Excellence Punta Cana is the resort we would choose for a honeymoon, an anniversary or simply a week of grown-up calm. It lies in Uvero Alto, the northern end of the Punta Cana coast, where the beaches are wilder and far less crowded than in Bávaro. The resort is adults only, and it is built low, with spacious suites in low-rise buildings set around winding, lagoon-style pools, so it feels private even when it is full. Everything is included: Expedia lists eleven restaurants plus several pool bars and a swim-up bar, and the dining is a step above most all-inclusives, with à la carte choices rather than an endless buffet. The Miilé Spa offers treatments including massages on the beach, there is a gym with fitness and yoga classes, tennis courts and scuba diving, and a golf course sits next door. The Excellence Club level adds upgraded suites and exclusive areas for those who want an extra layer of service. The resort holds EarthCheck Gold certification and wins a steady stream of traveler awards, and Expedia guests rate it 9.2 out of 10 from nearly 2,900 reviews, the best score of our five picks.
Location and getting around: Uvero Alto is about 45 minutes by car north of Punta Cana International Airport, and further from Bávaro’s shops and nightlife than the other resorts on this list. That is the point: it is quiet. Most excursions, including the catamaran, Saona and Santo Domingo, still collect from Uvero Alto, though a few, such as the afternoon Hoyo Azul departure, do not, so check pickup areas when booking.
Rooms: the 461 suites are generously sized, with Excellence Club suites as the premium tier. Ask about suites near the beach if you want to fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
Who it suits: couples, honeymooners and friends who want a calm, adults-only all-inclusive with good food and a beautiful beach.
Good to know: the Uvero Alto coast faces the open Atlantic, so the sea can be rougher than in Bávaro, and flags tell you when swimming is safe. Self-parking is free, and check-in is from 15:00 with check-out at noon. Book à la carte dinners on arrival in busy weeks.
Why stay here
- ✓Adults-only all-inclusive
- ✓Eleven restaurants
- ✓Swim-up bar and pool bars
- ✓Lagoon-style pools
- ✓Miilé Spa with beach massages
- ✓Excellence Club suites
- ✓Tennis courts and fitness classes
- ✓Free self-parking
Good questions
Is Excellence Punta Cana adults only?+
Yes, the resort is adults only and all-inclusive. It is a favorite with honeymooners and couples.
How far is Excellence Punta Cana from the airport?+
It is about 45 minutes by car from Punta Cana International Airport. The resort is in Uvero Alto, at the quieter northern end of the coast.
What is the Excellence Club?+
It is the resort’s premium level, with upgraded suites and exclusive areas. It suits guests who want extra service and privacy.
