with soft drinks, beer and wine, all included in the price.
pool, spa, experience
The beach and pool area are one of the biggest attractions of a beachfront resort, and W Punta Cana does not disappoint with its service. Travelers familiar with the brand will notice the W flair of the wet deck. This wet deck features an 82-foot infinity pool with loungers and shaded daybeds on one side and a wide beach with daybeds on the other. Just a short walk away, the Chill Pool offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a swim-up bar, which is especially popular in the late afternoon.
Another selling point is the on-site Away Spa, which has a beautiful hydrotherapy area and offers a variety of treatments. The massage was especially relaxing. I also made good use of the gym located in the same building.
As for entertainment, the W team has organized a varied calendar of activities, but there are no loud pool games (a welcome difference from many resorts). Options during my stay included a wine and canvas painting session, a Dominican cacao workshop, and a mixology class. Additionally, Colmadito Nights are held at the outdoor Plaza Bar, where you can sample local drinks, listen to live music, and test your domino toppling skills.
Satsuma Rooftop is a popular spot for sunset cocktails and raw bar food, with sweeping views of both the mountains and ocean. And for night owls, speakeasy-style bar 33 1/3 opens at 10 p.m., making for a cool spot for a nightcap. There’s also a hidden humidor for cigar lovers.
Top-notch food and drinks
Unsurprisingly, W Punta Cana sets the bar high with its food and beverage offerings. There are 12 restaurants, bars and lounges, each offering something unique but equally unified by a stylish, upscale atmosphere and attentive service.
Credit: 2025 W Punta Cana
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My first meal set the tone. I thoroughly enjoyed the salmon carpaccio at Taman Beach Club, followed by seafood rice with socarrat, loaded with green pepper, coriander and olive oil. Breakfast at the Trade Market was a smartly designed food hall with multiple live cooking stations offering something for every taste, from fresh tropical fruit to perfectly poached eggs. Room service is available 24 hours a day, so you can always satisfy your culinary cravings.
My favorite gastronomic experiences were steeped in local flavor. Rices Dominicanas Nights at Taman is a weekly celebration of Dominican cuisine. I loved the great tasting menu of salpicón, mofongo, sancocho, and majarete, all paired with the Flor de Noche cocktail made with Bacardi Gold, Oloroso Sherry, Amaretto, Hibiscus, and Bitters.
Other dining options include Scena, which recreates Dominican and Caribbean flavors in an intimate and chic open kitchen environment, and Noodle Bar, which serves creative pan-Asian cuisine. Even the offerings at Outpost Café, which has become my go-to spot for pastries and snacks day and night, were a step above your typical all-inclusive dining experience.
I quickly realized that the phrase “one step above” applied to most aspects of W Punta Cana. The property successfully integrates the all-inclusive concept with W Hotels’ trademark style, sensibility and quality, creating a new option ideal for W fans as well as those seeking a sophisticated, adults-only all-inclusive vacation.
If this is what we can expect from future W all-inclusive accommodations, I’ll be a happy traveler.
