It’s January 2021 and it’s already been a long year. Between the kids eating you out of house and home, virtual school, the 492 questions by 9:00 am, and 2020…. You need an adults only trip where you don’t have to hear what’s in Dora’s backpack for a few days. I am here this week to break down the top 7 adults only all inclusive resorts to help you find the perfect break from ubering your children to sports, making your own bed, and cooking a few meals.
I travel to over 50 resorts a year to check out the newest renovations, resorts, and activities in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. There is nothing I love more than seeing the accommodations, meeting the people, checking out the activities and tasting the food at these incredible resorts. People often ask me “what is your favorite resort?” That is such a difficult question because it honestly depends on so many factors. One of the biggest factors being WHO will be traveling. There is a resort for every family dynamic and, what may be perfect for a family with two teenagers, may not be perfect for 2 adults traveling alone.
Here are my top 7 adults only all inclusive resorts. Please keep in mind I don’t have a contract with a specific brand and this is not a paid post. These are my personal favorite top 7 resorts for adults and I will give you specifics as to why I chose them or what sets them apart.
Before I tell you what sets them apart, let me go over what they all have in common. All of these resorts have incredible food and drinks. I think sometimes All Inclusive properties can get a bad rap for their food and drinks and while some do suck….(remember I try them out for people first and have had my fair share of going to multiple restaurants in one night to find something edible.) THESE resorts really do pride themselves on their cuisine and it shows. In addition to amazing food, their service is incredible, rooms are pristine, and grounds are well kept.
7. Sandals Royal Bahamian
It’s important to note that all Sandals properties are for COUPLES only. They only have king beds in their rooms. At Sandals all tips are included in your price so no need to carry cash around with you on the property. Tips are not accepted (unless in a Butler room category).
Let’s talk about what makes this property unique compared to other Sandals properties:
Sandals Royal Bahamian has its own offshore island that they run a boat to and from daily. This island features a restaurant, pool with swim up bar, beautiful places to lounge, swings in the water, a spa, and fantastic snorkeling. Between the breathtaking views and the friendly island staff, this was my favorite hang out spot.
This property also has the best view from a fitness center I have ever seen. I don’t typically work out on vacation but it made me want to work out just for the views. If you are someone who works out while on vacation, this is the resort for you. You will never find a more picture perfect ocean to stare at as you are setting new pr’s.
The room renovations are incredible. They have been working on renovating the rooms in some of the buildings. If you are wanting a newly remodeled room, make sure you contact a travel agent so that they can put you in the right one. If you do not have a travel agent, I am happy to help!
One of the best excursions ever….Swimming with the Pigs. Swimming with the pigs became more well known and popular after it was featured on an episode of Ben’s season of The Bachelor. At that time, you could only swim with the pigs if you were staying in Exuma (another island in the bahamas). I am happy to report the swimming pigs have now made their way to Nassau. This can be done for an additional charge but because it is unique to this area, it deserves a mention.
6. Secrets Cap Cana
Secrets is an ADULTS only property. You do not have to be a couple and in fact they have rooms with double beds. Here, you can actually book the specific bedding that you want. Some resorts have room categories that will either have a king or two beds but you can not specifically pay for one over the other. Often times you won’t know what you are getting until you check in because it all depends on the availability at the time of check in. Resorts do their best to accommodate their guests but sometimes they can’t because of large groups who have arrived first, for example. At Secrets Cap Cana you can book a room with a king bed or doubles so you know exactly what you are getting before you arrive.
This resort has one of the best beaches in Punta Cana. It is very large and can hold a lot of chairs. The sand is super soft and the water is fairly calm in this area.
My favorite room category here is the Preferred Club Swim Out rooms. It is so nice to have your own pool right outside your door and even more fun when you travel with friends and can get rooms next to each other. With Preferred Club you also get special amenities like a special section on the beach, a concierge lounge with snacks and your own bartender, and a pool with less people. Make sure and pack your own pool floats. They can assist with blowing them up and then you can lounge the day away.
Last but not least, I love the way they have these little hidden hot tubs throughout the property. The have this luscious greenery and tropical flowers that encase these hot tubs. It’s a tropical paradise.
Pro Tip: This resort brand has a promotion called the 5G promo. If you book 5 rooms, your 6th room is free. There are black out dates and some restrictions so contact your travel agent for details. As always if you don’t have an agent, I am happy to help!
5. Secrets Akumal
This resort is ADULTS only and again you can choose your bedding before you travel. They also participate in the 6th room free promo.
What makes this resort stand out is the beach and location. Akumal actually means turtle and there are tons in this area. This is a great place to snorkel with turtles and in fact you can snorkel right from this beach.
Akumal is also close to Tulum. Tulum is a super fun little beach town with lots of great local artisans, shops, beaches, and a great coffee shop. The ruins are close by as well so Akumal is a great location to be close to many activities on and off the property.
Let’s talk about seaweed….Here’s the deal……Seaweed is unpredictable and annoying. Trust me, it’s annoying for travel agents too. I wish there was a real life aquaman that we could hire to weave it all together and throw it away from the beaches but unfortunately it is what it is. Don’t let it ruin your vacation. It hasn’t been an issue at this resort yet but that doesn’t mean it can’t or won’t be at some point. The good news is…. resorts work super hard to keep the beaches clean and this resort in particular does a fantastic job!
Pro Tip: Bring your own snorkel gear if you love to snorkel. Also, pack your underwater camera or go pro to catch some images of the sea turtles. If you want to watch the giant sea turtles lay their eggs, they lay eggs during the summer. If you want to help release some baby sea turtles, they hatch between August and November usually. It’s one of the most amazing things I have ever been a part of.
4. Sandals Southcoast
What makes this property so unique is they have built many structures over the water.
Lattitudes: This is the over water bar with hammocks for lounging. This is the PERFECT place to grab a drink, grab a hammock, and watch the sunset. Get there early to get a hammock and bring all your patience because the bartenders get slammed right around this time. One of our friends decided to just bring her wine bottle from her room and it worked out great.
Over the Water Chapel: Out of everywhere I have been, this is THE most beautiful destination for a destination wedding. The over the water chapel with glass floors is absolute perfection. This quaint chapel is romantic, creates magazine worthy photos, and is an intimate setting for couples tying the knot or looking to retie the knot for a vow renewal.
Pro Tip: Sandals offers FREE weddings at all of their locations and great group benefits. The group benefits can be confusing so I highly recommend a travel agent for this.
Over Water Bungalows: That’s right….you don’t have to go all the way to Bora Bora or the Maldives for an over water bungalow. This resort features over water bungalows and over water villas. The main differences in the bungalow vs. the villa is the square footage, the private pool in the villa, and the price tag. These over water bungalows/villas are also all inclusive, come with a butler, and have security before you even enter the walkway. They feature a glass panel floor in the bedroom, an outdoor tub, a hammock and incredible shower. There is a staircase leading down into the water from your deck area.
Pro Tip: There are many room categories at this resort and the over water bungalows/villas are the most expensive. If you want to stay in the bungalows but it doesn’t fit in your budget for a full week….here is what you can do. There is a 3 night minimum stay in the over water room categories and, believe it or not, even with the steep price tag they sell out often and you need to plan way in advance. If you would like to go for a 7 night vacation but can’t stay all 7 nights in the over water categories, stay in another room category for the first 4 nights and then switch to an over water room the last 3 nights of your vacation. I do not recommend staying in the over water room first because the last 4 nights, you may be really sad. No one wants to be sad on vacation.
3. Hotel Xcaret
Hotel Xcaret is actually a family friendly property however, there is a super cool adults only building and section. This one of a kind resort definitely made the list.
Hotel Xcaret was founded by the owner of the Xcaret parks. The owner is a true visionary. When building this property they really wanted it to be eco friendly so they used a lot of the materials they discovered into their design. For example: while digging at the location, they discovered an underwater river system. They utilized the rocks in their building materials and utilized the river system and built around that. They now have these incredible rivers that run through the property that you can kayak and paddle board on daily.
On this property there are two adults only buildings. The Suite River Adultos is my favorite of the two and the one I would recommend. On the rooftop of this building is a pool with incredible views of the ocean. The catch….only the people staying in this building have access to it. Even if you are an adult or are staying in the other adults only building, you are NOT allowed to use this. This is a good thing because the pool would not fit all of the adults on the property. It’s not small by any means but by only allowing people who stay in this building access, it means you will have a more relaxing experience as well.
This property has bracelets as key cards and they also have a super unique feature as well that I haven’t found at any other resort. Throughout the property you will notice these camera signs. That means that somewhere nearby there is a camera waiting to capture your picture. If you scan your bracelet and pose, the camera will snap your photo and you can then see your photos on the tv screen when you go back to your room later that evening. You can purchase them as well. If you have ever used a magic band at Disney, it’s very similar in look and feel.
Along with this rooftop pool there is a spa at this resort built into the caves. One of the couples massage rooms even has its own cenote (underground natural pool). This is one of the most unique and authentic looking spas I have ever been to.
This property takes the term all inclusive to a different level.
Along with your food and drinks being included, you also have access to all 7 adventure parks and transportation to each one.
Xcaret Park
Xel-Ha Park
Xplor Park
Xavage Park
Xplor Fuego Park
Xenses Park
Xoximilco Cancun
2. Sandals Ochi
Sandals Ochi is a very large property but honestly has something for everyone. This is one of my favorite resorts for honeymooners and couples group travel.
What makes this property unique is they have 105 pools. Yes you read that right. One hundred and five! Many room categories have their own pools. They also have several beach areas and a super unique ocean cove area. This resort is known for nightlife, restaurant options, and the Caribbeans only speakeasy bar. This hidden gem is called the Rabbit Hole and looks like something straight out of Alice in Wonderland. You must have a password to get in and this super swanky bar is open late into the night.
Pro Tip: You will have to ask the staff for the secret password or look in the daily footprints newspaper that the resort provides.
While this property is known for nightlife, there are also many room categories that offer a more private, quiet, and relaxing stay. Whether you are looking for a fun lively atmosphere or want a down day to relax, this resort has it all!
The location of this resort is close to all of the major excursions you could want. Dunn’s River Falls, Mystic Mountain Bobsled Coaster, and zip lining are all a short drive away. While these are not included in the all inclusive rate, there are several things that are. The included activities on property are snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing, glass bottom boat rides, paddle boards, aqua cycle, and kayaking.
1. Unico 2087
Unico how do I love thee….let me count the ways….
You guys….I can’t say enough about how much I love this property. This is an adults only all inclusive and is perfect for a romantic getaway, a girls trip, and even a birthday celebration.
First things first….I am a spa girl. I LIVE for massages and relaxation. LIVE.FOR.IT. At Unico they are taking the all inclusive industry and kicking it up a notch. All spa services, excursions, and golf are included. That’s right. Included. You are responsible for the service fee of 25%. Here is an example: If the spa menu says a pedicure is $50, you would only pay $12.50 which is the 25% fee on the service. If a massage service is listed at $200, you will only pay $50.
This spa offers a one of a kind service called the Essancia Massage or what most people often refer to as the “4 hand massage” During the 4 hand massage, you have two therapists who work on your back at the same time in synchronized motions. So there you are laying there…. you have just done the “take 3 deep breaths while inhaling lavender” routine and two hands start massaging your back. Then halfway up your back, the two hands split off and turn into 4 hands. Y’all I’m telling you what, I heard a choir of angels singing in that moment. It was like the heavens opened up. You must do it. MUST. 80 minutes of 4 hand gloriousness and then they stretch you out. You seriously walk out of there with a new body and new strut.
The decor, feel, and the beauty of this resort is over the top. If you are an instagram photo guru, this is THE most instagrammable resort ever. There are beautiful picture opportunities around every corner. When you arrive you are greeted by a beautiful lobby with giant lanterns hanging, the “Jade” welcome drink, and a staff member carrying candles. You get to select a scent for your stay. Each night when they do the turn down service, they spray that scent in your room. In your room you will also find 2 hats that are yours to use during your stay and take home with you as a souvenir.
The Bar Baalam or lobby bar is a mixologist dream. They offer housemade signature cocktails like the spicy “Sinner” or you can ask them to surprise you. One of my favorite drinks they made was a surprise drink that had smoked cinnamon. The bartenders there are fantastic.
Unico offers some unique classes for free during your stay. They have everything from wine and painting nights to sushi making classes. Spots are limited and you can register upon arrival.
Each room has a host. A host is similar to a personal assistant. The host can make dining reservations, spa reservations, schedule a class, run a bubble bath in your room, help you with a celebration, book the excursions for you, steam your clothes, unpack and pack your suitcase, and much more. The hosts often travel around the resort daily to check on you or will message you through What’s App.
This resort has aqua cycle and aqua yoga but spaces are limited so arrive early to the classes. There are other fitness classes to choose from as well but those are the most popular and found in the pool.
Twice a week they have a pool party and bring in a DJ at the pool. They also allow your own floats in the pool daily and in the swim out rooms. Unico believes in supporting local artists so twice a week, they bring in a local artist to paint hats. You can bring your hats from your room and pick your design or wording and he will paint it for you during the day free of charge. (tips appreciated)
Another incredible feature that makes Unico stand out is their app. On their app you can schedule spa services, dining reservations, request more bath amenities for your room, order room service, schedule your turn down service, and it even has a pillow menu. Another thing you can do is order food service to your pool chair or beach chair. Each chair has a number listed on it. You simply put your chair number on your order and a server will bring it to you. I have never had to use it though because the staff has always been right there to check on us. It’s like they can sense when we need a refill or a plate of nachos.
Pro Tip: If you meet more than one travel agent at the resort you are staying at, and they have the opportunity to go anywhere, that’s usually a pretty good indication you picked the right place. I have been to Unico 7 times. I have had servers come up to me and say they recognize me or hug and kiss my cheek and welcome me back. I continue going back because the service, food, drinks, and amenities are pretty hard to beat.
Currently there is only one Unico location. We are crossing our fingers for more to open and will be the first to tell you if it happens.
Whether you are looking for a girls weekend, a romantic getaway, to celebrate with friends, or for a large group trip, there is a resort out there for everyone. The all inclusive industry has come a long long way! I would be happy to help you find the perfect match for your next vacation.
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Thank you so much for stopping by and the great feedback! Make sure to come back. I am working on some new posts to release soon.