25 Best All Inclusive Resorts From Barbados to Mexico

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Barbados beach
The wide white sands of a beautiful Barbados beach. Photo credit: Shutterstock

A vacation at an all-inclusive resort is fun for all, especially the CVP (Chief Vacation Planner). But which all-inclusive is the right all-inclusive? Do you prefer beaches? Need lots of activities? Plan to spend your days at the spa? Or maybe the Wild West and horseback riding is more your thing. Wherever you go and whatever you want to do, we’ve got a favorite in this list of the best all-inclusive resorts for families, foodies, honeymooners and just about anyone.

The best part about an all-inclusive vacation? It’s easy to plan. One price typically includes accommodations, food, activities and entertainment — sometimes even the flight! In addition, off-site excursions (for a fee) provide ways to safely explore the surrounding region with a guide. They’re a great option for honeymoons and single parent vacations too.

From casual to luxurious, here are the best all-inclusive resorts for families, couples or solo travelers in locations from the Caribbean to Florida.

Read More: Ready for a kid-free vacation? Check out this list of the best all inclusive resorts in the Caribbean for adults only!

What are the Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts in the Caribbean?

Tamarind, Barbados

An intimate all-inclusive island getaway, the Tamarind is a 101-suite beach resort on the platinum west coast of Barbados. Part of the Elegant Hotels collection, the Tamarind includes motorized and non-motorized water sports, themed dining and beach and pool ambassador service. Plus, free WiFi.

For kids, the Flying Fish Kids Club features arts and crafts, baking and an introduction to Bajan culture. At Tamarindโ€™s Teen Den, teenagers can try water sport sand stand-up paddleboarding at the Aqua School.

For adults, there’s a gorgeous spa, an adults-only pool, and dinner at the award-winning Daphneโ€™s restaurant located next door.
Sailboat lessons are included as an activity at Club Med, a family friendly all inclusive resort
Known for its sports academy, Club Med offers sailing, water-skiing and other sport lessons and is one of the best Caribbean resorts for families. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

Club Med Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

From intimate to mega-sized, the Dominican Republic has numerous all-inclusive resorts.

The family-friendly Club Med Punta Cana has a great beach location with lots of activities for all ages. Since my family’s first visit here, the resort has expanded with new accommodations and family activities. In addition to classic guest rooms, The Tiara luxury family suites feature a separate bedroom and bathroom for kids. The new Zen Oasis is a sophisticated adults-exclusive hideaway.

Club Med’s kids programs for babies through teens offer an array of land and water activities. In addition, families can experience Club Med Circus School, a creative playground inspired by the world-renowned acrobatic shows.

The resort’s complimentary Baby Welcome service for kids (ages 2 and younger) includes a stroller, diaper-changing mat, baby bath and a pack โ€˜nโ€™ play. You must request this service in advance.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

The Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa is a massive beachfront complex with numerous pools and restaurants. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa

Located on the pristine Bรกvaro Beach in the Dominican Republic, the five-star Grand Palladium Resort and Spa is a massive complex. The jam-packed resort has  everything from a swim-up bar to kid-friendly shows.

With numerous amenities, activities and sports, the laid-back luxury resort is so big that you can hitch a ride on roving golf carts and a train if you don’t feel like walking.

Dining is a treat! Options include five buffet and eight a la carte specialty restaurants that serve a variety of cuisine, including Brazilian, Spanish, Japanese and Mediterranean. A beach hut whips up tasty burgers, chicken and pizza. Plus, guests with dietary restrictions carry a Palladium Dietary Card to each restaurant so chefs can accommodate their needs.

Spacious suites pamper families of all sizes. Some suites have private Jacuzzis and lofts, others a private pool entrance. Room amenities include free WiFi, and room service.

For adults, the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness is a welcoming getaway. Children’s programs for tots to teens offer age-appropriate activities.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

tropical fish in the waters off Punta Cana
Tropical fish in the waters off Punta Cana. Photo credit; Shutterstock

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana

If your kids kids go gaga over Spongebob Squarepants and other Nickelodeon characters, then this resort is for you. Just be ready to get slimed! Daily slime events take place at the Aqua Nick water park, which has water slides, splash pads, spray grounds and a lazy river. Throughout the resort, kids will meet Spongebob Squarepants, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Paw Patrol.

The Just Kidding play area for ages 4 – 12 has a mega ball pit, two-story slide and slime-making classes. In addition, there are daily supervised activities.

On the other side of the resort are guest rooms, the beach, an infinity pool and Spongebobโ€™s Pineapple Villa. Consider booking a swim-up suite with a shared pool right off your patio. Dining options include several themed restaurants and a family-friendly buffet, stocked with baby food pouches.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

Royalton Splash Punta Cana

Located on the eastern end of the Dominican Republic, Royalton Splash Punta Cana offers two experiences, linked by the largest water park in the Caribbean.

Budget-conscious families will appreciate the large rooms, four restaurants and nightly entertainment included in the pricing.

Want to splurge? Royalton Splash offers a VIP upgrade to its Diamond Club. You’ll have a butler at your disposal, plus wait service at the beach.

Depending on the age of your kids, you can check them into the Kid’s Adventure Club or Teen Lounge while you spend some time at the spa.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

What are the Best All Inclusive Resorts for Families in St. Lucia?

Coconut Bay beach resort review
In addition to beautiful beaches, the Coconut Bay Beach Resort has St. Luciaโ€™s largest water park. Photo credit: Heidi Gollub

Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa

One of the closest resorts to the airport, the 85-acre resort has two sections, one that is adults-only and one that caters to families.

On the adults-only Harmony side, there are pools and the Kai Mer Spa (treatments cost extra).

Splash is a tropical playground for families. CocoLand, St. Luciaโ€™s largest water park, features three water slides, a lazy river, and a playground with spilling buckets, water canons and fountains. In addition, there’s a supervised Kidz Club with a mini zip line, mini rock-climbing wall and petting zoo.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

The Pitons in beautiful St. Lucia
Beautiful St. Lucia. Photo credit; Shutterstock

Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa

If large resorts aren’t for you, consider the Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa. With just 76 rooms and suites, the hotel has an intimate feel and the beach is literally at your doorstep.

This resort has what might be the best all inclusive amenity anywhere: a daily spa treatment is included in the all-inclusive package!

It’s also a great foodie option, thanks to the Dine Around program that allows guests to eat at nearby restaurants. Or you can stay on property and dine at the two simple but delicious Caribbean-themed restaurants, Or just hang out at one of the three bars.

For kids ages 6 and older, the resortโ€™s all-inclusive package includes access to Splash Island Water Park, a floating inflatable obstacle course with trampoline challenges, climbing walls, slides and swings. The Coral Kidz Club entertains kids ages 4-12,

Visit the hotel concierge for help arranging organized tours, such as horseback riding, and sightseeing.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

What are the Best Tropical All-Inclusive Resorts in Jamaica?

Tubing is a great activity for parents and young adult kids on Jamaica.
Tubing and singing down the river in Jamaica. Photo credit: Kim Orlando

Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa

Boasting the largest water park in Jamaica, the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa sits on a private beach in Montego Bay.

While the resort has many family-friendly features, the main attraction for kids is the Sugar Mill Falls Water Park. Cascading waterfalls, water slides, lagoons, a lazy river, and a suspension bridge make this an island paradise for kids. In addition, there’s a year-round Kids Club, Radiant Spa, and seven upscale restaurants.

It’s one of the best all inclusive resorts in Jamaica for families.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

Montego Bay Jamaica
Montego Bay Jamaica. Photo credit; Shutterstock

Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort and Spa

Expect attention to detail at the upscale Jewel Grande Bay Resort and Spa, located 15 minutes from the Sangster International Airport. The gorgeous two and three-bedroom suites and multi-bedroom villas come complete with complimentary butler service.

Resort amenities include two pools, and unlimited access to restaurants and bars.

The kids club offers a full itinerary of activities, which include crafts, treasure hunts, games and kite flying. For teens, there’s bowling, foosball and ping pong. In addition, families can enjoy the beaches and non-motorized water sports.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

Best All-Inclusive for Families in Costa Rica

ziplining in costa rica
Ziplining excursions can be booked through all-inclusive resorts. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

Dreams Las Mareas Resort

This resort offers beautiful beaches surrounded by lush mountains and jungles in the Guanacaste region.

And there is plenty to do. Water sports include scuba lessons, kite-surfing, kayaking and snorkeling. The Explorer’s Club is a fully supervised kids’ club. Meanwhile, teens can hang out with peers in the Core Zone. In addition, the resort offers tours (for a fee) to Costa Rica’s famous volcanoes, and rainforests.

More tours include zip lining and white water rafting.

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waterfall tours are one of the most popular things to do in costa rica
Waterfall in Costa Rica spotted on an UTV tour. Photo: Liana Moore

Fiesta Resort All-Inclusive

Located on a dark sand beach with many amenities, the resort is about an hour from the capital city of San Jose. Yet, it feels worlds away with tropical gardens, airy guest rooms, four pools, and unlimited snacks and drinks.

In addition to a daily buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, two a-la-carte restaurants are open for dinner. Daily activities include games, pool aerobics, tennis and volleyball. Also, supervised activities for ages 4-12, and a teens club for ages 13-17.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

Read More: Exotic Luxury: 9 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Belize

Best Kid Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

Mexico is practically synonymous with all-inclusive family resorts. Depending on the location, some resorts are in the Caribbean and others, like Club Med Ixtapa, on the Pacific Coast.

Cancun beach resort area in Mexico
The Cancun beach resort area in Mexico. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Club Med Cancรบn

Located at the tip of the Riviera Maya, the oceanfront Club Med Cancรบn is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico. The springboard for beach fun and cultural experiences, the location can’t be beat.

The casual family resort is situated on three white sand beaches adjacent to the world’s second largest coral reef. Snorkel, swim in turquoise water and enjoy unlimited dining (featuring local cuisine) and entertainment. Then head to the Club Med Spa by L’Occitane for a traditional Mexican steambath.

In addition to top notch kids clubs for ages 2-17, babysitting is available for little ones.

While soaking up the sun, learn about Mayan culture on and off-site. Take an excursion to historic Chichen Itza, a city built by the Maya people.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta Luxury all inclusive kids club.
The Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta Kidz Club overlooks the turtle nesting area. Photo credit: Cindy Richards

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta

One of our favorite all inclusive resorts in Mexico, the Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta offers just the right mix of all inclusive luxury, attentive service and gorgeous beachfront sunsets. The resort caters to English speakers, accepts US and Canadian dollars and is just a short cab ride from the charming Old Town of Puerto Vallarta.

The Hyatt Ziva Kidz Club, which is included in the price, is housed in a happy space, secluded at one end of the beach. The space overlooks the turtle rescue area, has its own self-contained splash pool, a craft corner and a separate area for older kids with the tools they covet: a TV and video games.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

all inclusive resort
Guests at the Grand Velas can plant a tree and watch it grow from home on Google Earth. Photo Credit: Mimi Slawoff

Grand Velas, Riviera Maya

Laid-back luxury and long established eco-friendly practices distinguish this family-friendly all-inclusive resort hugging the Caribbean coast. Surrounded by 206 acres of jungle, mangroves and freshwater cenotes, the resort has reforested the surrounding areas with hundreds of thousands of trees. In fact, during my family’s visit, we got to help plant trees that protect native flora and fauna.

We were equally impressed with the resort’s luxury suites and amenities in three elegant buildings. Choose between the beachfront Ambassador Ambiance, or the Zen Grand Ambiance in the lush Maya jungle. The oceanfront Grand Class Ambiance is for adults only. The family suites are near the kids program for ages 4-12, and teen club for ages 13-17.

The resort also features several pools, gourmet restaurants, a spa and fitness center.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

all inclusive hotel for teens
Tess Fisher tests a loaner Fender guitar at the Hard Rock Hotel. Photo credit: Cindy Richards

Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya

With a reputation for cool entertainment, the Hard Rock Hotel offers parents and kids diverse activities. After all, it’s not every resort that has a skate park with activities for all ages or loans Fender guitars to guests. Trampolines, launch ramps, an obstacle course and foam pits are just a sampling of what the facility has to offer. At Hard Rockโ€™s Music Lab program, kids can film all the action on high-resolution cameras, or get some DJ experience.

For outdoor fun, there’s snorkeling and kayaking in a private cove. Kids programs include boogie boards for kids, a teen lounge and family-friendly shows.

Adults can get a massage at the spa.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

all inclusive resorts
Learn to make authentic guacamole and sample tequila at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa

Nestled on a sandy strip between the Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay near downtown Puerto Vallarta, the oceanfront resort offers beach and cultural activities.

Adults can relax at the infinity pool and at Nosh, the sleek swim-up bar. Also, get the scoop on guacamole making, and join a unique tequila tasting experience led by the resorts’ in-house tequila sommelier. In addition, many treatments at the Ohitl Spa highlight ancient traditions.

The Kidโ€™s Club provides ages 4-12 with Spanish lessons, barro-clay pottery painting, bilingual folktales and Mexican cooking lessons.

Wyndham Alltra All-Inclusive Resorts

At both Wyndham Alltra resorts in Mexico, kids under 5 stay free, while kids over 5 have a reduced rate depending on the month.

Just off the lobby bar is another pool next to the Pirate Splash Park at Panama Jack Resorts Cancun Mexico
Just off the lobby bar is another pool next to the Pirate Splash Park. Photo Credit: Diana Rowe

Wyndham Alltra Cancun

With an on-site turtle farm, families can learn about sea turtle conservation at the Wyndham Alltra Playa resort. If you’re interested in participating in a turtle release program, plan your trip for August through November when more than 10,000 eggs are hatched.

Ongoing resort activities include land and water activities in addition to culinary classes, and wine and tequila tastings with on-site sommelier.

For kids, there’s the pirate splash park with seven water slides and two splash zones, mini golf at Camp Alltra and beachfront movie nights.

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5th Avenue market in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
5th Avenue market in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Phot credit: Shutterstock

Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Both the beach and renowned Fifth Avenue are at your fingertips at this contemporary family resort.

Daily organized activities include foam parties, kayaking, snorkeling, dance lessons and water polo. Dedicated kids’ activities include mini golf, air hockey, table soccer, ping pong and arcade games. Plus, there’s no shortage of dining options with 12 restaurants and bars ranging from an outdoor sushi bar to a Mexican Hacienda.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

What Are the Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Kids in the Bahamas?

While there are several all-inclusive resorts in the Bahamas, some offer limited or modified amenities such as add-on dining plans.

beach chairs on a Caribbean beach
Photo credit: Shutterstock

Small Hope Bay Lodge

For an intimate, totally all-inclusive island getaway with a laid-back vibe, there’s Small Hope Bay Lodge. Located on Andros Island, the resort features 17 oceanfront cabins and down-home hospitality. Think of it as your personal resort with a fresh hot breakfast, and homemade lunch and dinner buffets.

Activities are low-key. For example, grab a kayak or bike at your leisure to explore the area on your own. And with a nearby reef, there’s great snorkeling and diving. Or request a picnic lunch and go on a nature hike. Maybe just unwind in a hammock or the beachfront hot tub.

In addition to the full bar for adults, there’s a daily cocktail hour.

Amenities include a children’s club and complimentary babysitting services in the evenings.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

best all inclusive resorts for families
The 141-acre Aquaventure water park features a thrilling mile-long river with rapids and waves. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

The Not-Exactly All-Inclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas

The most famous Bahamas resort, the mega Atlantis resort on Nassau, is not really an all-inclusive. We’ve included it here because it is such a popular family destination. A room at this luxury resort includes access to the 11 swimming areas, 11 water slides, two Lazy River Rides, Paradise Lagoon, The Dig, the Predator’s Lagoon, marine life habitats, and the ocean beach area. Beach towels are provided daily at no charge once within the water park.

To make the cost more predictable — the biggest advantage of booking an all-inclusive family vacation — Atlantis offers experience credits.

We are a water-loving family. So, while this resort can make for a pricey family vacation, we love the beautiful beaches, marine habitat, and the 141-acre Aquaventure water park. It has fast slides, numerous pools, and a thrilling river ride with rapids and waves. For young daredevils, there’s the Mayan Temple’s Leap of Faith slide. The open-air Dolphin Cay marine habitat is among the largest in the world. You can learn about the rehabilitation facility, swim with dolphins and play with sea lions. Other activities include an oceanfront golf course.

Well-appointed guestrooms and suites have many family-friendly amenities and offer garden or ocean views. In addition, age-appropriate activities for tots through teens are both educational and entertaining. Also, there are many restaurants throughout the resort from quick bites to casual and fine dining.

Packing for the beach means we are about to make memories near the ocean!
My daughter embracing the beauty of the ocean in Turks and Caicos. Photo Credit: Breeze Leonard

Beaches Turks & Caicos

There are a number of all-inclusive resorts in the Turks and Caicos. The one everyone talks about is Beaches. Situated on a 12-mile pristine white sand beach, Beaches Turks & Caicos is a perennial family vacation favorite. Themed villages include Caribbean & Seaside, Italian, French and Key West.

The lush grounds feature 10 pools, swim-up bars and whirlpools, 21 specialty restaurants, and a 45,000 square-foot water park. Themed activities featuring Sesame Street characters include character meals and story time. In addition, there’s an Xbox Play Lounge and Club Liquid, a teens-only disco. The all-inclusive package covers pickup and drop-off to and from the airport.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

Are There All-Inclusive Resorts in the USA?

All inclusive family resorts
Located along the St. Lucie River, Club Med Sandpiper in Florida offers an array of land and water sports. Photo credit: Terry Ward

Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Florida

Ideal for active families, Club Med Sandpiper Bay is located along the St. Lucie River – the site for many of the resort’s sports programs. It is the only true all inclusive resort in Florida for families.

While at Club Med Sandpiper Bay with my mom and three kids, my then 10-year-old daughter Christina was the featured star in a circus show. We had no idea she had been practicing an aerial performance in the kids’ club as part of Club Med’s famous circus school. I’ll always remember my shy girl beaming in the spotlight as the audience shouted “bravo!” Opportunities to experience new skills and activities is why Club Med is among the best all-inclusive resorts for families.

Superb children’s programs cater to kids ages four months to 17 years old, with tons of activities. The resort offers all day gourmet dining, open bar, nightly entertainment and much more.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

Dude Ranches – The All American All Inclusive Resorts

Horses at one of kind Wyoming dude ranch - Red Reflet Ranch.
Photo credit: Yvonne Jasinski

For mountain-loving families, all-inclusive dude ranches offer fun western-themed lodging and horseback riding among other activities.

Typically, dude ranches are all-inclusive. That covers horseback riding, accommodations, and most or all meals. In addition, a bunch of western-themed activities, and childrenโ€™s programs round out family fun.

While horseback riding is the central activity, a dude ranch vacation offers many activities. Even non-riders will appreciate fresh mountain air, outdoor activities, and delicious western food.

Room at Tanque Verde Dude Ranch
The room! Photo courtesy of Tanque Verde Dude Ranch

Tanque Verde, Arizona

Open year-round, the old time cattle and guest ranch is located in the desert near two national parks. The old west ranch features plush accommodations, a spa and kids program for ages 3-17. Babysitting is available.

Among the best dude ranches in Arizona, Tanque offers hiking, biking and fishing. Amenities include an airport shuttle, WiFi, and swimming pool.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

all-inclusive family vacation
Guest rooms are outfitted with authentic Western dรฉcor, plush linens, and wood-burning fireplaces. Photo Courtesy: Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort

Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort, California

Located in wine country, the Alisal is a working cattle ranch and full-service resort with luxury cottages. Ages 7 and older go on guided trail rides in wide open spaces with Sycamore trees. Ages 4-6 gather eggs, feed chickens and play with baby goats in Alisalโ€™s Barnyard.

Breakfast rides lead to an adobe camp and cowboy buffet. The modified American Plan includes breakfast and dinner.

Alisal also knows how to ring in the holidays making it one of the best Christmas hotels in the US.

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Best dude ranches are great for kids.
Kids and dude ranches just go together. Photo courtesy of Rocking Z Guest Ranch

Rocking Z Guest Ranch, Montana

Open year-round, Rocking Z Guest Ranch offers an immersive horseback riding experience thatโ€™s especially popular with teenagers. Since kids ride to their ability, teens can spend six or seven hours in the saddle if they want. Those looking to advance their skills can learn western-style moves and ride bareback.

In addition, guest can groom and care for horses, learn to train horses and help herd cattle. Horse games include soccer and barrel racing. Meals are served family-style and accommodate all dietary needs.

CHECK PRICE / BOOK HERE

Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Families

Remember, amenities and prices vary from one resort to the next. Is an all-inclusive vacation a good deal for your family vacation?


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