This Adult-Only, All Inclusive Resort Is On One Of The Best Beaches In The World

A postcard-worthy beach, five-star rooms, and no kids running down the hallways or pushing all the elevator buttons — this is what you get when you stay at Barceló Bávaro Beach Hotel. The resort sits just next to the ocean in the picturesque town of Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, and while you'll find no shortage of hotels in the area, Barceló Bávaro Beach stands out as an adults-only, all-inclusive getaway. Guests must be at least 18 years old to stay at the accommodation, making it an ideal spot for retirees, romantic couples, wedding parties, and friends' trips.

Barceló Bávaro Beach has all the amenities you would want during a luxury vacation, including gourmet restaurants, multiple bars (try La Piña Bar if you can't peel yourself away from the stunning beaches — the drinks are served right next to the sea in tropical fruits), a spa, and swimming pools. You'll also find a golf course, fitness center, theater, bowling alley, escape rooms, and an on-site shopping mall. For even more adults-only fun, take advantage of the casino and nightclub at the neighboring Barceló Bávaro Palace (Barceló Bávaro Beach Hotel guests have access to both resorts' facilities).

It's easy to stay entertained around the clock when staying at the resort, but one of the biggest draws for guests is found outside at the famed Bávaro Beach.

When you picture the perfect beach, you probably imagine the white sands, turquoise waters, and tropical palm trees of Punta Cana's Bávaro Beach. The beach is so idyllic that it's won multiple awards and recognitions, including being crowned one of the top 25 best beaches in the world by Trip Advisor users. Given its well-deserved accolades, it's no surprise that Bávaro Beach is one of the most popular spots in Punta Cana, drawing crowds of tourists and locals looking to soak up the sun and take a refreshing dip in the ocean. Luckily, guests staying at the Barceló Bávaro Beach Hotel have limitless access to the coastline throughout their stay (translation: booking a room could help you get first dibs before the day trippers show up).

A romantic stroll along the coast or a day of sunbathing by the sea is enough to capture the beauty of Bávaro Beach, but for those in search of adventure, there are plenty of activities and watersports to try. Divers and snorkelers will love the beach's clear blue waters, while adrenaline junkies can take part in exhilarating kite-surfing. A number of boats and catamarans also travel through the area, taking vacationers on all-day cruises — look for adults-only options if you prefer a grown-up party.

Arguably the best reason to stay at Barceló Bávaro Beach Hotel — besides its sophisticated adults-only atmosphere and countless amenities — is to access the area's famous beach, but explorers will find Punta Cana to be a Caribbean gem in its own right. The town stretches along 30 miles of coastline, dotted with numerous sightseeing opportunities away from the resort grounds.

One exciting spot, located south of Punta Cana's international airport, is the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve. The reserve is designed to protect native wildlife while offering visitors access to incredible swimming holes, natural trails, and other hands-on experiences, including a petting zoo. Another way to immerse yourself in Punta Cana's natural environment is by booking a zip-lining session. There are multiple services in the area, including zip-lining courses through the rainforest, over waterways, and even in the middle of an animal safari.

Finally, soak up the local culture in the area's vibrant villages, including El Cortecito, an area that's dominated by fishermen but just as welcoming of tourists. There, you'll find gift shops, restaurants, nightlife, and colorful street art.