The skyscraper resort that changed Punta Cana forever

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It wasn’t just a vibe, it was the law. The government has formally committed that buildings on the coastline will never exceed four storeys (the height of a coconut tree).

It was this legal guarantee that saved Punta Cana from becoming a second Cancun or Miami. The horizon was low, preserving the tropical feel, and the concrete was hidden by palm trees.

But if you drive north toward Macau Beach today, you’ll see something that stops traffic.

A gigantic 18-story tower rises above the jungle, transforming the horizon. This is the new Moon Palace Punta Cana, and its existence has sparked intense debate about the future of the island.

How did it happen? In 2017, the government passed a new law that overturned the rules and allowed this particular megaproject to go vertical.

Is this the beginning of an era of modern luxury for the DR, or is this the end of the island we all fell in love with?

There are both sides here, so you can decide for yourself.

Criticism: Impact on regional characteristics

For Punta Cana’s “old guard,” it’s not just about how a building looks, it’s about how you feel when you stay there.

1. The “concrete wall” effect The rooms have balconies, the design of which is fundamental to the DR. Unlike the traditional Punta Cana hidden thatched bungalows, these towers rise like giant white cliffs above the tree line. Critics claim that looking at the 18-story concrete grid from above the sand creates a “psychological disconnect” – that instead of feeling immersed in nature, one feels dominated by the architecture. It’s the difference between a beach house and a city hotel.

2. Density and the “Las Vegas” atmosphere Verticality means density. Stack 2,000 people into one tower and you lose the “spread out” feel of a tropical resort. The pool deck feels more crowded, the lobby feels louder, and the overall energy shifts from “lazy island” to “vibrant Las Vegas.” It feels more like a cruise ship that never leaves the port than a natural retreat.

3. Slippery Slope Now that the loophole has broken the seal, what will stop the next developer from requesting 25 stories?Many fear that in 10 years Bavaro’s coastline will look like a concrete wall, blocking out the sea breeze and sunrise for everyone else.

Strategy: Why go vertical?

Meanwhile, developers (the Chapur family) and government officials argue that the old laws are outdated and that going vertical is actually better for the environment.

1. “Footprint” logic
This is the strongest argument against the tower. If you want to build 2,171 rooms, you have two options.

Option A (Horizontal): Bulldoze 500 acres of jungle and spread out low-rise buildings (urban sprawl). Option B (Vertical): Build one tall tower on 10 acres, leaving the remaining 490 acres as untouched mangroves and jungle. Developers argue that by building, they are actually protecting more nature above ground.

2. Modern travelers want views Let’s be honest: Luxury travelers love views. At the traditional Punta Cana resort, only the front row seats have sea views. The 18-story tower offers panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea to everyone. Proponents argue that the DR needs to offer this kind of modern “high-altitude” luxury to compete with Dubai, Mexico and Hawaii.

3. Economic Reality The Moon Palace project is a huge economic engine. It will bring in thousands of jobs and high tourism dollars, elevating the “Macau” region from a sleepy surf spot to a luxury destination. It’s hard for developing countries to say “no” to billions of dollars in investments because of outdated zoning rules.

One thing is for sure, regardless of the debate, the Tower will be packed. Moon Palace has built one of the most loyal followings in the travel industry, with thousands of loyal fans who would refuse to vacation anywhere else. For these travelers, the “law of the palm tree” is far less important than the consistent luxury service of well-known brands in Mexico and Jamaica. If you’re one of them, get your calendar ready. Reservations for this innovative accommodation will officially open on June 1, 2026.

What travelers can expect

A tower is being built. The debate over whether it should exist or not is over. The truth is, Punta Cana is evolving.

This is no longer just a sleepy village of thatched bungalows. As expected, it is a tourist powerhouse.

The presence of the Moon Palace doesn’t necessarily ruin a destination. It just provides options.

Do you want a classic, low-rise, hidden-in-the-jungle feel? 95% of Punta Cana still stands. Want a Miami-style mega-resort with 18-story sunsets and high-energy luxury? Well, there’s Macau.

The skyline has changed forever. Whether that’s a blemish or a sign of progress depends on whether you prefer the sound of palm trees or the noise of skyscrapers.