Vacations are meant to take you away from the demands of daily life so you can relax and reset — but that's almost impossible when the kids are begging for an expensive excursion and you're already over budget.
If you want a truly care-free vacation, it's best to pay upfront for an all-inclusive family resort so your crew can enjoy all the food, drinks, entertainment, and activities, worry free. It won't matter if you want another round of cocktails or your kids can't seem to get their fill of horseback riding — it's already been paid for. The result is less stress and more quality family time.
More family vacation ideas
The best part is that all-inclusive family resorts can be found all over the world. Whether you picture your family sprawled out in a cabana on a white-sand beach or taking in the sunset by horseback under the big Montana sky — there's a top-notch all-inclusive resort waiting to welcome you.
To get you started, we've selected the best all-inclusive resorts for families from destinations as varied as Kenya, Montana, and Turks and Caicos. We note if the price point is generally affordable or luxury based on the average nightly rate for an all-inclusive experience — rates less than $500 are considered affordable, while rates that average over $500 are considered luxury.
7 Family Vacations Everyone Should Do at Least Once
Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana, Dominican Republic
Price point: Luxury
This all-inclusive resort on the shores of Cap Cana's Juanillo Beach opened in December 2019, so guests will be treated to sparkling new everything — and that includes the property's incredible amenities. Kids will love the water park — complete with lazy river and slides — while adults can explore the resort's sprawling infinity pools and swim-up bars. Guests also have access to the adults-only Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana's sister property — making the property perfect for groups with a range of ages and interests or multi-generational families.
Included in one, flat all-inclusive rate is unlimited food and drink at the property's 13 venues (including top-shelf liquor and wine), all non-motorized water sports, and dedicated beach butlers ready to refill that cocktail or drop by another round of chips and salsa.
Bluefields Bay Villas, Jamaica
Price point: Affordable
This resort invites families to experience the island's less-visited south coast. The all-inclusive property delivers spacious villa accommodations and plenty of family-friendly bonuses — like a 24-hour butler, chef, and private pool and beach access. If that isn't enticing enough, what about up to 9 hours of daily child or adult care? At Bluefields Bay Villas, it's all included under the all-inclusive rate. The resort's six villas range in size from two bedrooms for a family of four to six bedrooms for a family of 13.
Beaches Turks and Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Price point: Luxury
If you're looking for a beachy, Caribbean experience, this all-inclusive resort is practically impossible to beat. Kids will be entertained for hours in the 45,000-square-foot water park and the property's 10 pools, while adults can find a moment of quiet walking the 12-mile beach or exploring the resort's five themed villages.
Included in the rate is unlimited food and drink (including snacks and premium liquor), a well-stocked mini bar, kids' camp, airport transfers, and activities including PADI-Certified scuba diving and daily live entertainment. Plus, you can bundle your flights with your stay and save (they offer nonstop flights from major cities like New York, Boston, and Miami).
C Lazy U Ranch, Colorado
Price point: Luxury
This year-round resort in Colorado's Rocky Mountains has welcomed families to its dude-ranch style property for over 100 years. Here, you can escape the grind of daily life on a lengthy trail ride or hole up in your cozy, yet luxurious cabin at the end of a long day under the bright Colorado sun.
Included in your stay at C Lazy U Ranch are three daily gourmet meals (think dry-aged ribeye, fresh trout, and homemade bread) and enough activities to make your head spin — you can join a trail ride, go fishing, visit the spa, play tennis, or go shooting. In the winter, activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and family sleigh rides are added to the agenda.
Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, St. Lucia
Price point: Affordable
It doesn't matter if you imagine chasing your kids up and down endless water slides or relaxing in an adults-only oasis — you can have both at this two-in-one all-inclusive resort. The island's largest water park provides endless fun, while the adults-only Harmony wing of the resort delivers peace and quiet.
The property is located on 85 acres along Saint Lucia's south coast and provides guests with all-inclusive access to the property's nine restaurants and seven bars (including top-shelf liquor), nightly entertainment, and activities that range from dance class and yoga to snorkeling and kayaking.
Woodloch Pines Resort, Pennsylvania
Price point: Affordable
Consistently rated as one of America's top all-inclusive family resorts, this Poconos property has been family-owned since 1958. The four-season resort is nestled on a mountain lake, and delivers fun for the whole family — including over 30 activities scheduled daily, a giant rock climbing wall, indoor and outdoor pools, water sports, and nightly entertainment.
All bookings at the main Woodloch Resort include a daily meal plan, while guests staying at the Woodloch Springs campus can either dine around the area, or add a meal plan onto their stay. Included in any Woodloch stay are daily excursions like horseback riding, fishing, skiing, and boating.
Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda, Mexico
Price point: Affordable
This family-friendly oasis is set in a protected mangrove forest right on Mexico's Caribbean Sea. The giant, all-inclusive property boasts 31 restaurants and bars (some for adults only) and a water park with multiple pools and slides. The littles can spend the day in the Kidsdom — with workshops, activities, and crafts — while parents can enjoy a spa treatment or take a dancing class.
Reservations at Paradisus Playa del Carmen include food, drinks, water sports, and entertainment, as well as activities like wine tastings and dance lessons for adults, and water park access for kids.
Mohonk Mountain House, New York
Price point: Luxury
If you — or your kids — have ever dreamed of staying in a castle, this is the property for you. Founded by the Smiley family in 1869, this iconic Victorian castle property welcomes families to enjoy its farm-to-table cuisine and the 40,000 acres of forest that surround it.
Every booking includes three meals a day (plus afternoon tea and cookies and a weekend brunch) and unlimited activities. In the winter, activity highlights include 30 miles of cross-country ski trails and ice skating in the open-air pavilion, while the warmer months are all about exploring Lake Mohonk by stand-up paddleboard or kayak.
Rancho de los Caballeros, Arizona
Price point: Affordable
This luxury dude ranch sits on 20,000 acres of Arizona desert with views of the Bradshaw Mountains. With a history that dates back to 1948, this stunning property brings families together through activities like horseback riding, tennis, and guided nature programs (children four and under stay free).
Keep in mind that Rancho de los Caballeros isn't a one-size-fits-all destination — here, you can select the all-inclusive package that works for you. Most packages include three meals a day and access to scheduled ranch activities, but some come with perks like golf or an activity credit you can redeem for a day of horseback riding, skeet shooting, or spa time.
The property is closed in the summer when the temperature jumps and is currently in the midst of a major upgrade, with work taking place over the summer when guests won't be impacted.
Tortuga Lodge & Gardens, Costa Rica
Price point: Affordable
Everything about Tortuga Lodge and Gardens is designed to reflect the natural surroundings, so you won't find a blaring TV in your bedroom or background music in the lodge. The property sits on the Caribbean coastline in its own private nature reserve, making it a nature and adventure lover's dream destination.
Every booking at Tortuga Lodge includes an a la carte breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the highly regarded Green Turtle Restaurant. Drinks are not included, but they are available at an additional fee. If you book the Tortuguero Jungle Experience Package, your stay also includes boat transportation from La Pavona and two special experiences — think boat and kayak tours, hiking trips, or a twilight tour of the private reserve.
Sandos Finisterra, Mexico
Price point: Affordable
Just because a property is dubbed family friendly doesn't mean it can't be modern and chic. At Sandos Finisterra, you can kick back in the luxurious spa, put up your feet on your private balcony or terrace, or enjoy a meal at one of the three on-site restaurants. All meals and drinks are included, as is the kids club and live entertainment.
Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach, The Bahamas
Price point: Affordable
Nestled on the south shore of Grand Bahama Island is the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach. In addition to 26 acres of wild nature, the all-inclusive resort has plenty of activities for the whole family, including kayaking, snorkeling, and a robust kids club. In addition to activities, the all-inclusive rate includes food and drink, entertainment, and nightly accommodations (each with its own balcony or terrace).
Moon Palace Cancun, Mexico
Price point: Luxury
Moon Palace's elevated take on the all-inclusive offering includes 24-hour room service, top-shelf drinks, fine dining, in-room whirlpool tubs, and plenty of kid-friendly activities (for the latter, don't miss the FlowRider Double Wave Simulator).
The resort is split into two sides — the Nizuc side offers a more tranquil feel and the Sunrise side scratches that active, lively itch. Either way, you'll have access to the entire property so you can hop around depending on your mood.
The Ranch at Rock Creek, Montana
Price point: Luxury
This upscale, all-inclusive property delivers an authentic western feel with five-star amenities. You can book a stay in a suite, luxury home, converted barn, or sleep nestled under the stars in a high-end canvas tent.
The all-inclusive nightly rate includes all farm-to-table meals, drinks, airport transfers, and two daily activities on the property's 6,600 spacious acres. Activity offerings include guided fly fishing, horseback riding, shooting sports, and wildlife viewing.
Lewa Safari Camp, Kenya
Price point: Luxury
This may be the property where Prince William and Kate Middleton stayed before he proposed, but every visitor to this all-inclusive resort is treated like royalty. Guests stay in large tented bedrooms with fireplaces and en-suite bathrooms, and have access to 65,000 acres of private protected wilderness that's home to lions, leopards, zebras, and black and white rhinos.
All meals and drinks (excluding Champagne and private cellar wine and spirits) are included in the all-inclusive rate, while the Game Package also includes scheduled game drives, guided walking safaris, and airport transfers. Activities like camel rides and the exclusive use of a safari vehicle and driver are extra.
Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Florida
Price point: Affordable
You don't have to travel to the Caribbean for a beachy family vacation. Club Med is known for their all-inclusive stays, and the company's only U.S. property doesn't disappoint. Located along the St. Lucie River, guests enjoy endless food and drinks, water and land sports, and entertainment. Kids ages 4-10 can join the Mini Club Med, while the 'rents can get a moment of peace at a sunrise yoga class.
Included in every stay are three meals a day, endless drinks, and Club Med's iconic activity calendar — including golf, tennis, a sunset boat cruise, and a flying trapeze school (yes, really).
Migis Lodge, Maine
Price point: Affordable
You can step away from it all at this retreat on Sebago Lake in southern Maine. Their all-inclusive offering includes all meals and activities — except motorsports. This family-oriented retreat has its own private island, tennis courts, kayaks, sail boats, and an on-site wellness center.
Family time is encouraged, but parents looking to get away for an afternoon can send their kids to the supervised programs for children.
Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Mexico
Price point: Affordable
This property sits on a white-sand beach south of Cancun in the Riviera Maya. By booking an "Unlimited-Luxury" package, guests have access to unlimited food and drink, day and nighttime entertainment, and best-in-class service. Families can team up for a game of beach volleyball, hang by the pool, or check out one of the resort's excursions.
Every room has a view (be it garden, ocean, or pool), an indoor hot tub, and a private balcony or terrace.
The Tyler Place Family Resort, Vermont
Price point: Affordable
The Tyler Place Family Resort has been dedicated to families for over 85 years, and it shows. The lakeside property boasts award-winning kids programs — think hikes through the wilderness and rock climbing — that will make your family vacation feel like summer camp. And when the older kids head off on the day's adventure, the parent helpers can jump in to give parents of little ones a moment to enjoy their vacation kid-free.
Included in your stay are all meals — plus, adult candlelight dinners — infant and toddler care, kids' programs, and what seems to be an endless number of activities — from mini golf and water trampolines to wine tours and kayak trips. Just keep in mind the property is only open between late-May and mid-September.
FAQs
How do you get discounts at an all inclusive resort? ›
To get the best deal on an all-inclusive resort you'll want to use a metasearch engine like Kayak or an online travel agency like CheapTickets to get a sense of which resorts offer the cheapest pricing. If you have flexibility, search for deals by price instead of looking for a specific destination or resort.
Does the Royal at Atlantis have all-inclusive? ›The Royal at Atlantis is not an all inclusive resort. This hotel does offer Atlantis VALUE Dining Plan or the ATLANTIS Dining Plan that includes breakfast and dinner at a select number of restaurants. The Royal at Atlantis is apart of the Atlantis resort complex, located on Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas.
Does Puerto Rico have all-inclusive resorts? ›The top all-inclusive resorts in San Juan, Puerto Rico are Caribe Hilton, La Concha Renaissance San Juan, and San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino.
Are all Sandals Resorts kid free? ›All Sandals Resorts provide Luxury All-Inclusive Vacations for Two People in Love, there are no kids allowed. However Beaches, our sister resorts are entirely dedicated to families. We have three Beaches resorts - Beaches Negril and Beaches Ocho Rios are in Jamaica and Beaches Turks and Caicos.
How do you get a free room upgrade at an all-inclusive resort? ›- Visit During the Low Season. ...
- Sign Up for the Hotel's Loyalty Program. ...
- Get a Hotel-branded Credit Card. ...
- Avoid Booking the Cheapest Room. ...
- Check-in as Late as Possible. ...
- Book Directly Through the Hotel. ...
- Say it is a Special Occasion. ...
- Stay at Newer Hotels.
Seaton says booking through a travel agent typically won't cost you more. She says while some agents will charge you a nominal planning fee, many agencies like hers do not charge anything extra for their services. "We get paid a commission on the back end from the vendor, so that's how we make our income," she said.
How much does the Atlantis cost per night? ›Room rates begin at $211.10 per night. The Beach: You can find the most affordable rooms at Atlantis at The Beach, which is a major bonus for families traveling on a budget—but most of the rooms face the garden, not the beach, so just keep that in mind when making your reservation.
Do you need a passport to go to Atlantis Bahamas? ›Each passenger must have a valid passport, visa and/or proof of citizenship (such as an original or notarized copy of a birth certificate with an accompanying photo ID with the same name change, or supporting documentation of name such as a marriage certificate).
Can you get into Atlantis for free? ›Even if you aren't staying at the resort, you can still come experience the attraction. Drop in and hang out at the resort for free. Get a day pass for the waterpark. There are all kinds of little secrets at Atlantis Bahamas.
Is Puerto Rico or Bahamas better? ›If you're deciding between them, it really depends on what you're looking for. Puerto Rico is great for those looking for a Caribbean experience outside of beaches and resorts. The Bahamas is amazing for families, beach-lovers and divers. No matter what you choose, either place offers the chance of an amazing vacation!
Is Puerto Rico or Virgin islands better? ›
Puerto Rico is a better option for vacation if you are on a budget and want to explore a variety of outdoor activities. The US Virgin Islands are a better option for vacation if you're looking for a resort vacation with a romantic, tranquil setting and pristine white sandy beaches.
Is Puerto Rico considered a tropical island? ›Puerto Rico's climate is classified as tropical marine, which means it's typically sunny, hot, and humid year-round. The temperature fluctuates between 76°F and 88°F in the coastal plains and 73-78°F in the mountains.
Do kids pay full price at all-inclusive resorts? ›Depending on the all-inclusive resort, you may need to pay a surcharge for your kids depending on their ages. Where some all-inclusive resorts let kids stay free with paid adults, others charge extra for kids over 12 or a half-rate for those older than 15.
Is all-inclusive worth it for families? ›4. They're good for families and groups. All-inclusive resorts are a good fit for families or large groups of friends traveling together because everyone gets to have fun within the same confined space. You are able to spend as little/ much time with your friends/ family and you can all easily regroup when need be.
What is the average age of guests at Sandals Resorts? ›Having traveled to a number of Sandals Resorts, the majority of the guests are in the range of 30 to 40. My wife and I are in our 60's and feel very comfortable there. We always meet couples in their late 40's through 50's. there is always a nice older crowd, but that is the smaller crowd as a percent of guests.
How much do you tip for room upgrade? ›How much should I tip the front desk for an upgrade? A $20 tip is the norm, but some of our users prefer to live large. Take a look at our 'best of' section to see what our users say to get some idea of what works at which hotels.
How do I get a hotel complimentary upgrade? ›- Join one or more hotel loyalty programs. ...
- Avoid travel sites and book directly with the hotel. ...
- Ask staff for a hotel room upgrade. ...
- Let staff know if you have an issue. ...
- Plan your stay during the off-season.
Advantages of Booking a Hotel Directly
You can often find better rates by booking directly, too — a concern for budget-conscious travelers. By calling a hotel directly, you find out about any specials perks or packages they have available. In some cases, you can get a better room for the same amount of money.
All-inclusive prices range from around $150 to $430 per night, but vacationers can typically score a standard room for less than $300 nightly.
What day of the week is cheapest a book an all-inclusive vacation? ›The best day of the week to book a vacation package in order to get cheaper prices are Tuesdays. The same goes for flights and other activities for your vacation. Tuesdays are a day of the week when travel bookings tend to be a little lower.
Is it cheaper to book through a travel agent or online? ›
Purchasing through a travel agent is frequently less expensive than booking online because they have access to unlimited discounts. Travel agents have access to hidden airline rates and can easily advise you if a ticket price you discovered online is fair.
Can you negotiate all-inclusive resorts? ›Once you get to your destination, you can walk into your desired all-inclusive hotel and try to negotiate. You'll already have a place to stay, so you have nothing to lose! And the hotel may happily accept your desired rate, instead of losing money on empty rooms. It Doesn't Hurt to Try to Negotiate!
How does pricing work for all-inclusive resorts? ›Typically, these resorts charge one price per person, family, or couple that covers all or most of their vacation expenses, including the cost of the room, all meals and drinks as well as entertainment.
How does all-inclusive pricing work? ›If you go on an all-inclusive vacation, it means your stay, unlimited food, drinks, activities and entertainment are included in the booking price of the resort – without any surprise costs. Depending on the location you choose, you can basically leave your wallet at home.
How do you take advantage of all-inclusive? ›- Book as a Group for Discounts.
- Choose a Resort that Fits your Family Style.
- Compare Children's Programs at the Resorts.
- Take Part in Activities.
- Catch a Free Evening Show.
- Put a Pause on the Diet.
- Cheers to an All-Inclusive Vacation.
- Make Friends with the Concierge & Hotel Staff.
Do I Need to Tip at an All-Inclusive Resort? While tipping is a discretionary and optional gesture, at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and others, it is certainly encouraged.
How much do you tip housekeeping at an all-inclusive resort? ›What is this? All of this to say: tipping the housekeeping staff at your all-inclusive resort is polite and appreciated. Aim for around $5 per night, but if you leave a massive mess behind you, it is generally encouraged to bump up your tip to $10.
How much money should you bring on an all-inclusive vacation? ›Generally speaking, USD is preferred, so just bring a stack of ones with you for meals, drinks, and housekeeping. I find that bringing $100-$200 for a week is usually plenty.
How many days should you spend at an all-inclusive? ›How many days to spend at an all inclusive? For me, 3 or 4 nights is absolutely perfect. Any more than that and I would probably get bored (and fat).
Do you get unlimited drinks with all-inclusive? ›All inclusive holiday is usually 2 drinks per person every time you go up to the bar . if you want different drinks like English brands for example Smirnoff Vodka you may have to pay, but usually All Inclusive is unlimited especially in Villa Marina in Salou... over a year ago.
Are drinks free in all-inclusive? ›
An all-inclusive vacation is a vacation that includes all the essentials in the booking price. Besides accommodation, you can expect food, drinks, activities, and entertainment to be included, without having to pay extra for it.
Do you get free drinks with all-inclusive? ›The concept of all inclusive may vary from hotel to hotel, but generally all inclusive includes the room, food and drink. Some resorts may include alcoholic beverages as well as non alcoholic.
Do you need to bring your own beach towel to an all-inclusive resort? ›There are definitely things you don't need to bring so that you can save space in your luggage. What is this? You don't need towels, as the resort provides these to all guests, and you can exchange them for clean dry ones at any time.
Does all-inclusive work out cheaper? ›Saving money: all-inclusive vs self-catering
Booking all inclusive will ensure that everything has been budgeted for before you even leave the airport. If you are happy to stay in the resort instead of venturing too far afield then an all-inclusive will no doubt work out as a cheaper option.
Pros of staying at an all-inclusive vacation:
Everything is paid for so it's easy to keep within your budget. And if you find a deal, they can even be quite cheap. They're perfect for people who don't like to plan trips. They're hassle free and feel like a true vacation where you can let go and unwind.