Have you tried the resort reviews at this website?
<A HREF="http://www.debbiesdominicantravel.com/">http://www.debbiesdominicantravel.com/</A>
We are going there in March and from what I read in the reviews, the resort is highly recommended.
I am staying at sol de plata at the moment, it has an isolated location, poor beach, swimming in the sea is dangerous. Its fixtures and fittings are it need of refurbishment. Go to Playa Dorada, its much better.
Next time, check out the south coast. Everything in the area is within a few blocks, the beach is soft, white, and walkable, and the water is very inviting for swimming (See photo below).