A MARGARITAVILLE STATE OF MIND

Set along a stretch of pure white sand beach in the Dominican Republic’s Cap Cana and just 15 minutes from the Punta Cana International Airport is the recently debuted five-star all-inclusive property Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana. 

Immediately upon arrival, the resort’s authentic, “no worries,” tropical vibe spoke to me the moment we pulled up to the hotel entrance adorned with a fun and whimsical giant flip flop. 

Welcomed by several enthusiastic “Island Ambassadors” with an animated “FINS UP!” reception, our vacation had officially begun as we were offered margarita popsicles, the hotel’s traditional welcome treat for guests.

Opened in November 2021 in partnership with Karisma Hotels & Resorts, Margaritaville’s signature easy-going vibe to relax and unwind in paradise is inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of singer, songwriter and bestselling author Jimmy Buffett. Fans of the musician can keep their eye out for song lyrics around the property. 

As our Butler Eramy led us through the property to our fabulous Swim-Up Honeymoon Beach Front Suite I couldn’t help but notice the good vibes energy emanating all around us, not to mention how gorgeous and well maintained the grounds are.

Our Suite was the perfect blend of laid-back luxury.

Nautical in design with a spacious living area, spa-like bathroom features and a king-size bed with wall mural stating “license to chill”. Margaritaville State 

Hands down my favorite aspect of our casual luxe digs was the “Swim-Up” direct pool access with private deck and breathtaking ocean views.

I woke up every morning enjoying my morning coffee while dipping my toes in the pool, reveling in a sense of elevated escapism.

Another thoughtful resort touch comes by way of Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions, where in addition to grabbing a freshly brewed cup of Dominican java, guests can personalize their in-room minibar selections. 

Each guestroom is allotted a certain number of “points” that can be used to stock up their room with soft drinks, flavored sparkling water, beers, wines, local chocolate bars and delicacies.

With 228 suites including swim-up suites and 40 villas with private plunge pools, a wide range of food and beverage venues, a spectacular spa and more, the resort is a sun-seeker’s dream come true, offering a playful escape with a laid-back tropical vibe.

At the heart of the resort, is the Gourmet Village which also serves as the resort’s entertainment hub with nightly entertainment to compliment the vibrant seaside setting.

Guests can dine at their pick of six restaurants and each concept has a story inspired by Jimmy Buffett’s lyrics.

A wide range of dining options includes an all-day buffet, Rum Runners which offers delicious Caribbean-cuisine, Mon So Wi where the menu takes its cues from the Asian street food scenes, Frank & Lola’s Trattoria, the Landshark Brewery and Grill (which actually brews beer on the property) and the JWB Steakhouse.  

All the restaurant menus, daily activities schedule, entertainment line-up and so much more is available on the resort app which I downloaded immediately as my direct link to all the Margaritaville Island Reserve happenings.

Daily water aerobics classes at noon were my favorite as well as some epic afternoon pool parties!  

Wellness-minded travelers will appreciate the resort’s St. Somewhere Spa, where healing and holistic treatments begin with a fabulous hydrotherapy circuit “guided water experience” designed to soothe, comfort, and ease away stress.

I must share having experienced dozens of spas over the years, the St. Somewhere Spa made my TOP 3 spa list which says a lot! The service began as we were guided through a sauna, then eucalyptus steam room, a red-light therapy shower, followed by a series of incredible sensory pools, Jacuzzi’s and thermal loungers, before enjoying a deep tissue couples massage and finishing up with a pot of tea and a cozy blanket in the relaxation room.  PURE HEAVEN….

If you were to ask me what my “most memorable” experience was at Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, it would have to be the last night of our vacation, where my husband and I experienced the ultimate date night—a romantic candlelit dinner for two on the beach.  Part of the “specials” offered at the resort for an additional cost, it was an unforgettable evening and the perfect way to end our ultimate carefree island escape.