Relaxing under a palm tree on remote beach (iStock)
“Caribbean” and “all-inclusive” go together well. After all, the Caribbean is synonymous with snoozing on a rope hammock between two palm trees, not lifting a finger — and all-inclusive resorts allow you to do just that. In fact, with everything pre-paid and all amenities included, you don’t even have to open your wallet! We here at Oyster have seen dozens of all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, and while it’s not easy to single just one out, we do have a list of our very favorites, from a secluded spot on gorgeous Turks and Caicos to an adults-only oasis in hopping Cancun, and from small boutiques with tons of character to sprawling resorts with every amenity imaginable. If you’re ready to get pampered, check out our top picks for the most luxurious all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, and start planning your trip!
Parrot Cay and COMO Shambhala Retreat, Turks and Caicos
Accessed via a 30-minute boat ride from Providenciales, this 1,000-acre all-inclusive resort on a private island is the definition of tranquility. With an incredible infinity-edge pool, world-renowned COMO Shambhala Spa, waterfront Balinese-style villas, doting service, and more than three miles of pristine beaches, it’s easily one of the most luxurious and romantic options in the Caribbean.
- Our favorite perk: Lotus Restaurant is located by the beautiful infinity-edge pool and features light Caribbean and Asian food, and stunning ocean views.
Half Moon, Jamaica
Drawing everyone from Queen Elizabeth to 50 Cent, Half Moon strives for timeless, understated luxury. Stretching over 400 acres, the 400-room resort offers attentive service, quality cuisine, and seemingly limitless activities, including a spa,golfing and horseback riding. Elegant rooms feature either spacious balconies or terraces, huge marble bathrooms, and twice-daily maid and turndown service. Villas offer private pools and personal butlers and cooks.
- Our favorite perk: The hotel’s equestrian center has 28 beautiful horses, polo and jumping arenas, and trainers on staff.
Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic
The D.R.’s classiest, most famous resort since 1974, the Casa de Campo hotel is part of a massive, 7,000-acre resort community that includes three world-renowned golf courses, over a dozen restaurants, an immaculate beach, a marina, the quaint “town” of Altos de Chavon, and numerous other on-site activities. Each of the sleek rooms comes with a golf cart for guests’ use, large flat-screen TVs with cable and Blu-Ray readers, and free Wi-Fi. Villas feature private pools, personal butlers and maids, welcome gifts, and grocery shopping services.
- Our favorite perk: The Teeth of the Dog, one of the three gorgeous Pete Dye golf courses on-site, is considered one of the best in the Caribbean.
Excellence Playa Mujeres, Cancun
This adults-only luxury resort offers a great all-inclusive experience with tons of variety — multiple dining options, several beautiful pools, a gorgeous spa, and dozens of wonderful activities, including yoga, Pilates, snorkeling, dancing and Spanish lessons. The rooms here are large and contemporary, with massive modern bathrooms, jetted tubs, and amenities such as big flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and iPod docks. Some have large rooftop terraces with private plunge pools and ocean views.
- Our favorite perk: The hotel offers free introductory scuba lessons and free use of hobie cats.
Barcelo Maya Palace Deluxe, Riviera Maya
The Palace offers a high-end all-inclusive experience on a gorgeous stretch of white-sand beach 15 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. It has 756 beautiful rooms surrounded by gorgeous pools and manicured grounds, and featuring pretty bathrooms with separate showers and tubs, living areas, and high-end amenities. With a great kids’ and teens club, kids’ sections at all the buffets, a water park, and even a kids spa, this is one of the best picks for families in the area.
- Our favorite perk: For extra luxury, the Club Premium level offers privileges such as private concierge services, free 24-hour room service, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
With competitive pricing, lovely rooms, and great on-site amenities, this 70-room boutique hotel will attract people who never thought they’d choose an all-inclusive package. With three restaurants, cabanas on the terrace, and a late-night lounge, Waves has a contemporary appeal especially for couples (though families aren’t overlooked). Spacious rooms are modern and bright, and most have glassed-in balconies. Oceanfront rooms are worth the cost for the sunsets alone. Room amenities include flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and minibars nicely stocked with free goodies; while modern bathrooms spawn envy with door-less showers and eco-friendly toiletries. The quiet beach along Prospect Bay feels private, and the calm waves are perfect for swimming and kayaking.
- Our favorite perk: The hotel has an adults-only section across the street that’s home to rooms, a free-form pool and the spa.