In the world of Punta Cana real estate investment, many beliefs circulate about different areas… and not all of them are true. Some may cause you to miss opportunities, and others could lead you to make bad decisions. Today I am going to tell you the complete truth about White Sands, one of the most talked about but also most misunderstood areas in Bávaro.
I am Jordi Albertus, a real estate consultant in the Dominican Republic with more than 17 years helping investors to buy with security and profitability. I have heard all versions about White Sands, from the most optimistic to the most pessimistic. Let’s separate fact from fiction.
The Strategic Location and White Sands Environment
White Sands is strategically located in the heart of Bávaro, flanked by the Princess on one side and the Ocean Blue on the other. Unlike the characteristic hustle and bustle of the tourist center, here the experience changes radically as soon as you cross the security gate.
Key benefit number one: security This is a gated community with double access control in many cases, the main entrance and then your specific residential. If you are looking for tranquility for yourself or security guarantees for your Airbnb guests, this aspect represents significant added value.
The streets are wide and there is abundant vegetation. The feeling is that of a consolidated and mature neighborhood, not an isolated construction in the middle of nowhere. This makes a substantial difference in terms of quality of life and resident or tourist experience.
Demystifying the Golf Issue
Here comes the total transparency you need. Many promotional materials present White Sands as a “Golf Resort.” Historically, this area had an active golf course, but currently the course is not operational due to remodeling work.
Is this necessarily negative? No. You still enjoy the spectacular green views, careful landscaping and the exclusivity of not having buildings crammed one on top of the other. In addition, if you are a golfer, you are just 5 minutes by car from the Iberostar or Cocotal.
In other words: you have the location and atmosphere of a golf-type development, without paying the astronomical maintenance fees of an active golf course. For your pocket, this represents a competitive advantage.
The Crown Jewel: Private Beach Access
Let’s forget about golf for a moment. The real reason why smart investors choose White Sands is its exclusive access to Arena Gorda beach.
White Sands has one of the few private beach accesses in all of Bávaro. If you have tried to find parking at public beaches recently, you know exactly how valuable this is. The development offers a shuttle service that runs through the residentials and drops you off directly at the beach.
The beach in this area is wider, has less erosion and, crucially, is much less saturated with street vendors than areas like El Cortecito. For a tourist who rents your property via Airbnb, this access is worth more than any luxury pool.
Myths and Truths About Investing in White Sands
Myth: White Sands no longer has a golf course, therefore it lost its value.
Truth: The value of White Sands never depended solely on golf. Its real asset is private beach access, security and strategic location. In addition, by not having an active golf course, you save on the high maintenance fees that other developments charge.
Myth: It is an area very far from everything.
Truth: White Sands is in the heart of Bávaro. You have quick access to the Tourist Boulevard and you are 15-20 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport. You don’t get stuck in internal traffic like in other areas.
Myth: Profitability is low compared to other areas.
Truth: Well managed, a tourist property in White Sands can generate between 6% and 10% annual net profitability. In some cases, especially in properties well located for Airbnb with easy beach access, this range can be exceeded.
Myth: There are no services within the development.
Truth: White Sands is Airbnb friendly from its conception, offers shuttle service to the beach, 24/7 security, and you are minutes away from supermarkets, restaurants and all necessary services in Bávaro.
Services and Real Profitability
Let’s talk about money and practical convenience.
Airbnb Friendly: Unlike some hotel developments that prohibit short-term rentals, White Sands was designed with this business model in mind.
Privileged location: You are 15-20 minutes from the airport, with quick access to the Tourist Boulevard.
Competitive prices: Here you can still find investment opportunities with very competitive prices compared to beachfront properties in other premium areas.
Tenant profile: This is crucial data for your strategy. White Sands mainly attracts families looking for security and couples who want tranquility by the sea. It is not the destination for the intense party tourist. Knowing your ideal client will allow you to maximize your occupancy and profitability.
Real Example
A German client contacted me convinced that White Sands had lost value due to the golf issue. After showing him figures, success stories from current owners and the real advantages of the development, he decided to buy a two-bedroom apartment in White Sands.
Today, two years later, he maintains an average occupancy of 75% annually with his Airbnb and has recovered his initial investment. His comment: “Private beach access is what makes the difference. My guests value it more than any other amenity.”
Who Is White Sands For?
White Sands is not for those looking for nightlife steps from their door. It is for the investor looking for safe and sustained revaluation, VIP beach access and a controlled and family-friendly environment.
If you feel overwhelmed with so many investment options in Punta Cana, I invite you to contact me to analyze your specific case and explore the real opportunities that are currently available in White Sands and other high-profitability areas.
I am Jordi Albertus, your strategic ally in the Dominican Republic. Together we will find the investment that best suits your goals.