13 Best All-Inclusive Resort Chains and Brands Around the World for 2024

There are many, many reasons why you might choose to book a vacation at an all-inclusive resort. 

After all, who wouldn’t want that easy experience? The convenience of having everything you need during your stay? And all bundled into one price? Food, activities, and accommodations are all together. This can be especially handy if you’re traveling with the family. Let’s face it, children’s meals and fun can add up. All-inclusive travel is also a favorite option for honeymooners, who want absolute convenience and a stress-free experience.

It doesn’t matter what your reason for booking an all-inclusive vacation, though. Regardless, it’s important to realize that not all all-inclusive resort chains and brands are the same. There are some big differences between the various options at your fingertips. 

To help you decide which brand is right for your next big trip, here’s our breakdown. 

These are 13 of the best all-inclusive resort chains and brands. We’re including the pros and cons of each. Also, we cover what makes them unique. We’re giving you their best resorts, target audiences, and more. Read on, so you can be fully prepared to make the best vacay decision for your family.

1. Sandals Resorts

You’ve seen Sandals advertised on television. It’s the all-inclusive resort chain that brands itself as the most romantic among your options. But is it truly all that romantic? If you look online, reviews are pretty polarizing.

Yes, Sandals is geared toward honeymooners. It’s also geared toward other couples looking for a romantic getaway. However, it’s not as “5 star” as what some might expect from all the marketing. Likewise, the quality can differ from property to property.

That said, if you’re looking for the traditional all-inclusive experience, you’ll find it. If you don’t want any kids around, you’ll get it. If you go in without ultra-luxe expectations, you’ll likely find Sandals is more than enough for you.

Pros: There’s lots to do, with lots of options for a lot of different budgets.

Cons: It’s not as luxurious and high-end as you might assume.

Included: Enjoy unlimited dining, drinks, entertainment, water sports, land sports, gym access, scuba diving, golf green fees, WiFi, and airport transfers.

Audience: It’s perfect for adults looking for a romantic getaway.

Locations: You’ll find 16 resorts throughout the Caribbean, including in Antigua, the Bahamas, Barbados, Curacao, Grenada, Jamaica, and St. Lucia.

Favorite Property: Sandals Grande St. Lucian. With its location in one of the world’s most romantic destinations, Sandals Grande St. Lucian is an easy pick for romance.

Click Here to See All of Sandals Resorts’ Travel Options

2. Beaches Resorts

Beaches Resorts is owned by Sandals Resorts International. But, Beaches is like the family-friendly version of Sandals. You can expect the same huge amount of things to do at Beaches resorts, as you would at a Sandals property. However, kids and teens are at the center of everything. From daily programming to a partnership with Sesame Street and special kids-only areas to water parks, there are endless ways for your family to play at a Beaches property. 

If you do want to enjoy a little private time for the adults, you’ll find relaxation awaits at the spa and bars. Otherwise, you’ll be hard-pressed to find much quiet time for adults. Overall, this resort brand is an unsuitable pick for traveling couples.

Pros: There are tons of children’s activities.

Cons: There’s not that much for the adults-only crowd.

Included: Enjoy dining, scuba diving, water sports, land sports, WiFi, tips and gratuities, airport transfers, children’s activities, and golf (in Jamaica).

Audience: Beaches is ideal for families who want to keep the kids endlessly entertained.

Locations: There are three Beaches resorts, in Turks & Caicos and Jamaica.

Favorite Property: Beaches Turks & Caicos. With its huge beach, large resort footprint, and highly-rated dining, Beaches Turks & Caicos is a top pick.

Click Here to See All of Beaches’ Travel Options

3. Secrets Resorts

Secrets Resorts is a little more similar to Sandals, in that it offers a higher-end, adults-only experience. However, Secrets doesn’t have quite as many properties as Sandals. And, your stay won’t come with quite as many inclusions. Additionally, Secrets isn’t quite as geared toward romantic travelers. This can be a great thing if you’re looking for an adults-only environment that’s more on the platonic side. Secrets is a good fit for groups of friends or families with adult children, whereas Sandals isn’t so much. 

Secrets also boasts lots of desirable in-room amenities. There are rain showers and balconies in most guest rooms. There’s also the fun “secret box” that allows for room service to drop off your items without disturbing you. 

Unlike Sandals, Secrets offers a wider range of resorts in a wider range of destinations. Resorts aren’t just limited to Caribbean islands. You can also find them in Mexico and Costa Rica, and even in Spain.

Pros: You can enjoy the adults-only environment without the need for romance.

Cons: You won’t find as many inclusions or activities as you might with another brand.

Included: Dining, select beverages, room service, poolside and beachside service, entertainment, WiFi, taxes, and gratuity are all included.

Audience: All adults are welcome, whether traveling as friends, a couple, groups, etcetera.

Locations: There are more than 20 Secrets Resorts properties. You’ll find them in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Costa Rica, St. Martin, and even Spain.

Favorite Property: Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya. Think spacious guest rooms, eight restaurants, easy access to Tulum, and snorkeling with sea turtles. It’s easy to see why this Secrets resort is top-rated.

Click Here to See All of Secrets Resorts’ Travel Options

4. Sunscape Resorts

On the hunt for a mid-scale resort? Want something family-friendly without being overly fussy (or overly expensive)? Look to Sunscape. 

Owned by the same folks who own Secrets, this brand specializes in budget-friendly properties in well-known Caribbean locales. It also typically offers resorts with large footprints and loads of children’s activities. Expect your normal resort fare here, including multiple pools, outdoor activities, and multiple dining options. Families and children are plentiful, so don’t go expecting a lot of peace and quiet. This is a brand where (loud) fun in the sun reigns supreme.

Pros: Find family fun for an affordable price.

Cons: If you’re looking for high-end luxury, you won’t find it here.

Included: Enjoy dining, limited drinks, entertainment, land and water activities, children’s programming up to age 12, and taxes and gratuity.

Audience: Families are the norm here.

Locations: There are six Sunscape properties, in Mexico, Curacao, and the Dominican Republic.

Favorite Property: Sunscape Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa. This is considered one of the best family resorts in Puerto Vallarta. This Sunscape resort offers a private beach, multiple pools, a splash park for the kids, and sports courts for basketball, tennis, and miniature golf.

Click Here to See All of Sunscape Resorts’ Travel Options

5. Dreams Resorts & Spas

Many all-inclusive resorts are geared either entirely toward families or entirely toward adults. But, Dreams Resorts & Spas is one of the few brands that sits firmly in the middle. This makes it a good pick for traveling families with younger kids. But, it’s also good for older, single adults, or adult couples. 

The relaxed vibe appeals to those looking for a low-key environment. Reviewers also report that the food and dining options are a cut above what you’ll usually find at an all-inclusive. 

Each Dreams property offers something unique, too. Maybe it’s the dolphin habitat and golf course at the Playa Mujeres resort. Or, maybe it’s the freeform swimming pools in Nuevo Vallarta. 

Dreams also offers resorts in destinations that aren’t as popular with all-inclusives, such as Panama, Greece, and Costa Rica.

Pros: Enjoy a little something for everyone, at these resorts that cater to both kids and adults.

Cons: Dreams Resorts strikes a balance between families and adults. Accordingly, you won’t necessarily find a fully adult-centric or a fully family-centric atmosphere.

Included: Enjoy dining, limited drinks, entertainment, land and water activities. Also, get children’s programming, taxes, and gratuity included.

Audience: Dreams Resorts welcomes a mix of travelers.

Locations: There are more than two dozen Dreams Resorts properties around the world. Find them in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Curacao, Panama, Greece, and Spain.

Favorite Property: Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa. For family-friendliness in Cancun (no matter the age of your family), this Dreams property delivers. It has modern amenities, a quiet beachfront, and near-endless activities.

Click Here to See All of Dreams Resorts & Spas’ Travel Options

6. Iberostar

But if Dreams Resorts & Spas doesn’t offer enough variety for you, you’ll find plenty of variety with Iberostar. With more than 70 locations around the globe, Iberostar is one of the most well-known international all-inclusive resort brands. It offers a wide, wide array of experiences. It all depends on the resort you choose. (And this is why it’s so important to do your pre-booking research!)

It’s important to note the Iberostar “sub-categories.” For example, Iberostar Grand Collection properties are adults-only. Other locations, meanwhile, are not. 

You’ll find Iberostar resorts scattered across the globe, in such far-flung destinations as Montenegro, Morocco, and Peru. All are on the beach.

Pros: If a destination has a beach, there’s a good chance there’s an Iberostar there.

Cons: Iberostar properties differ so much from destination to destination. Because of this, you have to do your research to ensure you’ll like your experience.

Included: Enjoy dining, drinks, non-motorized water sports, activities, and entertainment.

Audience: It all depends on the property. Some Iberostar resorts are all about family fun. Others cater to young partiers. Still, others put the focus on romance.

Locations: There are more than 70 Iberostar resorts. Most are located in Spain, followed by Cuba and then Mexico.

Favorite Property: Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso. At this adults-only outpost, Iberostar rolls out the red carpet, with complimentary butler service and a pool concierge.

Click Here to See All of Iberostar’s Travel Options

7. Zoetry

Zoetry is another AMR Collection-owned resort brand. It’s a sister brand to both the Secrets and Dreams brands. But, Secrets and Dreams are geared toward high-end adults-only and family experiences. Meanwhile, Zoetry is all about the high-end spa and wellness experience. 

Think gorgeously furnished hotel rooms. Think lots of included luxury amenities. Think plenty of resort activities. These activities typically tie into the wellness theme. They include, for example, yoga classes and tea sessions. The healthful focus can also be seen in the brand’s restaurants. There, they serve a la carte organic health foods.

Pros: Do you want a resort-style experience? With a healthful twist? This is the brand for you.

Cons: Zoetry resorts aren’t adults-only. But, they’re lacking in terms of things to do for kids. Unlike a lot of family resorts, they don’t offer discounted rates for child travelers.

Included: Enjoy unlimited dining, drinks, 24-hour concierge, three-times daily maid service, 24-hour laundry service, welcome bottle of liquor, free bottles of wine daily, free WiFi, welcome gift, and free wellness experiences.

Audience: It’s perfect for adults looking for a wellness-focused getaway.

Locations: You’ll find seven Zoetry resorts scattered across five countries, in Mexico, Curacao, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Spain.

Favorite Property: Zoetry Paraiso de La Bonita. This property is located in Quintana Roo, Mexico. It’s a favorite among the Zoetry portfolio. It features a long beach. There are newly-updated suites. Guests also enjoy two outdoor pools and locally-inspired spa treatments.

Click Here to See All of Zoetry’s Travel Options

8. Couples

Couples Resorts is a little more historic than some of the other resort brands on our list. The brand was founded in the 1940s. Couples is known as the very first hospitality brand to market itself as “all-inclusive.” However, despite its longevity, this brand doesn’t have as many properties. Properties are also not in as many destinations. 

Couples only offers four resorts. They’re all in Jamaica. As you might expect by the name, the properties are adults-only. But, they’re not exclusively romance-geared. Any adult traveler will find a great time at any of the resorts. 

Additionally, each resort has a bit of a local, boutique feel. Each property has a family staff. But for this small-scale vibe, Couples delivers with its free amenities. These include free excursions, scuba diving, and golf.

Pros: For an adults-only getaway with lots of free perks and a boutique feel, Couples delivers.

Cons: Couples’ properties are only located in Jamaica. So, if you fall in love with the brand, you won’t have the benefit of experiencing them when you travel to other islands. (Also, it’s worth noting that some of the resorts allow nude sunbathing. This could be a con for some travelers.)

Included: Enjoy unlimited dining, drinks, a personalized mini-bar, entertainment, WiFi, water sports, golf, access to sports courts and a fitness center, wellness classes, select spa services, shopping shuttle, off-site excursions, catamaran cruises, and more.

Audience: This resort is adults-only. However, it isn’t limited to couples, as the name might suggest.

Locations: Couples’ four Jamaica resorts are located in Ocho Rios and Negril.

Favorite Property: Couples Swept Away. Couples Swept Away boasts a location on Jamaica’s famed Seven Mile Beach. The property also features the largest fitness complex in the entire country.

Click Here to See All of Couples Resorts’ Travel Options

9. Paradisus by Melia

If you’re a frequent traveler, chances are good that you’re familiar with the Melia brand. This large and growing hospitality company offers a range of hotel chains across the world. Paradisus is Melia’s all-inclusive option. Most Paradisus properties are family-friendly. All, though, are luxurious to the max. You can expect truly high-end accommodations. Also expect world-class spas and wellness facilities, on-site dining, and experiences. 

Paradisus properties are mostly family-friendly. However, don’t expect screaming kids and lots of splashing here. Families with kids and child-free adults alike happily coexist without a lot of noise or hubbub.

Pros: Expect lots of luxury, everywhere you look. Enjoy the benefits of booking and staying with an international brand.

Cons: If you’re looking for a resort where the kids can go wild, this isn’t the option for you.

Included: Enjoy unlimited dining, drinks, room service, free golf, WiFi, daily entertainment, gym access, tennis court access, daily activities, access to a children’s area, and non-motorized water sports. (Do note that, while gratuities are included, taxes are not.)

Audience: Most Paradisus resorts are family-friendly. However, good behavior is expected. The only exception is the adults-only Paradisus La Perla.

Locations: There are nine total Paradisus resorts in the Caribbean. However, all of them are in the Dominican Republic and Mexico.

Favorite Property: Paradisus Punta Cana. This large property is one of the favorites in Punta Cana. With nearly 700 guest rooms and expansive grounds, you’ll enjoy exploring every amenity and venue. There’s something for every traveler, from families to luxe travelers to those looking for a party scene.

Click Here to See All of Paradisus by Melia’s Travel Options

10. Barcelo Hotels & Resorts

This Spanish hospitality brand offers a range of properties, including several all-inclusive properties. And by several, we mean a whopping 73. Many of these resorts are scattered throughout the Caribbean and in South America. But, you can find them in a range of far-flung destinations as well. Think of the United Arab Emirates, the Canary Islands, Sri Lanka, Oman, and more. Most are family-friendly, but some are adults-only. Still, with all of those resorts to choose from, the crowd favorite remains the Barcelo Bavaro Palace in Punta Cana.

Pros: The Barcelo brand boasts a ton of properties. If you like the brand, you have plenty of options, all around the world.

Cons: The Barcelo brand is pretty standard. Expect your normal, average all-inclusive experience. Luxury options are available for an up-charge. But, don’t expect to be wow-ed without that upcharge. Additionally, the base inclusions aren’t as impressive as what you’ll find with other resort brands.

Included: Enjoy unlimited dining, drinks, access to fitness centers and sports courts, children’s activities, and entertainment.

Audience: Most Barcelo resorts are family-friendly, though a select few are adults-only.

Locations: There are more than 70 Barcelo all-inclusive resorts, with locations all around the world.

Favorite Property: Barcelo Bavaro Palace. This property sits on one of the world’s top 10 beaches. It’s considered the most “complete” hotel in all of Punta Cana. Nearly every single guest room offers an ocean view and a hot tub.

Click Here to See All of Barcelo Hotels & Resorts’ Travel Options

11. Breathless Resorts & Spas

This is another AMR Collection resort brand. However, Breathless stands apart from its siblings such as Zoetry and Secrets. It’s adults-only, but a little more party-focused. It has more of a millennial, youthful feel. In other words, this isn’t the adults-only resort where you’d go for your honeymoon (most likely). It’s also not really where you might take your grandparents. Instead, you can find plenty of ways to party. You’ll discover ever-flowing drinks, endless entertainment, and the occasional quiet spot in which to relax. Expect luxuriously furnished guest rooms, all with bright pops of color and sleek accents.

Pros: This youthful brand is just the perfect fit for younger travelers. Think travelers who want all the benefits of an all-inclusive, but who don’t want to vacation alongside their parents.

Cons: The pros that make Breathless Resorts & Spas attractive to some travelers may be cons to others.

Included: Enjoy unlimited dining, drinks, entertainment, WiFi, taxes and gratuities, water sports, daily activities, classes, and more.

Audience: The audience here is the younger crowd. Think younger millennials looking for a good time, both couples and singles.

Locations: There are five Breathless Resorts & Spas properties, located in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica.

Favorite Property: Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa. The only Breathless property in the Dominican Republic, Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa is expansive. It offers more than 750 suites. It also provides tons to do, see, and experience, just about any time of day.

Click Here to See All of Breathless Resorts & Spas’ Travel Options

12. Club Med

If you hear “Club Med” and think “party city,” you wouldn’t necessarily be wrong. Club Med is a long-standing all-inclusive resort brand. It started out with a very heavy party vibe. However, over the years, the brand has, well, re-branded. It now offers experiences for a range of travelers, families included. 

Much like Barcelo and Iberostar, Club Med provides a swathe of different properties in a huge array of destinations. There are more than 60 resorts in total. These include all-inclusive resorts in destinations that you might not necessarily think of as very all-inclusive-friendly. So, an all-inclusive trip to France, anyone?

Pros: When you book with Club Med, you get all the great benefits of booking with an international brand with lots of properties. There are lots of sales and deals you can take advantage of. There’s also great customer service. Additionally, if you do find that you love Club Med, you can stay with them all around the world.

Cons: The guest rooms are usually on the smaller side. It’s also clear to see that the “inclusions” focus is pretty activity-heavy. But, if you’re not into water sports or entertainment, you might find the offerings a bit lacking.

Included: Enjoy unlimited dining, drinks, children’s activities, water and land sports, tips and taxes, and entertainment.

Audience: The audience varies depending on where you stay. Just like with Iberostar properties, you’ll want to do your due diligence. Research a particular Club Med resort before booking. Ensure the audience meets your expectations.

Locations: There are more than 60 Club Med all-inclusive resorts, all across the world. There are even resorts in non-beach locations, in case you want the all-inclusive experience while you ski! 

Favorite Property: Club Med Ixtapa Pacific. This property offers a blend of amenities. It fits a range of travelers. It’s suitable for both families and child-free travelers. There are lots of activities. Reviewers find that they get a great deal for their all-inclusive fee. Additionally, the rooms are larger than what you’ll find at some of the other Club Med properties.

Click Here to See All of Club Med’s Travel Options

13. Riu Hotels & Resorts

Riu is another all-inclusive resorts brand that you’re probably familiar with. And that’s even if you never stayed with them before. 

Riu Hotels & Resorts is a Spanish hospitality chain. They offer a range of all-inclusive properties across the entire world. What you’ll get from the brand differs wildly from property to property. Some are adults-only, while some are filled with families. Some are on the outdated side, while others are incredibly modern. All, though, offer the standard all-inclusive experience. Most are on the louder side. Expect lots of activity.

Pros: You’ll find more than 60 resorts to choose from. Most of the resorts are on the larger side. You definitely won’t get bored when you stay at any Riu property.

Cons: Looking to relax in a bit of tranquility? Skip Riu and look elsewhere.

Included: Enjoy dining and drinks (unlimited at most properties), entertainment, activities, taxes, and gratuities.

Audience: The audience heavily differs from property to property. Make sure to do your research before booking. Verify that you’ll fit in with the crowd.

Locations: There are nearly 70 Riu all-inclusive properties scattered across the world. You’ll find all-inclusive resorts in Aruba, the Bahamas, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Bulgaria, Portugal, Spain, Cape Verde, Mauritius, Senegal, Tanzania, Morocco, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates.

Favorite Property: Hotel Riu Palace Jamaica. This adults-only property offers high-end dining. Guests enjoy three infinity pools. You’ll also find complimentary water sports and luxurious suites. Because it’s adults-only, you might find that this resort is a little quieter. (That is, at least compared to some of the other Riu resorts in other locales.)

Click Here to See All of Riu Hotels & Resorts’ Travel Options

What to Consider When Booking an All-Inclusive Resort

Before you jump on any booking deals, there are a few things to consider when picking an all-inclusive resort for your next vacation. 

– Who’s traveling?

First, who’s going to be traveling with you? If it’s just you and your spouse or partner, you can feel confident that any one of the above adults-only resorts will likely be suitable. 

Is it just you and some friends or other adult family members? Then you may want to go with an adults-only option. Just go with one that’s not so geared toward romance. 

Traveling with the kids? Of course, you’ll want a kid-friendly resort with plenty of activities to keep them busy.

– What’s your budget?

Next, when booking any travel, budget is typically a consideration. Want the most budget-friendly trip possible? You might want to look at brands such as Sunscape and Iberostar. 

However, beyond the cost of your all-inclusive stay, you also want to look at the cost of your actual travel, i.e. flights. Some resorts are in destinations that offer tons of budget-friendly flights. Take Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, or Cancun, for example. Others, though, are a little more pricey to reach. These might include those that are in St. Lucia, Spain, or Curacao. 

– What amenities matter most to you?

If you’re a self-proclaimed foodie, you may want to go to a resort with a highly-touted food and beverage program. On the other hand, if you’re an adrenaline junky, you might choose a resort that includes all of your motorized water sports. If you love a bit of relaxation, a high-end spa might be at the top of your vacay wishlist. 

Consider what amenities matter most to you when choosing an all-inclusive resort. You might not care at all that a property doesn’t include any water activities in your package price. But, that’s a dealbreaker to others. Likewise, others may bemoan a property’s lack of good liquors in the all-inclusive package. But, if you don’t drink, it’s no bother for you.

Which All-Inclusive Resort Brand is Best for Me?

Every all-inclusive resort brand on our list has something unique to offer travelers. Which is best for you will all depend on your needs, travel preferences and who you’re traveling with. And, keep in mind that the all-inclusive model isn’t even necessarily right for all travelers. That’s no matter which brand you go with! 

Hopefully, our list of the best picks around the world helps make your decision a little easier.