Riu Palace Bavaro

The short version

Enlarged in 2024 onto the site of the former Riu Naiboa, Riu Palace Bavaro now has almost 1,000 rooms by RIU's count, so it suits travelers who like a big resort with lots of choice. You get 11 pools on Arena Gorda beach, two of them for adults only, along with 10 restaurants and 12 bars. Kids aged 4 to 12 have the RIU Land program, and Elite Club guests get their own restaurant plus private pool and beach areas.

Best for Families with young kids Multi-generation groups Big-resort variety

Good to know

• A family resort on Arena Gorda beach. RIU's FAQ counts 10 restaurants, including Japanese, Italian and steakhouse options, and 12 bars.
• The amenity list shows 11 swimming pools, two of them reserved for adults.
• Elite Club guests have their own restaurant, a lounge, a private pool area with a bar and a private beach area with a bar.
• Splash Water World access comes with the stay. The hotel also has the RIU Land kids' program for ages 4 to 12, a children's park, a spa and 24-hour room service.
• About 25 km from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), roughly 30 to 40 minutes.

Before you book

RIU says the rebuilt hotel grew from 600 rooms to almost 1,000 after taking in the Riu Naiboa site, so reviews and photos from before the expansion may show a smaller resort.