went costa dorada in dom rep not so long ago (before earth quake). Was great but make sure you got good facilities in the hotel becuase theres not much at the north of the island. Highly recomend doing the "Sauna day trip" its cots us a couple of hundred dollars but it was fantastic. Smal island hopper plane (if you stay in the north) ferry down the tropical rivers, then a fast speed boat accross crystal clear waters on the south coast for a mid sea swim, then on to sauna for am awesome BBQ - on the way back you go via 60ft catamaran for a relaxing trip home.
Dont miss it!!! its available both north and south resorts. Obvisouly south is cheaper as it doesnt require the mini airplane flight to the south.