The 25 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Caribbean for Your Perfect Escape
Updated: Sep. 01, 2023Looking for a vacation that's the total package? From rum tastings to trapeze lessons and water parks, you won't believe what's included at these all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean.
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All-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean are the perfect getaway
The mere mention of all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean conjures images of bikini-clad vacationers sipping daiquiris by the pool or basking in the sunshine on a white sand beach. Then there are the buffets with international cuisine, unlimited water sports, and tons of fun activities. And don’t forget about the evening entertainment for kids and grown-ups. Simply put, vacationing at one of the Caribbean’s many all-inclusive resorts makes for a magical, easy, and sun-splashed escape.
That’s not to say we don’t love escaping to the best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico or the many awesome all-inclusive resorts in the United States, but there’s something about the Caribbean that just puts us into instant vacation mode. In the Caribbean, you’ll experience some of the best all-inclusive resorts for families, many of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts, and even some of the hands-down best all-inclusive resorts in the world (including in Aruba.) All that’s left to do is pick a vacation package and book your ticket to paradise.
How we chose the best all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean
To determine the best all-inclusive Caribbean resorts, we considered each property’s accommodations, amenities, and dining options to find those that offered gorgeous rooms and on-site activities to beat boredom. (Clubs and activities for the kids weren’t required, but they’re bonuses in our book.) All of our picks have an oceanfront location, with many featuring suites mere steps from the sand. From there, we scoured TripAdvisor reviews to consider the opinions of people who’d been there, done that.
Best for honeymooners
Hermitage Bay
If you’ve always dreamed of honeymooning in the Caribbean, look no further than the breezy elegance and ease of Hermitage Bay in Antigua. The VIP treatment starts with fast-track immigration service and round-trip airport transfers. Once on the property, it’s all about laid-back luxury and romance. Between shacking up in a hillside pool suite—complete with a wraparound deck, plunge pool, and secluded areas for sunbathing—and having private, candlelit dinners on the beach, it’s sure to be a trip you (and your sweetie) won’t soon forget.
Pros:
- Private beach
- Excellent food
Cons:
-
Wi-Fi can be spotty
Best for wine lovers
Curtain Bluff Resort
Most people associate the Caribbean with rum instead of wine—unless they’ve been to the dreamy Curtain Bluff Resort. This sophisticated beachfront property on the beautiful south coast of Antigua boasts the largest wine cellar in the Caribbean. Besides an impressive selection of vino, it has all the trappings of an exquisite island escape: windsurfing, waterskiing, kayaking, tennis, spa services, and a kids’ club for when parents want a little alone time. For a closer-to-home wine vacation, visit one of these top American wineries.
Pros:
- Two private beaches
- All rooms and suites face the ocean
Cons:
- Requires more formal dinner attire
- Closed during the summer
Best for a kid-free escape
Jade Mountain Resort
One of the least-crowded islands in the Caribbean, Saint Lucia is home to Jade Mountain Resort, a true luxury escape that’s steeped in romance—perfect for parents traveling without kiddos and couples celebrating honeymoons and babymoons. The guest accommodations, which are aptly called sanctuaries, feature colorful tiled infinity pools and sweeping views of the UNESCO-listed Pitons that will make you forget about the pressures and responsibilities of daily life entirely.
Pros:
- Private infinity pools with incredible views
- World-class cuisine
Cons:
- Lots of steps
- Can be hard to secure a last-minute reservation at the restaurant Jade Mountain Club
Best for multigenerational families
Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana
The Dominican Republic is overflowing with all-inclusive resorts. But you won’t find a better place to bring the entire family—grandparents, parents, little ones, and yes, even teenagers—than the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana. With a slew of activities for all ages, plus exciting amenities like a water park with a lazy river, kids and teens’ club, nightly entertainment, food trucks, and a rum bar, the fun never ends. Hopefully, you’ll be able to wrangle everyone together for a group photo on Juanillo Beach, which has some of the warmest water in the world.
Pros:
- Water park
- Swim-up suites
Cons:
-
Limited off-site excursions
Best for cliffside accommodations
The Caves
Teetering on the edge of limestone cliffs on the westernmost point of Negril, Jamaica, The Caves is a far cry from the stereotypical all-inclusive resort. It’s small, private, full of romance, and geared toward adults. The intimate vibe, thatched-roof cottages, candlelit private grotto dinners, and postcard-worthy azure tides make it a perfect (and unbelievably beautiful) setting for couples to unwind and reconnect. If relaxing stateside is more your style, book one of these affordable beach vacations in America.
Pros:
- Private grotto dining
- Jaw-dropping views
Cons:
- No TVs in the rooms
- No beach
Best for a private island getaway
Guana Island
Having a private island to yourself sounds more like a vacation fantasy. But for travelers who can afford the hefty price tag, Guana Island makes it a reality, giving guests a sweet taste of an exclusive, untouched 850-acre paradise complete with pristine beaches, lush gardens, majestic mountains, rugged hiking trails, warm hospitality, delicious food, and villas with panoramic views. It’s laid-back luxury set against a backdrop of breathtaking beauty and undisturbed nature. Honestly, we’d like to be stranded here.
Pros:
- Private
- Outdoor activities
Cons:
-
Expensive—it could run you anywhere from $1,000 to $6,000 (or more) per night
Best for overwater bungalows
Sandals South Coast
Most people associate overwater bungalows with Tahiti or the Maldives, but one of the best floating accommodations exists in Jamaica. The private Tahitian-style stunners at Sandals South Coast resort feature walk-in rain showers, extended sun decks, floating hammocks, and outdoor soaking tubs that comfortably fit two. And good news for couples: This is one of the all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean that’s adults only.
Pros:
- Overwater bungalows
- Set within a 500-acre wilderness preserve
Cons:
- Far drive from the airport
- Adults only
Best for romance
Serenity at Coconut Bay
One of the top-rated properties in Saint Lucia, Serenity at Coconut Bay is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort that impresses travelers with its romantic ambiance, gourmet cuisine, and expansive suites that feature four-poster beds, soaking tubs, and private plunge pools. Personal butler service, 24-hour in-room dining, and a concierge to book excursions mean couples won’t need to worry about planning anything the entire time. See more of the best beaches to visit in your lifetime.
Pros:
- Well-appointed suites with plunge pools
- Fantastic food
Cons:
- Adults only
- Some guests say the beach can have too much seaweed during certain times of the year
Best for eco-oriented travelers
Small Hope Bay Lodge
Responsible tourism is increasingly important to many travelers. Where better to jump on the eco-friendly bandwagon than Small Hope Bay Lodge on the remote and beautifully unspoiled island of Andros in the Bahamas? Marvel at vibrant marine life on a snorkel or scuba adventure to the third-largest barrier reef in the world, go bird-watching, or kick back in a hammock and just stare at the untouched beauty of your natural surroundings before retiring to the comfort of a rustic beachfront cottage.
Pros:
- Eco-tours
- Beachfront cottages
Cons:
-
Wi-Fi can be spotty
Best for fans of Secrets Resorts
Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa
One of the best Secrets Resorts dips its toes in the turquoise waters of the Dominican Republic. Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa is an adults-only all-inclusive that does vacation right. It’s set on a dazzling white sand beach that’s equally enticing for strolling, sunbathing, and swimming. All 457 suites are beautifully designed, and guests have access to gourmet dining, top-shelf spirits, nightly entertainment, and countless on-site activities as well as golfing at the nearby Jack Nicklaus–designed Punta Espada golf course.
Pros:
- Friendly staff
- Great entertainment
Cons:
- Limited wine selection
- Adults only
Best for foodies
Hammock Cove
There are a lot of wonderful things about all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, but the most common complaint is about the food. If you’re hungry for gourmet fare (along with personalized service and villas with infinity-edge plunge pools), it doesn’t get better than the adults-only Hammock Cove resort in Antigua. The award-winning gastronomy program—which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, nibbles, a chef’s table, tasting dinners, in-room dining, afternoon tea, and an aperitivo hour—guarantees happy travelers (and taste buds).
Pros:
- Award-winning food and beverage program
- Water sports
Cons:
- Limited entertainment (this isn’t the place to party)
- Adults only
Best for families with kids, especially those with sensory sensitivities
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana
As far as all-inclusive family resorts in the Caribbean go, this one can’t be beaten. At Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, kids are greeted at check-in by the likes of SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer. Swim-up ground-floor suites have access to a shared pool, so mom and dad can go for a dip while the little ones nap. Aqua Nick water park features a lazy river, water slides, and a tipping bucket that’ll make kiddos squeal with delight. The most unique aspect of this family-friendly Dominican Republic resort is the special training the staff receives on how to welcome guests on the autism spectrum, or those with sensory sensitivities. For more travel ideas, check out these affordable family vacations that all ages will love.
Pros:
- Certified Autism Center
- Everything is geared toward kids
Cons:
-
Caters to families (it’s not the place for a couples’ getaway)
Best for nature lovers
Galley Bay Resort & Spa
Surrounded by lush, tropical gardens and sugar-fine sand, the adults-only Galley Bay Resort & Spa in Antigua is posh yet unpretentious and totally dreamy. Spend your days indulging in island-inspired spa treatments, going for nature walks through a bird sanctuary, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear water. Beachfront rooms and suites are close enough for the gentle lapping of the waves to lull you to sleep each night. For more of Mother Nature’s majesty, plan a trip to one of these stunning black sand beaches.
Pros:
- Beachfront rooms and suites
- Sailing excursions
Cons:
- Bars close early
- Surf can be rough
Best for beachfront bliss
Spice Island Beach Resort
Set on the laid-back and lush paradise of Grenada, the family-owned and AAA Five Diamond–rated Spice Island Beach Resort oozes Caribbean charm across its eight acres, with a picturesque setting on Grand Anse Beach, the island’s two-mile-long marquee shoreline. Located just steps from the ocean, villa-style suites flaunt breezy decor, modern amenities like Frette linens and Molton Brown toiletries, and balconies or patios—the perfect spots to sip rum punch and watch the waves lap the sand.
Pros:
- Beachfront suites
- Friendly service
Cons:
-
Some guests say room service can be slow
Best for golfers
Casa de Campo Resort & Villas
When it comes to all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, no one reels in return guests quite like Casa de Campo Resort & Villas in the Dominican Republic. It’s a 7,000-acre slice of paradise that welcomes returning guests year after year. There’s a reason (well, many) for that loyalty. This storied property has fantastic restaurants, a beach club, horseback riding, and exquisite recreation facilities, from tennis courts to polo lawns. Golf is a huge draw as well. Travelers come from far and wide to hit the links at the three championship courses.
Pros:
- Three championship golf courses
- Tons of leisure activities
Cons:
- Property is fairly spread out
- Not a ton of activities for families
Best for families with teens
Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana
By now, you’ve gathered that the Dominican Republic does all-inclusive resorts really well. Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana is further evidence of that. It’s great for a family vacation and is quite possibly the perfect place to bring teens and tweens, thanks to programs that promise supervised, age-appropriate fun, plus tons of water sports and an Instagram-worthy beachfront setting. The spacious family rooms accommodate up to six people, so go ahead and let your kids bring their besties.
Pros:
- Kids club and teen zone
- Short drive from the airport
Cons:
-
Need to wake up early to reserve chairs at the pool and beach
Best for sleeping in a treehouse
Sunset at the Palms
Why should kids get to have all the fun? Jamaica’s Sunset at the Palms resort answers that question with a resounding “they shouldn’t.” Guests at this adults-only respite get to snooze in open-air treehouses hugged by the beauty of the wild, lush jungle. The vibe is super laid-back and seems remote, though you can walk to a handful of bars and restaurants. All of this makes it feel completely different from the traditional, large-scale all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean. If you like this, you’ll love these other treehouse hotels.
Pros:
- Open-air treehouse accommodations
- Intimate atmosphere
Cons:
- Evening entertainment ends early
- Small pool
- Adults only
Best for luxury on a budget
Bahia Principe Luxury Samaná
With a prestigious perch on the southern coast of the Dominican Republic’s Samaná Peninsula, luxe accommodations, pampering spa services, and a major dose of Caribbean charm, it’s hard to fathom how the adults-only Bahia Principe Luxury Samaná keeps its rates so affordable. But we know better than to question a great deal. In this particular case, if it sounds too good to be true…just book it.
Pros:
- Great beach
- Affordable rates
Cons:
- A few areas of the resort could use an upgrade
- Slow Internet
Best for wellness
Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort
Need a getaway to reset and recharge? We’ve got just the place! Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort is an adults-only oasis in the Dominican Republic with incredible wellness offerings that set it apart from other Caribbean all-inclusive resorts. Health-conscious travelers should try to snag one of the Level Wellness Suites, which count guided meditations, a personal wellness concierge, aromatherapy, bicycles, and one complimentary spa treatment per day among their perks. Also on the menu? Fresh cuisine, detox cocktails (and mocktails), yoga classes, and a beautiful white-sand beach to soak up all that mood-boosting vitamin D. For more good-for-you options, check out the very best wellness retreats.
Pros:
- Wellness services and facilities
- Private beach
Cons:
- Wi-Fi can be spotty
- Adults only
Best for design lovers
Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana
Fresh, bright, and modern, the Dominican Republic’s Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana looks like it jumped off the pages of Architectural Digest. The sophisticated contemporary design takes center stage in the suites, many of which have private infinity pools. Superb service, a state-of-the-art spa with pampering treatments and spin classes, local and international cuisine, and a lack of youngsters add to the appeal for adults who need a few days sans kiddos.
Pros:
- Swim-up rooms
- Beautiful beach
Cons:
-
Adults only
Best for sustainability
Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa (Oranjestad, Aruba)
An intimate oasis, the 72-room Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa has an enviable address on the shores of Aruba’s Eagle Beach, a plethora of wellness-focused amenities, gorgeous tropical gardens, and a laid-back atmosphere. For most travelers, the property’s dedication to the environment—the resort is Green Globe-certified sustainable—is simply nice to have, but some vacationers do seek it out. After all, not many places combine the benefits of a Caribbean all-inclusive resort with sustainability efforts.
Pros:
- Wellness offerings
- Green Globe certified
Cons:
- Windy (pretty standard in Aruba)
- Wi-Fi can be spotty
Best for families who typically prefer rentals
Landings Resort and Spa
Renting a house or condo is great, but many travelers will admit they miss the service and amenities of a resort. That’s what’s so fabulous about the Landings Resort and Spa. Ideal for families or groups of pals, this all-inclusive property has one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas with rattan furnishings, washing machines and dryers, and full kitchens. Private terraces provide incredible views of the yacht marina and Saint Lucia’s Rodney Bay. There’s also a serene spa that offers hydrotherapy, a kids club, sand sculpting, lawn games, and volcano excursions.
Pros:
- Fully equipped villas
- Water sports
Cons:
- Far from airport
- Small pools
Best for water-loving families
Beaches Turks & Caicos
Beaches Turks & Caicos hooks kiddos with Pirates Island Waterpark, a 45,000-square-foot playground filled with sky-high water slides, swimming pools, swim-up soda bars, a lazy river, water cannons, whirlpools, and a surf simulator. Guests can also try out a bevy of water sports. The resort even offers a comprehensive scuba certification program. You’re bound to be hungry after all that aquatic action; with 21 different restaurants to choose from, even the pickiest eaters will discover something tasty to eat. It’s easy to see why Turks and Caicos is one of the best Caribbean islands to help you beat the winter blues.
Pros:
- World-class water park
- Great kids’ camp
Cons:
-
Wi-Fi can be spotty
Best for seclusion
East Winds
Not a fan of huge resorts with thousands of guests? The private and picturesque East Winds is a sun-splashed hideaway with a secluded beach, tropical foliage, and just 30 cottage-style suites. It’s the type of place where you won’t have to contend with crowds to secure a sunbed and will always have a front-row seat to the steel drum band performances. Be sure to book a sunset boat trip to see more of Saint Lucia’s dazzling coastline. Another Caribbean island that makes for a dream vacation: the small but mighty beautiful Anguilla.
Pros:
- Beautifully maintained grounds
- Attentive service
Cons:
- Limited lunch options
- Small beach
Best for thrill-seekers
Club Med Punta Cana Resort
We don’t know of any other all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean that invite guests to join the circus. But that’s exactly what happens at Club Med Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Kids and adults can head to Club Med Circus School to hang from aerial silks, jump on trampolines, and pretend to be acrobats on a flying trapeze. Apart from high-flying fun, active travelers can try stand-up paddleboarding, sign up for sailing school, play a round of golf, hit tennis balls, and participate in family sports tournaments.
Pros:
- Dedicated activities for kids, teens, and adults
- Close to the airport
Cons:
-
Essentials at the on-site shop are expensive
Next, check out the best resorts in Puerto Rico for a fabulous vacation.
