East Coast (Punta Cana and Cap Cana)

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At a Glance

The boutique enclave of Tortuga Bay sits within the massive Puntacana resort and features interiors designed by resident Oscar de la Renta.

Review

That the Puntacana organization reigns supreme in this area of the Dominican Republic is evident from the moment you approach the resort’s international airport: it is rumored that the hotel dictates the direction that flights take upon landing so as to not disturb beach- or pool-lounging guests. Once you have landed, a staff member will greet you just off the plane and whisk you through customs and to the hotel in a matter of mere minutes.

Tortuga Bay consists of 50 suites set in 15 villas located directly on or a few yards removed from the beach. One-, two-, three-and four-bedroom set-ups are available in a seemingly endless combination of connecting and adjoining rooms with living areas, kitchenettes and French doors leading to outdoor space. (Note that while the buildings look and feel like singular villas, rooms and suites are offered individually.) The tasteful furnishings are thanks to investor and Puntacana resident, Dominican Republic-born Oscar de la Renta, who favors traditional cane-style furniture, rich-hued fabrics printed with animals and florals and vibrantly painted walls. Some might consider the décor slightly dusty and in need of an update—and one is in the works. Bathrooms are spacious, chic and outfitted in coralline stone tiles and stocked with Oscar de la Renta toiletries.

As in the rest of the Dominican Republic resorts, guests will most likely not leave the property, but undoubtedly be happy on the grounds partaking in such activities as kite-boarding, horseback riding, deep-sea fishing and kayaking. Most guests will be content lying on and walking the three miles of white-sand beaches in front of the property. There are three golf courses—one from Pete Dye and two courtesy of Tom Fazio—that boast multiple stunning holes directly on the ocean and are proudly maintained in part with seawater. The Mediterranean restaurant Bamboo sits in the main building adjacent to the simple swimming pool, while the memorable La Yola is set on the ocean and serves seafood.

The nearly 20,000-square-foot Six Senses spa is the only one in the Caribbean and provides the ultimate in pampering treatments, surroundings and products.

Who Should Stay

Spa mavens adore the magnificent Six Senses spa at Tortuga Bay. Those who insist on a room with direct beach access and large families traveling together will appreciate the placement and the layout of the villas.

Author

• Amelia Osborne Scott