Casa de Campo VS Cap Cana – Where to Stay for Your Best Vacation in 2024

Yes, Casa de Campo is considered one of the safest destinations in the Dominican Republic. It is a private, gated community with 24-hour security and patrols. Access to the resort is controlled, ensuring that only residents, guests, and authorized personnel can enter. Additionally, the area is well-monitored with CCTV systems and strict entry protocols for vehicles and visitors.

The resort also has its own emergency services, including a private hospital nearby, ensuring quick medical attention if needed. This level of security, combined with the peaceful atmosphere, makes Casa de Campo a secure and safe environment for families, couples, and celebrities alike.

Casa de Campo is located in La Romana, a province on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. The resort itself is spread across more than 7,000 acres and is divided into several key sections, including:

• A picturesque marina filled with luxury yachts, high-end restaurants, and boutique shops. It’s a vibrant social hub within the resort.
• A replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village perched on a cliff overlooking the Chavón River. This section is known for its cultural attractions, art galleries, and the famous amphitheater.
• Casa de Campo is well-known for its world-class golf courses, including the Teeth of the Dog course, ranked as one of the best in the Caribbean.

The layout of Casa de Campo ensures a variety of activities and environments, from the tranquility of private villas to the lively atmosphere of the marina.

Casa de Campo is a favorite vacation spot for many celebrities due to its privacy, luxury, and security. Some of the notable celebrities who have stayed at or own properties within Casa de Campo include:

• Beyoncé and Jay-Z. The power couple has been known to vacation here, enjoying the privacy and luxury villas.
• Jennifer Lopez. JLo has visited Casa de Campo for both leisure and performances.
• Vin Diesel. The actor strongly connects to the Dominican Republic and frequently visits the resort.
• Michael Jordan. The NBA legend is a fan of the resort’s world-class golf courses.
• Marc Anthony. The singer is not only a frequent visitor but also owns a villa at Casa de Campo.
• Drake. The rapper has also been spotted enjoying the beauty of Casa de Campo.
• Bill Gates. His stays here usually involve family vacations, where he can take pros of the resort’s atmosphere.
• Enrique Iglesias and Anna Kournikova. The couple is another frequent visitor to Casa de Campo, taking advantage of the private environment to spend quality time with their family.
• The Kardashians. Various members of this family have vacationed at Casa de Campo.

Casa de Campo’s appeal to celebrities lies in its ability to provide high-end luxury alongside complete privacy. From spacious private villas with personal staff to top-tier golf courses, private yacht charters, and exclusive dining options, the resort meets the high expectations of its celebrity clientele.

Casa de Campo is owned by Central Romana Corporation, Ltd., a private corporation based in the Dominican Republic. Central Romana Corporation has vast land holdings and operations in the country, including sugar production, livestock, and tourism ventures. Casa de Campo is the flagship property of the company’s tourism division.

The resort was originally developed in the 1970s as a private retreat for Gulf & Western executives. Today, it has evolved into one of the most prestigious luxury resorts in the Caribbean, attracting tourists from around the world, including high-profile individuals and celebrities.

Casa de Campo spans over 7,000 acres, making it one of the largest luxury resorts in the Caribbean. To give you a better understanding of its size, here’s a breakdown of its key features:

Casa de Campo information

In addition to the expansive space, Casa de Campo is designed to offer plenty of activities and environments for different preferences, from private, peaceful spots to dynamic, social areas.

Casa de Campo is famous for being one of the most luxurious and exclusive resorts in the Caribbean. Here are the key features that have earned its global reputation:

• Casa de Campo is home to three renowned golf courses, including the iconic Teeth of the Dog, which is consistently ranked as one of the top golf courses in the world. Designed by Pete Dye, this course offers stunning ocean views and challenging play, making it a bucket-list destination for golfers.
• Altos de Chavón is a stunning replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village is perched high above the Chavón River. Altos de Chavón is a cultural hub within the resort, featuring cobblestone streets, art galleries, restaurants, and a famous 5,000-seat amphitheater that has hosted performances by stars like Frank Sinatra, Sting, and Andrea Bocelli.
• Casa de Campo is fanous for its expansive and lavish private villas, which come equipped with private pools, gardens, and staff. These villas offer unparalleled privacy and are popular among celebrities and high-profile guests.
• La Marina at Casa de Campo is a luxurious yachting port filled with upscale restaurants, designer shops, and private yachts. It’s the perfect spot for sailing and deep-sea fishing enthusiasts.
• The resort boasts a world-class equestrian center offering activities such as horseback riding, polo, and trail rides. Its international polo tournaments attract top players and fans from around the world.

These, along with private beaches, top-tier restaurants, and a variety of outdoor activities, make Casa de Campo famous for offering a complete luxury vacation experience.

Cap Cana, like Casa de Campo, is a luxury resort area in the Dominican Republic that attracts celebrities looking for privacy, security, and high-end amenities. Some celebrities known to either own property or frequently vacation in Cap Cana include:

• David Ortiz. The former MLB player has been spotted at Cap Cana multiple times, enjoying its luxurious lifestyle.
• Shakira. The Colombian pop star has been rumored to own property in Cap Cana, given its secluded nature and top-notch facilities.
• Justin Timberlake. Timberlake has been seen in Cap Cana, taking advantage of the resort’s privacy and world-class golf courses.
• Sofia Vergara. The “Modern Family” actress has been spotted at Cap Cana, where she enjoys the peaceful beaches and luxury accommodations.

The appeal of Cap Cana lies in its combination of upscale real estate, including oceanfront villas and condos, along with private beaches and world-class amenities like Punta Espada Golf Club.

Casa de Campo is full of unique features and historical significance. Here are some interesting facts about the resort:

• First of its kind. Casa de Campo was one of the first luxury resorts built in the Dominican Republic, originally developed in the 1970s as a private retreat for executives from the American corporation Gulf & Western.
• Altos de Chavón was built for a aaughter’s birthday. The replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village, Altos de Chavón, was originally constructed as a birthday gift from Charles Bluhdorn (the founder of Casa de Campo) to his daughter. Today, it’s a cultural and artistic center with galleries, museums, and concerts.
• Pete Dye’s Signature Golf Courses. Casa de Campo’s three golf courses were designed by legendary golf course architect Pete Dye, with Teeth of the Dog being his most famous and often ranked the best course in the Caribbean.
• Celebrity hideaway. Over the years, Casa de Campo has hosted countless celebrities, including Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Bill Gates, and Michael Jordan, who are drawn to its privacy and exclusivity.
• Film set. Casa de Campo has been featured in several films and TV shows, thanks to its picturesque setting and luxurious ambiance. Notably, parts of “The Godfather II” were filmed at Altos de Chavón.
• Private marina. Casa de Campo has one of the most prestigious marinas in the Caribbean, attracting yacht owners from around the world. It offers berthing services for boats up to 250 feet.

Casa de Campo is home to a variety of wildlife, some of which can be seen in the natural areas around the resort or while playing golf. Common animals include:

• Iguanas are frequently seen around the golf courses, especially in sun-drenched areas.
• Casa de Campo is a great spot for birdwatching. You can spot species like herons, egrets, pelicans, and many other tropical birds, especially near the Chavón River.
• The resort is known for having deer that roam freely in certain areas, adding to the resort’s peaceful, natural atmosphere.
• The waters around Casa de Campo are rich in marine life. Guests who go snorkeling or diving may encounter species like parrotfish, rays, and tropical fish. Dolphins can also be spotted on occasion during boat tours.
• The equestrian center is home to many well-trained horses used for horseback riding and polo events.

The combination of exotic animals and the resort’s lush natural surroundings enhances the overall experience for nature lovers.

Casa de Campo is home to over 1,800 villas, making it one of the most expansive luxury villa communities in the Caribbean. The villas come in various sizes and styles, ranging from cozy 3-bedroom homes to sprawling estates with 10 or more bedrooms. Each villa is designed with luxury in mind, offering features like:

• Private pools
• Outdoor dining areas
• Spacious living spaces
• Staffed services (housekeepers, chefs)
• Ocean, golf course, or garden views

The villas are spread across different sections of the resort, such as the golf course areas, oceanfront properties, and more secluded spots. Whether for a small family getaway or a large group retreat, the variety of villas ensures that guests have options to suit their preferences and needs.

Cap Cana is generally less affected by seaweed compared to other areas in the Caribbean. The resort’s location and the way ocean currents flow tend to minimize the accumulation of sargassum seaweed, which can sometimes affect Caribbean beaches. However, during certain months, especially from May to October, some seaweed may appear on the beaches due to seasonal changes.

Cap Cana resorts, including its luxurious properties like Eden Roc and Sanctuary Cap Cana, take proactive measures to clean up any seaweed that does wash ashore. Staff use specialized equipment to remove it promptly, ensuring the beaches remain pristine for guests. The beaches in Cap Cana, such as Juanillo Beach, are well-maintained and considered some of the best in the region.

Yes, Cap Cana is considered a very safe area to walk around. It is a private, gated community with 24/7 security, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors. The resort’s security includes controlled access points, regular patrols, and CCTV monitoring, making it one of the most secure places in the Dominican Republic.

Walking around Cap Cana is a pleasant experience due to its well-maintained pathways, beautiful landscaping, and scenic ocean views. Many visitors enjoy walking or biking along Juanillo Beach or taking a stroll through the Marina Cap Cana area. Whether during the day or evening, Cap Cana is considered safe for tourists.

Yes, the water in Cap Cana is renowned for its crystal-clear quality. The beaches in this area, especially Juanillo Beach, feature calm, turquoise waters with excellent visibility. This clarity is due to the lack of rivers feeding into the ocean nearby, reducing sediment and maintaining the water’s cleanliness.

Cap Cana’s location on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic also benefits from ocean currents that help keep the water clear. This makes Cap Cana ideal for activities like snorkeling, swimming, and other water sports, where the clear waters enhance the experience.

Yes, you can swim at Cap Cana, and the beaches are known for being very swimmer-friendly. The calm, shallow waters of Juanillo Beach and Playa Blanca are perfect for swimming, especially for families with children. These beaches have gentle waves, and there are no strong currents or dangerous underwater hazards.

In addition to swimming, Cap Cana offers a variety of water sports and activities, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. The clear waters and soft sand make it a top destination for beachgoers looking for both relaxation and adventure.

No, it is not recommended to drink tap water in Cap Cana or in most parts of the Dominican Republic. While the water is treated, it may still contain bacteria or parasites that can cause stomach issues for visitors who are not accustomed to the local water supply. Bottled water is widely available and is the safest option for drinking.

Most hotels, resorts, and restaurants in Cap Cana provide bottled or filtered water for their guests. It is also advisable to use bottled water when brushing your teeth. Additionally, the ice served in reputable hotels and restaurants is generally safe, as it is made from purified water.

Yes, Cap Cana is different from Punta Cana, although they are located in the same general area on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic. Here’s how they differ:

Cap Cana:

• A luxury, gated community known for its exclusivity and high-end accommodations.
• Features pristine beaches like Juanillo Beach, luxury resorts like Eden Roc and Sanctuary Cap Cana, and a world-class marina (Marina Cap Cana).
• Known for its high-end amenities, including golf courses (like Punta Espada), equestrian facilities, and privacy-focused villas.
• Offers a quieter, more private experience compared to the more bustling areas of Punta Cana.

Punta Cana:

• A broader region that includes popular tourist destinations like Bávaro, known for all-inclusive resorts, vibrant nightlife, and more budget-friendly accommodations.
• Offers a wide variety of hotels and resorts ranging from luxury to mid-tier.
• Bávaro Beach is one of its most famous beaches, known for its length, lively atmosphere, and a mix of local and tourist activities.
• More accessible for tourists looking for a wider variety of activities, including shopping, excursions, and dining.

In summary, Cap Cana is a more exclusive, upscale enclave within the larger Punta Cana region, ideal for those seeking luxury and privacy, whereas Punta Cana offers a more diverse range of options for all types of travelers.

Both Bávaro Beach and Cap Cana’s beaches are stunning, but they offer different experiences, and which one is better depends on your preferences:

Bávaro Beach:

• Known for its length (over 10 kilometers) and vibrant, social atmosphere.
• Offers a wide variety of activities, including water sports, beach bars, and local markets. It’s a lively beach perfect for tourists who enjoy being in the heart of the action.
• The water can be busier due to boats, water sports, and more visitors.
• Popular for budget-friendly options, as there are many all-inclusive resorts nearby.

Cap Cana Beaches (Juanillo Beach):

• Much quieter and more exclusive. Juanillo Beach is pristine, with crystal-clear, turquoise water and soft, white sand.
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxing, serene beach experience without large crowds.
• The beach is well-maintained, often associated with luxury resorts, and features upscale beach clubs and private sections.
• Water is usually calmer, which is perfect for swimming or lounging by the shore.

If you want a peaceful, luxurious beach experience with fewer crowds, Juanillo Beach in Cap Cana is the better choice. For a more lively, social experience with lots of activities, Bávaro Beach would be your pick.

Cap Cana is located very close to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), making it one of the most convenient destinations in the region for travelers. The distance is approximately 10 to 15 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

The cost of a taxi from Cap Cana to Punta Cana (depending on the specific location within Punta Cana, like Bávaro) typically ranges between $25 to $40 USD, depending on the time of day, traffic, and the specific destination.

• Cap Cana to Bávaro Beach – from $30 to $40 USD
• Cap Cana to Punta Cana Village – ~$25 USD

It’s worth noting that many resorts offer private transfers, which can be a more comfortable and convenient option. Alternatively, apps like Uber also operate in the area, sometimes offering slightly lower rates than traditional taxis.

Cap Cana is special for several reasons that set it apart as a premier luxury destination in the Caribbean:

• Cap Cana is a private, gated community with 24/7 security, making it one of the safest and most exclusive areas in the Dominican Republic. Its privacy and security are major draws for celebrities and high-profile guests.
• The resort area is known for its high-end accommodations, including 5-star resorts like Eden Roc Cap Cana and Sanctuary Cap Cana. There are also luxurious villas with private pools, beachfront access, and concierge services.
• Cap Cana is home to the Punta Espada Golf Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus. It’s consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the Caribbean, offering spectacular ocean views and challenging play.
• Cap Cana boasts some of the most beautiful and tranquil beaches in the region. Juanillo Beach is renowned for its soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and peaceful ambiance. The beaches are less crowded than those in other areas, offering a more exclusive experience.
• The Marina Cap Cana is one of the most prestigious in the Caribbean, catering to luxury yachts and offering deep-sea fishing, sailing, and other water activities. The marina is also surrounded by upscale restaurants and shops, providing a high-end seaside experience.
• In addition to golf and beach activities, Cap Cana offers horseback riding, tennis, water sports, eco-trails, and access to beautiful natural attractions like Hoyo Azul (a stunning cenote with crystal-clear water).
• While Punta Cana can be bustling with tourists, Cap Cana offers a much more tranquil, laid-back atmosphere, perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation in a luxurious setting.