On Location: New hotels & tropical adventures in Punta Cana with ACV

From June 14-19, the Dominican Republic Tourism Board, in collaboration with Air Canada Vacations (ACV), organized a press trip to the Punta Cana region, combining visits to new resorts with outdoor activities.

We stayed at Zel Punta Cana during our trip—a 190-suite all-inclusive resort that opened in December, located 30 minutes from the airport and about 10 minutes from Bávaro Beach.

The result of a collaboration between Meliá Hotels International and Rafael Nadal, this boutique-style establishment focuses on wellness and relaxation. A Rafael Nadal tennis academy will open there in a few months.

According to Carlos Batista, official guide for the Dominican Republic Tourism Board, real estate development in the country continues its strong growth, with numerous projects in La Romana, Bayahibe, Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, Samaná, and Miches.

“Accommodations, especially all-inclusive resorts, benefit from tax incentives and strong government support. It's a true paradise for investors. The Dominican Republic has approximately 100,000 rooms, 85 per cent of which are all-inclusive,” Batista said.

In Punta Cana, the lifting of the building height limit, previously limited to the size of palm trees, is paving the way for new projects such as the Moon Palace Macao, located in Playa Macao near the Hard Rock.

Following the ecotourism trend, Samaná Bay is home to several eco-lodges, such as Paraíso Caño Hondo, as well as small boutique hotels located near the beaches, not to mention very high-end establishments such as Amanera and Cayo Levantado.

Elsewhere in the country, glamping options are available at Rancho Platón, located in Paraíso, in the Barahona region, considered one of the best ecotourism destinations in the Dominican Republic.

In Miches, eco-luxury continues to grow with the planned arrival in 2026 of the country's first Four Seasons.

In the Canadian market, "the trend is also on the rise, although the figures for this year are not yet final." North Americans represent our largest market, with 65 per cent of the total, including 26 per cent Canadians and 39 per cent Americans,” said Batista.

Reserva Real Punta Cana by Harper

In the Bávaro region, we also discovered two new properties offered by Air Canada Vacations: a condo-style hotel and a newly-renovated resort.

The Reserva Real Punta Cana by Harper is a brand-new product added to Air Canada Vacations' offerings this summer. It's an ideal property for extended stays, for example, for Canadian snowbirds seeking comfort, tranquility, and thoughtful amenities.

The style is contemporary with a European touch. The suites are spacious, equipped with fully equipped kitchens, and the entire property offers pools, personalized services, and a secure residential atmosphere.

We particularly liked its beach club, accessible by shuttle. The resort's location is perfect for those who want to experience the Dominican Republic in a different way than at an all-inclusive resort.

The experience is more immersive, with several restaurants nearby, the beach, bars, and shops within easy reach. It's also the starting point for many excursions.

Bahia Principe Luxury Esmeralda

The Bahia Principe Luxury Esmeralda, recently renovated under the "Taíno Soul" concept, is a family-friendly all-inclusive with modern facilities inspired by Taíno culture, an indigenous group.

The result is very successful—especially the new look of the rooms. Among the new features are new dining concepts, including a splendid exclusive restaurant serving Mongolian cuisine.

The property features 570 rooms, two pools, seven restaurants, six bars, a spa, and services designed to meet the needs of the entire family.

Guests enjoy unlimited access to the Bahia Principe Bávaro resort's à la carte restaurants, a selection of international drinks, and 24-hour room service. They can also enjoy the amenities of other hotels within the resort, including 26 restaurants, 28 bars, 10 pools, an internal shuttle service, and privileged access to the Las Olas and La Isla beach areas.

This year, Bahia Principe is celebrating its 30th anniversary with Air Canada Vacations—an anniversary celebrated joyfully during our visit, in the festive and lively spirit so associated with the Bahia!

It was also an opportunity to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Air Canada Vacations.

The flavours of Punta Cana

After hotel visits, it was time for local discovery with a “Flavours of Punta Cana” excursion, organized by MITUR.

We headed to Macao Public Beach, renowned for its dunes, coconut trees, waves ideal for surfing, and small grilled fish restaurants. A favourite with Dominicans, it's especially lively on weekends.

We then stopped at Mundo Auténtico, a true temple of Dominican aromas – coffee, cocoa, rum and cigars are in the spotlight, all in a friendly and sensory atmosphere punctuated by tastings.

Sea, catamaran, and colourful fish!

The third day of our visit was dedicated to a half-day catamaran excursion. We headed to Playa Bibijagua and its vast, colourful craft market.

This beach is also a popular starting point for catamaran excursions. On the agenda: a peaceful cruise with Hispaniola Aquatica Adventure, punctuated by lively music, cocktails, swimming and snorkeling among the fish, followed by a meal on board, including delicious lobster!

Thrills & ecology

The final stop on the trip was a day at Bavaro Adventure Park, an outdoor adventure park located in the Punta Cana region.

Located in a 44-hectare nature reserve, this park combines thrills and respect for the environment, with architecture designed from recycled containers, ecological trails, and eco-designed attractions.

Among the must-see attractions? The Mega Splash zip line, a refreshing swim in the Blue Lagoon cenote, and an immersive ride on the Jungle River Ride. ATVs are also available.

We ended our stay in style at the unmissable Coco Bongo, a vibrant performance venue combining music, acrobatics and a lively atmosphere.

The trip to Punta Cana highlighted a refined and dynamic side of the destination, one that is constantly evolving, focusing on authenticity, well-being, and the guest experience to attract travellers of today and tomorrow.

Stay tuned for PAX’s next feature where we introduce you to new hotels in Miches!

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