The St Regis Cap Cana Resort

Punta Cana is a mixed bag, but it’s luxury all the way at Cap Cana, the exclusive gated enclave next door. Only high-end resorts and private villas have access to the community’s world-class marina and miles of powdery white-sand beaches, including the new-on-the-scene St Regis Cap Cana Resort. Toronto-based Chapi Chapo Design is behind the lavish waterfront resort, positioned beside the Jack Nicklaus–designed Punta Espada golf course and featuring a private beach, nine dining venues, four swimming pools, and a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center. Rooms and suites are outfitted in sophisticated tropical-inspired decor, and some have swim-out access or private terraces with pools. For everyone else, there’s a dazzling rooftop pool with a tiki bar and sweeping views over the coastline.