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 been sending UK travellers to the Caribbean for over two decades. Below are ten resorts we'd happily recommend across Barbados, Grenada, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, Antigua, the Dominican Republic and Mexico.

Not sure where to start? Call our Caribbean specialists on 01 664 9970.

Our top 10:

1    Sea Breeze Beach House, Barbados
2    Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa, Grenada
3    Turtle Beach, a Tribute Portfolio All-Inclusive Hotel, Barbados
4    Sandals Saint Vincent, Grenadines
5    East Winds, St Lucia
6    The Verandah, Antigua
7    Spice Island Resort, Grenada
8    Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
9    Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, St Lucia
10  Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Mexico

1. Sea Breeze Beach House, Barbados (4.5*)

The scene: Barbados' south coast is livelier and breezier than the calmer west, and Sea Breeze is a lovely introduction to it. You're around 15 minutes' drive from Grantley Adams airport, with two beaches to choose from. One has loungers and water sports, and the other is more secluded, with a natural, rugged feel. The fishing village of Oistins, famous for its Friday-night fish fry, is a short drive away. The Atlantic-influenced sea can be livelier here than on the west coast, so check the flags before little ones paddle.

The sleep: Rooms are split into Classic and Luxury collections. Classic rooms have covered balconies, rainfall showers and garden, poolside or ocean views. The Luxury suites range from one to four bedrooms. They add a pre-stocked minibar, nightly turndown, a speciality coffee machine and a personal concierge. If you're travelling in a big group, the larger ocean-front suites are the stand-out, and we can tell you about any family offers running on them.

The stay:Four restaurants cover Bajan-with-a-twist at the Mahogany Lounge, seafood and sushi at Aqua Terra, and romantic dining at Cerulean. Cerulean has a smart dress code and only opens five nights a week, so book early. There's also a quirky rum-infused coffee café, five bars and a pop-up Chef's Tasting Room (supplement applies). Three pools include an adults-only one, and there's non-motorised water sports, a floating trampoline and a kids' club for ages 4–12.

More information and to book: Sea Breeze Beach House

2. Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa, Grenada (5*)

The scene: Sandals Grenada sits on Pink Gin Beach at Grenada's south-western tip, just a five-minute drive from Maurice Bishop International Airport. You can be on a sunlounger very soon after landing. It's adults-only (18+) and built around couples.

The sleep: With 257 rooms and suites across 22 categories, you'll find Butler Level, Club Level, Luxury Level and Love Nest Suites, many with a Tranquility soaking tub for two. For the ultimate treat, choose an Italian Village SkyPool Butler Suite. It has a private, solar-heated infinity plunge pool high up with ocean views.

The stay:Ten restaurants include Butch's Chophouse, Soy for sushi, Le Jardinière for French, Cucina Romano for Italian, and the Tipsy Turtle Pub for a proper pint. Six bars serve premium spirits. There are five pools, a Red Lane Spa (treatments extra), and scuba diving is free for certified divers.

More information and to book: Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa

3. Turtle Beach, a Tribute Portfolio All-Inclusive Hotel, Barbados (4*)

The scene:This all-suite resort sits on a 1,500-foot stretch of white sand on Barbados' south coast, set in six acres of tropical gardens. It's about 15 minutes from the airport, with the nightlife of St Lawrence Gap just down the road. The beach is a nesting spot for native sea turtles, which is how the hotel got its name. Nesting runs through much of the warmer months and sightings are never guaranteed, so if you do spot one, give it space.

The sleep: Around 165 junior suites and suites all come with a living area, a private patio or balcony, air-conditioning and a mini-fridge stocked with soft drinks, beers and local treats. The sofa-bed layout makes them genuinely practical for families. One-bedroom suites sleep up to four adults, or two adults and three children.

The stay:Dine at Oistins for buffet-style breakfasts and dinners, Kefi for Greek cuisine, and the Breeze Beach Bar for casual Bajan dishes by the pool. There's also an Unfiltered coffee bar and deli and the Swerve ice cream parlour. Two freshwater pools, a whirlpool, free non-motorised water sports and the CAMP Kids Club (ages 3–12) keep everyone busy. Guests can also dine around at sister Elegant Hotels on the west coast (transport not included). Our top tip is to order the rum punch, as it's very good and very strong.

More information and to book:Turtle Beach, a Tribute Portfolio All-Inclusive Hotel

4. Sandals Saint Vincent, Grenadines (5*)

The scene: Sandals' first resort in this little-visited corner of the Caribbean opened in March 2024. It's tucked into a private cove at Buccament Bay, backed by rainforest and a gently flowing river. It's adults-only and genuinely off the beaten path. The transfer from Argyle airport takes about 50 minutes by road. Butler Suite guests can pre-book a complimentary boat transfer in daylight hours (weather permitting). If you want a livelier island with plenty of shops and bars beyond the resort, Barbados or St Lucia will suit you better. Away from the resort, you can explore Kingstown's botanical gardens or hike towards the La Soufrière volcano (conditions permitting).

The sleep: The 301 rooms and suites span 15 categories. Choose from Bamboo Palm rooms with balcony soaking tubs, Club suites and swim-up rooms. The Beachfront Butler Villa Suites have private pools. The two-storey Vincy Overwater Villas are Sandals' first of their kind, and they work well for friends travelling together.

The stay: Eleven restaurants and nine bars include Scrimshaw for dock-to-dish seafood, Butch's Island Chophouse, Sora for Italian, and Gatsu Gatsu for izakaya-style dining. Three Jewels Rum Bar celebrates Eastern Caribbean rums. Expect several pools, including a swim-up bar, plus kayaks, paddleboards and Hobie Cats. Certified divers get two free dives a day. The Red Lane Spa treatments cost extra.

More information and to book: Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines   

5. East Winds, St Lucia (4*)

The scene:East Winds is in the north-west of St Lucia, set in 12 acres of manicured gardens and backing onto a private beach. You're only ten minutes from the bustle of Rodney Bay Marina but can retreat to the quiet whenever you like. Be aware that it's a little over an hour's drive from the airport, though helicopter transfers are available if you fancy arriving in style. Children must be 8 or over, and there are no organised kids' activities. This is a resort for grown-ups.

The sleep: Just 30 cottages are scattered through the greenery, from Superior and Deluxe Cottages (the Deluxe have a sunken outdoor shower) to Oceanfront Rooms and an Oceanfront Suite. Each one feels like a private hideaway.

The stay:The all-inclusive here is generous, with premium drinks and champagne served every evening after 6pm. Dining centres on Flamboyant, where a grand piano and a regularly changing menu add to the atmosphere. The resort is a member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs guild, and the catch of the day is the one to order.

More information and to book: East Winds

6. The Verandah, Antigua (4.5*)

The scene: This 30-acre, adults-only (16+) resort borders Devil's Bridge National Park on Antigua's wilder north-east coast. The surf is more dramatic than on the sheltered west side, and you'll be around 40 minutes from V.C. Bird International Airport. Nature walks lead into the park, and the open-air museum at Betty's Hope is about ten minutes away. Uninhabited Bird Island and Green Island are a short boat trip offshore.

The sleep: All 185 suites and villas are single-storey, with around 700 square feet of space and private verandas. Choose from Hillside, Waterview, Waterfront and Superior Waterfront suites. Two-bedroom villas have full kitchens, and the hilltop plunge-pool villas have their own pools.

The stay: Five restaurants include Seabreeze for buffets, Portofino for Italian, Nicole's for fine dining (a US$40 per person surcharge applies) and Papa Ricco's for beachfront pizza. Four pools, two beaches, floodlit pickleball, 18-hole mini golf and non-motorised water sports keep you busy. Bring your own snorkelling kit. Guests can also dine around at sister resorts Pineapple Beach Club and St James's Club & Villas. A resort fee and tourism levy are payable on arrival, and we'll confirm the current amounts when you book. The Verandah is part of Elite Island Resorts.

More information and to book: The Verandah

7. Spice Island Resort, Grenada (5*)

The scene: Grenada is the "Isle of Spice", and this family-run resort sits on eight acres at the quieter southern end of Grand Anse Beach, about ten minutes from the airport. Don't miss the nutmeg-processing station at Gouyave or the island's Friday-night fish fry. If you want to see how locals eat, both are well worth the drive.

The sleep: All 64 suites are generously sized. The Sea Grape Beach Suites sit right on the sand with garden patios and hammocks. The Pool Suites, including the Anthurium, Luxury Almond and Royal Collection categories, have private plunge pools. Children under 12 aren't permitted in the Pool Suites, which is worth knowing if you're travelling as a family.

The stay: With only a couple of restaurants, this is about intimate, unhurried dining rather than choice. Oliver's serves international and Creole dishes by the sea. The all-inclusive covers all beverages except bottled wine and champagne, plus free non-motorised water sports and floodlit tennis. Guests get complimentary green fees and membership at the Grenada Golf Club. There's also a spa using local ingredients such as Grenadian chocolate, a beach yoga pavilion and a kids' club.

More information and to book: Spice Island

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

The scene:This is a huge, high-energy resort on Macao Beach in Bávaro, about 25–30 minutes from Punta Cana airport. With around 1,800 rooms it's a small town, and it's brilliant if you want buzz and nightlife.

The sleep: Suites are trendy and spacious, and the Caribbean Suites include a double Jacuzzi on the balcony. Families will like the two-bedroom Rock Family Suites. For a real treat, the Rock Royalty and Rock Star suites come with a personal assistant and generous living space.

The stay:The all-inclusive covers nine restaurants, including Toro steakhouse, Zen for sushi and teppanyaki, and Ipanema Brazilian House. Two restaurants, YOUYU and Montserrat Manor, are not included. The Roxity Kids Club, three children's pools and the Rockaway Bay Water Park (26 slides) will keep younger guests happy, and the late-night Moon Lounge is for over-18s. Several extras are payable locally, including the casino, the Jack Nicklaus golf course, bowling and the spa. A resort this size rewards a little planning, and we're happy to help.

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

9. Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, St Lucia (4.5*)

The scene: This hillside resort overlooks Labrelotte Bay on St Lucia's north coast, with a sandy beach framed by turquoise water on one side and emerald forest on the other. The transfer from Hewanorra International Airport takes roughly an hour and a half, so factor that in after a long flight. The resort is also built on a slope, with steps and steep paths throughout. A shuttle helps, but it isn't suited to anyone with walking difficulties.

The sleep: The 175-plus suites and villas all have kitchens, which is handy for longer stays and families. Coastline Suites have a private whirlpool on a large balcony. Hilltop Villas add open-air living and sun decks, and the Oceanpoint Residences are a true five-star villa option with private pools, ideal for bigger groups.

The stay: Seven restaurants include Dragonfly for Caribbean cuisine, Upper Deck steakhouse, Papa Don's trattoria and Masala at Embers. There are six pools, four for adults and two for children. The Jacquot Fun Club (ages 4–12) and a teen activity programme mean everyone has something to do. Water sports include Hobie Cat sailing, windsurfing and snorkelling, and banana-boat rides run too. A mandatory tourism levy is payable locally. See our other St Lucia holidays for more ideas.

More information and to book: Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences

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

The scene: Dreams Riviera Cancun sits in the small town of Puerto Morelos, between Cancun's southern tip and Playa del Carmen. It's around 20–30 minutes from Cancun airport, so there's no long transfer. The beachfront is lovely, though seaweed (sargassum) can affect Mexico's Caribbean coast, mainly from spring to late summer, and beach conditions change with the weather. Our specialists can steer you towards the best months.

The sleep: There are 486 rooms, and many are octagonal in shape. Some have private plunge pools. Rooms are decorated in warm Caribbean style with balconies or terraces and jetted tubs, and Preferred Club guests receive extra service and perks.

The stay: Dreams' Unlimited-Luxury® package covers nine themed restaurants and six bars, plus non-motorised water sports, nightly entertainment and an Explorer's Club for kids. Dreams Spa has hydrotherapy treatments. It suits couples, families and friends alike, and the "Sip, Savour and See" programme lets you dine at companion resorts (transport not included). It's an easy-going, big-resort feel without a long journey on arrival.

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

Ready to plan your Caribbean all-inclusive?

Whatever you're after, our specialists can tailor it for you. Browse adults-only holidays, family holidays or honeymoons. You can also combine two islands with a twin or multi-centre holiday, or explore Caribbean cruises. Getting married? See our Caribbean weddings, and check our latest offers and deals. 

Frequently asked questions

What's included in a Caribbean all-inclusive holiday?

Typically all meals and snacks, drinks (house brands or premium, depending on the resort), and non-motorised water sports. Sandals resorts also include tips and airport transfers, plus scuba for certified divers. Extras such as spa treatments, speciality restaurants, premium wines and some activities usually cost more. Some resorts also charge local fees on arrival, such as The Verandah's resort fee and tourism levies in Antigua, Barbados and St Lucia, so we always spell these out when we quote.

When is the best time to book an all-inclusive in the Caribbean?

December to May is the driest, sunniest and most expensive period. Hurricane season runs from 1 June to 30 November, peaking from August to October. No island is entirely immune, so we recommend travel insurance. Late spring and November often offer good value, but some resorts close for annual maintenance around September.

Which resorts are best for couples, and which for families?

For couples, Sandals Grenada, Sandals Saint Vincent and The Verandah are adults-only, and East Winds welcomes children from 8 with no kids' activities. For families, Turtle Beach, Sea Breeze Beach House, Windjammer Landing, Hard Rock Punta Cana and Dreams Riviera Cancun all have kids' clubs and family-friendly rooms.

Are there hidden costs with all-inclusive?

Not hidden, but they vary. Watch for resort fees, government tourism levies, specialty-restaurant surcharges and paid extras such as spa treatments or casinos. We'll list what applies to your resort before you book.