Curator’s statement
As a born-and-bred Floridian, beach vacations and all-inclusive resorts were never the priority for our family vacations. I was always drawn to experiencing the local food and culture, and off-the-beaten-path experiences—and let’s be honest, traditional all-inclusives don’t always have the best reputation. But my trip to Cayo Levantado completely changed my perspective! This stunning island retreat in the Dominican Republic redefines what “all-inclusive” means. Think fresh, locally inspired cuisine, wellness programs, cultural workshops, and a serene, luxurious setting surrounded by natural beauty. It’s the perfect escape for couples or friends looking to unwind, reconnect, and experience the authentic heart of the Dominican Republic—all while enjoying world-class comfort.
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Trip overview
Cayo Levantado is a lush island paradise just off the coast of the Dominican Republic. After landing in Santo Domingo, it’s about a three-hour drive to the port, where your journey to the island begins. Guests are welcomed with a refreshing drink before taking a short, ten-minute boat ride across turquoise waters to the resort.
If your schedule allows, I highly recommend spending a night or two in Santo Domingo, the capital city, before heading to the island to experience the capital’s vibrant culture, colonial architecture, and great food scene. Since the transfer requires a bit of travel time, plan to stay at least five nights to truly unwind and soak up everything Cayo Levantado has to offer.
The resort
The resort itself is thoughtfully designed, with buildings spread across the island to create an intimate, uncrowded atmosphere. Everything is easy to access on foot, but golf carts are available on demand for quick and comfortable transportation.
Accommodation
The entry-level rooms are impressively spacious, blending modern technology with warm, locally inspired décor. Guests can upgrade to ocean-view suites, bay-view rooms with private plunge pools, or my personal favorite—beachfront bungalows.
Every room features a balcony or terrace, and I could have easily spent the entire day lounging in my luxurious four-poster bed.
The rooms are filled with thoughtful touches, including local rum, handcrafted scrubs, and nightly gifts that highlight Dominican culture.
Service & amenities
This is not your typical all-inclusive resort. The service is exceptional, with every guest assigned a personal ambassador who arranges spa appointments, dining reservations, fitness classes, and more. Communication is seamless through WhatsApp, and your ambassador keeps you updated with the daily schedule of events and activities happening across the property.
The genuine warmth and attentiveness of the staff truly set this resort apart—as they are so excited to welcome everyone to their home!
Dining
The culinary experience at Cayo Levantado is another standout feature. The food is fresh, flavorful, and deeply connected to local culture—something rarely found at traditional all-inclusives. Guests can choose from a variety of restaurants, all included in the stay, ranging from a Dominican tasting menu showcasing regional specialties to a modern steakhouse, a healthy “slow food” concept, and a Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant.
There is also 24/7 room service and several bars scattered throughout the property, including a mixology bar that crafts inventive, one-of-a-kind cocktails every night. This quickly became one of my favorite spots to unwind after a day of sunshine!
Wellness
Wellness is at the heart of the Cayo Levantado experience. The resort offers both indoor and outdoor gyms, with a full schedule of fitness classes throughout the day. A resident nutritionist is also available for consultations and can even design a personalized wellness breakfast.
At Yubarta, the resort’s serene wellness center, guests can take part in sound baths, meditation, yoga, and other restorative practices—some of which were completely new to me.
No visit would be complete without a trip to the resort’s spa. The expansive wellness complex features a range of unique and traditional treatments, providing the perfect way to relax and recharge.
Activities & experiences
The island has the traditional beaches, pools, and non-motorized water sports that you would expect. While those were exceptional, it was the cultural programming that truly made this trip special.
Every day offered new opportunities to connect with the Dominican Republic’s rich heritage. Some of my favorite experiences included making cassava, designing recycled paper, and participating in “Music of the Plants” (trust me).
Whether you prefer spending your days relaxing on the beach or staying active with classes and workshops, there’s something for everyone. Evenings are equally exciting, with silent discos, live DJ beach parties, and creative sip-and-paint sessions accompanied by local musicians.
Around the island
For travelers who want to venture beyond the resort, there are plenty of exciting excursions to choose from. You can explore the lush landscapes of Los Haitises National Park, embark on waterfall hikes, sail off on a sunset cruise, or set off on an ATV adventure through the Dominican countryside.
Need to know
This resort is the perfect escape for couples, wellness retreats, and girls’ getaways alike. If you travel for incredible food, prioritize health and wellness, and love discovering destinations that blend authentic local culture with breathtaking beaches, Cayo Levantado is made for you.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Dominican Republic page.
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Kimberly Sessions
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