With soft, powdery white sands and a clear turquoise sea home to vibrant coral reefs, colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life, not to mention the laid-back atmosphere ideal for lazing away the days with a cocktail in hand, the Caribbean offers the ultimate vacation. By staying at one of the region’s many all-inclusive resorts, you’ll be ensuring that it’s as stress free as possible. Just about anything you could ever need will be right at your fingertips without having to constantly reach for your wallet.
If you want only the best, with such a long list of options, you’ll need to know which are the most exclusive resorts, providing the ultimate in luxuries. And, in addition to booking that stay, it’s important to consider when to go. No matter which island you’re dreaming of the Caribbean is generally broken up into the peak or high season, from mid-December through mid-April, while the low season (also the hurricane season) is between June and November. Mid-April through May and early December are “shoulder” seasons.
While you might think hurricane season is a time to avoid, this is when you’ll find the lowest room rates of the year and the fewest crowds. By visiting in June or November you’ll decrease the odds of being affected by a major storm. Or, you might choose an island outside of the hurricane belt like Curacao which is rarely hit by hurricanes – the last one occurred in 1877. Grenada, the Island of Spice, is a good choice too.
To avoid the hordes of tourists, enjoy good odds for pleasant weather, and possibly discounted accommodation, the shoulder seasons are ideal. But even if you do visit during the busier, peak tourist season, by booking any one of these all-inclusive Caribbean resorts you’re practically guaranteed to enjoy total bliss no matter how many others are around.
Quick Links
- Hermitage Bay, Antigua
- Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia
- Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada
- Petit St. Vincent Resort, Grenadines
- The Caves, Jamaica
- Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort Villages & Spa
- Hyatt Ziva Cancun, Mexico
- Zoetry Agua Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
- Baoase Luxury Resort, Curacao
1. Hermitage Bay, Antigua
Photos from Hermitage Bay
The ultimate in barefoot luxury, Hermitage Bay seems as if it was designed just for lovers. One of the Caribbean’s most romantic resorts, it’s an adults-only all-inclusive, with guests required to be at least 14 years of age. The property is tucked into 16 acres of tropical gardens and fronted by a beach with pristine white sands. Accommodation is made up of suites and cottages, nine of which are directly on the beach boasting full sea views. Amenities include king-size four-poster beds with atmospheric mosquito netting, flat-screen TVs with DVD players, and private wrap-around decks. If you book one of the Hillside Suites you’ll get a large deck with your very own private infinity plunge pool, ideal for watching the colorful sunsets while sipping Champagne, including in the room rates.
The all-inclusive plan also includes three meals a day (think Indian, Chinese, and Jamaican dishes focused on locally sourced ingredients) plus an afternoon snack, beer, house wines, and some top-shelf drinks. A host of activities, including windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkeling as well as meditation, yoga, and Pilates classes, are available too. There is a charge for treatments and massages at the spa as well as parking and airport transfers.
2. Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia
Photos from Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia
When it comes to properties for honeymooners, Jade Mountain Resort is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean. It offers a variety of packages with various inclusions to choose from as a place where you can truly go over the top, ensuring that your marriage gets off to the perfect start. All rates include a variety of non-motorized watersports, activities like Chocolate Sensory Tastings, free daily guided estate walks, beach towels, and beach chairs. This resort checks all the boxes: privacy and seclusion, exceptional pampering, and thrilling adventures. Plus, it combines the natural beauty of the region with a magnificent architectural design and jaw-dropping views of the sea and the famous Pitons, tucked into the hillside.
An intimate property, there are just 24 rooms, all open-sided and referred to as “sanctuaries,” perfectly fitting for a luxury vacation. All but the Sky Suites include private infinity pools (they have hot tubs). Other features include 15-foot-high ceilings for an extra-spacious feel, four-poster beds with Frette linens, and 24/7 butlers called Major Domos who can be summoned almost instantly. While Wi-Fi is available, there are no telephones or televisions, preserving the tranquil ambiance. The resort has its own organic farm that provides much of the ingredients for its delectable meals, an indulgent spa, and a sky deck with live music, tasty cocktails, and fantastic stargazing.
3. Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada
Photos from Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada
Set along the soft sands of Grand Anse, the most popular beach in Grenada, this ultra-luxe resort offers friendly, personalized service rather than trendy nightclubs with glittering disco balls and the like. There’s no need to bring your finest attire or high heels to dine, simply let stress melt away while enjoying authentic Caribbean fare, occasionally paired with a steel band or other local music to enhance the romantic atmosphere. While it sets an idyllic scene for couples, this is a property ideal for all ages and all types of travelers.
Look forward to snorkeling, kayaking, cycling, tennis, and even golf, with even the green fees included in room rates. Accommodation is provided in beachfront suites strewn across gorgeous white sands framed by crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming. The signature Seagrape Suites have whirlpool tubs where you can soak with sea views and spacious patios with private gardens. Many come with four-poster beds and private plunge pools. Spa services, including massage, facial and body treatments are heavenly, but they do come with an additional charge.
4. Petit St. Vincent Resort, Grenadines
Photos from Petit St. Vincent Resort, Grenadines
Located on a private island in the Grenadines, just off the main island of St. Vincent, Petit St. Vincent Resort is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the world. It boasts two miles of sands in a place where the only sounds you’re likely to hear are the waves that gently lap the shore and the songs of the birds. While the atmosphere is definitely one of romance, children of all ages are welcome, and parents can even take advantage of childcare services for an additional fee. Just be aware that there are no TVs, Wi-Fi, or phones, as this property is aimed at reconnecting without distraction. Choose from elevated bluff cottages or beachfront villas with dreamy Caribbean views. All have upscale amenities like Nespresso coffee machines and sliding glass doors that open to large decks.
The all-inclusive packages include all meals and non-alcoholic beverages with two restaurants serving made-to-order local and international fare. The spotlight is on fresh fruits and vegetables from the island’s organic farm and fresh-caught seafood. Weekly manager’s cocktails, afternoon tea, a weekly beach BBQ dinner, and unlimited butler service are all provided. Non-motorized water sports like paddle boards, kayaks, snorkel gear, and scheduled activities, including wine and rum tasting events, yoga, and live entertainment are included too. Fishing charters are available for an extra charge and the on-site chef will be happy to prepare your catch for dinner. If you’re ever in need of anything, all you have to do is place a note in your mailbox and raise a yellow flag which alerts the attentive staff.
5. The Caves, Jamaica
Photos from The Caves, Jamaica
The Caves is an intimate adults-only all-inclusive, famous for providing one of Jamaica’s most romantic retreats for couples. Your stay is in one of just a dozen unique cottages and suites that are spread along dramatic cliffs and garden paths, with stairs that lead down to the water and spectacular grottos. All offer lots of space and privacy and most boast sea views, although the particular layout varies from room-to-room. All have CD players, robes, locally made toiletries, and daily restocked minibars with free juices, water, beer, and snacks. Some have outdoor showers and kitchenettes.
Guests can enjoy treatments at the Aveda mini spa, soaking in the hot tub or swimming in the saltwater pool, all of which offer a dazzling view over the Caribbean. Activities like kayaking, snorkeling, cliff-jumping, and even cooking classes are all available too. The rates include mouthwatering dishes made with fresh, local ingredients enjoyed in open-air dining areas or delivered to your room. Cave dining on a five-course meal is a standout feature here, but it comes at an extra cost, though most feel it’s well worth the price.
6. Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Photos from Grand Velas Riviera Maya
The Grand Velas Riviera Maya is ideal for singles, couples, and families. For those seeking a tranquil, child-free experience, the Grand Class Adults Only section is the place to be, with all of its suites including their own private hot tubs. Families can stay in the Ambassador Family-Friendly area which offers extra spacious suites that include bathrooms with Jacuzzi tubs and private terraces. They’re located near the Teens’ and Kid’s clubs for easy access too.
A big perk of staying here is that it clings to a gorgeous stretch of stark white sands in an ideal location just a five-minute drive from the many attractions in Playa del Carmen. There are a variety of all-inclusive packages available, but nearly everything is included in the rates. The Luxury All-Inclusive plan includes breakfast, lunch and dinner at both buffet and a la carte restaurants with everything from fresh Mexican and French flavors to Asian and Italian-Mediterranean. There’s 24-hour gourmet suite service, private butlers, minibars that are restocked daily, premium-brand international and domestic beverages, the kids’ and teens’ clubs, fitness classes, boogie boards, kayaks, and snorkel gear. For an extra charge you can book day trips to the ancient Mayan sites, zipline rides in the jungle, horseback rides, and more.
7. Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort Villages & Spa
Photos from Beaches Turks and Caicos
A great choice for families with children who want to enjoy plenty of activities, Beaches Turks and Caicos hosts a 45,000-square foot water park with a wave simulator, a half-dozen swimming pools, a shopping center, a teen disco and Xbox play lounge, spa complex, 12 bars (many of which are swim-up), and 20 different restaurants. It sits along on what’s often named one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, stunning Grace Bay, made up of four different villages with a variety of room options, including multi-bedroom options that are ideal for families, with sea-view rooms and villas that overlook the Caribbean. All have X-box systems, game tables, and flat-screen TVs.
An astounding range of activities are available here, and the all-inclusive rates cover both land and water sports, including unlimited diving. Glass bottom boat rides and water skiing is included too, along with all your meals and drinks. The cuisine ranges from Jamaican to Japanese and Southwestern. With a no-tipping policy, this resort is truly all-inclusive.
8. Hyatt Ziva Cancun, Mexico
Photos from Hyatt Ziva Cancun
The Hyatt Ziva Cancun offers some of the best service you’ll find of all the Cancun resorts and is ideal for everyone from singles and couples to families. Couples looking for plenty of privacy, romance, and to-die-for views can book the adults-only Turquoise Tower. If a swim-up suite is available, consider yourself lucky and book it. Not only can you step right out of your room into a pool, but you’ll have an enchanting view of the white sandy beach and the Caribbean. Plus, there’s an in-room Jacuzzi tub where you can soak with the same view. No matter which room you book, you’ll get standard amenities like complimentary minibars that are replenished daily, flat-screen satellite TVs and marble bathrooms with large walk-in showers.
Just about everything you can eat, drink or do is included, with the exception of private, romantic dinners at beachfront, private cabanas, and most spa services. The water here is so remarkably clear and bathwater warm, looking like a gorgeous pool itself, although there are several infinity pools on-site too. Popular activities include water aerobics, snorkeling, and non-motorized water sports. The staff are truly exceptional and can help you make arrangements for just about anything imaginable, from an unforgettable proposal to an exciting day trip. The list of dining options is long and impressive too, from authentic Mexican to French and Italian, but if you don’t want to leave your room, room service is always available.
9. Zoetry Agua Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Photos from Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)
Consistently ranked as one of the top all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, Zoetra Agua is just two miles northwest of the bustling Bávaro area, making it easy to enjoy all the action and then return to your own peaceful retreat. It sits in a secluded location providing a much more “Zen” atmosphere. There are many different packages to choose from and various all-inclusive experiences. The Endless Privileges experience includes unlimited top-shelf spirits, horseback riding, and even decadent spa treatments. With 24-hour butler service too, you know it’s going to be good.
This isn’t a place to go for a booze-fueled getaway, but it is for those who want high-end luxuries and the chance to completely de-stress and recharge. There’s an uncrowded white sandy beach, dazzling pools, free laundry service, and mouthwatering meals at four gourmet a la carte restaurants serving everything from authentic Dominican dishes to Creole and European fare. You’ll find plenty of options for cocktails too, with three bars, including one swim-up. Classes like painting, yoga, cooking, and even cigar rolling can be enjoyed too.
10. Baoase Luxury Resort, Curacao
Photos from Baoase Luxury Resort
Curacao is a less-visited island, outside of the hurricane belt, known for its isolated sandy beaches, outstanding snorkeling and diving, and pastel-painted Dutch colonial architecture in its capital city of Willemstad. This is where you’ll find one of the best luxury resorts: Baoase Luxury Resort. It sits along a gorgeous private beach lined with swaying palm trees, and while children are allowed, the posh atmosphere makes it much more geared for adults.
Here you’ll have the option to book all-inclusive plan that can include a personal butler or a private dinner prepared by a Michelin-starred chef. Romantic moonlit picnics and themed barbecues are offered too. Be aware that not everything is included in your stay, however. Plans typically include daily breakfast plus three-course a la carte lunches and dinners, luxury spirit brands, house wines, and Proscecco by the glass. Beer, house cocktails, and soft drinks are included too.
Look forward to lounging on the unspoiled white sand beach, paddling in the complimentary kayaks, taking advantage of the free snorkel gear to experience the impressive underwater world, and swimming in the free form pools. Melt stress away with lavish spa treatments, for an additional fee. Balinese inspired, there are just 23 rooms, suites and villas, more than half of which come with private plunge pools. Many have fully equipped kitchens if you want to make some of your own meals. All include standard amenities like iPads, Smart TVs, and Sonos sound systems. Some of the villas are actually separate houses, complete with their own private foliage-filled yards with outdoor living rooms, pools, and outdoor showers. If you’re traveling with a group and want to ensure plenty of privacy, you can even book a private island hideaway that includes a powerboat and infinity pool.
