11 Best Hotels in the Dominican Republic for Families with Children in 2024

The Dominican Republic is a great country with the best hotels for families with children. The hotels have a huge territory suitable for long walks, many restaurants with excellent cuisine and a wide range of products, large mini-clubs, playgrounds and, of course, white beaches with a wonderful ocean. Whether you’re looking for all-inclusive resorts with activities for kids of all ages, relaxing beachfront escapes, or luxurious accommodations with plenty of amenities, this Caribbean destination has it all.

In this article, we’ve rounded up the 11 best hotels in the Dominican Republic that cater specifically to families, ensuring both parents and children enjoy an unforgettable vacation. From kids’ clubs and water parks to family-friendly dining and entertainment, these hotels promise fun, relaxation, and lifelong memories for everyone.

11 best hotels for families in the Dominican Republic

Hotel	Star Rating	Key Features for Families
Grand Palladium Bavaro Resort & Spa	5 stars	Playground, trampoline, mini-clubs, 6 tennis courts, football field, volleyball, basketball courts, coral reef nearby
Grand Bahia Principe Bavaro	5 stars	Large children’s water park, Walt Disney-style club, children’s pool, babysitting services, special children’s menu
Impressive Resort & Spa	4 stars	Calm beach, sun loungers in shade, playground, mini-club, smaller yet picturesque area
Caribe Club Princess Resort & Spa	4 stars	Mini club, junior club, sports fields, mini-golf, Segway tours
Majestic Colonial	5 stars	Mini-club with castle, trampolines, children’s pool, slot machines, consoles, SPA for adults
Occidental Caribe	4 stars	Trampoline, pirate ship, animation team, nearby calm lagoon, but waves can be big at main beach
Sirenis Punta Cana Casino & Aquagames	5 stars	Large water park, children’s club, babysitting services, children’s pool, shallow water area for kids
Iberostar Bavaro Suites	4 stars	Water park, children’s disco, special menus, babysitting services, multiple clubs for kids and teens
Paradisus Punta Cana Resort	5 stars	Adventure park, art workshops, themed events for kids, golf, spa, special family suites, mini-club for children
Melia Caribe Tropical	5 stars	Climbing wall, mini-Olympics, large play area, diverse family-friendly restaurants, dance and yoga classes
Lopesan Costa Bavaro Resort & Spa	5 stars	Mini-zoo with peacocks and flamingos, outdoor entertainment, children’s furniture, calm sea even in windy weather

So, let’s look through our list of best hotels in the Dominican Republic for families!

1. Grand Palladium Bavaro Resort & Spa (5 stars hotel)

The Grand Palladium Bavaro Resort & SPA is located on the white Bavaro beach, and together with the hotels of the same chain – Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & SPA and Grand Palladium Palace Resort SPA & Casino, forms a five-star resort complex Grand Palladium Resort. The complex is located in a grove of coconut trees on an area of ​​320 thousand square meters next to a magnificent coral reef – a dream for divers and lovers of underwater flora and fauna. Punta Cana airport is only 20 km away.

Resort guests can enjoy the variety of services and entertainment of neighboring hotels. Free shuttle buses run through the complex. Snow-white beaches, swimming pools, restaurants, spas and fitness centers, casinos, and entertainment programs attract young people and outdoor enthusiasts to the hotel.

In total, there are 5 hotels on the territory of the Grand Palladium complex, but we recommend that you consider Bavaro Resort & Spa for families with children because on its territory, there is a playground, a trampoline, a large sandbox, mini-clubs for children of all ages. On the complex’s territory, there are 6 tennis courts, a large football field, volleyball and basketball courts. The only thing – watch the height of the waves in windy weather, sometimes they are quite strong.

2. Grand Bahia Principe Bavaro (5 stars hotel)

Another hotel that is part of a large complex. Its advantage: a large water park for children (unfortunately, only for children). There are inflatable slides, as well as classic big and small ones. Draw your attention to the fact that there are no umbrellas on the beach at all (they would have simply been blown away by the wind), so we recommend sheltering in the shade of coastal palm trees. In addition to families with children, the hotel is also targeted at young people. But it shouldn’t be noisy: all guests are quite evenly distributed over a huge territory.

On the hotel’s territory, there is a Walt Disney-style club for children aged 4 to 12, where various games will not bore kids. It will be interesting for them to splash in a special children’s pool, have fun on the equipped playground, and have fun with the animators at one of the entertaining shows in the evening. You can find a special menu for toddlers and baby chairs in the restaurant. Professional babysitting services are also provided, albeit for a fee.

3. Impressive Resort & Spa (4 stars hotel)

We chose this place for families primarily because of the beach – it is one of the best hotels in the Dominican Republic. Gorgeous and calm ocean! The sun loungers are conveniently located in the shade of palm trees, and the playground with a mini-club is literally a stone’s throw from them (and also in the shade). Impressive Resort & Spa does not belong to one large complex, its territory, of course, is smaller, making it no less picturesque. It is really one of the best hotels in the Dominican Republic for families!

4. Caribe Club Princess Resort & Spa (4 stars hotel)

It is rather difficult to choose a specific hotel from the Princess hotel complex: they are all very similar. At Caribe Club Princess, the buildings are very similar to toy houses, and ducks walk around the territory. There is also not only a mini club but also a junior club for teens, as well as many sports fields, from football to mini-golf. As a bonus, you can take a Segway to explore the entire hotel territory.

5. Majestic Colonial (5 stars hotel)

We boldly declare that Majestic Colonial has one of the coolest mini-clubs out of all the hotels (we would like to relax there!): a whole castle with bridges, trampolines, and slides has been built here. There is also a separate children’s pool with a slide, and inside there are many slot machines, consoles and other entertainments dear to a child’s heart.

During this time, adults can sunbathe by the pool or sit with a book under the reed cane on the beach. After dinner, indulge in the pleasure of spending time in the spa, and in the evening, enjoy a cocktail in the bar with Caribbean music.

Majestic Colonial’s restaurants serve Mexican and Japanese cuisine with a special children’s menu. For those looking to retire there is the Colonial Club, with options ranging from relaxing on a private beach to butler service and special menus at Le Gourmet.

6. Occidental Caribe (4 stars hotel)

For a long time, we could not decide whether to include this place to the list of the best hotels in the Dominican Republic for families in the article because of its beach – after all, the waves there are huge, and children cannot be allowed into such an ocean alone. But if you look at its playground and the nearby swimming pool, then everything will fall into place: your child will not even have time to reach the beach.

The resort features a large playground with a trampoline resembling a circus trapeze and a pirate ship that will spark children’s imaginations. There’s also a strong animation team that organizes engaging activities for the little ones, ensuring they are entertained throughout the day. Families can also explore a nearby lagoon with a calm ocean and smaller waves, which is perfect for children to enjoy safely.

7. Sirenis Punta Cana Casino & Aquagames (5 stars hotel)

Sirenis Punta Cana Resort Casino & Aquagames is a hotel located along the first line in the resort suburb of Uvero Alto and proudly bearing the honorary title of “Chain Hotel Quality.” A few meters from the hotel, the wonderful and clean Caribbean Sea is spread, in the translucent waters of which you can easily see the underwater world with its marine inhabitants. For safe children’s fun, buoys mark the sector of the water shallow, the temperature of which is constantly around 28 degrees.

The hotel complex consists of low-rise buildings hidden in the dense greenery of fan palms. For a comfortable stay, visitors are provided with cozy, bright rooms with spacious areas, air conditioning, satellite TV, replenished minibar, and access to the terrace.

Above all, praise is the cuisine that can satisfy the most fastidious gourmet with his or her delights. Two main restaurants serve clients in a buffet style, several bars, and a beach-pub offer exclusive drinks. You can easily make up a diet for baby food from the menu. You can use the “pre-order” service at the parents’ request.

Animators’ work is an endless celebration of life, entertaining the public from morning until late twilight and not letting tourists get bored. For the recreation of children, there is a children’s club with babysitting services, a trampoline, entertainment with drawing up pictures from large puzzles, a children’s pool, etc. The hotel is proud of its water park, Sirenis Aquagames, where even adults return to childhood for a short time.

Also, adults can have fun with active rest: diving, water polo, tennis and table tennis, aqua aerobics, archery, sailing. You can relax in the sauna or study Latin American dance moves.

8. Iberostar Bavaro Suites (4 stars hotel)

The Iberostar Bavaro Suites is part of the Iberostar Resort of four hotels on the Bavaro Beach. Just 20 kilometers from the airport, this cozy place is tucked away between tropical gardens and a fabulous beach. The hotel has 75 two-storey bungalows, a shopping center, a nightclub, a spa area, and a fitness center. Children will find entertainment in the children’s water park, swimming pool, or in the company of animators for contests and tricks. The restaurant menu will delight little guests with themed dinners, and adults with masterpieces of Mexican, Japanese, and Italian cuisine.

The hotel’s children’s infrastructure includes a club (for children from 4 to 12 years old) with specially trained personnel, a water park (for children from 2 to 12 years old), a swimming pool with a gradual entry, water slides with a tipping bucket, and a playground. A children’s disco (at the Iberostar Dominicana 5*) with an animation program and a special menu for kids in the restaurant will leave the most pleasant impressions of the rest. Babysitting services are available for a fee and upon request.

Unspoiled nature, thoughtful infrastructure, and attentive staff make the Iberostar Bavaro Suites the ideal place for family holidays in the Dominican Republic. You just have to find time to try everything.

9. Paradisus Punta Cana Resort (5 stars hotel)

One of the best hotels in the Dominican Republic for families is Paradisus Punta Cana. It is a paradise for sun-seekers. This is the greenest hotel in the Dominican Republic, with pools and ponds scattered along which flamingos walk, and in these mini-reservoirs, you can see ducks and turtles. Numerous cockatoos are imposingly located in the crowns of trees. There is so much entertainment for any age that you will immediately want to extend your vacation. Children play with water balloons or paint in an art workshop, and then try on the images of pirates, Indians, and superheroes.

From an adventure park to board games and a slumber party, little ones will have something to keep themselves busy. And teenagers will not be left out: excursions to mangrove forests, incendiary Latin lessons, and beach volleyball await them. What are the parents doing at this time? Relax on the beach with peace of mind, relax in the nearest golf club or bask in the open-air SPA. The chefs of an Argentinean steak house and an Italian pizzeria help the whole family recuperate.

For families, the hotel offers rooms such as Family Concierge Suites, in which, in addition to cribs for babies, a minibar with baby drinks, as well as small bathrobes and slippers, a walkie-talkie set and a Paradise Kids Beach-kit await children – a set of beach accessories, clothes, and toys. And in the children’s mini-club, kids will find a lot of fun entertainment.

10. Melia Caribe Tropical (5 stars hotel)

Forget that you’ve ever had to choose between a sandy beach and exotic gardens. The authentic Caribbean awaits you at Melia Caribe Tropical on Bavaro Beach. Enjoy an unforgettable vacation in this fabulous resort with a warm atmosphere. And although a family vacation in the Dominican Republic is always a beach and a pool, try something new or just keep fit. Start your day stretching on the beach and end with a dance class. Learn to make mamuhuana (a traditional Dominican drink) or balance while doing yoga on the water. And the children will not be bored! In the play area, young explorers will master the climbing wall and, like real athletes, will perform at the mini-Olympics.

At Melia Caribe Tropical Restaurant, you will take the whole family on a gastronomic journey from Dominican classics to Asian exotic. Try grilled lobster at Steak & Lobster or pasta at La Gondola Italian restaurant. French food lovers will enjoy the cheese platters and wine list at Ma Maison. At Capri Restaurant, you will appreciate the taste of Mediterranean cuisine, while at Japanese Hokkaido, thank the chef for teppanyaki and sushi.

11.  Lopesan Costa Bavaro Resort & Spa (5 stars hotel)

A fairly democratic option for a vacation in the Dominican Republic and its rooms are located in pleasant one-story bungalows. By the way, do not be surprised if a peacock comes to your room: here they walk freely around the territory, just like flamingos living in a small reservoir on the territory (now a mini-zoo). The mini-club and playground are located near all other entertainment venues, and, importantly, they are all outdoors (covered pavilions) and designed for all ages. The sea is calm even during windy weather.

The territory is so huge that guests can move around it on shuttles, catamarans, boats, and kayaks. This is truly fabulous! The rooms have children’s furniture.

6 Excursions for Families in the Dominican Republic

While the Dominican Republic is renowned for its stunning beaches and family-friendly hotels, the country offers much more for families seeking adventure and the best cultural experiences beyond their resort stay. Here are some of the best excursions that will create unforgettable memories for the entire family.

1. One-day trip to Saona Island

Families must travel to Saona Island. Located off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, this idyllic island offers calm, turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and opportunities to see starfish and tropical marine life. The boat ride to the island can be an exciting adventure for children, and the whole family can enjoy a day of swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun in this tropical paradise.

2. Experience Monkeyland

For an unforgettable wildlife experience, families can visit Monkeyland, located near Punta Cana. This eco-tour takes you into the lush jungle, where you’ll interact with friendly squirrel monkeys. Children will love the chance to feed and observe these playful creatures in their natural habitat. The tour is educational as well, offering insights into the Dominican Republic’s diverse wildlife.

3. Swim with sea creatures

For families interested in marine life, Dolphin Explorer in Punta Cana offers an exciting opportunity to swim with dolphins. The experience includes interactive programs where children can learn about these intelligent creatures while swimming alongside them. There are also options to meet sea lions and other marine animals, making it a thrilling adventure for kids of all ages.

4. Los Haitises National Park

A boat tour through Los Haitises National Park takes families into one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the Dominican Republic. With its towering limestone cliffs, lush mangroves, and ancient caves filled with pictographs, this national park is perfect for families interested in nature and history. The tour typically includes exploring caves, bird watching, and learning about the local flora and fauna.

5. Hoyo Azul (Blue Hole)

Located at Scape Park in Cap Cana, Hoyo Azul is a hidden gem that offers a fantastic swimming experience. Families can hike through the tropical forest and reach this natural turquoise cenote, where everyone can take a refreshing dip. The park also offers zip-lining and other adventure activities, making it an ideal day trip for families with older children seeking thrills.

6. Santo Domingo historical tour

For families interested in history, a visit to Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is a great way to learn about the country’s rich heritage. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Colonial Zone features cobblestone streets, stunning Spanish colonial architecture, and landmarks such as the Alcázar de Colón and the Catedral Primada de América. A guided tour can be both educational and entertaining for children as they learn about Christopher Columbus and the island’s early history.

These excursions offer a mix of adventure, nature, wildlife, and history, providing enriching experiences for families that will make their Dominican Republic holiday even more special.

As a conclusion

As you see, there are hotels for every taste, and you will certainly find “your” hotel in this beautiful country if you pay attention to this issue! The Dominican Republic is definitely a great place for families with children. We are sure that both you and your children will be able to get a lot of positive impressions and emotions here, and our list of the best hotels in the Dominican Republic for families will help you with it!

Updated on: 2024-11-21. Author: Karina Volf

Tags: Dominican Republic Family resorts Family vacation Hotels