The hype
Guests love the modern rooms and the 'no reservation' dining policy, but the class divide between Preferred and Non-Preferred is stark.
Secrets Royal Beach
$350-550/ night
Book this if You want a high-energy, adults-only Caribbean escape where the pool party is the main event and you don't mind noise.
Why People Love It
- The Preferred Club lazy river is a legitimate showstopper
- No wristbands or restaurant reservations required (a true luxury)
- Access to the neighboring Dreams Royal Beach expands dining options significantly
Quick Take: It’s spring break for adults with credit cards—polished, boozy, and definitely not for the library crowd.
Reviewed by @solotravelshan: I took a huge risk booking this blind on Hotwire and honestly, I hit the jackpot. My suite had its own plunge pool and the butler service was next level—champagne delivered right to my door! Plus, the nightlife is actually fun for solo travelers. 10/10 recommend.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'ocean view' is often a 'pool view with a sliver of blue' unless you are on a high floor in a specific building.
- You enjoy poolside drinking competitions and foam parties
- You hate wearing wristbands and making dinner reservations
- You are willing to pay extra for the Preferred Club amenities
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally excellent with daily service and turndown. Staff is responsive to requests.
- Bathroom hygiene: Marble bathrooms are kept polished, though the humid climate can cause minor grout issues in older units.
- Maintenance: Grounds are manicured to perfection. Occasional reports of broken AC or musty smells in ground-floor rooms.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp, though beach towels can run out by mid-afternoon if the resort is full.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of signature 'Secrets' fragrance (fresh/floral), but rooms can get musty if left unventilated.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Nightly shows and music at the main plaza
- Hallway noise from late-night revelers (thin walls)
- Poolside DJ bass during the day
Before you book
Good to know
- The beach can have seaweed (sargassum) depending on the season; they clean it, but nature wins sometimes.
- Men need long pants for dinner at some à la carte restaurants.
- Room service is 24/7 and actually included, unlike many competitors.
What to pack
- Insulated tumbler (bartenders will fill it to keep drinks cold)
- Towel clips for the windy beach days
- Small bills ($1s and $5s) for tipping the excellent staff
Room Genie
Best picks
- Preferred Club Swim-Up Suite (Building 1 or 2) for direct lazy river access
- Top floor Ocean View for actual views and less overhead noise
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor rooms near the main walkways (privacy issues and cart noise)
- Rooms facing the main pool if you want to nap before 6pm
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Requesting a top-floor unit in the Preferred Club section, away from the main theater/plaza to minimize evening noise. If unavailable, a building closer to the beach is preferred over the lobby.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the Preferred Club worth the extra cost?
Yes. At this specific resort, the lazy river and private pool access make it a fundamentally different (and better) vacation.
Can I use the facilities at Dreams next door?
Yes, you have free-flow access to Dreams Royal Beach (family-friendly), which adds more restaurant options.
Is the beach private?
No, beaches in DR are public. You will see vendors, though security keeps them from the lounge chairs.
Are reservations needed for dinner?
No, except for the Teppanyaki tables at Himitsu. All other restaurants are first-come, first-served.
Is there a resort fee?
Usually included in the rate, but third-party bookings (like AFV) may show a $25/night fee. Check your specific booking terms.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, for small dogs under 22 lbs (10 kg) in specific room categories for ~$65/night. Must be pre-booked.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Secret Spa' hydrotherapy circuit is excellent, but often costs extra unless you have a specific coupon or room tier.
- ✨
Lunch at the 'Olio' restaurant (Preferred only) has the best view of the beach.
- ✨
You can walk to 'La Bruja Chupadora' just down the street for authentic local BBQ if you get tired of resort food.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'lazy river' isn't actually a continuous loop; it's more of a long, winding pool.
💡The lobby bar makes better martinis than the pool bars.
💡You might spot a stray cat or two on the grounds (they are generally well-cared for).
💡The 'romantic dinner on the beach' upsell is often right next to the public walkway.
💡Humidity in the rooms can be high; keep the AC running and balcony door shut.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Secrets Royal Beach is located and what's nearby.