The quieter, smaller, adults-only side of the greater Barcelo Bavaro resort complex, Barcelo Bavaro Beach caters well to couples looking to relax with a boutique hotel-like environment, with the benefit of having access to the myriad amenities of a megaresort. There isn’t much of a social scene directly on-site and facilities such as the spa and fitness center are located in the Bavaro Palace (A1) section next door, which is triple the size; but the property offers an excellent beach area with plenty of palm trees for shade, a fairly large swimming pool with in-water loungers and a swim-up bar, friendly overall service, three tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields (highly unique), and a renowned on-site golf course designed by Pete Dye. The high quality of the beach upgrades the Overall Beach Resort Rating from the lower B range to the upper B range. All rooms are close to the beach as well. Guests have access to all the restaurants and other amenities of the massive, family-friendly Barcelo Bavaro Palace next door (this is non-reciprocal access, so the opposite is not true), though it’s a bit of a hike, especially to certain parts (a shuttle is available; it takes a few minutes and comes every 20 minutes). The food receives mixed reviews, but the restaurants at the Bavaro Palace are definitely above average for a Dominican all-inclusive, and offer excellent cuisine variety. Activities include catamaran and snorkeling excursions, jet boat rides, party boats, deep sea fishing, and more.
On-site COVID-19 testing is offered prior to departure, but it isn’t complimentary.