Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa fills the gap our other picks leave on the map: a polished, adults-only all-inclusive in Cap Cana, the gated, upscale district at the southern end of the coast. It is close to the airport, with a transfer of about twenty minutes, which makes it a smart choice for short stays, honeymoons and anyone who dislikes a long drive after a long flight. The atmosphere is romantic and grown-up, with a focus on couples, quiet corners and food that is a step above the average all-inclusive buffet. Guests rate it 9.2 out of 10 from more than a thousand reviews, which puts it level with the best score among our resorts. The resort has 457 individually furnished rooms and suites, eight restaurants on site and a spa, the Pevonia Spa, for massages and treatments. There are two outdoor pools, so the pool scene is calmer and more intimate than at the mega-resorts, and the resort sits directly on the beach, with Juanillo Beach a short walk of around nine minutes away. Golf lovers can reach the Punta Espada course in about a quarter of an hour by car, though it is not on the property. Self-parking and valet parking are both free, which helps if you plan to hire a car.
Location and getting around
Cap Cana sits at the southern end of the Punta Cana coast, a gated community of marinas, golf courses and villas. It is quiet and tidy rather than lively, and the beaches are smaller than the great sweep of Bávaro. The airport is about twenty minutes away, and Bávaro’s shops and restaurants are a taxi ride north. Excursions such as the catamaran, Saona and Santo Domingo generally collect from this area, but check pickup points when you book, since a few departures use different hotel zones.
Rooms
The suites are spacious and well appointed, with several categories from garden-view rooms to swim-out and ocean-view suites. If privacy and the sound of the sea matter to you, ask about the categories closest to the beach, and consider an upgrade for a special occasion.
Who it suits
Couples, honeymooners and friends traveling without children who value calm, good service and convenient transfers. It is a poor match for families, who are better served on Bávaro Beach, and for anyone who wants nightlife on the doorstep.
Good to know
Check-in begins at 3:00 pm, and check-out is at noon. The resort is adults only. Reserve the à la carte restaurants on arrival in busy weeks, and ask the concierge about the nearby Juanillo Beach and the marina if you want a change of scene during your stay.
Why stay here
- ✓Adults-only all-inclusive
- ✓Eight restaurants
- ✓Pevonia Spa
- ✓Two outdoor pools
- ✓Beachfront location
- ✓Close to Juanillo Beach
- ✓Free self-parking and valet
- ✓About 20 minutes from the airport
Good questions
Is Secrets Cap Cana adults only?+
Yes, the resort is adults only and all-inclusive, which makes it popular with couples and honeymooners.
How far is Secrets Cap Cana from the airport?+
It is about a twenty-minute drive from Punta Cana International Airport, one of the shortest transfers among the resorts on this list.
Is there a golf course at Secrets Cap Cana?+
The Punta Espada course is about a thirteen-minute drive away rather than on the property, so arrange tee times and transport in advance.
