Set along a stretch of pure white-sand beach in Cap Cana, an exclusive enclave of the DR´s most popular resort area Punta Cana - and just 15 minutes from the Punta Cana International Airport - five-star all-inclusive property Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana., which opened a little over three years ago is one of just eight Cap Cana resorts. On our visit, my husband and I found its “no worries,” tropical vibe spoke to me the moment we pulled up to the hotel entrance adorned with a fun and whimsical giant flip flop. Welcomed by several enthusiastic “Island Ambassadors” with an animated “FINS UP!” reception, our vacation had officially begun as we were offered margarita popsicles, the resort´s traditional welcome treat for guests.
With 228 suites - including "swim-up" suites and 40 villas with private plunge pools / a wide range of food and beverage venues, a spectacular spa and more, this Margaritaville is a sun-seeker’s dream come true, offering a playful escape with a laid-back tropical vibe.
Opened in November 2021 in partnership with Karisma Hotels & Resorts, Margaritaville’s signature easy-going vibe to relax and unwind in paradise is inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of the late singer, songwriter and bestselling author Jimmy Buffett. Fans of the musician can keep their eyes out for song lyrics all over the place.
As our butler Eramy led us through the property to our fabulous swim-up honeymoon beachfront suite, I couldn’t help but notice the "good-vibes" energy emanating all around us - not to mention how gorgeous and well maintained the grounds are. And our suite was the perfect blend of laid-back luxury - nautical in design, with a spacious living area, spa-like bathroom features and a king-size bed back by a wall mural granting us a “license to chill.”.
Hands down my favorite aspect of our casual luxe digs was the direct, swim-up pool access with a private deck and breathtaking ocean views. I woke up every day enjoying my morning coffee while dipping my toes in the pool, reveling in a sense of elevated escapism. Another thoughtful resort touch comes by way of Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions, where in addition to grabbing a freshly brewed cup of Dominican java guests can personalize their in-room minibar selections; each guestroom is allotted a certain number of “points” that can be used to stock up their room with soft drinks, flavored sparkling water, beers, wines, local chocolate bars, and delicacies.
At the heart of the resort is the Gourmet Village, which also serves as its entertainment hub, with nightly performances to compliment the vibrant seaside setting. Guests can dine at their pick of six restaurants, and each concept has a story inspired by Jimmy Buffett’s lyrics. The wide range of dining options includes an all-day buffet; Rum Runners, which offers delicious Caribbean cuisine; Mon So Wi, where the menu takes its cues from the Asian street food scenes; Frank & Lola’s Trattoria; the Landshark Brewery and Grill (which actually brews beer on property); and the JWB Steakhouse. All the restaurant menus, daily activities schedule, entertainment line-up and so much more is available on the resort app, which I downloaded immediately as my direct link to all the Margaritaville Island Reserve happenings.
Wellness-minded travelers will appreciate the resort’s St. Somewhere Spa, where healing and holistic treatments begin with a fabulous hydrotherapy circuit “guided water experience” designed to soothe, comfort, and ease away stress. I have experienced dozens of spas over the years, the St. Somewhere Spa makes my top three spa list - which says a lot! The service began as we were guided through a sauna, then eucalyptus steam room, a red-light therapy shower, followed by a series of incredible sensory pools, Jacuzzi’s and thermal loungers, before enjoying a deep tissue couples massage and finishing up with a pot of tea and a cozy blanket in the relaxation room. PURE HEAVEN….
Finally, I loved the daily water aerobics classes at noon, as well as some epic afternoon pool parties. But if you were to ask me what my “most memorable” experience was at Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, it would have to be the last night of our vacation, where my husband and I experienced the ultimate date night—a romantic candlelit dinner for two on the beach. Part of the “specials” offered at the resort for an additional cost, it was an unforgettable evening and the perfect way to end our ultimate carefree island escape. ..
Linda Cooper is an award-winning TV host, producer and writer serving as a brand ambassador to worldwide travel on her national luxury lifestyle series Travel Time with Linda and as a contributor to several lifestyle and travel publications. Her specialties include television and in lifestyle publications include the travel; lifestyle; luxury; tourism; hotels; restaurants; food/wine; fitness; spas; and retail shopping industries. Season One of Travel Time with Linda aired nationally on AXS TV Network, winning a 2018 Telly Award, and is available on Amazon Prime Video, as is Season Two, featuring “Bucket-List Destinations.”.
Comments
Cap Cana is a fantastic destination, and this resort sounds like fun!