Spring Break, Empty Nest Style: 10 Days in the Dominican Republic

Once upon a time, spring break meant stadium seats, baseball tournaments, and late-night fast food with teenage boys. But with our kids now young adults in their 20s, this spring break looked a little different: no bleachers, no bracket schedules—just sunshine, great company, and a mix of relaxation and exploration in the Dominican Republic.

First Stop: Excellence Punta Cana

7 Nights | Adults-Only All-Inclusive with Lifelong Friends

Our first seven nights were spent at Excellence Punta Cana, a peaceful adults-only, all-inclusive resort tucked away on the Atlantic coast. We traveled with three other couples—friends we've known since our boys were young. Sharing this trip with them was such a joy, and it was the perfect chance for all of us to unwind, reconnect, and celebrate this new season of life.

We stayed in an oceanfront terrace suite with a plunge pool, and honestly? That view stole the show. Waking up to waves crashing outside your window and having your own private plunge pool steps away made the whole experience feel luxurious.

The beach was stunning, even though it was red-flagged every day due to rough Atlantic waters. You can still enjoy long walks along the shoreline, and the pool areas offered plenty of room to lounge and relax.

As for the dining, it was fine but not the highlight. The Grill ended up being my favorite. The real standout? The service. From housekeeping to waitstaff, everyone went above and beyond—warm, helpful, and never pushy.

If you’re looking for an easy, peaceful escape with no kids, no crowds, and no pressure—this place checks the boxes. Bonus points if you spring for the upgraded suites!

Second Stop: Casa de Campo Resort & Villas

3 Nights | Elevated Adventure and Cultural Discovery

After our friends headed home, my husband and I moved on to Casa de Campo, and this is where the trip took a more adventurous, luxurious turn.

This resort is huge—and I mean 4–6 passenger golf cart huge. You’ll need those wheels to get to the various parts of the property, which includes world-class golf courses, a shooting center, equestrian trails, a private marina, and even a replica 16th-century Mediterranean village. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place.

I affectionately nicknamed the Shooting Center “Daddy Daycare” because guys could easily disappear there for hours, happily entertained with clay shooting while the wives enjoy spa time or explore.

For me, the absolute highlight was Altos de Chavón—a cultural gem with an incredible backstory.

Tucked above the Chavón River in the Dominican Republic, Altos de Chavón is a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village with a pretty fascinating backstory. It all started when Charles Bluhdorn, the former chairman of Gulf + Western, decided to repurpose stones from a nearby mountain (blasted to make a road!) and create something truly unique. Working with Dominican architect José Antonio Caro and Italian set designer Roberto Coppa, the village came to life in the early 1980s and quickly became a hub for art and culture. There's everything from studios and galleries to boutiques, restaurants, and a 5,000-seat amphitheater — which, fun fact, opened with a Frank Sinatra concert! Don’t miss the picturesque St. Stanislaus Church or the sweeping river views. Today, the artistic spirit of the place lives on through the Altos de Chavón Cultural Center Foundation, led by Bluhdorn’s daughter, Dominique.

We also loved strolling through the Casa de Campo Marina, a beautifully designed 90,000 square meter area that blends Mediterranean charm with Caribbean color. It felt like stepping into a different world—elegant shops, yachts docked in turquoise waters, and cozy cafes perfect for watching the sunset.

While this resort isn't ideal if you're dreaming of a sprawling beach (its beach area is more tucked away and intimate), it shines when it comes to activities, privacy, and service.

We chose their version of an all-inclusive package, which gave us access to most dining venues and drinks by the glass. And let me tell you—the food was phenomenal. Every meal felt elevated, and the staff delivered truly exceptional service.

Fun fact: Casa de Campo began as a private retreat for Charles Bluhdorn on a sugar mill property. After his death, the Fanjul family opened it to guests, and it has since evolved into a premier luxury destination celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024. It’s home to some of the best golf in the world, including Pete Dye’s Teeth of the Dog—seven holes along the Caribbean Sea and consistently ranked among the top courses globally.

Quick Property Visits: Always Scouting for Clients

Of course, I couldn’t be in Punta Cana without doing a little resort research for my clients. I visited several properties to make sure I can match each traveler with the right experience, and here are a few standouts worth knowing about:

🏖️ Hyatt Ziva & Zilara Cap Cana This is a dual-resort concept that shares some amenities but keeps the family-friendly (Ziva) and adults-only (Zilara) experiences separate. The beach here is gorgeous—wide, soft sand with clear water, and protected by offshore breakers, making it great for swimming. There’s a huge variety of dining options, a fun speakeasy-style dining experience, spacious rooms, and big pools with plenty of loungers. It’s also only about 15 minutes from the airport, which is a major plus. This resort is perfect for multigenerational families or groups that want togetherness with just enough space.

✨ Secrets Cap Cana This one’s a gem for couples or honeymooners looking for an elevated, relaxed, and romantic escape. It's adults-only and holds Five Diamond status, which shows in the service, the rooms, and the gorgeous spa. The design is elegant with a mix of contemporary and Caribbean touches. The vibe is low-key and intimate, and the beach here is stunning—soft sand and gentle waves. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking luxury without the party scene.

🌿 Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana Tucked away on the northern coast, this boutique resort feels worlds apart—tranquil, wellness-focused, and intentionally slower paced. With just 96 suites, it’s perfect for travelers who don’t want a traditional resort experience. Think early morning yoga by the beach, organic cuisine, and serene surroundings. The service is ultra-personalized, and many of the suites come with private plunge pools. This one’s best for peace-seekers, wellness travelers, or those celebrating a milestone quietly.

🌊 Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana Adults-only and beautifully styled, this property really surprised me in the best way. It blends sleek, modern design with laid-back Caribbean charm. The landscaping is gorgeous, and the beach here is wide and walkable. The rooms are thoughtfully designed (some with swim-ups or plunge pools), and there’s a spa that’s well worth booking. It’s ideal for couples who love modern, design-forward hotels with a peaceful vibe and great food.

As with many resorts in the Caribbean, some properties do have timeshare or vacation club representatives on site. While they can be enthusiastic, a polite ‘no thank you’ is usually enough to continue enjoying your stay uninterrupted.

Final Thoughts

This spring break reminded me just how much travel evolves with the seasons of our lives. From laughing with old friends at Excellence Punta Cana to discovering the cultural richness and adventure of Casa de Campo with my husband, it was a perfect mix of connection and discovery.

Whether you’re craving a peaceful escape, an activity-packed retreat, or a little of both—I can help you find the right fit. Let’s make your next vacation feel just as memorable, tailored, and fun.

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Reach out today at erin@cultivatingconnectionstravelplanners.com

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