You land, and the drive feels short. Secrets Royal Beach sits in Playa Bávaro, on Av. Alemania in El Cortecito. Punta Cana Airport is about 23 minutes away. In front, the sea turns turquoise, and the sand runs for 700 yards with palms. The East Coast has coral reefs that support vibrant fish and marine life. Step out for a short stroll and you may hear merengue beats on the breeze at dusk near shore.

Rooms set the tone for your trip. All 639 suites are non-smoking and follow a Junior Suite style. You get a terrace or balcony, plus a hydro-tub on the terrace or in the suite. A TV sits in the room, and the minibar refreshes each day. Coffee machines come as standard, and Master Suites add espresso. Choose a Preferred Club Junior Swim Up Suite for terrace access to the lazy river and privacy.

Days can move at your pace. Join a beach volleyball game or take a dance class before lunch. Try a Spanish class and pick up a few phrases for tips and chats. On the water, snorkel over the reef, paddle a kayak, or sail with a gentle breeze. You can book a fishing or a catamaran trip, and try a first scuba lesson in the pool. At night, theme nights and live shows set the mood.

Style shows in the details. The resort keeps areas cool with air conditioning, and Wi-Fi covers the grounds. You get four pools and four hot tubs, plus an open-air theatre for shows. Preferred Club adds two lounge areas, a lazy river, and an infinity pool with a swim-up bar. Book the Caribbean Oasis for Bali beds and a butler. Secrets Spa offers saunas, steam rooms, and a hydrotherapy circuit. Small dogs can join in select suites.

Food feels grown up, yet relaxed. You can eat at Bordeaux, El Patio, and Himitsu, plus Bluewater Grill for grills. La Riviera runs a buffet from morning. Olio offers views, with breakfast and lunch, for the Preferred Club. Coco Café sorts coffee and snacks. Drinks start at Rendezvous or Sugar Reef. Marlin suits beach time. Eclipse Night Club fills late hours. Next door, The Core Zone Teens Bar keeps soft drinks for teens in mixed groups.

Celebrations feel polished and calm here. You can plan a beach reception for up to 400 or keep it close at the Mangrove Gazebo for 80. The Royal Gazebo suits 60, and the Fountain setting holds 200. For dinner and speeches, the Ballroom fits 300, while Riviera Terrace works for 80. Eclipse Nightclub hosts up to 70 people until 9 pm. Add a Romance package such as Wedding in Paradise, Eternal Love, or Elope in Luxury.: