Vacations should feel effortless, not expensive.
That’s why all-inclusive resorts are becoming the go-to choice for travelers who want luxury without hidden costs.
From gourmet meals to curated entertainment, everything is bundled into one upfront price.
You’ll enjoy unlimited food, drinks, and activities—without worrying about surprise charges.
What does “all-inclusive” mean when it comes to resort vacations?
All-inclusive resorts include everything that you will need to enjoy your vacation at no added cost. That means all food is included. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Non-alcoholic beverages are also included as well. In many high-end luxury resorts, alcoholic drinks come with the price of your stay. You can also enjoy all entertainment available at the property. You can take part in recreational activities if offered on the property such as golf and scuba diving. And, of course, your rooming is included in the price.
As you can see, there are many advantages to staying at an all-inclusive resort. So in this post, we want to talk about the different kinds of all-inclusive resorts you can enjoy. This way, you can pick the type that will make your vacation special.
The 6 Types of All-inclusive Resorts
Depending on where you search on the internet, you may find answers different than ours. To keep things as objective as possible, our list will be limited to specific things that these resorts offer that make them unique.
We’ve narrowed it down to these 6 categories because we think knowing what is offered will make it easier for you to plan your vacation.
Adults-only
Adults-only all-inclusive resorts are just what they sound like.
No children are allowed in these resorts. There may be entertainment or activities that take place at the resort that you may not want your children to see.
These types of resorts also tend to draw a younger crowd. So if loud music and partying isn’t what you want during your vacation, some of the others on this list might be more to your liking.
These resorts also tend to fall into the category of beach resorts.
Beach
Who doesn’t like the beach?
Beach resorts are the most popular all-inclusive resort destinations because they are located right on the beach.
Some resorts have their rooms right on the beach like the one in the image above.
If you choose to stay at one of these, you can walk right out your door and onto the beach. On these properties, your “door” is a floor to ceiling, wide, sliding glass door. This allows you to enjoy seeing the waves no matter what time of the day or night.
And, of course, you get pampered with all the luxury that comes with an all-inclusive beach resort.
Family
As the name implies, these resorts cater to families. Particularly families with small children.
Many of the activities that are offered at and near the resort will be something that even smaller children can enjoy. If adults-only all-inclusive resorts aren’t your thing, then a family-friendly all-inclusive resort is probably for you.
Family-friend all-inclusive resorts are also commonly located at the beach.
Golf
If your perfect vacation is waking up to beautiful surroundings, enjoying a delicious breakfast followed by a few holes on the green, then an all-inclusive golf resort is for you.
Many resorts have courses designed by famous golfers. Staying at one of these properties will challenge your skills.
At the same time, you’ll be pampered in luxury that you’ll experience from your rooming to your dining and casual relaxation.
Mountain
Mountain resorts attract a certain kind of traveler.
These tend to be those who want to be close to nature and may have an interest in eco-tourism.
You’ll still get all the pampering you’d expect at a beach or golf resort. The difference is your surroundings will be mountains, lush vegetation and wildlife.
While you may still get a pool like at a beach or family all-inclusive resort, your activities will be different because of the surrounds. Activities like whitewater rafting, tubing, fishing, etc. are what await you in an all-inclusive mountain resort.
In some rare instances, you can get the best of both worlds – being in the mountains while being close to the water, like the image above shows.
Just remember, different doesn’t mean bad or better. In fact, for one vacation you might try a mountain resort and a beach resort for the other.
Ski
If hitting the slopes and being active describes the perfect vacation for you, then an all-inclusive ski resort has a room waiting for you.
Much like mountain resorts (many ski resorts are mountain resorts in the spring and summer), you get an experience that will be quite different from beach resorts.
Yet, those differences are what make all-inclusive ski resorts so popular. Hot chocolate, hot apple cider – all the drinks and foods that make being in the cold cozy is what you can expect at an all-inclusive ski resort.
You can also expect saunas and cold baths.
Enjoying all that a fresh snowfall offers while being pampered at every turn is what will make you want to stay at an all-inclusive ski resort.
Get Exclusive Deals Before They Disappear at All-Inclusive Resorts
As you can see, you really can’t go wrong with these all-inclusive resorts.
One of the great things about these resorts is that they are always running specials throughout the year.
To make sure you don’t miss out on one that might be right for you, use the form below to sign up to our mailing list.
You’ll receive:
- Discounts to and promotions for some of the best resorts in the world
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In fact, if you sign up with the form below, you’ll get an exclusive link for 65% off plus a free night at Sandals!
FAQ – What’s Actually Included at All-Inclusive Resorts (And What’s Not)
What does “all-inclusive” actually cover at a resort?
All-inclusive resorts typically include lodging, meals, drinks, and entertainment in one upfront price.
You’ll unlock access to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks without paying extra.
Non-alcoholic beverages are standard, while premium resorts often include alcoholic drinks.
Guests can enjoy resort activities like golf, scuba diving, or spa treatments depending on the property.
Your room is always included, and many resorts offer luxury suites with ocean or mountain views.Are alcoholic drinks included at all all-inclusive resorts?
Not always—some resorts include alcohol, while others charge extra for premium brands.
Luxury properties often bundle alcoholic beverages into the stay, including cocktails and wine.
Budget resorts may offer limited drink packages or exclude alcohol entirely.
Always check the resort’s inclusions before booking to avoid surprise charges.What kinds of activities are included in an all-inclusive stay?
Activities vary by resort type—beach resorts may offer snorkeling, paddleboarding, or yoga.
Mountain resorts often include hiking, rafting, or eco-tour excursions.
Golf resorts feature access to on-site courses, sometimes designed by professionals.
Family resorts include kid-friendly entertainment, pools, and supervised programs.
Ski resorts bundle lift tickets, gear rentals, and cozy après-ski amenities.Are tips and taxes included in the all-inclusive price?
Some resorts include gratuities and taxes, while others add them at checkout.
Luxury resorts often bundle tips into the price to simplify the guest experience.
Budget resorts may expect guests to tip staff directly.
Always review the fine print to understand what’s covered and what’s not.What’s the difference between adults-only and family-friendly all-inclusive resorts?
Adults-only resorts cater to couples or solo travelers seeking quiet, upscale experiences.
They often feature romantic dining, nightlife, and spa services.
Family-friendly resorts prioritize kid-safe activities, group excursions, and flexible dining.
Choosing the right type depends on your travel goals and who’s coming with you.How do I find promotions or discounts for all-inclusive resorts?
Sign up for resort newsletters or travel deal platforms like Koala and RedWeek.
Promotions often include free nights, discounted rates, or bundled excursions.
Booking during shoulder seasons can unlock major savings.
Some resorts offer loyalty programs or exclusive deals for repeat guests.