Hey,
I just got back from my trip to Punta Cana and thought I would add a bit to this ongoing thread.
I was able to play poker at 3 different places: Riu Macao, Avalon Poker Club and the Hardrock Casino.
By far the biggest action game was over at the Hardrock. It spreads a 2/5nl game with a $2k max buy in. Most players bought in between $300 - $1000 but as the night goes on, several people bought in for the $2k max. The poker room is also right beside an awesome sportsbook - so if you're like me and enjoy watching the game and having a beer, this is the best place in Punta Cana to do it. The sportsbook was as good as the top ones in Vegas.
One thing to note at the Hardrock is that the high hand of the night is a complete scam. They take an extra $3 drop for "promo funds". I played one night where a lady made quad 10s and then she left around midnight. If her hand held, she would need to return the next night to collect. I ended up playing right until the game broke for the night and knew her hand held. When I saw her again the next day, I asked her about the high hand and she was told that someone else beat it after she left. There was only ever 1 table so this was impossible.
Avalon Casino had the friendliest group to play with. I got the impression that many of these players were regulars but that certainly did not make them good. They had a shuttle that picked me up and dropped me off each way and just cost a $5 tip for the driver. Alcohol is free while you play (unlike at Hard Rock). The game plays much smaller then Hard Rock, but it was still a fun atmosphere. Avalon Casino poker site:
http://www.puntacanapokerclub.com/
If anyone is staying at the Riu chain resorts, then you have access to the casino at the Riu Macao resort. ABSOLUTELY do not play here. Extraordinary rake, house players and I even caught the dealer bottom dealing (at Blackjack, not at poker). They also give you "house chips" for free when you first walk in, but they can only be used at a progressive roulette game which is a known scam.
Feel free to ask any questions as I'm sure I left a ton of stuff out. Thanks again for the previous info, it was a big help!