Dreams Onyx vs. Dreams Macao: Which Punta Cana Family Resort is Right for You?
Punta Cana holds a special place in my heart. I’ve been visiting this stunning destination for years, and each trip leaves me even more in love with the warm hospitality, excellent service, and vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic. Recently, I had the chance to visit two family-friendly resorts in Punta Cana: Dreams Onyx and Dreams Macao. Both are fantastic options for families looking for fun-filled vacations, but there are a few key differences worth noting before you pack your bags. Here’s my honest comparison of the two resorts, along with some helpful tips to help you choose!
Similarities Between Dreams Onyx and Dreams Macao
Both resorts are family-friendly havens that offer a blend of luxury and excitement. With water slides, multiple pools, and activities galore, they’re designed to keep guests of all ages entertained. Here are a few common highlights:
- Water Parks: Both properties feature fantastic water parks that kids (and those young at heart) will adore. While the water parks are located farther from the beach, there are plenty of other pools scattered throughout the resorts, so you’re never far from the water.
- Beautiful Grounds: The landscaping at both resorts is lush and inviting. While Dreams Onyx boasts more mature gardens, Dreams Macao’s newer grounds still impress with their fresh and vibrant design.
- Walkability: Both resorts are easily walkable, making it convenient to explore everything they have to offer.
Dreams Onyx: What You Need to Know
Dreams Onyx has long been a favorite of mine. It’s a resort that truly delivers on fun and relaxation for the whole family. Here are a few standout features:
- The Beach: If a swimmable beach is a priority, Dreams Onyx wins hands down. The waves here can be big on certain days, but they’re manageable and incredibly fun. For younger kids or those seeking calmer waters, you can take a short walk toward Breathless Punta Cana, where the sea is more tranquil.
- Access to Breathless Punta Cana: Guests at Dreams Onyx can dine and drink at the adults-only Breathless Punta Cana next door. It’s a great perk for parents who want a little time away from the kids.
- Gardens: The mature landscaping adds a touch of serenity to the resort’s ambiance.
- Humidity Issues: One drawback I experienced during my stay was the humidity in the Preferred Club rooms. Interestingly, this issue wasn’t as noticeable in the newer Tropical rooms, which might be worth considering when booking.
Dreams Macao: What You Need to Know
- As the newer of the two resorts, Dreams Macao offers a fresh and modern vibe that’s hard to beat. Here’s what stood out to me:
- Room Quality: The rooms at Dreams Macao are slightly larger, brighter, and feel more updated. Whether it’s the decor or the design, they’re a definite step up in comfort and style.
- Humidity: Unlike Dreams Onyx, I had no issues with humidity in the rooms at Dreams Macao, which was a pleasant surprise.
- Dining Experience: The food at Dreams Macao is slightly better overall, with a great buffet and the added bonus of outdoor dining options at the a la carte restaurants. Plus, the restaurants are conveniently located near the evening entertainment, creating a lively nighttime atmosphere.
- The Beach: While the sand at Dreams Macao is gorgeous, the waves are strong and the beach is largely unswimmable. It’s perfect for long walks but less ideal for water activities.
So, Which Resort Should You Choose?
Honestly, it depends on what’s most important to you:
- Beach Lovers: Choose Dreams Onyx for a more swimmable beach and access to calmer waters nearby.
- Foodies: Dreams Macao’s dining options, especially the outdoor patios, give it a slight edge.
- Room Comfort: If you value newer, brighter rooms, Dreams Macao might be your pick.
- Budget-Conscious Travelers: Both resorts often run promotions, so it’s worth comparing prices when booking. Sometimes, the best choice is simply the best deal!
Final Thoughts
Dreams Onyx and Dreams Macao both deliver incredible family-friendly vacations, and you can’t go wrong with either. While each has its own strengths, the excellent service, beautiful grounds, and fun-filled activities are consistent at both resorts. If you’re still unsure which one to choose, feel free to reach out to me. I’d love to help you plan your next Punta Cana getaway!
