Best bang for the buck in punta cana

I will be travelling from around 3/1/07 for seven days from new york. Me my wife and baby for vacation. Which hotels offer the best value.? Is this peak season? We're on a budget and are new to this area. Is renting a non inclusive villas for much less and purchasing day passes at the resorts a better move? any help from the many experienced travellers is greatly appreciated.