Sanctuary Cap Cana Review: A Smart Pick for Travelers Who Want More Than a Typical All-Inclusive
Advisors love Sanctuary Cap Cana for its unique setting, castle-like atmosphere, and beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea—here’s how to book it best.
Sanctuary Cap Cana entrance. Photos: Courtesy of Marriott International
I’m often drawn to newly opened hotels. There’s an undeniable excitement in being among the first guests to experience a property when every detail feels fresh, and every space still carries the energy of a recent debut.
But sometimes, newer properties can start to feel interchangeable. There’s something different about staying somewhere with character—somewhere designed to feel timeless rather than trendy. It takes real attention to detail to operate a property that feels distinctive and beautifully maintained without feeling dated. And—when it’s done well—the experience feels even more special.
That was exactly the feeling I had walking into Sanctuary Cap Cana. With its castle-inspired architecture, old-world details, and polished luxury experience, it immediately felt unlike most all-inclusive resorts I’ve stayed at. In 2022, it became Marriott’s first all-inclusive resort under The Luxury Collection brand.
The adults-only, all-inclusive Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection Resort, stands out for its distinctive architecture and thoughtful design. Incorporating a historic chapel that still stands on the property and centered around its signature castle-inspired setting, the resort creates an atmosphere that feels completely different from the polished sameness of many newer luxury properties.
The way the hotel is built gives guests the feeling of wandering through a quaint European-style village, with stone pathways leading through Sanctuary Town toward the resort’s signature church-inspired building and dramatic castle structure at the end of the road. The church-inspired main building now serves as the heart of the resort, housing the reception area, coffee shop, piano bar, and concierge desk. The architecture creates an immediate wow factor upon arrival and sets the tone for the rest of the stay.
On the opposite side of the resort, the castle is the resort’s elevated “hotel within a hotel” experience, offering guests an extra layer of luxury with dedicated check-in, an exclusive pool and bar, and swim-up suite options.
Here’s what else luxury travel advisors should know before booking Sanctuary Cap Cana:
Why Travel Advisors Book It
- The resort is adults-only, making it an excellent choice for guests seeking a more romantic or peaceful atmosphere.
- Sanctuary Cap Cana operates on an all-inclusive basis, making it particularly appealing to travelers who value convenience.
- With its distinct sections and varied accommodation styles, the resort allows guests to tailor their stay—whether they prefer a character-filled, castle-inspired atmosphere or a more contemporary escape.
- The property offers an extensive range of accommodations, from spacious suites to standalone villas, including options with up to three bedrooms for larger groups.
Rooms & Suites
Sanctuary Cap Cana is an all-suite property featuring 324 suites across 19 room categories, ranging from oceanfront luxury villas to exclusive Castle Island suites. The most impressive accommodation is the Castle Island Suite, a 5,500-square-foot, two-level retreat set on a private “island” featuring a primary bedroom, secondary bedroom, two-and-a-half bathrooms, spacious living and dining areas, and three indoor plunge pools framed by floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean.
The resort’s largest and most luxurious accommodations are located within the Castle, where every stay includes private butler service and a dedicated check-in experience. What makes Sanctuary Cap Cana especially appealing, however, is the variety of atmospheres guests can choose from depending on their travel style. Those looking for character and architectural details may prefer accommodations located in the resort’s original church-inspired building, while travelers seeking a more contemporary feel can opt for suites located in the luxury buildings between the main building and the Castle. Villas are also spread throughout the property, each offering ocean views.
While room categories vary in location and amenities, all accommodations include a separate living area and private terrace, while bathrooms feature both a walk-in shower and a jetted bathtub. The design remains cohesive throughout the resort, with minimalist interiors, neutral tones, and a thoughtful blend of old-world character and modern comfort. Drawing inspiration from Europe’s Mediterranean coast, the aesthetic complements the property’s Spanish Colonial architecture and feels refreshing in a tropical Caribbean setting.
Accommodations are distributed across distinct sections of the resort: the main building features 88 rooms, the six luxury buildings house 141 suites, and the Castle includes 68 suites and 27 villas.
Food & Drink
Food and drinks are available 24/7 at Sanctuary Cap Cana, with extensive options. Breakfast is served buffet-style at Casa Bella, the resort’s all-day dining venue, which was overall satisfying, or guests can opt for a grab-and-go breakfast from the brilliant coffee shop.
Side note on the coffee shop: I think every resort should offer a strong, convenient coffee program. If you’re the kind of traveler, like me, who likes to go for a morning walk or squeeze in a workout before breakfast, having the option to grab a quality coffee without sitting down or going into the restaurant is a big plus.
Sanctuary Cap Cana does this very well. The coffee is genuinely good—which, unfortunately, isn’t always a given—and the café offers both indoor and outdoor seating, making it an easy and pleasant stop at any time of day. Add in quick, well-executed bites, pastries, and grab-and-go options, and it becomes one of those small details that noticeably elevate the overall guest experience.
For lunch, guests can return to Casa Bella or head to Blue Marlin, the resort’s beachfront restaurant, or to the casual beach grill, which serves snacks and barbecue throughout the day. And of course, room service is available around the clock.
For dinner, guests can choose from a variety of cuisines, including a steakhouse, an Italian restaurant, and a Pan-Asian venue, in addition to Blue Marlin, which remains open for both lunch and dinner. The Italian restaurant was a personal favorite, thanks to its beautiful outdoor terrace surrounded by lush vegetation. Blue Marlin is equally enjoyable, set on a pergola overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Additional dining options are available at Sanctuary Town, the village-style area just outside the resort grounds. Guests will find six additional venues, including a burger spot, a pizzeria, an ice cream shop, and a Mediterranean restaurant. That said, these outlets are not included in the all-inclusive package, though they remain accessible to resort guests.
During my visit, the resort’s newest restaurant had just opened. Wok Pan Asian serves dishes inspired by Japan, China, and Thailand à la carte and also offers an omakase experience for an additional US$165 per person.
Wellness & Fitness
Sanctuary Cap Cana offers daily yoga classes on the beach dock, which is a very pleasant way to start the day overlooking the ocean. In addition, the resort features an extensive activities program, including guided bike tours, dance lessons, and aqua fitness.
The hotel is also equipped with a well-appointed fitness center that remains open 24/7 for guests looking to maintain their routine while away.
The main wellness highlight, however, is Sanctuary Spa, which truly lives up to its name. While it is not one of those oversized mega-resort spas, it feels more like a boutique luxury retreat centered around a complete hydrotherapy experience. The spa includes a sauna, steam room, hydrotherapy facilities, treatment rooms—including couples’ suites—relaxation areas, and an outdoor hydrotherapy pool surrounded by tropical landscaping.
The treatment menu is extensive, offering a wide selection of massages, facials, body rituals, and wellness experiences inspired by Ayurvedic and hydrotherapy traditions, as well as beauty salon services.
Amenities & Features
If there’s one thing Sanctuary Cap Cana doesn’t lack, it’s pools. The resort features six in total, each offering a different atmosphere. The main pool overlooks the ocean and offers poolside bar service. In contrast, the tranquil pool is designed for guests seeking a quieter experience, complete with Bali beds, no music, and minimal distractions. Although located within the Castle section, the Castle pool remains accessible to all resort guests.
Two pools are located within the Castle section, while the remaining four are spread throughout the resort’s main areas.
The beach is also an option, although guests should keep in mind that seasonal seaweed can occasionally affect accessibility and swimming conditions. Because Cap Cana sits within a bay, conditions can vary by time of year. Fortunately, the resort keeps guests informed and can recommend nearby public beach alternatives during periods of higher seaweed levels.
Another standout feature is Sanctuary Town, the resort’s lively village area filled with pubs, restaurants, and shops, making it ideal for an evening stroll or a bit of window shopping.
Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate the resort’s proximity to Punta Espada Golf Club. Transportation is available for guests wishing to book a tee time at the award-winning course.
The resort also features a library in the lobby where guests can borrow books and games, adding to the property’s relaxed, village-like atmosphere. Guests will also find a giant chessboard, darts, and complimentary bicycles available throughout the resort.
Location & Access
Sanctuary Cap Cana’s location is one of its strongest advantages. Located approximately 15 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport, the resort allows guests to settle into vacation mode almost immediately after landing—a major plus after a travel day. Private airport transfers can be arranged through the hotel, though taxis are also readily available.
Cap Cana itself is a well-developed resort area home to other luxury hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, and attractions, making it easy to get around without feeling completely isolated.
For guests looking to explore beyond the resort, downtown Punta Cana is also within easy reach.
How to Book Smart
Sanctuary Cap Cana is part of the Marriott Bonvoy program and is available to book across all major GDS platforms.
