There was a time when “all-inclusive” conjured images of crowded buffets, plastic wristbands, and the rush to reserve a beach chair before sunrise. But today’s discerning traveler expects more—and Sanctuary Cap Cana delivers.
As Marriott International’s first Luxury Collection all-inclusive resort, Sanctuary Cap Cana is quietly raising the bar. Located just 15 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport in the Dominican Republic, this adult-only escape is part of a gated community that includes luxury residences, a world-class marina, and Punta Espada—the top-ranked golf course in the Caribbean. From the moment you pass through the gates, it’s clear that Sanctuary offers something different: privacy, serenity, and space to simply be.
A True Sense of Arrival
Unlike other resorts that greet guests with a rum-heavy welcome drink and lobby chaos, Sanctuary welcomes you with a chilled coconut mocktail and a whisper of calm. The check-in process is private and efficient. You’re invited to slow down from the start.
Even the resort’s layout tells a story—The Love Bar, just off the main lobby, occupies the site of a former chapel. It’s a quiet, poetic detail that reinforces Sanctuary Cap Cana’s namesake: a place of refuge, intimacy, and reflection.
The resort is home to 324 suites in 19 distinct categories. Whether it’s a Junior Ocean View Suite or the extraordinary Castle Island Suite—a two-level private island residence with three plunge pools and butler service—Sanctuary Cap Cana reimagines what inclusive luxury looks like. Despite being near full capacity during our stay, the grounds never felt busy. There was always a quiet corner to retreat to, a sun lounger waiting, or a barstool available for a handcrafted drink.
The Luxury Collection Touch
Being part of The Luxury Collection, Sanctuary Cap Cana brings an unmistakable elegance to every aspect of the experience. From its Mediterranean-inspired architecture to its attentive, multilingual staff, the resort’s philosophy revolves around quiet refinement.
Dining is a central part of the experience, and with five restaurants onsite, Sanctuary Cap Cana proves that all-inclusive doesn’t mean predictable. The Blue Marlin, perched on stilts above the sea, quickly became a group favorite—not just for the fresh seafood and panoramic views, but also for how it transitioned seamlessly from sunset cocktails to moonlit dinners. Capriccio, with its elevated Northern Italian menu, offered a memorable evening where, upon noting a nut allergy, the staff curated a family-style selection of appetizers for our party of sixteen.
Casa Bella—open daily for breakfast and lunch—stood out for its variety and abundance. Morning began with made-to-order omelets, fresh tropical fruit, smoothies, hot sides like roasted vegetables, and house-baked artisanal breads. There was no shortage of vegetarian or vegan-friendly options, and servers at all restaurants proactively inquired about allergies and dietary preferences. At lunch, our vegan guests were offered customized Dominican rice and beans, grilled vegetables, and hearty salads—always served with enthusiasm and care.
For those traveling with groups, it’s highly recommended to book restaurant reservations through the concierge team in advance, especially for larger parties. Popular venues like Wok have limited availability and are not as flexible for walk-ins.
In addition to the core restaurants, the resort offers a culinary village just across the main lobby. Sanctuary Town—open to both guests and the public from 6 to 11 p.m.—adds a lively dimension with venues like Mama’s Forno (wood-fired pizza), Burger Factory, Sweet House, and Sushi Town. These dining options are included in the all-inclusive plan. However, it’s helpful to note that Beers of the World and El Rincón de Paco are privately owned and not part of the inclusive package—a detail worth knowing for curious travelers exploring the area.
One of the most welcome surprises was the availability of food outside of typical dining hours. Unlike many resorts where options shut down between lunch and dinner, Sanctuary Cap Cana ensures there’s always something to enjoy—whether you’ve just arrived, returned from a tour, or simply want a quiet snack. Room service is available 24 hours a day, with a modest delivery fee, making it easy to dine privately on your terrace or in-suite.
Designed for Togetherness and Solitude
Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or part of a group, Sanctuary Cap Cana offers a unique rhythm: the freedom to join in or bow out. There’s no pressure to do anything. You’ll find yoga on the beach, sunrise bike rides, cabanas beside saltwater pools, or simply time to pause and listen to the sea.
Our family gathered for a wedding, and while the event was the highlight, the resort allowed everyone—from grandparents to newlyweds—to find their own pace. The ceremony took place on the island section of The Castle, an unforgettable location surrounded by water and framed by sweeping Caribbean views. From cocktails on the Castle rooftop to dancing under the stars at Blue Marlin, the celebration unfolded with warmth and ease. The staff, including the in-house wedding coordinator, managed every detail with grace—even discreetly planning around a forecasted storm. While our event was set on the island, Sanctuary Cap Cana offers a variety of wedding venues, from beachfront ceremonies to elegant indoor spaces, each with its own sense of romance and privacy.
Although all wedding services are available onsite, the couple chose to work with a few exceptional local professionals. Boyko Studio provided photography and videography with editorial flair, while Delis Viñas Caba and Marlin Marte Peinados handled makeup and hairstyling, respectively, adding Dominican artistry to a destination event.
Beyond the Resort: Cap Cana Living
Part of what makes Sanctuary Cap Cana feel so rare is its location. The resort sits within Cap Cana—a 30,000-acre master-planned community known for its luxury villas, marina, equestrian center, and its acclaimed Jack Nicklaus-designed Punta Espada Golf Club.
For guests who fall in love with the area (and many do), Cap Cana offers residential options ranging from beachfront condos to private estates. For those curious about what it means to own a slice of this lifestyle, you can explore capcana.com/live-here for more.
This blending of vacation and aspirational living aligns with the interests of many Impact Wealth readers. It’s not just about escaping—it’s about experiencing a place that reflects your values: calm, quality, and cultural depth.
Modern Luxury, Redefined
Sanctuary Cap Cana isn’t chasing trends. It’s setting a new standard for what luxury all-inclusive can be: unhurried, refined, and deeply personal. There’s no loud music at the pool unless you seek it out at the nightclub. There are no resort-wide announcements—just the hush of ocean waves and the rustle of palm trees.
You don’t need to carry your wallet, and gratuities are already included (though many guests still tip out of appreciation). Premium wines are available à la carte, but there’s no pressure to indulge. The vibe is elevated, not excessive.
In many ways, the resort reflects the growing ethos of quiet luxury—a lifestyle trend grounded in timeless quality, discretion, and intentional experiences. While some properties compete for attention, Sanctuary Cap Cana speaks softly and leaves a lasting impression.
For Marriott Bonvoy members, it’s also an opportunity to redeem points or earn status at one of the most thoughtfully curated properties in the Caribbean. Managed by Playa Hotels & Resorts, this collaboration with Marriott’s Luxury Collection shows what happens when two hospitality powerhouses unite with a shared commitment to excellence.
Your Sanctuary Awaits
For travelers who want the ease of all-inclusive without sacrificing sophistication, Sanctuary Cap Cana offers the best of both worlds. It’s a place where every detail feels intentional and every guest is invited to truly unwind.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a group gathering, or just want to explore the new frontier of luxury travel, your sanctuary is waiting.
