A Trusted Friend in a Complicated World
Published on Mar. 11, 2022
These all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean offer the total package—everything from water parks and expansive wine cellars to champion golf courses and, yes, even circus schools
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Sugar-sand beaches, turquoise waters and stunning surroundings—coupled with year-round warm, sunny weather—make the Caribbean a perfect vacation destination for every type of traveler. I’ve visited this idyllic region nearly a dozen times (if not more) both as a child and an adult who has since built a career in travel writing. The area is home to some of the world’s best all-inclusive resorts, and I’ve been fortunate enough to stay at some of them. Growing up, my family of six craved the convenience—and the value—that came with all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, which fold room rates, food and drinks, and activities into one fixed price.
What’s more, in the Caribbean, it’s quite common for travelers to spend the bulk of their time on property, swimming in the water, admiring the tranquil surroundings and relaxing on the beach. All-inclusive resorts make the perfect base for this. And at the Caribbean all-inclusive resorts below, travelers don’t have to worry about shelling out cash on groceries or cooking a meal (it’s vacation, after all). You won’t spend hours planning activities or renting transportation either. Most are on site, and whatever isn’t (think: tours and excursions) can easily be arranged without having to lift a finger.
While you’ll find a handful of incredible all-inclusive resorts in the United States, there’s just something about hopping off the plane in the Caribbean that puts us into instant relaxation mode. Is it the balmy ocean breezes? The swaying palms? The pristine beaches? The welcoming hospitality? Or perhaps it’s a combination of all of the above that makes this destination so special. My gut—and my personal experience—tells me it’s the latter. From the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts to the best all-inclusive resorts for families, the hotels below are travelers’ picks for top-notch all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean.
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Casa de Campo Resort & Villas spans 7,000 acres in the Dominican Republic, and the massive gated complex feels like its very own resort town. Guests don’t have to step foot off the property to enjoy an abundance of amenities, like a full-service marina, tennis and polo facilities, and championship golf (including the world-famous Pete Dye–designed Teeth of the Dog course).
When I visited this past summer for my mother-in-law’s wedding, a group of more than 10 of us had a blast in a private villa. We spent most days drinking, dining and dancing in the open-air living room area or swimming in the expansive pool. (Villa guests are privy to their own team of butlers, bartenders and a chef!) We ended up getting ready for the nuptials in the hotel proper and loved how modern and sun-drenched the rooms were—each had a private terrace or balcony.
My brother-in-law and I had a blast exploring the property via golf cart, while my husband and I walked over to Casa de Campo’s private beach, an unspoiled stretch of sand flanked by swaying palms and washed in clear-blue water. Book the all-inclusive experience to enjoy all meals and snacks at most signature restaurants, alcoholic beverages, unlimited activities (like horseback riding, tennis and non-motorized water sports), one round of 25 shots for skeet/trap shooting and access to the Family Fun Zone entertainment center … all without paying extra. Other highlights include a bustling bar and nightlife scene, a 16th-century replica of a Mediterranean village filled with shops and a movie theater. In short, it’s impossible to be bored here.
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Beaches Turks and Caicos is the ultimate family oasis with its Pirates Island Water Park, a 45,000-square-foot playground filled with water slides, swimming pools, swim-up soda bars, a lazy river, water cannons, whirlpools and a surf simulator. For even more adventure, guests can enjoy complimentary water sports—non-motorized and motorized—along with scuba diving in Grace Bay, a pristine beach with some of the clearest and warmest waters for swimming and splashing. When hunger calls, families can choose from 21 restaurants and 15 bars, which means even the pickiest of eaters will be satisfied here.
Another cool element: The expansive resort is divided into smaller villages—Key West Village, Caribbean Village, Italian Village and French Village—so you can pick whether you want to stay by the ocean, pool or water park. “Each village has its own vibe, so it is important to determine what type of vacation you are looking for,” says Kari Dillon, travel advisor and owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels. “The Key West Village is [considered to be] a laid back section [in the resort], while the Italian Village is much more lively.”
And as one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean for families with disabilities, Beaches Turks and Caicos has partnered with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to attain the Advanced Certified Autism Center designation. This means that staff have been trained to cater to children of various needs to ensure a welcoming, fun and inclusive vacation for all. Child-care staff receive training in areas like sensory awareness, program development, emotional awareness, social skills and communication.
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At Club Med Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, guests can step out of their comfort zones and join the circus (yes, really!). Head to Club Med Circus School to hang from aerial silks, jump on trampolines and pretend to be acrobats on a flying trapeze. Not your thing? You can go stand-up paddleboarding, sign up for sailing school, play a round of golf or participate in family sports tournaments instead. These are, of course, just a few of the 25-plus included sports and activities here.
While the rest of the family can stay in one of the multi-bedroom family rooms, grandma and grandpa can retreat to the property’s adults-only area, Zen Oasis. When I stayed here on a press trip, I felt worlds away from the hustle and bustle—and the dozens of families also staying at the resort—despite being within easy walking distance of all the action. To make the most of my serene setting, I spent most of my time relaxing on a lounger by the sprawling pool, soaking in the Jacuzzi, enjoying smoothies by the poolside bar and hanging out in my spa-inspired room. The room had an impressive greenery-filled outdoor area, where I worked from the cushy lounger, and one of the most incredible soaking tubs I’ve ever had the pleasure of using.
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Most people associate overwater bungalows with Tahiti or the Maldives, but you need not travel halfway (or more) across the world to experience them. Instead, just hop on a flight to this adults-only, all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean. These idyllic Tahitian-style suites at Sandals South Coast in Jamaica feature walk-in rain showers, extended sun decks, floating hammocks and outdoor soaking tubs for two. The private butler service is just the icing on the cake.
While the overwater bungalows are show-shopping, Dillon is quick to note that the all-inclusive resort offers a total of “21 great room categories that fit travelers of all budgets.” Even the standard rooms are beachfront and equipped with plush four-poster beds and private balconies. The travel pro also enjoyed the property’s wide variety of drinking and dining options, which include “cuisines such as Italian, Asian, Mediterranean, Caribbean and Jamaican,” she says. “Jasmine’s, which is a Pan-Asian Bistro, is my top pick at this resort!”
Follow Dillon’s advice and make sure to stop by the Over-the-Water bar, which offers panoramic water views. “This is a great place to relax and unwind while drinking your favorite beverage,” she says. Pro tip: Don’t miss my favorite drink, the Dirty Banana (or “DB” for short). One of Sandals’ many signature frozen cocktails, this sweet and refreshing libation is made with banana, rum and dark creme de cacao.
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One of the least-crowded islands in the Caribbean, St. Lucia is home to Jade Mountain Resort, a serene and indulgent escape for grown-ups. According to Alexandra Farrington, luxury travel advisor and founder of Acera Travel, Jade Mountain is among the Caribbean’s—and the world’s—most stunning resorts. The guest accommodations, aptly referred to as sanctuaries, feature colorful tiled infinity pools and sweeping views of the UNESCO-listed Pitons that are almost otherworldly. While the five Sky Whirlpool Suites do not have private pools, they do have sumptuous two-person tubs.
The location of the property is, in a word, spectacular: It rises above sister property Anse Chastanet and is surrounded by 600 tropical acres and two beaches, where colorful coral reefs can be found right offshore. According to Farrington, Jade Mountain Resort guests “have full access to all activities and facilities of Anse Chastanet,” which offers hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking and biking, along with a spa and restaurants. But don’t sleep on Jade Mountain Resort’s signature restaurant, Jade Mountain Club, which is equally impressive—and helmed by a Michelin-starred chef! The on-site Chocolate Laboratory, which offers activities like truffle making and chocolate sensory tastings, is sure to impress sweet tooths.
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You can disconnect from the bustle of everyday life at all-inclusive resorts in the Bahamas (which, fun fact, is not technically part of the Caribbean!), Mexico, Hawaii and, of course, the Caribbean. But if you really want to unplug and relax, consider an even more secluded escape.
We don’t know who needs to hear this, but a private island escape is more in reach than you think—that is, as long as you can afford the sky-high costs. At Guana Island in the British Virgin Islands, guests can enjoy a sweet taste of an exclusive, untouched 850-acre paradise complete with postcard-worthy beaches, flora-filled gardens, magnificent mountain scenery, dozens of hiking trails, warm service and delicious food showcasing locally sourced ingredients. Oh, and if you’re lucky, you may spot the resort’s flock of flamingos.
Farrington is quick to highlight the 18 freestanding cottages and villas, some of which have private pools. Guests can soak up the sea views from the comfort of their beachy-chic private terraces before retreating inside to an equally stunning space with handcrafted furnishings and original artwork, including watercolor masterpieces that were painted on the island back in the ’30s. All in all, if we had to pick three words to describe the vibes here, we’d go with laid-back luxury—and I’m sure none of us would mind being stranded here.
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This all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean is especially great for families with small kids, explains travel expert and Club Thrifty founder Holly Johnson, who “has stayed at this resort and loved it.” What’s more, she says, “Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa in Jamaica has several meandering pools throughout the property, and one of the pools has several fun waterslides and a large lazy river.”
Johnson has another tip for this all-inclusive: Although the kiddos may opt to spend the entire morning or afternoon floating down the lazy river or zipping down the slides, families shouldn’t miss the private beach at this resort. “The beach at the property is also fairly calm and the water is crystal clear, so families can get out in the waves and play,” she says.
Other child-friendly activities include beach volleyball, tennis and simply strolling the serene palm tree–lined grounds. Mom and Dad can hit the spa, grab drinks at one of the bars and lounges (including one swim-up bar), or perfect their swings at the nearby 54-hole championship golf course. Meanwhile, the little ones will have a blast at the complimentary kids club, available for those ages 4 through 12, which offers activities like shell hunting and glass-bottom boat rides. Later on, regroup for dinner at one of seven restaurants. The spacious accommodations, all of which sleep a minimum of four people, are also great for families.
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For an intimate oceanfront escape, look no further than Hermitage Bay in Antigua. This boutique all-inclusive Caribbean resort is a personal favorite of Farrington’s, who describes it as “very luxurious” and “great for luxe honeymoons, anniversaries or solo travel.” While the property is not technically adults-only, it’s definitely geared toward grown-ups—children under 14 are prohibited.
“It’s truly a sophisticated resort, from the authentic service to the ecological design to the stellar food,” says Farrington. The 30 suites are spread across 17 lush acres, which only adds to the secluded feel. Each accommodation is flooded with natural light and done up in dark woods, and you can admire gorgeous island views from a private balcony or deck. For a true treat, Farrington recommends staying in one of the hillside pool suites, which offer private plunge pools, outdoor showers and private decks. Beach bums, on the other hand, may opt for one of the split-level beachfront suites, which offer direct access to the sand.
The travel advisor is also a fan of the food here—expect fresh-caught seafood and produce harvested from the on-site garden. Consider yourself a foodie? “Once a week, [the] chef teaches a poolside afternoon cooking class,” she says. You can also arrange farm tours and fishing excursions, though we wouldn’t blame you if you spent the entire day alternating between lounging on the beach and partaking in non-motorized watersports.
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Most people associate the Caribbean with rum instead of wine, but at Curtain Bluff Resort in Antigua, it’s all about the vino. Located on the beautiful Caribbean island of Antigua, this elegant oceanfront property is home to one of the largest wine cellars in the Caribbean, spanning more than 4,000 bottles. (Go ahead and arrange a tour.)
On days when they’re not drinking all that wine, guests can break a sweat by partaking in watersports like paddleboarding and kayaking or land activities like squash and tennis. (With this in mind, Farrington “love[s] Curtain Bluff for active families.”) Children ages 3 to 10 can attend the property’s Cee Bee Kids Camp, where daily activities include everything from crafting to Hobie Cat sailing.
What’s especially neat about this Caribbean resort is that it’s flanked by not one but two beautiful beaches, which means guests have plenty of room to roam and lounge along the sand. Breakfasts and dinners are served at the elegant Tamarind Restaurant, while lunch happens at the beachfront Sea Grape and afternoon tea takes place in the library overlooking the gardens. Don’t miss the sea-facing spa, beachside swimming pool, beach bar or swaying hammocks for lounging in style, says Farrington.
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Foodies craving an upscale and culinary-focused getaway—complete with bespoke service and villas equipped with plunge pools—need not look further than the adults-only Hammock Cove in Antigua. The Caribbean resort’s award-winning food and beverage program goes beyond the basics: In addition to all meals and snacks, culinary connoisseurs also enjoy chef’s table experiences, tasting dinners, afternoon tea and aperitivo hours. Oenophiles can also choose to shell out for a sommelier-led wine tasting to complement all the delicious food.
“Not many all-inclusives include chef’s dinners, in-villa dining, afternoon tea, evening aperitivo, premium liquor, wines and Champagne,” Farrington rightfully points out. All of that makes Hammock Cove especially unique. That, and what she calls “a load of activities” available for guests, such as unlimited watersports and pickleball. Lastly, while the all-villa accommodations offer plunge pools, don’t miss the chance to swim in the resort’s multitiered pool. Yeah, it’s as cool as it sounds.
When choosing an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean, consider how you’d like to spend your vacation. While some people prefer to be active, others prefer to lay on the beach or by the pool, and many opt for a combination of both. Look for all-inclusive resorts with offerings, activities and amenities that meet your needs. If you have a family, consider which all-inclusive resorts welcome children and which do not. Family-friendly resorts may be more high-energy than those geared towards adults only, which may impact your decision.
Price can play a key role when planning a trip to an all-inclusive resort, as they can be quite costly. Consider how much you wish to spend for your entire trip, and then decide if you’d prefer to stay fewer days and nights in a more luxurious resort or if you’d rather take a longer trip and stay somewhere more affordable. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of added services and experiences, like spa and fitness services and specialty restaurants, if you intend to take advantage of those.
Perhaps the most important decision is choosing the right Caribbean destination. If you are interested in specific activities, like water sports, bird watching and snorkeling, choose an island that offers those types of excursions.
Lauren Dana Ellman, the author of this piece, is an experienced travel writer whose work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out, Tripadvisor, Viator, ShermansTravel, Brides, The Knot, Allure, Glamour, Self, Well + Good and more. For this piece, she sought the expertise of several travel experts, including Kari Dillon, Holly Johnson and Alexandra Farrington.
Kari Dillon is a travel advisor and the owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels. She has a decade of experience in the travel industry and is a Certified Sandals Specialist and a selected member of the 2019 Family Travel Advisory Forum. Dillon specializes in booking Disney vacations, all-inclusive trips and cruises.
Holly Johnson is a travel expert and founder of Club Thrifty. She travels for about 20 weeks each year, focusing most of her trips on the Caribbean and Europe. Johnson has used points and miles to supplement her world travel and has recently visited more than 40 countries. She is also an award-winning writer, and her work has been featured in publications including The Wall Street Journal and CNN.
Alexandra Farrington is a luxury travel advisor, corporate travel specialist and founder of Acera Travel. She’s a lifetime traveler with a background in hospitality. Farrington’s work focuses on curating bespoke travel experiences that are truly one-of-a-kind, and she holds a Fora travel agent certification.
Nina Derwin is a commerce updates editor for Reader’s Digest, Taste of Home and Family Handyman with experience researching and reviewing various items to help shoppers find the best products on the market. She researched and updated this piece.
With dozens upon dozens of all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, selecting the creme de la creme is difficult. Given how famous the region is for its long stretches of sand, all of these Caribbean resort picks are located just steps from the ocean; some even have private beaches. To make vacation planning as seamless and stress-free as possible, we looked for resorts that offer an array of complimentary activities, amenities and entertainment, all in addition to various food and drink options. Even better, the majority of the all-inclusive Caribbean resorts we chose also offer some sort of added bonus, amenity or point of distinction—Michelin-worthy cuisine, overwater bungalow suites, on-site water parks and winding lazy rivers, or atypical activities like trapeze or polo. We also used personal experiences and relied on expert insight from trusted travel experts and advisors, along with user reviews and ratings on Tripadvisor, which offered a wide range of perspectives.
Aruba, Turks & Caicos and the Dominican Republic are among some of the best Caribbean islands for those who wish to stay at an all-inclusive resort, as these islands have multiple resorts from which to choose that offer a wealth of excellent amenities.
Paying for an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean can make your trip easier and stress-free and even save you money in the long run. Some all-inclusive packages include excursions and activities that would cost more if purchased independently.
While all of the Caribbean islands offer visitors their own unique beauty, St. Lucia, Turks & Caicos, Antigua and Grenada are some of the prettiest Caribbean destinations to visit.
