Best Family Hotels in Puerto Plata

Along with a killer oceanfront location, the Gansevoort Dominican Republic is teeming with so many amenities, visitors may never want to leave. The property's 48 suites, which include lofts, luxury apartments and penthouses, start at 2,050 square feet and feature Egyptian cotton linens, kitchens, fully stocked bars, walk-in closets and balconies or patios. Although considered by some to be an isolated property (about 15 miles east of Puerto Plata), this Gansevoort knows how to keep guests entertained with complimentary amenities like snorkeling gear, kayaks and paddleboard rentals, a game room with pool and foosball tables, and breakfast served beachside. There is also a spa and gym as well as the hotel's signature Baia Lounge and Aguazul eateries. Although some travelers may find only two on-site restaurants to be limiting, especially at a hotel in a far-flung part of town, guests say the quality of food was so outstanding that some ditched their initial plans of leaving the resort in favor of eating on-site. Another crowd favorite is the three-tiered oceanfront infinity pool, adjacent to the restaurant and the resort's stretch of private beach. Guests say sunsets from the hotel are something not to miss, with many guests saying they're planning their return as we speak.

Less than 3 miles southeast of Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, this all-inclusive, adults-only resort is situated on Playa Dorada. Previous guests said this is a solid budget choice for an all-inclusive vacation. The resort's 245 rooms and suites feature minibars, tea and coffee service, cable TVs and minifridges. One common gripe among recent visitors, though, was that the rooms could use some updates and that Wi-Fi access and in-room safes cost extra to use. Outside the rooms, travelers have access to a bevy of amenities, such as a spa, a private beach, three pools and concierges services. Plus, plenty of activities are available for free daily, including painting classes, scuba diving, sushi-making classes, Spanish lessons, windsurfing and more. Room rates also cover meals and drinks at BlueBay Villas Doradas' four eateries, which serve Asian fusion cuisine, grilled bites, fresh seafood and international favorites buffet-style.