MICHES, Dominican Republic — A once-quiet ribbon of coast on the country’s northeast flank now hosts Hyatt’s newest adults-only playground: Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa, according to a press release by Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Set on an untouched stretch of beach framed by rainforest and mountain views, the 500-suite, all-inclusive property invites couples, friends and solo travelers to trade everyday routines for Dominican sunshine, round-the-clock dining and easy access to one of the Caribbean’s emerging eco-destinations.
Suites Designed for Seclusion and Sea Views
Every accommodation at Secrets Playa Esmeralda comes with a private terrace or balcony. Many open directly onto swim-out pools or look across the Atlantic’s turquoise arc toward the Samaná Peninsula. Inside, guests find plush king or double beds, double vanities, rain showers and Pharmacopia Natural Bodycare amenities. Travelers wanting extra pampering can upgrade to the Preferred Club. The tier adds personalized check-in and checkout, elevated minibars, a pillow menu, a dedicated butler, exclusive pools, a members-only beach and a private lounge. The Preferred Club Presidential Suite crowns the oceanfront offerings with its own kitchen, jet-pool terrace and panoramic sea vistas.
Cuisine: Eleven Ways to Dine Plus Seven Bars
Under Executive Chef Carlos Quijano, the resort operates 11 dining venues ranging from casual grills to white-tablecloth experiences. The gastronomic standout is Doña Altagracia, where classic Dominican recipes—think risotto with stewed goat or a mofongo rich with local plantains—are reimagined for modern palates. Seven bars, including a swim-up option, keep cocktails flowing from morning smoothies to night-cap rum tastings.
Secrets Spa: A Sanctuary of Wellness
Wellness seekers can slip into the Secrets Spa, a complex led by Spa Manager Jenny Castillo. The facility incorporates a hydrotherapy circuit, sauna, whirlpool, cold plunge, bridal suite and a Master Spa Cabin measuring 49 square meters with a 30-square-meter terrace. Signature experiences such as the Total Body Renewal Ritual can be customized with locally sourced aloe, rose petals, coconut powder and brown sugar mixed in the spa’s “create-your-own” pantry. A full fitness center anchors the activity roster, supplemented by tennis courts, beach volleyball, water aerobics, dance and Spanish classes, kayaking, snorkeling and poolside introduction dives.
Eco-Adventures Beyond the Beach
Miches is quickly being recognized for its natural assets, and the resort curates excursions that highlight them. Guests can:
- Swing above the jungle canopy at Montaña Redonda.
- Paddle through mangroves in Los Haitises National Park.
- Trek to Salto La Jalda, the Caribbean’s highest waterfall.
- Spot humpbacks during seasonal whale-watching tours in Bahía de Samaná.
Lucky visitors may even watch baby sea turtles scuttle toward the surf; Hyatt recently installed a protected nesting area on the property’s beachfront as part of its World of Care sustainability platform.
Events for Romance and Business
With more than 15,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor venues, Secrets Playa Esmeralda can host everything from elopements to executive retreats. Couples have three ceremony sites—including a beachfront gazebo—and the option to move festivities into a grand ballroom or onto starlit terraces. Corporate planners will find 11 meeting spaces; the Miches Ballroom alone accommodates up to 1,440 guests in theater style.
The Public Square: Shared Energy With a Sister Resort
A lively village-style plaza called Public Square sits between Secrets Playa Esmeralda and its forthcoming family-friendly neighbor, Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa. The zone is packed with extra dining outlets, shops and nightly entertainment, and Secrets guests receive full run of the amenities next door once the second resort opens.
Coming September 1, 2025: Dreams Playa Esmeralda
Scheduled for September 1, 2025, Dreams Playa Esmeralda will mirror Secrets’ suite count with 500 accommodations while adding a waterpark, an Explorer’s Club for kids, a Core Zone Teen Club, 10 restaurants and seven bars—ideal for multigenerational groups who want the same beach scene without sacrificing age-appropriate fun.
World of Hyatt Perks and Booking Details
To celebrate the debut, World of Hyatt members can collect 500 bonus points per qualifying night under the New Hotels Bonus Offer. Nightly rates and availability can be viewed on the resort’s website or by calling +1 809-552-2220.
Tips for Travelers
- Arrival gateway: Punta Cana International Airport lies roughly two hours by car; private transfers can be arranged through the resort.
- Currency: The Dominican peso, though U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.
- Best time to visit: January through March offers cooler temperatures and coincides with whale-watching season.
- Dress code: Casual during the day; some restaurants enforce long pants and collared shirts for dinner.
- Health & safety: Tap water is not potable; complimentary bottled water is provided in all suites.
FAQ
Is the resort truly adults-only?
Yes, guests must be 18 or older to stay at Secrets Playa Esmeralda.
Can Secrets guests use facilities at Dreams Playa Esmeralda?
Once the family-friendly resort opens, adults staying at Secrets will have full access to Dreams’ restaurants, bars and waterpark.
What is included in the all-inclusive rate?
Unlimited dining and drinks, 24-hour room service, daily activities, nightly entertainment, non-motorized water sports, taxes and gratuities are bundled into every booking.
How do I earn the 500 World of Hyatt bonus points?
Enroll in the free loyalty program and book a qualifying rate; points are awarded per qualifying night during the promotional window.
Is Wi-Fi complimentary?
Yes, high-speed wireless internet is included throughout the property.
“From its pristine beach to its thoughtful sustainability initiatives, Secrets Playa Esmeralda embodies the future of upscale, all-inclusive travel,” Hyatt said in the release. — Source: Hyatt Hotels Corporation press release
