What it is

A 7,000-acre resort—a favorite among Hollywood elite and savvy travelers for over 40 years—on the Dominican Republic’s southern coast.

What it isn't

A small, sleepy boutique hotel.

What we think

A stay at Casa de Campo means you’re joining a long line of stars who have vacationed at this Mediterranean-style resort on the D.R.’s southern coastline. Marc Anthony filmed a music video here, as did Alicia Keys. Frank Sinatra baptized the 5,000-seat Grecian-style amphitheater when it originally opened in 1982. Hollywood’s crème de la crème likely hole up in one of the resort’s private villas, but travelers who prefer to stay social can window shop in the resort’s central village (a replica of a 16th Mediterranean town) or spend time in one of the resort’s state of the art leisure and sport facilities. Guests are also welcome to the Marina, the heart of Casa de Campo's ocean playground, where fisherman, yachting enthusiasts, and landlubbers alike agree there's plenty to see and do. On property, there are also seven restaurants (notably Miami transplant Pubbelly Sushi and the Beach Club), eight bars—the piña colada, made with Dominican pineapples, at Coco Mar is a must try—three golf courses and an equestrian center. The recent addition Genesis Night Club is where international musicians and DJs play nightly.

You're here because

You’re looking for an easy escape (about a dozen cities in the U.S. offer direct flights to Punta Cana) and a large resort with a menu of activities that range from high end—yachting and a shooting center—to easy going, like snorkeling and kayaking.

The Moment

Dining on the Veal Napoleon (a combination of veal scaloppine and veal parmigiana) at the secret balcony table at La Piazzetta restaurant—you have to request it in advance through the concierge—overlooking the resort’s pastel building-framed plaza.

Restaurants & Bars

The Beach Club - Fresch, light & healthy fare

La Cana - Mediterranean fare in the heart of The Caribbean

La Piazzetta - Gourmet traditionally prepared Italian cuisine

Lago - Traditional Dominican cuisine

La Casita - Fine Spanish cuisine, tapas, seafood

Pubbelly - A quaint sushi tavern

Coco Mar

The 19th Hole

La Terraza Bar

La Cana Bar & lounge

The Beach Club Bar

Safari Club

Location

The Dominican Republic’s southern coast, an hour southwest of Punta Cana.