Are you dreaming of a family-friendly sunshine getaway and having a hard time narrowing down your options? I recently had the opportunity to travel to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic with 22 fellow Macaroni KID publishers to check out the amazing renovation of Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana by Karisma.
This tropical paradise has many amenities for both the young and the young at heart. What makes it a great getaway for kids too? After careful consideration, tours of the property, and personally experiencing the resort for 4 days, I’ve rounded up my top 5 reasons to say ¡Adiós! to New York winter and ¡Hola! to the turquoise waters.
The publisher was hosted by Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana for the duration of her stay for the purpose of this review. All thoughts and opinions are her own.
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1. Size: Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana has 519 rooms, making it comparatively smaller than other resorts in the area. And while the pools, beach, restaurants, and entertainment areas are all open and spacious, it makes for easy meet-ups, quick runs back to the room, and low-key strolls with kids to dinner.
You’ll notice “Mi casa es su casa” above the beautiful entrance when you check in, and it will feel like that home away from home throughout your stay as you’ll easily be able to get around without ever feeling limited.
2. Kids Club: The Kids Club suits a variety of schedules, whether you are an early riser or want to go for a romantic dinner with your partner sans little ones. It is open daily and private babysitting is also available.
The whimsical design is so warm and inviting that the kids will want to stay all day. You can also join your child for open play at certain time of the day and drop off meals for them to eat during their day of play.
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3. Landshark Brewery: Get a taste of the local brew styles with the signature Landshark Brewery right on the premises of Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana. This is not something you’ll find at other resorts. It has a comfortable sports bar atmosphere with rotating beer options on tap, as well as a full bar of wine and spirits. You’ll enjoy the laid-back vibe, as well as the opportunity to tour behind the scenes, if you choose to.
Are breweries not your style? It’s only one of the many restaurants which also include Italian fare, Asian cuisine, a steakhouse, beachside burgers, and more, in addition to the more traditional food displays you’re accustomed to at all-inclusive resorts.
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4. Teen Room: The teen room has cozy spaces for lounging and gaming and is in close proximity to the basketball and pickleball courts. Those over 12 can play board games, shuffleboard, or video games inside, or head outside to work up a sweat.
5. Lively Nightlife: The live music and themed evenings are geared to all audiences and the artists and performers know how to engage the crowd! Many families were present and having fun dancing together. Young ones in strollers fell asleep in their jammies while their parents could continue to enjoy the fun before the short walk back to the rooms on the family side.
The very talented Gabriel makes his way around the resort making guests feel welcome and serenading them with songs throughout the day and night. He’s a friendly sight to see and makes a real effort to get to know the families spending time at the resort.
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There are daily direct flights from JFK to Punta Cana, making travel much simpler than other tropical destinations. As an added bonus, Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana is located only 15 minutes away from the newly renovated Punta Cana airport. The ease of use, plus the amenities, make Margaritaville Island Reserve a great spot for finding family fun!
