Four Seasons has announced plans for the development of Four Seasons Resort and Residences Dominican Republic at Tropicalia, a sustainable destination along the beachfront of Playa Esmerelda. Developed in partnership with Cisneros Real Estate, the resort is slated to open in early 2026.
Tropicalia itself is the private estate of the Cisneros family, and features a diverse ecosystem of white-sand beaches, coral reefs, mountains, forests, lagoons, a working coconut plantation and an organic farm.
As for the new resort, Brazilian architect Isay Weinfeld is taking the lead on interior design, while Gensler is at the helm of architecture, and EDSA of landscaping. Designers have created a tropical modernist design vision for the hotel’s 95 guestrooms and 25 private residences. Guest and residential buildings will be located along the beachfront of Playa Esmeralda with views of Samaná Bay, many with private terraces, green spaces and interior gardens.
With sustainability a core principle throughout the development, the design of Four Seasons Resort and Residences Dominican Republic at Tropicalia is is set to qualify for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Weinfeld’s designs are low-impact and draw inspiration from the island’s native materials and towns. Coralina limestone, brick and stucco echo the country’s history, harmonising with the surroundings and conveying a sense of authenticity, while the site’s nonlinear format encourages guests to explore the resort, with buildings integrated into the lush landscape.
As well as its guestrooms and residences, the resort will house a spa, fitness and wellness facilities and event spaces. On-site culinary offerings meanwhile will include numerous restaurants and bars, spanning from a specialty restaurant and beachside grill to a poolside bar, ceviche bar, juice bar, marketplace and sundry shop, coffee shop and rum bar.
“We are thrilled to expand Four Seasons global portfolio in the Dominican Republic, a market that we have long been focused on as a luxury travel destination,” says Alejandro Reynal, President and CEO of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “We are proud to bring this project to life with our partners at Cisneros, who share our values of supporting the environments and communities in which we operate, and who we deeply admire for their work with Fundación Tropicalia. Together, we will remain focused on these values as we welcome guests and residents alike in 2026 and become stewards of this beautiful destination.”
William Phelan, President of Tropicalia, adds: “Four Seasons will bring a new level of luxury hospitality to the Dominican Republic…Our resort will lead the region’s development of sustainable tourism by integrating innovative design, environmental management and community development into our business DNA.”
