Punta Cana: 4 Trips, 1 Destination We Keep Falling in Love With
Share
There’s something about Punta Cana that keeps calling us back. Maybe it’s the palm-lined beaches, the all-inclusive luxury, or the vibrant Dominican energy that instantly puts you in vacation mode. Whatever it is, this destination holds a special place in our hearts. We’ve traveled there four times over the years—first as newlyweds, then as a couple craving luxury and fun, to tripping as a family of five looking for both relaxation and entertainment, and mostly recently as a group trip. Punta Cana truly has something for EVERYONE!
Here’s a look at how our relationship with this Caribbean gem has grown, plus our top tips for planning the perfect trip—whether you're honeymooning, traveling as a couple, or bringing the whole crew along.
First Trip to DR: Honeymoon Magic at Punta Cana Princess
Our first international trip together was to Punta Cana for our honeymoon, and we couldn’t have picked a better spot to start our travel journey. We stayed at Punta Cana Princess, an adults-only all-inclusive resort that gave us all the romantic vibes we were craving.
The pool bar quickly became our favorite hangout spot, and we even picked up some Spanish along the way thanks to friendly bartenders and resort staff. One of the most memorable experiences was the dune buggy tour where we splashed through muddy trails, stopped at stunning cenotes, visited local villages, and got a firsthand glimpse of Punta Cana beyond the resort. It was the perfect mix of romance and adventure.
Honeymoon Tip: Pack clothes you don’t mind getting dirty for excursions like dune buggies, and definitely say yes to the photo packages—they’re worth it for the memories.
Trip #2: Luxury and Fun at Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana
Fast forward nearly a decade later, and we were back—this time staying at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana. This resort was next level. It’s massive, energetic, and full of entertainment, making it ideal for couples who want a resort with nonstop action.
We loved the on-site casino, indulged in a full spa day, and caught every single vibe at the poolside foam party. With direct beach access, an impressive variety of restaurants, and no shortage of things to do, we didn’t even feel the need to leave the resort. It was luxury, excitement, and relaxation wrapped into one all-inclusive experience.
Couples Tip: Go during the week if possible—it’s a little less crowded and the service is even more personalized.
Trip #3: Family Time at Meliá Caribe Beach Resort
For our annual international family trip, we brought the kids along and stayed at Meliá Caribe Beach Resort. This resort struck the perfect balance between affordability, beauty, and family-friendly options. We had spacious accommodations to comfortably fit our family of five and loved how walkable the resort was.
The kids enjoyed the kids’ club, splashing around the pools, and of course, the never-ending buffet options. Meanwhile, we still found time to relax on the beach and enjoy cocktails knowing everything was covered under the all-inclusive package.
Family Tip: Request a room near the pool or dining areas to minimize walking with little ones—and bring reusable water bottles for everyone to stay hydrated.
Trip #4: Adult Group Trip at Serenade All Suites
Our most recent Punta Cana adventure was all about good vibes, grown folks fun, and reconnecting with friends. We stayed at Serenade All Suites, choosing the adults-only side of the resort but fully taking advantage of the family side’s amenities too. This trip proved that Punta Cana isn’t just for romantic getaways and family vacations—it’s also the perfect destination for a group trip.
The resort offered everything we needed for a fun, low-stress stay: multiple restaurants, poolside games, direct beach access, and—of course—an incredible pool bar that kept the drinks flowing and the conversations going. We even won the resort’s version of "Simon Says" during the daytime pool entertainment. Competitive? Absolutely. Proud? Always.
One of the highlights of this trip was our Booze Cruise Excursion, which included snorkeling, a sandbar party, and a waterslide straight into the ocean. The snorkeling was short but memorable, and the sandbar portion turned into a full-on beach club moment—with music, drinks, food, and even hookah—all waist-deep in the water.
We also ventured out to Imagine Punta Cana, a one-of-a-kind nightclub built inside a cave. The energy was unmatched, the drinks were strong, and the setting was like nothing we’d experienced before. If you're looking for nightlife that’s beyond the resort, this is the place.
Group Travel Tip: Pick a resort that gives you both chill and thrill. Serenade checked all our boxes—relaxed mornings, turnt-up afternoons, and local nightlife. Make sure everyone has their own downtime too. Group trips are more fun when no one’s over-scheduled.
Must-Do Experiences in Punta Cana
Whether you're planning your first trip or returning for more, here are a few must-do experiences to consider:
- Dune Buggy or ATV Tour – Get muddy, explore hidden cenotes, and see the local countryside.
- Spa Day – Nearly all resorts offer spa services, and they're the perfect way to recharge.
- Saona Island Day Trip – Enjoy a catamaran cruise, natural swimming pool, and stunning island scenery.
- Beach Photoshoot – Great for couples or families celebrating something special.
- Pool Bar Conversations – This is where you meet new friends, learn a little Spanish, and sip something tropical.
Tips for a Smooth Punta Cana Getaway
- Book your airport transfers in advance—many resorts offer them, or use trusted companies like Amstar or Nexus Tours.
- Pack U.S. dollars for tips and small purchases.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the environment.
- Download Google Translate for quick help navigating menus and conversations if you’re not fluent in Spanish.
Final Thoughts
From our honeymoon in 2015 to a romantic couples’ escape and now family vacations, Punta Cana continues to deliver unforgettable memories every time. Whether you're sipping rum cocktails at a swim-up bar or watching your kids build sandcastles on Bávaro Beach, this destination is more than a vacation—it’s a tradition in the making.
Planning your first (or next) trip to Punta Cana? Check out our Viator Shop for our curated list of DR experiences and excursions or, Reach out—we’ve been four times and are happy to share everything we’ve learned along the way.
#UmbrellaTravels #PuntaCanaVibes #CouplesWhoTravel #FamilyTravelAdventures #AllInclusiveEscape