Kristina
Google
After my fifth visit to Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo, I’m not sure I will return unless the rooms are renovated. The beach is absolutely gorgeous, usually with little to no seaweed (although in 2022, there was some seaweed and large waves, which may have been due to seasonal weather), and it’s great for snorkelling and long walks. The resort’s layout is nice and easy to navigate, the weather is beautiful, and the staff are consistently friendly. The food has generally been very good, with a wide selection, although during my most recent visit in December 2025, I noticed a slight decline in variety and creativity. That said, the buffet still offers good options, especially if you enjoy fish and passionfruit, and the drinks are good too. However, I have noticed significant changes in my visits from 2019 to 2025. The entertainment has declined compared to earlier visits. Before, there were live jazz singers and dance performances, but these have largely disappeared and been replaced by bingo nights, which felt repetitive and like I was in a retirement home. The rooms are now VERY outdated and in urgent need of renovation, with visible wear such as peeling surfaces, dampness, and mould. The bathroom fans do not work properly, leading to moisture buildup and unpleasant smells, making the rooms feel neglected overall. During my most recent visit there was also a noticeable issue with stray dogs on the property and beach, as dogs frequently approached guests’ chairs and barked loudly; some guests fed and played with them, which obviously made the dogs more aggitated once they left, and at one point a dog ran through the lobby and knocked over an elderly guest, which made many visitors, including families with young children, feel uncomfortable and unsafe. Overall, this is still a beautiful resort with many strengths. Still, it needs updates and improvements to maintain the quality it once had, and I would consider returning only if renovations and improvements are made.