Hilton La Romana, An All-Inclusive Adult Resort

Formerly the Dreams La Romana, Hilton La Romana adults-only resort is an upscale property offering affordable all-inclusive rates. The Dreams property was a huge hotel with adults-only rooms, but when the hotel changed hands, the company decided to split the resort into an adults-only side and a family-friendly side. Renovations throughout 2019 took place at both the Hilton La Romana, An All-Inclusive Adult Resort, and its sister hotel next door, Hilton La Romana, an All-Inclusive Family Resort.

The renovations brought a chic, beachy style to all rooms and common areas, first noticeable in the lofty, open-air lobby. Cozy white sofas with throw pillows in earthy greens and blues sit around natural wood coffee tables, and hanging basket chairs overlook the Premium-level outdoor pool. On one side of the lobby is a 24-hour coffee shop for caffeinated drinks and pastries, while the lobby bar occupies the opposite side and has a few flat-screen TVs. A beach-inspired modern look continues into the upscale rooms and open-air restaurants. Guests are typically found at one of the two outdoor pools – the main ocean-view infinity pool with a bustling atmosphere and the Premium-level pool – both of which have a swim-up bar. The beach area isn’t as large as some in Punta Cana, but it’s calm and pretty.

The atmosphere here is largely relaxed and best suited to couples seeking a peaceful getaway, though nightly themed shows, a late-night disco, and casino provide some entertainment. Couples wanting to be closer to the Punta Cana airport should consider Sanctuary Cap Cana, while families may prefer the feature-packed Majestic Colonial Punta Cana all-inclusive resort.

Despite its misleading name, Hilton La Romana adults-only resort isn’t actually located in La Romana, it’s in Bayahibe — a small town near La Romana. Bayahibe Beach is about a 50-minute drive from the Punta Cana International Airport, or about a 20-minute drive from La Romana International Airport. Located on the Dominican Republic’s southern, Caribbean coast, Bayahibe has calmer, clearer waters than Punta Cana or Puerto Plata, which are located on the island’s northern, Atlantic coast. This means Hilton La Romana’s beach isn’t plagued by seaweed like its northern neighbors. The only problem with Bayahibe’s fairly secluded location is that there isn’t much to do outside of the resort —unlike Punta Cana, which is built up with lots of shops, restaurants, and bars.

Hilton La Romana adults-only resort rooms were completely renovated in 2019 with chic, modern decor. Divided among multiple low-rise buildings, all of the 356 rooms have tile floors, clean-lined wood furniture, and fun colorful accents in geometric headboards, patterned throw pillows, rugs, and large artwork pieces. Guest rooms have furnished balconies or terraces with either ocean, pool, or garden views, though ocean views are largely obstructed. Swim-out suites have direct access to a narrow shared pool.

Standard amenities consist of sitting areas, flat-screen TVs, individually controlled air-conditioning, free minibars stocked with beer, soda, water, and juice, coffee- and tea-making facilities, MP3 docking stations, and free Wi-Fi. Closets have electronic laptop-sized safes, ironing facilities, and umbrellas. Premium rooms have bathrobes and slippers, and they get access to exclusive areas. Bathrooms are well-sized and have rainfall showers, as well as free upmarket toiletries, hairdryers, and lighted magnifying mirrors.

On the downside, room walls are on the thin side, and noise from the late-night entertainment can be heard from some units.

The Hilton La Romana beach has soft white sand and clear blue water. The beach has an area for Premium-level guests, and there are tons of lounge chairs, umbrellas, and two beach bars. There’s also a wooden dock that extends out into the water that allows guests to access the coral reef that lines one side of the property.

A huge perk is that off to one side of the beach is a water-sports and tour excursion vendor, so guests can book activities such as snorkeling, island boat tours, and scuba diving. Island tours depart directly from the beach.

The Hilton La Romana adults-only resort side offers a good array of restaurants and bars covered by the all-inclusive package. All meals, international and domestic top-shelf liquor, and minibars are free. Room service food is free 24/7, but guests who aren’t staying in a Premium-level room will have to pay a $5 delivery fee. Food largely receives positive reviews.

The main buffet restaurant, Caoba, is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Hot and cold spreads feature local and international fare, and theme nights are offered. Mare Grill and Restaurant is the seafood eatery by the pool and beach, it’s open for dinner only and has a large al fresco terrace. Noor serves Mediterranean food, plus some international dishes, for dinner. It’s also open to Premium Club guests for breakfast and lunch. The fine-dining Sakura is a Pan-Asian eatery with standard dining and a few Teppanyaki tables. It’s open for dinner only and is the only restaurant that requires men to wear long pants and closed shoes.

Reservations aren’t required for any restaurants. Premium-level (formerly Preferred Club) guests also have access to a 24-hour lounge with hot food, snacks, a full bar, and lounge space.

There are also a 24-hour coffee shop serving hot and frozen drinks, pastries, and fruit, a lobby bar, swim-up pool bars, and beach bars.

In addition to the beach, Hilton La Romana has two well-sized outdoor pools with swim-up bars. The main pool is an ocean-view infinity pool behind the beach. In addition to a swim-up bar, it has several loungers, some umbrellas, and chic daybeds available for rent. Upbeat music is played during the day and occasionally fun activities take place here. The other pool is for Premium-level guests only (formerly called Preferred Club); this is a quieter pool without ocean views, but it offers ample loungers, daybeds, and a swim-up bar.

Some of the features are shared with the Hilton La Romana Family Resort, including the well-equipped fitness center, full-service spa, and large convention center. A casino and disco open late are also available to both resorts. The spa offers a variety of massages and wellness treatments. Fun nightly themed entertainment shows with dancing and singing are provided. Note that music can be heard from some rooms.

Because of its beautiful grounds and tranquil atmosphere, this hotel is a popular wedding destination. The hotel has multiple wedding venues, including a gazebo. Multiple wedding packages are available, as is an on-site wedding coordinator. It’s also a popular honeymoon destination, and there are several honeymoon deals available throughout the year.

Wi-Fi and parking are free for all guests.