Let me start with a disclaimer: Our trip here began right as the outer bands of Hurricane Sandy hit the island. Though the storm could have been much worse (as it was in Jamaica, Haiti and Cuba,) good weather could have brought out a little better of the experience we were expecting. Lightning, wind and rain kept us out of the pools and ocean for the duration of the stay.
The room: My girlfriend and her friend arrived a few days before I did and said the room was clean and comfortable (at least it was still comfortable when I arrived, clean...not so much haha) We didn't spend much time in the room so I won't elaborate too much. Beds were pretty comfortable and the room had a fridge with complementary bottled water, bottled sprite and coke. Bathroom was very clean but didn't have any hand soap. We used the soap dispenser in the shower to wash. Shower didn't get as hot as I like but not many places don't.
The staff: Even through the weather the lifeguards continued to man their stations for anyone who may want to venture into the water or jump in the pool. It was a gesture that the weather wasn't going to effect our stay anymore than physically possible. That showed true with the whole staff. All day the staff held an indoor party in the lobby with dance contests, professional dancers and plenty of drinks. The check-in staff made quick friends of each guests on arrival and remembered mine and the girls names easily.
The food: The buffets and snack bars had the typical all-inclusive foods which were about the same quality as anywhere else I have stayed, it was okay but not fantastic. The selection of food at the main buffet was better than other places though, many main course items and lots of sides. Also, the main courses changed nightly which i can't say about everywhere else in the Caribbean.
The entertainment: All day dancing and partying was strongly encouraged, which the girls loved. The stage shows at night were amazing and the casino opened nightly. The sports bar had a pool table, bar and showed live games on ESPN. The night club was great, whether you are single looking to mingle or if you're a couple that wants to dance away some stress.
Getting there: Delta Vacations has a shuttle to the resort from PUJ Airport, it was $35 for both of the girls but waits around for at least 25 people to board according to the driver before leaving (traveling alone, they felt more comfortable waiting around.) A taxi was $40 one-way which I split with two girls when I found they were staying only a few resorts over from ours. The drive from the airport is quite far so don't be worried if it feels like it is taking too long.
Would love to return to the resort for a week of good weather.
- Also Known As:
- Barcelo Dominican Beach Hotel Punta Cana
- Barcelo Dominican Beach Hotel
- Barcelo Punta Cana
- Ocean Bavaro
- Barcelo Hotel Dominican Beach
- Ocean Bavaro Spa Beach Resort
- Ocean Bavaro Spa & Beach Resort
- Ocean Bavaro Punta Cana
- Punta Cana Ocean Bavaro
Region:
Caribbean >
Dominican Republic >
La Altagracia Province >
Punta Cana
Amenities:
Bar/Lounge
Beach
Business Center
Fitness Center
Free Breakfast
Free Parking
Kids Activities
Restaurant
Room Service
Suites
Swimming Pool
Wheelchair access
#56 On the Beach Hotels in Punta Cana
#63 Top resorts Hotels in Punta Cana
Price Range:
$
Hotel Class:3 star (3*)
- Reservation Options:
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