Finding Excellence in Punta Cana

What makes Punta Cana such a standout among Caribbean destinations? It starts with natural beauty in an idyllic setting. The palm-fringed “Coconut Coast” crowns the very easternmost tip of the lushly jungled Dominican Republic, like Cupid’s arrow piercing the meeting point between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Warm turquoise waters, golden beaches, and swaying palms provide a stunning backdrop for activities from windsurfing and whale watching to ziplining and horseback riding, while luxurious spa resorts make a compelling case for doing nothing at all. And through it all, the authentic hospitality of the Dominican people shines as warmly as the sun.

Punta Cana simply excels at everything we’ve come to expect from a romantic island getaway. And nowhere is that excellence more on display than at two aptly named sister resorts: Excellence Punta Cana and, just down the coast, Excellence El Carmen. Like true siblings, these all-inclusive, all-adult properties share many features in common, such as delectable and diverse restaurant offerings, multiple pools, generous suites, glorious beachfronts, ultra-indulgent spas, and a jovial yet relaxed attitude. But they have their differences, too. As a proud parent might say, each is excellent in its own unique way.

Fresh off a major renovation and ripe for a traditional love story, Excellence Punta Cana gleams with vibrant Caribbean-inspired colors and mid-century modern touches, while still retaining the romantic Colonial-era ambiance that has made it a perennial favorite for returning guests. It’s a place to feel grounded, secluded, and blissfully at home. The open-air lobby offers a view to the beach, providing your first glimpse of paradise as you sip a welcome cocktail. Surrounded by a beautiful palm grove, the resort envelops you in a warm embrace from which you’ll never want to emerge—not when there are 11 different international restaurants and 12 bars to choose from on your all-inclusive plan, and ample space to stretch out, either on a magnificent expanse of sand or alongside one of the four pools that wind through the grounds. Swim-up to the bar when it’s time for some refreshment. Paddle back to your room, if you’ve opted for a swim-up suite. And take that feeling of buoyancy a step further with a visit to the Miilé Spa, where the healing powers of water and native botanicals are put to work to restore your inner and outer glow.

Meanwhile, a mere five minutes’ drive down the coast, Excellence El Carmen sets the scene for a more hip, contemporary tale of bliss. Open since 2016, this masterpiece of modern design rises from a bed of golden sand fringed with coconut palms and lush bougainvillea. Step into the lobby, take in the brilliantly framed ocean views and breezy-chic gallery vibes, and you’ll know you’ve arrived some place special. The future-forward, cool-yet-comfy design continues throughout the interiors and spacious suites, which feature marble floors, open-plan bathrooms, and glass-enclosed whirlpool tubs overlooking private balconies. When you’re ready to take a dip outside the privacy of your suite, no fewer than 23 freshwater pools are scattered around the property awaiting you. Or, if you prefer, stake your claim to a cozy lounger and thatched umbrella along one of Punta Cana’s loveliest beaches. A dip in the gentle waves, or an excursion in a sea kayak for two, is bound to stir up some appetites. Excellence El Carmen offers many of the same enticing restaurant options as her sister property up the coast—plus a few trendier offerings, such as a full juice bar and a food truck serving tacos and nachos from a vintage bus. And for Excellence on a whole different level? Both resorts offer Club-level amenities, including exclusive suites, express check-in, private events, pools, dining spaces, and more.

Seclusion without isolation. Moments that transport you, and at the same time connect you. Reality that feels like a dream. There has never been a better time to discover the boundless beauty, charm, and romance of Punta Cana. Lift the veil on one of the Caribbean’s most tantalizing destinations, and find Excellence revealed.

Learn more at excellenceresorts.com/Dominican-Republic