The Punta Cana Resort That Got Better With Time (Yes, Really)

When we first visited Catalonia Bavaro Beach, Golf & Casino Resort in Punta Cana, it was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even with the restrictions in place, the resort’s charm and setting still managed to shine through.

But many amenities were limited:

• Restaurants were closed or operating with reduced hours

• Nightly entertainment was paused

• The casino and club weren’t operating

While the peace and quiet had its perks, we left wondering what a full Catalonia experience would be like under normal conditions.

Fast forward to our second visit—and we finally got to see the resort in its full, vibrant glory. Spoiler: It was everything we hoped for and more.

🎶 A Lively Welcome to the Caribbean

The moment we stepped onto the resort grounds, we knew this visit would be completely different. Music filled the air, guests were dancing, laughing, and sipping drinks in every direction, and the energy was palpable.

We stayed in the adults-only section, which had a more peaceful, elevated atmosphere—perfect for couples looking to relax. But we still had full access to the family side, allowing us to enjoy the best of both worlds depending on our mood.

The resort itself is beautifully landscaped with tropical gardens, palm-lined pathways, and water features that make every walk feel like you’re strolling through a postcard. And yes—the frozen drinks start flowing the moment you arrive.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Service That Keeps You Coming Back

One of the biggest reasons we returned to Catalonia Bavaro was the service. Every single staff member—from front desk to bartenders to housekeeping—was warm, welcoming, and eager to help.

We never once felt like a bother. Need extra towels? Quick drink refill? Help navigating dinner reservations? Done with a smile. It’s rare to find such consistent hospitality, and it made our stay even more relaxing.

🍴 Dining That Goes Above and Beyond

At Catalonia Bavaro, you will never go hungry or thirsty.

There is always something available—buffets, beach food trucks, snack bars, and evening à la carte dining. In addition to alcohol, they offer smoothies, fresh juices, water, coffee, and sodas around the clock.

Our go-to drink? The frozen mango daiquiri. Sweet, icy, and perfectly tropical.

Pro tip: Tipping bartenders regularly often results in stronger drinks and more attentive service. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way.

🍽️ À La Carte Restaurants

Make sure to book your à la carte restaurant reservations early—ideally right after check-in. These restaurants fill up quickly, especially during busy seasons, and having a reserved table makes for a quieter, more elevated dining experience.

🏖️ Activities for Every Mood

There’s more to do here than just relax on the beach (although that’s always an option too).

Here are just a few of the activities available on-site:

• Non-motorized water sports like kayaking

• Daily entertainment and fitness classes on both the adult and family sides

• A fully equipped gym

• Basketball and tennis courts

• Rotating beach and pool games throughout the day

Whether you’re into wellness, adventure, or just looking for something new each day, there’s always an activity to try.

🌊 Beach + Pool = Bliss

The beach at Catalonia Bavaro is postcard-perfect:

• Soft white sand

• Crystal-clear turquoise water

• Plenty of palm-shaded loungers

You’ll also find beach towel stations throughout the property where you can sign towels in and out at your convenience.

The adults-only pool was our go-to spot for quiet relaxation, while the main pool on the family side was lively with music, activities, and a fun social vibe.

🌟 Coco Bongo: A Night Out You Won’t Forget

One of the biggest highlights of our trip was our second visit to Coco Bongo Punta Cana. If you’ve never heard of it, think of it as a nightclub-meets-Broadway-show-meets-Vegas—all rolled into one.

Expect:

• Acrobats flying overhead

• Wild themed performances (like Batman, The Mask, Moulin Rouge)

• Celebrity impersonators (we saw Michael Jackson and Queen!)

• A party atmosphere that never stops

Transportation is included with your ticket, with pickup and drop-off right at the resort. The bartenders are quick and attentive—especially if you’re tipping—and the entire experience is as unforgettable as it is fun.

If you’re heading to Punta Cana, don’t skip Coco Bongo. It’s absolutely worth it.

🏌️‍♂️ Golf, Shops, and More: Everything On-Site

Catalonia Bavaro goes way beyond just food and rooms. Here’s a look at some of the amenities you’ll find right on property:

⛳ Golf Course

Located at the entrance of the resort, Catalonia offers an 18-hole and 9-hole golf course. According to the resort:

• Green Fees are free for hotel guests (1 per guest per day)

• Rental of golf clubs and trolleys is required and charged separately

We didn’t golf this time, but it’s a great perk for anyone who wants to get a round in with ocean views.

🛍️ Shops and Essentials

There’s a large shopping area where you can purchase:

• Souvenirs

• Toiletries

• Beachwear

• Snacks and more

🏥 Medical Services

Available on-site for any emergencies (extra charges may apply).

🧭 Concierge + Tour Desk

Book your excursions directly through the resort. Most tours include transportation, so it’s a hassle-free way to explore beyond the resort.

🌐 Free Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is included throughout the resort. Tip: Use a VPN when connecting to any public Wi-Fi, including at resorts. It’s a simple way to protect your personal data and devices.

💍 Destination Weddings at Catalonia

Planning a wedding? Catalonia Bavaro offers on-site destination weddings with beachfront ceremony options.

While we haven’t personally experienced their wedding services, based on the resort’s attention to detail and friendly staff, we’re confident that they would make any destination wedding a dream come true.

🛌 Room Upgrades & Privileged Perks

Catalonia offers a variety of room and suite types, from cozy garden-view rooms to luxurious beachfront suites. If you're looking to upgrade your stay, we recommend checking out their Privileged guest program, which includes:

• Early check-in & late check-out (until 3 PM, subject to availability)

• Exclusive beach area with upgraded loungers

• Beach towels delivered to your room

• Nightly turndown service

• Discounts on:

  • Spa treatments

  • Shops

  • Romantic beach dinners

• Special in-room amenities and welcome gifts

It’s definitely worth the upgrade for a more luxurious and personalized experience.

✅ Final Thoughts

After two visits, we can confidently say: Catalonia Bavaro Beach, Golf & Casino Resort is a destination we’ll return to again and again.

From amazing food and friendly staff to beach bliss and off-resort nightlife like Coco Bongo, the experience is everything you’d want in a Caribbean vacation—and more.

Whether you're coming to relax, celebrate, or explore, this resort offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and fun.

We're already planning trip #3… and you might be too after your first stay.