Miches, Dominican Republic – Hyatt Hotels Corporation has expanded its luxury all-inclusive offerings with the opening of Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa, a serene, adults-only hideaway located on a secluded stretch of Playa Esmeralda, one of the Dominican Republic’s most unspoiled coastal regions.
The new resort is part of Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection and marks a strategic expansion in the emerging eco-destination of Miches. Known for its rainforest-fringed beaches and off-the-beaten-path charm, Miches is quickly becoming a sought-after alternative to the busier resort hubs of Punta Cana.
With 500 suites and sweeping views of the Caribbean, Secrets Playa Esmeralda aims to redefine romantic and wellness-focused travel. Each suite offers either a private terrace or balcony—many with direct swim-out access—and interiors that blend modern luxury with Caribbean-inspired textures and colors. High-end touches include rain showers, double vanities, Pharmacopia bath products, and 24-hour room and concierge service.
Guests looking for a more personalized experience can book Preferred Club suites, which come with exclusive access to private pools, beach areas, upgraded minibars, butler service, and a private lounge. The Presidential Suite, featuring a private kitchen and a panoramic ocean-view terrace with a jet pool, tops off the oceanfront offerings.
The resort’s dining scene is led by Executive Chef Carlos Quijano, who oversees a mix of global cuisines across 11 restaurants and 7 bars. The standout is Doña Altagracia, a restaurant named in tribute to Dominican heritage and known for elevated interpretations of traditional dishes—such as risotto with stewed goat and artisanal mofongo.
At the heart of the property is the Secrets Spa, managed by wellness veteran Jenny Castillo. Guests can choose from holistic body rituals and personalized skincare treatments, many using locally sourced ingredients like rose petals, brown sugar, and concentrated aloe vera. The spa includes a hydrotherapy circuit, sauna, cold plunge, and the Master Spa Cabin—a private 49-square-meter sanctuary with a dedicated treatment terrace.
The resort also features a modern fitness center, beach volleyball and tennis courts, and daily programming that ranges from water aerobics to Spanish classes and guided snorkeling. Introductory scuba diving lessons are offered in the resort’s pool.
Secrets Playa Esmeralda encourages guests to venture into the Miches region, widely considered one of the Dominican Republic’s last eco-tourism frontiers. Highlights include:
Montaña Redonda, famous for its mountaintop swings and panoramic views
Los Haitises National Park, ideal for kayaking through mangroves
Salto La Jalda, the country’s tallest waterfall, accessible by hike
Seasonal whale watching in nearby Bahía de Samaná
Nature lovers may even witness sea turtle hatchlings making their way to the ocean. In coordination with Promiches, a nonprofit supporting sustainable development in the area, the resort has created a protected nesting site for sea turtles.
With over 15,000 square feet of flexible event space, Secrets Playa Esmeralda is positioning itself as a premier venue for destination weddings and corporate retreats. Options include beachfront ceremonies, starlit receptions, and ballroom banquets. The largest venue, Miches Ballroom, can host up to 1,440 guests.
A dedicated team of planners is on-site to customize events—from intimate elopements to executive workshops.
Guests of Secrets Playa Esmeralda also enjoy full access to the neighboring Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa, a family-friendly property set to open on September 1, 2025. Both resorts share a central social hub called Public Square, a vibrant plaza featuring shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.
Once Dreams Playa Esmeralda opens, guests will have access to an additional 500 suites, a waterpark, kids and teen clubs, ten restaurants, and more—making it easy for multigenerational groups to enjoy the best of both worlds.
To celebrate the opening, World of Hyatt members can earn 500 bonus points per eligible night at Secrets Playa Esmeralda through the New Hotels Bonus Offer.
For more information or to book a stay, visit secretsresorts.com or follow @secretsresorts on social media.
