Ocean El Faro Resort Punta Cana: A Luxurious Escape with Mixed Impressions
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When planning my stay at Ocean El Faro Resort in Punta Cana, my expectations were high, given my past positive experiences with other Ocean properties in Mexico and Jamaica. I was excited to experience everything this resort had to offer, and to make my trip even more memorable, I decided to upgrade to the Privilege program. Here’s a detailed look at my stay, from my luxurious suite to the dining experiences and resort activities, which ranged from delightful to a few disappointments.
Ocean El Faro Resort Privilege: A Worthy Upgrade?
Upon arriving, I opted for an upgrade to the Privilege program, which gave me access to exclusive amenities and a luxurious beachfront Royal Suite. This suite was part of the adults-only El Beso section, which offered both privacy and personalized service. The room itself was magnificent, featuring a four-poster bed, a Japanese soaking tub, and a spacious balcony with stunning views of the ocean. I particularly enjoyed the large living area, complete with comfortable seating and a second television—ideal for relaxing after a long day exploring Ocean El Faro Resort.
While the suite was undeniably beautiful, it was the beachfront location and the sense of privacy that made it stand out. Having easy access to the beach right from my room elevated my overall experience.
Beach Exploration: Hits and Misses
After settling into my suite, I was eager to explore the beach areas. However, my first stop, the El Beso Privilege beach, was a bit of a letdown. The sand was coarse, and the water was rocky, making it less inviting for a long day of sunbathing or swimming. Thankfully, the general beach area proved to be much better. The sand was softer, and the water was clearer, allowing me to enjoy a more pleasant beach experience. Despite this, the size of Ocean El Faro Resort was slightly overwhelming at first, with its numerous sections and natural dividers.
Dining at Ocean El Faro Resort: A Gastronomic Adventure
Ocean El Faro Resort offers an array of dining options, and I made it a point to try as many as possible during my stay. I began my culinary journey at the steakhouse, where I was served a rare chateaubriand. Although not the absolute best steak I’ve ever had, it was still a satisfying meal, complete with shrimp skewers and hearty sides that filled me up after a long day of exploring.
Breakfast was another highlight, especially at the El Beso adults-only buffet. The setting was intimate, and the food was freshly prepared by on-site chefs, giving the whole experience a boutique-like charm. I also made sure to visit the Lighthouse Privilege Restaurant for lunch, which offered a more exclusive dining experience with delicious food and attentive service.
If you’re planning your visit, be sure to check out other dining options at Ocean El Faro Resort. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, French, or seafood, there’s something for everyone. During my stay, I also allocated time to enjoy the main buffet, which offered a wide variety of dishes, from local cuisine to international options.
Relaxation and Activities: Pools, Coffee, and More
Despite some weather challenges, I managed to explore the adults-only pools at Ocean El Faro Resort, which were definitely worth the visit. The quiet pool was my favorite, with its serene atmosphere and swim-up bar that made it easy to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. For a more energetic vibe, I headed over to the party pool, where the lively crowd and upbeat music created a fun and vibrant atmosphere.
When the rain finally let up, I ventured out to discover more of the resort’s activities, including the bowling alley and sports bar. I even dropped by Mike’s Coffee, a cozy spot for grabbing a quick caffeine boost, and was pleasantly surprised by the lively disco that I stumbled upon later that night.
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Final Reflections on Ocean El Faro Resort
As my stay at Ocean El Faro Resort came to an end, I couldn’t help but reflect on the pros and cons of my experience. While the adults-only section and Privilege upgrade added value, there were certain areas, like the beach and its location, that didn’t quite meet my expectations. On the positive side, the food quality was consistently impressive, and the pools provided a great balance of relaxation and fun.
Ocean El Faro Resort is a solid option for travelers looking for a mix of luxury and activity, especially if you take advantage of the Privilege program. Although the beach didn’t live up to my hopes, the overall value of the resort, with its great dining options, lively nightlife, and beautiful pools, makes it worth considering for your next Punta Cana getaway.
By the end of my stay, I left Ocean El Faro Resort with a strong appreciation for its offerings. While not perfect in every aspect, it delivered a memorable experience that was well worth the trip.
