I have stayed at every resort between Boca Chica and Juan Dolio, and i would rate this one at the top. Whala! is by no means a Punta Cana quality resort, but it was ok for a short stay. This is definitely an attractive destination for locals. I would estimate that during my stay, more than 90% of the guests were locals.
The check-in processes was probably the worse experience during my stay. It was slow and hot. But the limited staff were friendly.
The food was better than the other resorts in the area, even the buffet. However, selections are very limited. The italian restaurant was good, not great. The beer quality was ok, and the wine not so much. I recommend bringing your own bottle of something.
My room was a waterfront and it had an excellent view. Bed quality was so so, bedding cheap, and refrigerator only comes with 2 bottles of water that are not replenished. The expectation is for guests to take a water pitcher down to the hallway water dispenser and take it back to the room. That's not my thing. Housekeeping was magnificent.
All in all, it is not a luxury stay, but if you are in the Santo Domingo area and want a couple days on the beach, this might be a good place to do that. But beware, there may be a lot of kids making some noise.