Best Beach Hotels in Santo Domingo

Surrounded by the hustle and bustle of Santo Domingo's commercial district, El Embajador provides guests with both an urban atmosphere and prime beach access. Recent visitors described the hotel as beautiful, praising the historical decorative accents like crystal chandeliers in the lobby and classic furnishings in the suites. However, some past guests cited the property's location as better suited for business travelers and couples typing the knot instead of sightseers. Whether you're staying here for work or leisure, you'll have access to facilities like three restaurants (one of which is reserved exclusively for Royal Level guests), two bars, a spa, a business center, a casino and two pools. Plus, all suites come with free Wi-Fi access, smart TVs and iHome clock radios, among other amenities.

If you're looking for something simple and comfortable for your vacation (not to mention affordable), then the Sheraton Santo Domingo Hotel may be the right fit. The hotel's 245 guest rooms are decorated in neutral color palettes and feature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper beds, flat-screen TVs, minibars and ample work space. Outside the rooms, the hotel boasts a well-equipped fitness center, plus a business center and an outdoor pool. But what stands out about this Sheraton property is its location. The hotel is close to the city's historical Zona Colonial, the financial district and the Don Diego cruise terminal. Not only that, but the hotel is situated across the street from the ocean, which means guests can enjoy water views from upgraded accommodations' floor-to-ceiling windows or balconies. In addition to offering a superb location, guests praise the property's top-notch customer service, with many saying that the staff went out of their way to make their stay special. Others rave about the cuisine served at the internationally focused Cafe Casabe Restaurant, the sushi venue and the pool bistro. However, a few visitors did report minor room issues like malfunctioning air-conditioning units and weak water pressure in their showers. Remember, this property is part of the Marriott hotel family, so Marriott Bonvoy members can earn or use points while staying here.

Situated in the bustling Malecon, the Marriott-affiliated Renaissance Santo Domingo Jaragua Hotel & Casino offers a convenient location for travelers looking to explore Santo Domingo's contemporary neighborhood. Visitors appreciate the updated decor and say the hotel makes for a comfortable stay. Rooms feature plush bedding, Aveda toiletries and, in select accommodations, views of the Caribbean Sea. But with all of the other amenities, you may not need to spend much time in your digs. Travelers say the pool is large, well-maintained and right across the street from the ocean. For a little more pampering, head to the spa. Or, if you're tempted to test Lady Luck, check out the on-site casino. After you work up an appetite, grab a bite at one of the hotel's two restaurants, Luna Bar & Restaurant and Sol Pool Lounge & Restaurant. The property also features a coffee shop with homemade gelato for those with sweet tooths. Recent guests' only complaint was the occasionally lackluster customer service. However, if you're a Marriott Bonvoy member, you can earn or use points here.

Catalonia Santo Domingo appeals to both business and leisure travelers. This Santo Domingo hotel features nearly 12,000 square feet of meeting space, a business center and free Wi-Fi access, so your only excuse for a lapse in productivity is the nearby beach. If you don't have deadlines to worry about, spend some time by the pool or sipping cocktails at one of two bars. Recent guests praised the clean and spacious (albeit dated) guest rooms, equipped with flat-screen TVs, minibars, work desks and coffee makers. However, some past travelers had mixed feelings about the property's location. While some loved its proximity to the Malecon, others wished it had more restaurants within walking distance and was closer to central attractions like Zona Colonial. If you'd rather dine on-site, head to the Sea Blue Breakfast for buffet-style breakfasts, Filigrana Restaurant for Dominican-inspired lunches and dinners or Five Hundred Snack Bar for pizzas, tapas and more.

With its ideal location along the Malecón, just a mile southwest of Zona Colonial, this Crowne Plaza outpost makes a great home base for exploring Santo Domingo. Previous guests loved the ocean views from the guest rooms, which also come equipped with coffee makers, minibars, free Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs. If you're able to part from your cozy digs, the Crowne Plaza Santo Domingo does offer several ways to enjoy the warm weather, including a pool and whirlpool. Plus, the on-site spa and casino allow you to kick back and unwind. For a more lively atmosphere, head to Level 1 for a cocktail and live nightly music or grab a bite to eat at the pool bar, the lobby's casual Kaffetto's eatery or the American-focused Nabu Restaurant. Though most past visitors enjoyed the property's facilities, some cautioned that the restaurant menus are limited and that the on-site gym and pool are small. But keep in mind, members of the IHG Rewards Club program can earn or redeem points for stays here.