7. Grand Palladium Palace Resort Spa & Casino
The all-inclusive Grand Palladium Palace Resort Spa & Casino sits alongside a white sand beach just 12 miles northwest of downtown Punta Cana. Tucked inside the Bávaro neighborhood, this Palladium property places visitors within 10 miles of four golf courses, as well as various shops and eateries. But the standout features here are the on-site amenities and facilities. Described as beautiful and amazing by former lodgers, the property’s 410 guest rooms and suites offer neutral decor with whirlpool tubs, satellite TVs and balconies or terraces. For dining, travelers have access to 14 restaurants on-site and at adjacent sister properties. However, many past guests lamented the dining establishments’ lackluster cuisine and slow service. After satiating their appetites, visitors can test Lady Luck in the casino, go for a dip in one of six pools (which have built-in Jacuzzis), play miniature golf or go kayaking or windsurfing. Or, for a fee, guests can unwind with a treatment at the spa or participate in diving, snorkeling or deep-sea fishing excursions.
8. Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino
Sitting on 40 acres in Aruba, the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino caters to both couples and young families with its two distinctive areas: the adults-only Renaissance Marina Hotel and the kid-friendly Renaissance Ocean Suites. The adults-only Renaissance Marina Hotel features a casino (one of two at the property), a fitness center, an infinity pool and the Okeanos Spa. Meanwhile, Renaissance Ocean Suites boasts its own beach lagoon, outdoor pools and the Patamingo Kids Club. No matter which section of this Renaissance resort you stay at, you’ll have access to six restaurants (plus a Starbucks and two bars), a private island with family and adults-only beaches, and the shops at the attached Renaissance Mall. Guest rooms and suites in both areas offer contemporary decor, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi access and private balconies or patios. Although some past guests said the room decor was a bit dated, many loved the private island, friendly staff and tasty cuisine. If you’re a member of the Marriott Bonvoy program, you can use accrued points to pay for your stay.
