Punta Cana and Jamaica both do the beach brilliantly; the difference is what surrounds it. The eastern coast of the Dominican Republic offers mile after mile of soft white sand and calm, reef-protected water, while Jamaica adds lush mountains, rivers and a music and food culture all its own.
Choose Punta Cana when the plan is to do very little, very well. Choose Jamaica when you want the island itself to fill your days, with Ocho Rios or Negril as a handy base for getting out.
All-inclusive resorts in both range from lively and kid-focused to quiet and adults-only, with room for families, groups and couples alike. Pick your end of that scale, and we’ll draw up a shortlist.