Iberostar bills its 516-room beachfront Costa Dorada as the perfect vacation for anyone who loves watersports. And with its prime location on the Dominican Republic's northern coast, plus an ample offering of activities—from kayaking to snorkeling and diving—there's no question it delivers.

But there's also an appeal for anyone who appreciates having plenty of activity options on land, from tennis to yoga, archery to shooting tournaments. Family-friendly features include a kids' club and a playground, a lagoon-inspired pool large enough to offer up plenty of elbow—and lounging—room, and evening entertainment for teens.

Adults have it pretty good, too, with live nightly music and entertainment, plus an assortment of bars and restaurants and a disco. Puerto Plata, a five-minute drive away, serves up even more in the way of shopping, dining, and socializing.

And while the rooms are standard for resorts in this price range—the hotel's

Iberostar bills its 516-room beachfront Costa Dorada as the perfect vacation for anyone who loves watersports. And with its prime location on the Dominican Republic's northern coast, plus an ample offering of activities—from kayaking to snorkeling and diving—there's no question it delivers.

But there's also an appeal for anyone who appreciates having plenty of activity options on land, from tennis to yoga, archery to shooting tournaments. Family-friendly features include a kids' club and a playground, a lagoon-inspired pool large enough to offer up plenty of elbow—and lounging—room, and evening entertainment for teens.

Adults have it pretty good, too, with live nightly music and entertainment, plus an assortment of bars and restaurants and a disco. Puerto Plata, a five-minute drive away, serves up even more in the way of shopping, dining, and socializing.

And while the rooms are standard for resorts in this price range—the hotel's 18 junior suites are slightly nicer and closer to the beach—all have minibars and balconies or terraces. Travelers give high marks to the customer service here, too, which often makes a stay exceedingly good, even if you're not a water baby.