The hype
Guests rave about the massive, modern rooms and the quick 15-minute airport transfer but are consistently disappointed by the beach conditions.
Dreams Cap Cana Resort & Spa - All Inclusive
$450-750/ night
Book this if You want the exclusivity of Cap Cana and a shiny, newer resort but don't mind trading a swimmable beach for a killer pool scene.
Why People Love It
- Located in the ultra-secure, gated Cap Cana community (15 mins from airport)
- Massive, villa-style rooms that feel more like apartments than hotel keys
- The 'Coral Keg' sports bar and brewery is a rare find for an all-inclusive
Quick Take: A stunning property with a major beach problem—it's rocky, shallow, and often unswimmable, so you're booking this for the pools.
Reviewed by @drwanderlustt: I stayed in this Swim-Up Suite at Margaritaville Cap Cana and honestly, waking up and jumping straight into the pool was the highlight of my trip. The outdoor shower was such a cool touch, and having a fully stocked minibar made it feel like a true party in paradise.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Preferred Club' upgrade is divisive—some say the private lounge and restaurant access is essential, while others call it a $360 waste for similar rooms.
- You prefer pool days over ocean swimming
- You hate long shuttle rides (it's 15 mins from PUJ)
- You want a family resort that doesn't feel like a chaotic daycare
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Consistent and thorough. Turn-down service is reliable, though they sometimes miss restocking the mini-bar fully.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Rain showers are huge and grout is fresh (benefit of a recent reno).
- Maintenance: Excellent condition overall. The property was recently rebranded and renovated, so peeling paint is rare.
- Linens & towels: Plush and plentiful. No threadbare pool towels here.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells like white tea and bamboo; rooms are fresh, though ground floor units can get a faint humidity smell after rain.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Poolside DJ music (11am-5pm)
- Evening theater shows (audible in central buildings until 10pm)
Before you book
Good to know
- The resort is in a gated community; you can't just walk out to local street food, but it's very safe.
- Reservations aren't required for most restaurants, but wait times peak at 7:30 PM.
- The 'Preferred Club' gets you access to a private beach area, but it's the same rocky coast—just with nicer chairs.
What to pack
- Heavy-duty water shoes (the beach rocks are sharp)
- Insulated tumbler (bartenders will fill it to keep drinks cold)
- Small bills ($1s and $5s) for tips—service speed improves dramatically
Room Genie
Best picks
- Building 4 (Preferred Club) for the quietest location and easiest lounge access
- Master Suite Swim-Out for a massive terrace that feels like a private villa
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor rooms near the main pool if you nap during the day (loud music)
- Standard 'Tropical View' rooms often just face a hedge or walkway
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Request a room in Building 4 (Preferred Club) on an upper floor for privacy, or Building 1 if you prioritize ocean views over quiet. Avoid ground floor units facing the main entertainment pool.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the beach swimmable?
Barely. It is very rocky and shallow with frequent seaweed. You are better off walking 10-15 minutes to Juanillo Beach for a proper swim.
Is the Preferred Club worth it?
Yes, if you drink top-shelf liquor and hate waiting for breakfast tables. The private lounge and dedicated restaurant (Oceana for breakfast/lunch) save sanity during peak times.
How far is the airport?
Extremely close—about 15 minutes by taxi. No long bus ride needed.
Is it adults-only?
No, it is family-friendly. However, the layout allows for some separation, and the 'Secrets' next door is adults-only if you want to escape kids entirely.
What is the food like?
Above average for an all-inclusive. The steakhouse and the Pan-Asian restaurant 'Oke' are standouts; the buffet is solid but repetitive.
Are there hidden fees?
Mostly no, but 'romantic dinners' on the beach cost $150+, and spa hydrotherapy access is ~$50 if you don't book a treatment.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Coral Keg' brewery has the best burger on the property, not the buffet.
- ✨
Walk left along the coast to find the public Juanillo Beach club—better food and swimmable water.
- ✨
Room service is included 24/7; order the 'beef and broccoli' from the secret menu if available.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'ocean view' in some rooms is actually a 'view of the pool with a sliver of blue in the distance'.
💡The resort shares a wall with Hyatt Zilara/Ziva; you can sometimes hear their night shows.
💡There is a 'secret' quiet pool in the Preferred Club section that is almost always empty.
💡The on-site shop prices are astronomical—bring your own sunscreen ($35+ per bottle).
💡The 'swim-out' pools are not heated; they can be surprisingly chilly in the morning.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Dreams Cap Cana Resort & Spa - All Inclusive is located and what's nearby.