Best Boutique Hotels in Punta Cana

Sitting between Cap Cana Marina and Punta Cana International Airport along the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Tortuga Bay appeases travelers with luxurious amenities. Not many resorts can advertise spacious suites designed by fashion icon Oscar de la Renta. Aside from the stylish decor, accommodations also boast balconies or patios, Jacuzzis, walk-in closets, kitchenettes and flat-screen TVs. Guests rave about the tasty (albeit expensive) food served on Oscar's signature tables at Bamboo Restaurant (as well as at the six other eateries within the Puntacana Resort & Club complex). But Oscar de la Renta isn't the only name guests will recognize: Avid golfers will likely jump at the chance to play one or both of Tortuga Bay's courses, designed by Tom Fazio and P.B. Dye. Meanwhile, relaxation-seekers can take advantage of the Six Senses Spa, which features a full menu of massages and body scrubs. But what travelers like most about this Leading Hotels of the World property is how different it feels from other Punta Cana resorts. Many vacationers say that the 1,500-acre reserve – maintained by the resort's ecological foundation – is a refreshing break from the overcrowded Bávaro beach hotel scene. And Leaders Club members you're in luck – this property grants perks like suite upgrades to rewards program participants.

Eden Roc at Cap Cana prides itself on offering secluded luxury. Tucked inside Cap Cana, one of Punta Cana's most exclusive communities, this Relais & Châteaux outpost offers a long list of sumptuous amenities. Each of the resort's 62 suites features high ceilings, complimentary Wi-Fi access, a Nespresso machine and either a private balcony or terrace. Some even come equipped with a private pool. Outside the suites, travelers can unwind with a treatment at Solaya Spa or enjoy the Eden Roc Beach Club, a private facility that touts a palm-shaded pool, a barbecue area and a beach bar. However, some guests agreed the restaurants were overpriced for what they offered. For more action, families can visit the children's pool or drop their little ones off at the Koko Kid's Club for games, crafts and more. When it's time to eat, vacationers can head to one of three restaurants. Suite rates cover daily breakfast at BLUE Grill + Bar, while Mediterraneo restaurant offers seasonal flavors for dinner and a third eatery, La Palapa, is available for fresh seafood by the Caribbean Sea.

Sitting roughly 15 miles northwest of the heart of Punta Cana's busy Bávaro resort strip, Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana (a Dominican Republic property that's part of the AMResorts family) earns two thumbs up from recent honeymooners. Previous guests said that Zoëtry's secluded beach location paints the scene for a luxurious post-nuptial getaway. The resort's 96 suites and villas reside beneath thatched roofs and feature deep soaking tubs, private balconies or terraces and 24-hour concierge service as part of Zoëtry's Endless Privileges all-inclusive experience. With this program, you can also partake in complimentary extras like daily spa treatments, horseback riding excursions and unlimited cocktails. (Past travelers especially appreciated the free bottle of rum at check-in.) When you're not lounging by one of two infinity pools or at the beach, take a wine-tasting, painting or a cigar-rolling class before indulging in a romantic meal for two at one of four a la carte restaurants. Although most former diners enjoyed the property's cuisine, some cautioned that the service can be hit or miss.

If you're looking to escape the sprawling brand-name resorts of Bávaro Beach, continue roughly 20 miles northwest to Le Sivory Punta Cana by PortBlue Boutique. Although some past guests were fans of Le Sivory Punta Cana's isolated locale, others said it was a bit removed from all of the action. But there's no real reason to leave the property between check-in and checkout. The boutique, adults-only hotel's 55 suites are elegant – with Mediterranean- and Caribbean-inspired decor – and come equipped with terraces, flat-screen TVs, separate showers and tubs, coffee makers and free Wi-Fi access. Some suites even boast private plunge pools that overlook the ocean. To keep you from getting cabin fever, Le Sivory Punta Cana offers a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, a spa, an outdoor infinity pool and a beach. Cap off your day with a cocktail at one of two bars or a bite to eat at one of four restaurants. All suite rates are all-inclusive, meaning you won't have to pay extra for any meal or drink. However, some previous diners were underwhelmed with the on-site cuisine.