My honest review of Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic
In November, we celebrated a special milestone with our travel agency’s 10-year anniversary trip, and what better place to mark the occasion than at the stunning Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic? Nestled in the exclusive Cap Cana community, this resort is pure paradise and I’m here to share all the details about our stay, from the jaw-dropping aesthetics to the unforgettable dining experiences.
The Resort Aesthetic: Luxe, Clean, and Homey
The moment you step into the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana lobby, you’re greeted with a breathtaking view that sets the tone for your entire stay. The lobby is absolutely stunning, with modern decor and an open-air layout that immediately feels both luxurious and welcoming.
One thing that stood out to me was how clean the resort felt. From the common areas to the rooms, everything was impeccably maintained. The employees made us feel so welcome, always greeting us with a hand over their heart as a gesture of respect and hospitality. It’s these little touches that make the resort feel like more than just a hotel — it feels like a tight-knit community.
Despite the expansive property, the layout is super convenient. You can get anywhere within a five-minute walk, making it easy to explore without feeling overwhelmed.
The Dining Options
The dining options at Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana did not disappoint! We tried several restaurants during our stay, and each experience was top-notch. Here’s a breakdown of our meals:
Buffet
The buffet was incredible. I loved that the staff served the food for you, which added an extra layer of cleanliness and made the experience feel more upscale. There were so many stations to choose from, and despite the serving process, the lines moved quickly. Everything I tried was delicious, from fresh seafood to flavorful international dishes.
Poolside Service
For lunch, we opted for poolside service a couple of times, and the staff was fantastic about bringing our food and drinks right to us. It’s the perfect way to relax without having to leave your spot by the pool.
Asian Restaurant (Night 1)
On our first night, we dined at the Asian restaurant, which was a 10/10 experience. They offered both buffet-style and plated dinner options, and I chose the buffet, it was phenomenal. The sushi, stir-fry, and desserts were all expertly prepared, and I left feeling completely satisfied.
The Blind Butcher (Night 2)
For our second night, we splurged on a special dinner at The Blind Butcher, which is not included in the all-inclusive package and costs $125 per person. This steakhouse experience was worth every penny! The food was absolutely delicious, with generous portions and high-quality cuts of meat. During dinner, there were mini performances every 15 minutes, keeping us entertained throughout the meal. It was a unique and memorable experience, and I’d highly recommend it.
Italian Restaurant (Night 3)
On our final night, we dined at the Italian restaurant. From the pizza to the soups and main courses, every dish was perfection. It was the perfect way to end our stay with comforting, flavorful Italian cuisine.
Drinks
The drinks at Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana were always on point! Whether it was cocktails by the pool or wine with dinner, everything tasted great and never felt watered down, a huge plus at an all-inclusive resort.
The Rooms: Ocean View Junior Suite- Club Level
We stayed in the Ocean View Junior Suite on the Club Level. The room itself was spacious and beautifully designed, featuring a king bed, a pull-out couch, and a luxurious bathroom. The separate toilet room with its own door made it super convenient for families.
The balcony was a highlight, offering gorgeous ocean views and plenty of space to relax with a coffee or cocktail.
However, I’ll be honest, the Club Level upgrade wasn’t really worth it. Aside from butler service, there weren’t any exclusive Club Level pools or areas that made it feel like a premium experience. I’d recommend sticking with a standard room and saving the extra cost.
The Pools & Water Park: Relaxation and Fun for Everyone
The pools at Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana were fantastic! Since we stayed on the family-friendly side, there was a dedicated kids’ pool that was shallow and made it perfect for families. There was also a larger pool with a swim-up bar that we frequented. There was also a water park that both the Ziva and Zilara side had access to, for some more, fun-in-the-sun!
What I loved most was that the pools never felt overcrowded. Even with a full resort, there was always plenty of space to swim and lounge.
Entertainment: Laid-Back Vibes
If you’re looking for high-energy nightlife, this might not be the resort for you. Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is more about relaxation than partying. There were some activities like water aerobics and beach painting for kids during the day, but evening entertainment was limited to a bar that stayed open until 2 AM. There’s no nightclub, so the overall vibe is more laid-back.
The Beach: Paradise Found
The beach at Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is hands-down the best beach I’ve visited in the Punta Cana/Cap Cana area. The sand is powdery white, and the water is crystal-clear and calm, perfect for swimming.
One major perk of being in Cap Cana is that the beach is private and within a gated community, so you won’t be bothered by vendors trying to sell you things. There were plenty of lounge chairs, umbrellas, and even games to play on the beach, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the ocean.
The Gym: A Fitness Lover’s Dream
The gym at Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is massive! It’s not your typical hotel gym with a couple of treadmills. This gym had a wide variety of machines, free weights, and even group fitness classes. It felt more like a full-service fitness center than a hotel gym, which was a huge plus for me.
The Spa: Pure Relaxation
I didn’t get a chance to try all the spa services, but the spa itself was beautiful and offered a full range of treatments. It’s definitely worth booking a massage or facial if you’re looking for some extra pampering during your stay.
Final Thoughts: Would I Go Back?
Absolutely! Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is one of the most beautiful resorts I’ve ever visited. From the stunning property to the delicious dining options and pristine beach, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.
While I’d skip the Club Level upgrade next time, I’d definitely return to this resort — and I’m already eyeing other Hyatt properties around the world for future trips. Whether you’re traveling with family or looking for an adults-only experience at the neighboring Hyatt Zilara, this destination has something for everyone.
If you’re considering a trip to Punta Cana, put Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana at the top of your list — you won’t regret it!
