How to Select the Best Adults-Only All-Inclusive for Your Next Vacation

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Blue/green ocean water, sand and resort with red roof at Paradisus La Perla adults-only all-inclusive resort Mexico
I can make my vacation what I want it to be here – from my room to my meals to the amount and frequency of activities & entertainment. Photo credit: Paradisus La Perla

Planning an escape to an adults-only all-inclusive resort can be exciting, but you also want to get it right. After staying in hundreds of resorts, one thing I know is that the choice of lodging matters: selecting the resort that best meets your expectations is essential.

I can say from experience that nothing sours a vacation faster than someone who wants a certain kind of stay and ends up at a resort that is NOT THAT.

Choose your adults-only all-inclusive by considering these things:

  • Travel Style: This defines the type of resort you seek, whether that’s a romantic escape, wellness retreat, party atmosphere or culinary adventure
  • Budget: Several levels all based on how much you want to spend
    • Entry-levelMid-levelLuxe or Ultra Luxe
  • Amenities or Activities: These are specific things to look for when booking a resort with your intended travel style. Pay attention to amenities and activities that cater to the things you want to do, type of food you enjoy, etc.

Are you ready to explore off the beaten path? Let us inspire you!

An Adults-Only All-Inclusive Specifically Catering to Couples

White buildings, blue pools and green tropical foliage at Excellence Riviera Cancun adults-only all-inclusive resort
There were plenty of places to reconnect as a couple at this resort. I liked the many options available – all in a pretty setting. Photo credit: Sharon Nolan
  • Travel Style: Couples looking for Romance
  • Budget: Resorts vary from entry-level to ultra-luxe, but typical resorts run roughly $200-$300 per all-inclusive night
  • Amenities or Activities: For couples vacationing together, look for things like king beds, sometimes with ocean views; swim-up suites or private plunge pools; specialty dining for romantic dinners.

Excellence Riviera Cancun – Mexico

  • My Favorite Feature: The resort is all suites, with the ability to choose your exact room location so you’re sure to be located near things that are important to you
  • Budget: Roughly $400-$600 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: For an elevated experience, The Excellence Club here offers a “resort within a resort” option with VIP amenities and upgrades..

Serenity at Coconut Bay – St Lucia

  • My Favorite Feature: This is a more sophisticated couples-only hideaway and offers private, spacious indoor and outdoor living spaces, plunge pool suites & fine dining
  • Budget: Roughly $1100-$1300 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: Guests at Serenity may also take advantage of the amenities and activities at neighboring Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa

An Adult-Only All-Inclusive Perfect For A Serene, Relaxing Escape

Secrets Playa Esmeralda adults-only all-inclusive resort from above showing tan buildings, turquoise pools and beach
Wandering the beach, relaxing by the pools and admiring the scenery were all part of recharging for me during my stay here. Photo credit: Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa

Wandering the beach, relaxing by the pools and admiring the scenery are all part of recharging for me here. Photo credit: Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa

  • Travel Style: Adults looking to relax & recharge, be they solo travelers, couples, friend groups or families with older children
  • Budget: Entry-level: $150-$500 per all-inclusive night; Luxe: $500-$1000
  • Amenities or Activities: Look for things like peaceful, scenic natural surroundings, private spaces and a tranquil environment designed for relaxation

Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa – Dominican Republic

  • My Favorite Feature: The resort is located in a pristine, unspoiled part of the Dominican Republic. The secluded and natural setting leaves room for relaxing and gentle entertainment rather than a party atmosphere
  • Budget: Roughly $355-$570 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: The resort is brand new (it opened August 1, 2025) so you’re free to make this resort experience your own from the moment you enter the lobby (where you can already see the turquoise ocean waters beckoning you)

Paradisus La Perla – Playa del Carmen Mexico

  • My Favorite Feature: The grounds here are filled with lush, tropical landscaping, well-maintained gardens and deliver a serene, tranquil feel
  • Budget: Roughly $350-$550 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: You’ll find pretty suites here (some with kitchenettes, pool access and ocean views) beautiful kid-free pools, a spa, gym, watersports and access to 14 restaurants and 11 bars to fill your time when you’re not relaxing

An Adults-Only All-Inclusive With A Livelier Environment

Royalton CHIC Antigua adults-only all-inclusive resort lit up from above with red roof resort and blue ocean
The opportunity to “party your way” at Royalton CHIC Antigua was a great way to celebrate things the way I wanted to here. Photo credit: Blue Diamond Resorts

The opportunity to “party your way” at Royalton CHIC Antigua is a great way to celebrate things the way I want to. Photo credit: Blue Diamond Resorts

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  • Travel Style: Those over-18 vacationers (couples, solo vacationers, friend groups) who want a more vibrant and celebratory vibe
  • Budget: Entry level: $280-$350 per all-inclusive night; Luxe: $450-$1000
  • Amenities or Activities : Look for resorts equipped with things such as more nightlife options, bars, themed events and parties, group activities and contests, and resorts that aim to keep the energy high

Royalton CHIC – Antigua

  • My Favorite Feature: A quick ride from the airport, this 235-room resort still offers a scenic setting on a beautiful coastal stretch of Antigua
  • Budget: Roughly $280-$300 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: The resort is part of Marriott’s Bonvoy portfolio, which offers the opportunity for loyalty point use (either collect them or redeem them) while enjoying your vacation

Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa – Mexico

  • My Favorite Feature: With 526 suites, you’ll be in the company of other fun, party-loving vacationers, so no worries even if you’re staying here by yourself
  • Budget: Roughly $320-$500 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: You won’t be stuck driving far from the airport – Breathless is roughly 25-30 minutes from Cancun’s Hotel Zone and offers its own party-hub vibe

An Adults-Only All-Inclusive With A Wellness Focus

Woman gathered around a wooden table with fruit on it at Body Holiday adults-only all-inclusive resort St Lucia
Nothing felt more wholesome to me than when I would settle down for a truly nourishing meal here. Photo credit: Body Holiday

Nothing feels more wholesome to me than when settling down for a truly nourishing meal here. Photo credit: Body Holiday

  • Travel Style: Anyone looking to focus on self-care, rejuvenation & holistic wellness while on vacation (girlfriends, family, couples, solo guests)
  • Budget: Entry level: $280-$350 per all-inclusive night; Luxe: $450-$1000
  • Amenities or Activities: Look for resorts that lead with unique wellness-centered programming, activities, classes, experiences, a supportive staff, healthy dining options and comfortable, private accommodations that support your need for sleep

Palmaia – The House of AiA – Playa del Carmen Mexico

  • My Favorite Feature: Included in your rate are more than 30 holistic activities, sound rituals, meals, bike sharing, fitness center and more
  • Budget: Roughly $900-$1000 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: In addition to its wellness offerings, the resort is oceanfront and surrounded by over 988 acres of untouched jungle beauty to enjoy

BodyHoliday, St Lucia

  • My Favorite Feature: Combine a nearly endless array of wellness activities, body treatments, classes and quiet time with luxurious accommodations, stunning suites and wholesome food and drink
  • Budget: Roughly $830-$1500 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: The resort often has themed months and periodically hosts professional athletes and trainers for special programs you may want to take advantage of

A Foodie-Centered Adults-Only All-Inclusive

Three wine glasses with white wine, bowls of chips and dips and appetizers at Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos adults-only all-inclusive resort
It was so refreshing to be able to enjoy delicious food and drinks and not settle for just “something to eat” here. The food was part of the fun. Photo credit: Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos

It’s so refreshing to be able to enjoy delicious food and drinks and not settle for just “something to eat” here. The food is part of the fun. Photo credit: Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos

  • Travel Style: Adults (couples, solos, groups, families with older children) who want to focus on quality dining as part of their vacation
  • Budget: Entry level: $350-$450 per all-inclusive night; Luxe: $600+
  • Amenities or Activities: Look for diverse dining options, themed experienced, an award-winning chef or restaurant, a focus on local and gourmet cuisine, offerings such as tasting menus, cooking classes and knowledgeable staff to guide your culinary journey

Atelier Playa Mujeres – Mexico

  • My Favorite Feature: Enjoy a variety of excellent international food options across 13 restaurants and cafes featuring high-quality ingredients – many locally sourced
  • Budget: Roughly $593-$868 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: With 593 suites, the resort is quite large, with jaw-dropping views of the Caribbean Sea and golf course

Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos – Mexico

  • My Favorite Feature: Elevate your dining with exquisite culinary creations and refined dinners curated by a 2-Michelin-Star chef surrounded by views of the Sea of Cortez
  • Budget: Roughly $854-$1639 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: Relax in one of the 79 opulent suites, on the private beach, at the infinity pool or the wellness center while also having access to the facilities at Grand Velas Los Cabos next door

An Eco-Conscious Adults-Only All-Inclusive

blue ocean water and white resort buildings at Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall adults-only all-inclusive resort
Knowing this resort takes eco-efforts seriously helped make my stay here a little more comforting. Photo credit: Playa Hotels & Resorts

Knowing this resort takes eco-efforts seriously helps make my stay here a little more comforting. Photo credit: Playa Hotels & Resorts

  • Travel Style: Couples, friends, solo travelers and families who value environmental causes
  • Budget: Entry-level $200-$350; Luxe: $550-$2000
  • Amenities or Activities : Keep an eye out for resorts with a dedication to the environment, conservation and sustainability. They will have earned certifications, awards or high praise for their efforts to sustain a smaller footprint, lessen their impact on the environment or help local causes

Secrets Akumal – Riviera Maya Mexico

  • My Favorite Feature: The resort embraces conservation through its Preferred by Nature and Travelife Gold Award certifications, as well as their sea turtle preservation efforts
  • Budget: Roughly $320-$500 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: Picturesque surroundings, winding walkways, secluded pools, pretty white sand beaches and a world-class spa also contribute the the allure here

Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall – Montego Bay Jamaica

  • My Favorite Feature: This property has been Green Globe Gold certified since 2017 and maintains a Gold status with very high compliance scores
  • Budget: From under $500 to over $600 per all-inclusive room
  • Worth Knowing: Combined with the beautiful property, ocean views, pools and luxurious feel, the addition of local food sourcing, involvement in the local community and other efforts elevates its likeability

An Adults-Only All Inclusive That Permits Older Kiddos

Off-white wood slat roof with Pineapple Beach Club Antigua resort sign in front of turquoise beach
Pineapple Beach Club in Antigua was a nice option when I wanted to vacation with my older kiddos. Photo credit: Elite Island Resorts

Pineapple Beach Club in Antigua is a nice option when I want to vacation with my older kiddos. Photo credit: Elite Island Resorts

  • Travel Style: Travelers with older children that do not want or need the same things as those with younger kids. Families that want a small-child-free vacation
  • Budget: Entry-level $180-$250; Luxe: $350-$1250
  • Amenities and Activities : Scan resort offerings for those that cater to older teens, with no small-child amenities or activities. Resorts that mention specific activities dedicated to teen interests such as teen clubs, video game competitions, water sports, surf simulators and sports courts

Hotel Xcaret Arte – Playa del Carmen Mexico

  • My F avorite Feature: Your resort fee includes entrance and transport to some of the most amazing parks in Cancun and Riviera Maya as well as ferry tickets to Isla Mujeres and Cozumel
  • Budget: Roughly $650-$1250 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: In addition to the amazing things you can do off-property, the resort itself offers stunning pools, diverse cuisine, art workshops, live performances and themed suites with top amenities

Pineapple Beach Club – Antigua

  • My F avorite Feature: 180 rooms set on 30 pretty acres with beach access, crystal-clear waters, a spa, three pools and plenty of dining and activity options including tennis, pickleball, beach volleyball, water sports and nightly entertainment
  • Budget: Roughly $700-$900 per all-inclusive night
  • Worth Knowing: There’s a lively, relaxed atmosphere here, so everyone is free to do as little or as much as they’d like on vacation

An Adults-Only All-Inclusive That Works For Your Budget

Brown wooden floors in open-air room at sunrise with green trees and water visible at Four Seasons Naviva adults-only all-inclusive resort
I don’t know what could be more relaxing than settling into a view like this one – with the freedom to look at it all day long. Photo credit: Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort

I don’t know what could be more relaxing than settling into a view like this one – and I have the freedom to look at it all day long. Photo credit: Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort

A resort that’s amazing but doesn’t fit your budget can be a getaway-killer. I know that finding the right fit between what you’re able to afford and what your goals are is important. Fortunately, there are adults-only all-inclusives at various price points to fit just what you’re looking to spend. Also, I’ve found that booking during shoulder seasons or when there’s a promotion can also make a big difference in your bottom line.

Entry Level: JOIA Rose Hall by Iberostar – Montego Bay Jamaica

(Roughly $300-$700 per all-inclusive night)

Mid Level: Warwick Paradise Island – Bahamas

(Roughly $400-$800 per all-inclusive night)

Luxe: Jade Mountain Resort – St Lucia

(Roughly $1530-$3000 per all-inclusive night)

Ultra Luxe: Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort – Punta Mita Mexico

(Roughly $3950-$4250 per all-inclusive night)

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Sharon Nolan is a Philadelphia-based freelance travel writer who welcomes the opportunity to explore new places. She has traveled via plane, train, boat, automobile, bus, bicycle, hot air balloon, ferry, and on foot to see views that were worth the climb and scenery that did not disappoint. Not all travel days are glamorous, but unexpected side trips and off-the-radar discoveries sometimes make the best memories – and stories – so she keeps her eyes open. Sharon’s articles have appeared in USA Today’s 10Best, AAA The Extra Mile, Trekaroo, and The Chicago Tribune, among others.
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