Hotel Bahia Punta Bonita

Just steps from idyllic Playa Bonita, Hotel Bahía Punta Bonita gave me an authentic Dominican experience. It’s more rustic and low-key than some of the upscale resorts nearby, but its simplicity, local flavor, and privileged beachfront spot are part of its charm.

The hotel feels old and could use maintenance. The pool even left our feet stained blue. We also weren’t told ahead of time that they don’t take credit cards, so we had to withdraw cash from their ATM, which charged the highest fee I’ve seen on the island. The beach was great, and breakfast was good.

The place felt almost abandoned, even apocalyptic. We were the only guests and checked out early. The pool, bar, and restaurant were closed, the landscaping wasn’t being maintained, and music from a neighboring restaurant blared until around 4:00 a.m. The WiFi barely worked in the lobby and wasn’t usable in the rooms. They don’t accept credit cards either. I had to prepay for the week, and I’m now having trouble getting back the unused part of that payment. The hotel should close for renovations and reopen afterward, instead of acting as though it’s open during construction. It was a horrendous stay.

The sunsets over the sea are spectacular, and the water is so calm it’s almost like a mill pond. The point is just as peaceful, fringed with palms, usually with few people around and no traffic noise. It’s an ideal place to sit and watch the sunset in rare quiet.