The hype
Travelers adore the staff and the food quality, often returning year after year despite the rooms feeling a bit dated compared to newer builds.
Excellence Punta Cana
$450-600/ night
Book this if You want a classic, colonial-style Caribbean romantic escape where the staff treats you like royalty, and you don't mind a few rough edges in exchange for genuine warmth.
Why People Love It
- The 'Excellence Service' is real—staff remember your name and drink order
- Secluded Uvero Alto location means no vendors harassing you on the beach
- No reservations required for dinner (except Teppanyaki), so you can eat when you want
Quick Take: A beloved, slightly aging grand dame that delivers incredible service and food but battles constant humidity and rough ocean waves.
Reviewed by @Kcwander: My partner and I needed a total reset, and this place delivered. Having a private pool just steps from our bed was a game-changer. We spent days sipping fresh coconuts and watching the most insane sunsets. If you want pure romance without the crowds, this is it.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'swim-up' suites in the main courtyard have zero privacy—everyone walking to dinner looks right into your room.
- You prefer lush, tropical gardens and colonial architecture over concrete modernism
- You are a foodie who hates the 'reservation hunger games' at other all-inclusives
- You want a quiet, romantic vibe where the entertainment is low-key
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.5
- Housekeeping: Diligent and friendly. Rooms are cleaned daily, but they fight a losing battle against the tropical climate.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally good, but inspect the grout and corners for mildew immediately. Jacuzzi tubs can sometimes harbor residue.
- Maintenance: The property is older (renovated 2017) and shows wear—peeling paint on exteriors and worn furniture edges are common.
- Linens & towels: Clean but can feel permanently 'damp' due to humidity. No stains, but not crisp.
- Odors & scents: The lobby smells like fresh flowers and lemongrass. Some rooms have a lingering musty/mildew scent.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Evening entertainment at the theater (ends around 10:30 PM)
- Hallway noise due to tile floors echoing
- Loud AC units in some older rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- Download the 'The Excellence Collection' app before you arrive to view menus and activities.
- Men need long pants and collared shirts for dinner at Chez Isabelle and the French restaurant.
- The 'Excellence Club' upgrade is nice for the private pool and Magna restaurant, but the standard experience is still excellent.
What to pack
- DampRid or moisture absorber bags (seriously, the rooms are humid)
- Insulated tumbler (Yeti/Stanley) to keep drinks cold at the beach
- Strong bug spray (mosquitoes love the lush gardens in the evening)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Building 9 (Excellence Club) - Oceanfront, close to the beach but away from the main pool noise.
- Honeymoon Suites with Rooftop Terrace - Worth the splurge for the private plunge pool and sunset views.
- Upper floor rooms - Better breeze and less prone to the 'fishbowl' effect of ground floors.
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor swim-up suites in the main courtyard (zero privacy).
- Rooms near the main theater if you sleep before 11 PM.
- Room 11001 (specific report of mold issues).
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room in Building 9 (Excellence Club) or a high-floor unit in Building 7. We are celebrating a special occasion and prioritize privacy and a quiet environment away from the main pool and theater noise. Please ensure the room has been recently dehumidified.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the Excellence Club worth the extra cost?
For most, yes. Access to the Magna restaurant (best breakfast), two private pools, and a dedicated beach area makes it worth the splurge, though standard service is still great.
Can I swim in the ocean?
Often, no. The water at Uvero Alto is rough with strong undertows. Expect red flags most days. It's beautiful for walking, but dangerous for swimming.
Do I need dinner reservations?
No! This is a huge perk. You only need reservations for the Teppanyaki table at Spice. Everywhere else is first-come, first-served.
Is there a secret menu?
Not officially, but you can order 'Coco Locos' (fresh coconut cocktails) at the beach bar, and staff are very willing to customize meals if you ask nicely.
How is the WiFi?
Surprisingly good. It works in the rooms and even stretches out to most of the beach area, suitable for streaming or light work.
Is it adults-only?
Strictly 18+. You will not see a single child here.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Request a dehumidifier from the front desk immediately upon check-in; they have a limited supply.
- ✨
The 'Blue Bar' is a swim-up bar tucked behind the main pool under a bridge—it's often empty and much quieter.
- ✨
Lunch at 'Oregano' (over the pool) is a fantastic, breezy alternative to the buffet.
- ✨
Order the 'Dominican Breakfast' at the Kitchen Table buffet—it's hidden in the corner but delicious (fried cheese, salami, mangú).
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Lazy River' isn't really a lazy river; it's just a long, winding pool that connects swim-up suites.
💡The tile floors in the rooms become lethal slip-and-slide zones if you leave the balcony door open (condensation).
💡There are no elevators in many buildings—if you have mobility issues, request a ground floor room explicitly.
💡The 'Romantic Dinner on the Beach' upsell is often windy and dark; you might eat sand with your steak.
💡The resort is isolated. There is no 'town' to walk to. You are in the resort bubble for your entire stay.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Excellence Punta Cana is located and what's nearby.