I have been to both. Beach at Royalton Punta Cana is tops (even during seaweed time there is minimal to none) and walking distance to royalton splash so water park and extra pools/restaurants. However resort is a bit dated. I would return to Royalton Bavaro. Cant beat their lazy river, fairly new hotel, flowrider. You can still take a shuttle to the royalton splash water park. Technically you could walk on beach or road, but they have a shuttle at designated times to make it easier. I went before marriott partnership but hear you automatically get diamond club which is a nice perk assuming marriott status.