The best all-inclusive stays in the Caribbean

When it comes to bedding down in the Caribbean, nothing beats an all-inclusive resort for unlimited food and drink, fun activities, and zero stress from check-in to checkout. We’ve rounded up the best casual-chic and high-end places to stay in destinations such as Barbados, St Lucia, Antigua, Mexico, and Grenada. Not only do all offer the wow factor, but they also promise the best bang-for-your-buck.

Sea Breeze Beach House, Barbados (4.5*)

The scene: Sparkling white sands and luminous turquoise waters set the scene at this beach-chic gem on Barbados’ south coast. You’ll be a five-minute drive from the fishing village of Oistins and only 10 minutes from the buzzy bars, clubs, and restaurants of St. Lawrence Gap.

The sleep: Following a multi-million-dollar refurb, the smart rooms flaunt modern décor, wooden flooring, colourful artworks, and a beachy vibe. Expect private terraces or balconies, comfy beds with luxe linens, flatscreen TVs, and spacious mosaic-clad bathrooms with rainfall showers. If you desire more living space, the salubrious suites have upgraded amenities and extras such as fridges (filled daily), evening canapés, nightly turndowns, and a personal concierge service.

The stay: You’ll get to grips with the all-inclusive concept from the get-go; especially in the five dining spots offering all manner of Bajan and Caribbean cuisine, including fresh seafood and grilled meats. You’re spoiled further with four bars, a quirky café for rum-infused gourmet coffees, and a pop-up chef’s tasting room. Two private beaches, three pools, a spa, and non-motorised water sports such as sailing, kayaking, body boarding, and snorkelling top things off nicely.

More information and to book: Sea Breeze Beach House

Sandals Royal Barbados (5*)

The scene: Enjoy the bustle of St Lawrence Gap at this stylish resort. You’ll be close by to the area’s fantastic shopping, dining and nightlife, whilst also having the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed afternoon at the hotel’s sun-soaked pool.

The sleep: The accommodation here feels very luxurious thanks to the modern, stylish interiors. Every suite has a gorgeous Tranquillity Soaking Tub for two, offering the ultimate spot to relax and rejuvenate before a fun night out in the town. After cocktails and dining, the large, comfy beds are very welcoming.

The stay: The six restaurants offer the chance to relish tastes from around the world, from decadent steak and seafood and classy French fare, to fun Caribbean dishes and Asian fusion. With four bars too, you won’t be short of places to enjoy a refreshing cocktail and toast to another wonderful day in Barbados. The hotel also boasts Sandals’ first rooftop infinity pool, as well as two more pools and its very own bowling alley.

More information and to book: Sandals Royal Barbados

Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels, Barbados (4*)

The scene: Beach meets spa at Barbados’ first all-inclusive mind and wellness boutique hotel for adults. You’ll be overlooking the gleaming white sands of Prospect Bay on the island’s sheltered west coast and within easy distance of the 18-hole championship course at Apes Hill Golf Club.

The sleep: Expect seaside-chic design in the 70 rooms and suites, all of which have appropriate grown-up glamour; think polished wooden flooring, pieces of driftwood above super king-size beds, beachy artworks, and neutral tones with bright sea-blue accents. There’s also flatscreen TVs, free Wi-Fi, Bluetooth speakers, minibars, tea and coffee-making facilities, yoga mats, and balconies or terraces for ubiquitous lazing. Bathrooms have walk-in showers and bathrobes.

The stay: You’re guaranteed up to four free treatments at the spa - a well-sized pampering space complete with sauna, steam room, and eight treatment rooms for massages, facials, scrubs, wraps, and signature packages. There’s also two superb restaurants for Mediterranean and Asian fusion cuisine, a coffee bar and deli, two outdoor pools, motorised and non-motorised watersports, and plenty of yoga, pilates, and meditation classes to find your Zen.

More information and to book: Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels

Palm Island Resort & Spa, Grenadines (4.5*)

The scene: Nestled on a small 135-acre island of the same name, this hotel’s location has the hallmarks of a classic Grenadines holiday. Sugary white sands, glorious sunset views and swaying palms – it has everything you need for an island getaway.

The sleep: The rooms and suites here are light and airy, with a delicate mix of white and natural wood, classic Caribbean décor and stand-out views of the pool, the lush gardens, or the beach. We love the Beachfront Rooms, which boast views of nearby Union Island and a lovely furnished terrace. The Southern Cross Villas are wonderful too, set in the cliffs and featuring a dining terrace and private infinity pool.

The stay: We’re certain you’ll love the excellent entertainment here, from vivacious beach BBQs and cool rum tasting events, to live steel pan bands and silent cinema evenings. Water sport enthusiasts are well catered for, whilst those who want to just relax are best suited to finding a hammock and dozing with a book in hand. All the menus here are created using the best local ingredients, making this hotel a winner for farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy freshly caught fish, freshly grown fruit and vegetables, and wonderful Caribbean spices.

More information and to book: Palm Island Resort & Spa      

East Winds, St Lucia (4*)

The scene: Tucked away in the north-west of St Lucia, this hotel offers close proximity to the bustle of Rodney Bay Marina, but gives you a secluded haven to enjoy peace and quiet whenever you need it. The hotel sits in 12 acres of verdant gardens, and has a lovely private beach to soak up the sun.

The sleep: There’s an emphasis on tranquillity here, which is translated into the calming Caribbean-inspired interiors. Choose between four beautiful categories of cottages, all hidden away amongst the lush foliage and offering views of the gardens or the sugary sand beach. Whichever cottage you choose, it’ll feel like your own little hideaway.

The stay: We love the extensive all-inclusive here, which includes delicious all-day dining at Flamboyant, premium brands of alcohol, and champagne in the evenings. A member of the prestigious Chaine Des Rotisseurs guild, the food here is nothing short of fabulous. The freeform pool with a swim-up bar is the perfect place to feel the sun on your face as you enjoy a cocktail or two.

More information and to book: East Winds   

St James’s Club & Villas, Antigua (4*)

The scene: Setting the standard high for Caribbean-style luxury living, this all-inclusive resort sits on its own isolated 100-acre peninsula in Antigua’s south-eastern corner. There’s two idyllic beaches on your doorstep: Mamora Bay for swimming and Coco Beach for snorkelling.

The sleep: The 251 rooms, suites, and villas come with classic décor, air-conditioning and ceiling fans, flatscreen TVs, tea and coffee-making facilities, comfy beds with crisp white linens, and sliding doors opening onto balconies or terraces (some have sea views). For a real treat, the adults-only Royal Suites feature a king-size bed with a separate sunken living room, floor-to-ceiling windows, spacious bathroom with deep-soaking tubs, and upgraded room amenities.

The stay: Sporty types will have a blast with non-motorised watersports (snorkelling, windsurfing, pedal boating), six pools, and a well-equipped fitness centre. There’s also a spa and salon for treatments, four hard courts for tennis (coaching is extra), and a supervised kids’ club. On the food and drinks front, you’ll find five restaurants, including the fancy Piccolo Mondo for fine dining and the waterside Docksider for weekly buffets with steel band performances.

More information and to book: St James’s Club & Villas

Spice Island Resort, Grenada (5*)

The scene: Named after the island’s prolific spice plantations, this luxe seaside escape is at the southern end of the showstopping Grand Anse Beach on the island’s south-western coast. The airport is a short drive away.

The sleep: The 64 suites all delight with classy Caribbean décor, breezy outdoor terraces with daybeds, and private gardens filled with lemon, almond, and sea-grape trees. For more opulence, book one of the beachfront suites that have private plunge pools, four-poster canopy beds, bathrooms with whirlpool tubs, hammocks, and vast amounts of living space. Amenities include flatscreen TVs with DVD players, minibars, and tea and coffee-making facilities.

The stay: With its lovely pool, amazing restaurant, watersports centre, gym, tennis court, and new beachside yoga pavilion, this idyllic retreat delivers on every level. There’s also a sublime spa for treatments using local herbs and spices as well as organic Grenadian chocolate, a hair salon for cutting and colouring, and a kids’ club for children aged 3 to 12 years.

More information and to book: Spice Island

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (5*)

The scene: You’ll find this cool oasis on the east side of the Dominican Republic, enjoying a fabulous location on the white shores of Bavaro beach. This is a popular beach for families, thanks to the exciting water sports on offer.

The sleep: The accommodation is trendy and glamorous, opting for purple and orange hues to fit with the iconic Hard Rock Hotel vibe. Many of the suites are ideal for families, with plenty of space and close proximity to activities and restaurants. If you’re wanting a real treat, Rock Royalty and Rock Star suites have lots of luxuries, including a personal assistant, large living areas and stand-out views.

The stay: The whole family will have a lot of fun here. Boasting a kid’s club, three children’s pools, an arcade centre and even a flume water slide, younger guests are guaranteed to have a memorable stay. For the adults, there’s an enormous casino to test your luck at, as well as an extensive golf course, a suave nightclub, and 12 swimming pools.

More information and to book: Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Punta Cana

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, St Lucia (4*)

The scene: This hotel boasts a beautiful and serene location in Labrelotte Bay, tucked away along the northeast coast of St Lucia. A gorgeous white sand beach framed by turquoise water one side and emerald forest the other, this is a glorious location.

The sleep: The accommodation here offers a touch of Caribbean-inspired glamour, with all-white interiors and pops of colour. The minimalist style means the focus is on the views – and they are certainly impressive. The Ocean Suites in particular are exquisite, with a fully equipped kitchen, a separate living area, a wet bar and a private terrace.

The stay: Windjammer packs in the wow factor with its fabulous family-friendly amenities. These include two child-friendly swimming pools, the exciting Jacquot Fun Club for little ones, and cool island activities for teens. For adults, there are three more pools that are more relaxed and lots of fun water sports including banana boat rides and Hobie Cat sailing. 

More information and to book: Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort

Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Mexico (5*)

The scene: Hitting the mark for Riviera Maya fabulousness, this resort has all bases covered: quiet relaxation, fun activities, and a whole lot of all-inclusive luxury. It also benefits from a lively location in Puerto Morelos, located between Cancun's southern tip and Playa del Carmen.

The sleep: There are 486 rooms, a good chunk of which are octagonal-shaped and have private plunge pools. All feature inviting and welcoming Caribbean décor, wooden furnishings, flatscreen TVs with digital channels, and balconies or terraces. Bathrooms have jetted aromatherapy whirlpool bathtubs, separate showers, double vanities with speakers, bathrobes, slippers, and toiletries. Minibars are refreshed daily with beer, juices, soft drinks, and bottled water.

The stay: The Unlimited-Luxury® goes well beyond the accommodation. You can look forward to a selection of heated pools, two outdoor Jacuzzi’s, and umpteen water and land activities such as yoga, cocktail-making classes, scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, and beach volleyball. There’s also a private white-sand beach, ocean trampoline, signature spa and fitness centre, countless wining and dining options, and well-produced nightly entertainment throughout the year.

More information and to book: Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa