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Vacation Like a Cheeseburger in Paradise

Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana by Karisma makes a great tropical getaway

By Emily Papa, Macaroni KID South Hills Publisher March 7, 2023

I'm sure we’ve all used the phrase “It’s five o’clock somewhere” at some point in time (probably mid-afternoon home with the kids, starving for just a minute of escape), but if you have been following along with our Instagram stories, you might have seen that a few weeks ago, I got to experience a real taste of it being five o’clock somewhere at Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana

Now I know the name "Margaritaville" might scream "spring break" to some, but while I loved spending time at this beautiful resort with my fellow Macaroni KID publishers, I can confidently say that this resort is the ultimate family destination to vacation like a cheeseburger in paradise. Here are nine reasons why:


The author was hosted to facilitate this article. All thoughts and opinions expressed are their own.


Island Reserve Inclusive Experience

From the moment you walk into Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, you will appreciate the thoughtful details put into your stay. Friendly greetings from a local Island Ambassador, branded flip-flops to walk the resort, top-shelf bottles on every bar, and the most customized mini-bar preferences I’ve ever seen go into making this the fun and carefree vacation your family deserves.



Laid-Back Luxurious Accommodations

With 519 suites and 40 island reserve villas, the rooms at Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana are incredibly well-thought-out. Spacious and clean, with a super fun, modern, beachy vibe. The beds are comfortable, with a separate sitting area, and the oversized balconies offer stunning views of the ocean. It is a great place to come back to after a long day of exploring and indulging. 

I particularly appreciated the fact that there were plenty of outlets and USB ports for charging all of my devices, because let's face it, a mom's work is never done, even on vacation.



Parakeet Kid’s Club

Children ages 4-12 can enjoy their own exclusive space filled with fun just for kids. Parakeet Kid’s Club is supervised daily from 9 am-5 pm and again from 7 pm-9 pm with organized activities like cooking classes, mad lab experiments, pajama parties, and movie nights. Kids under 4 are also welcomed but must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver.



Splash Pool

While kids are welcome at any pool on the Waves side of Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, they have a dedicated splash pad area with mini lounge chairs 




Beach Please

We are huge beach people. We want as much vitamin sea as we can get on a tropical vacation. The resort has direct access to the beautiful Juanillo Beach, which is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Families can spend hours enjoying the sand and surf, with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and fun. While you're there, plan a family photo sesh with that priceless view!



Floating Cheeseburgers and Tacos

Need I say more? Maybe I’ll mention that they are served with our hometown Heinz condiments to bring Cheeseburger in Paradise a whole new meaning.



Family-Friendly Dining Options 

Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana has several restaurants, including a kid-friendly food display. The food is delicious, and there are plenty of options to suit all dietary requirements.



Wasting Away in Margaritaville

I have to mention the overall vibe of Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana. It's just plain fun. The resort has a playful and laid-back atmosphere that is infectious. We found ourselves humming Jimmy Buffet tunes and sipping on frozen concoctions all day long. It was the perfect place to let our hair down and forget about the stresses of everyday life.



It’s a Smart Decision

Literally. The techie in me could write an entire article based on all the smart technology subtly incorporated into all aspects of the resort. Smart features include smart room controls, touchless elevators, and my favorite — keyless entry. 

The Margaritaville Island Reserve app is a must-download when vacationing here. You can browse all the scheduled daily activities and add them directly to your phone/Google calendar, so you don’t miss the weekly pool party, live performance at Entertainment Village, or corn hole tournament (yes, I’m that mom that logs the entire itinerary into my calendar, so I know what’s going on when my kids are asking). View all the restaurant's menus and even ORDER ROOM SERVICE from the app! Imagine this… the kids are getting hangry at the pool, but your littles need to take a nap. With a few clicks of a button, you could be gathering everyone together to head back to the room where lunch will be served shortly after you get there. #winning  

Overall, I highly recommend Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana as an ultimate family destination. With its kid-friendly activities, safe environment, comfortable accommodations, delicious dining options, beach access, water activities, and entertainment, there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Check out some additional photos from my trip below!


Aerial view of some of the pools at Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana on the Waves side


In queso you need something amazing to taco 'bout!


Our first night at Margaritaville, we enjoyed an authentic Dominican dinner on the beach. 


The ocean was stunning and there is a large sandy beach for a peaceful morning stroll. 


Late night shenanigans definitely turned us into the people our parents warned us about!


Until next time!