If the all-inclusive scene doesn’t appeal to you, here are some options for independent accommodations under US$100.

El Cortecito Inn (Av. Melia Fiesta, El Cortecito, tel. 809/552-0639, fax 809/552-0639, US$60 d per room w/breakfast), a 70-unit hotel right on the main strip of El Cortecito and only 40 meters from the beach, offers very basic rooms, each with its own private bath. Don’t expect pampering. The location is convenient, just paces from shops, restaurants, the beach, and excursion offices. Children up to seven years old stay free. This hotel has seen better days, and has dated decor and poor maintenance, but it has a pool and a bar/restaurant where the food portions are generous. Some rooms have balconies. Free parking is available.

At La Posada de Piedra (Playa El Cortecito, Bávaro, tel. 809/221-0754, www.laposadadepiedra.com, US$35–45 d) it’s all about location, location, location (for an extremely low price). This very small (five rooms, to be exact) family-owned hotel offers low-maintenance, independent travelers the accommodations they’ve been looking for. Two of the rooms are actually in the owner’s home, where you’ll have your own private bath, a ceiling fan, and a shared balcony overlooking an amazing view of the ocean. The other three rooms are in very basic cabanas on the beach. Meals and drinks are available in a family-style atmosphere. It’s a short walk to the shops and restaurants of El Cortecito.