Tuesday, November 19, 2024
HomeTravelThe 12 Finest All-Inclusive Resorts In The US

The 12 Finest All-Inclusive Resorts In The US


We take pride in providing authentic travel recommendations based on our own experiences. We may earn a commission when you purchase a product or book a reservation. Learn more ›

There’s nothing quite like a relaxing vacation. Whether it’s a beach vacation with sand under your feet and listening to waves crashing on the shore, or a dreamy remote lakefront retreat with water lapping on the shore, what a dream!

It’s a fact, though – none of us get the number of vacations that we truly want, need, and deserve. This is usually due to two factors: cost and distance. Many of us simply don’t have the time or money required to fly to tropical locales to treat ourselves to a week or more of life in the lap of luxury.

Aerial view of Hilton Waikoloa Village

What if I told you that there’s a solution and compromise for those of us living in the grand old US of A? There is. You might be surprised to learn that there are quite a few all-inclusive resorts in the United States, meaning you don’t need a passport or a long-haul flight to find luxury.

All-inclusive resorts give travelers the opportunity to have a stress-free vacation without having to worry about additional hidden costs. When you book a stay at an all-inclusive resort, you’ll know what you’re spending on your adventure before you even leave the house. All-inclusive resorts in the United States are a great way to feel like you traveled far away – and you’ll come home quite refreshed, indeed – without the added hassles of going far, far away at all.

The following resorts are the very best all-inclusive resorts in the USA. If you’re looking for the best resorts for couples, families, or even individuals who need some time away, they’re listed here – and you’re going to love them. Read on, and then start planning your trip.

TL;DR

1. Basin Harbor Resort & Boat Club, Vermont

Aerial view of Basin Harbor Resort & Boat Club
Basin Harbor Resort & Boat Club / Booking.com

Address: 4800 Basin Harbor Road, Vergennes, Vermont 05491

Price: $$

You might be surprised that the first all-inclusive resort on our list is in the Green Mountain State. Vermont is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in the country. Not convinced? Perhaps you’ve forgotten that almost half of its western border is created by Lake Champlain, a giant freshwater lake that is sometimes referred to as the nation’s “Sixth Great Lake.”

Where there’s a big lake, there are often beaches, and Lake Champlain is no exception. Most of the lake is rather cold, so it’s best enjoyed from a boat. Basin Harbor Resort & Boat Club in Vergennes exists due to this fact.

It’s been open since way back in 1886 and offers exceptional accommodations in 74 unique cabins or in guest rooms in four lodges. In addition to that, it offers boating, fishing, tennis, hiking, golf, and so much more.

Basin Harbor isn’t entirely all-inclusive, but it offers some packages that will make it seem like it is if that’s what you choose to do. The Bed & Breakfast Plan includes a meal plan with daily breakfast; the Full American Plan offers three meals a day. Looking for something in between? The Modified American Plan includes breakfast and dinner, but you’re on your own for lunch.

What Guests Think:

“Such a wonderful experience! From the lovely cottage to the beautiful views, it was such a much-needed relaxing vacation! The food and customer service was excellent! We truly enjoyed every minute and look forward to coming again next year.”

Things to do Nearby:

  • Take a hike at Button Bay State Park
  • Learn about area history at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum
  • Check out the falls at Vergennes Falls Park

2. Medomak Family Camp & Retreat Center, Maine

Aerial view of Medomak Family Camp & Retreat Center
Medomak Family Camp & Retreat Center / Facebook

Address: 178 Liberty Road, Washington, Maine 04574

Price: $$

This rustic summer camp is not pitched as a luxury all-inclusive tropical vacation, but it’s one of the best resorts in the country for families. Head up to Washington, Maine, to check out Medomak Family Camp with the fam, and you’re sure to have a good time.

Like Basin Harbor Resort & Boat Club described above, there are plenty of water activities like swimming, diving, fishing, SUP paddleboarding, and lots of boating – all included.

You’ll stay in a cabin at Medomak Family Camp with your family. The resort is small; only 12 families can visit at any given time – but you’ll love the personal interactions you can make this way and the personalized service that you’ll enjoy during your stay. Most guests come back year after year.

All food is included in the cost of your stay here, too. It’s served family-style, three meals a day. Since you’re in Maine, there’s even a lobster dinner one night each week – at no extra cost, of course. You’ll love this spot; your kiddos will be begging to go back – and you’ll want to return, too.

What Guests Think:

“Everything you fondly remember about camp as a kid reimagined with your family and a few (but not too many) other families. The programming, staff, facilities, and food in an amazing natural setting on Washington Pond come together at Medomak for an amazing week of activity, relaxation, and fun.”

Things to do Nearby:

  • Sip some wine and spirits at Sweetgrass Farm Winery and Distillery
  • Browse antiques at Elmer’s Barn
  • Take a 30-minute drive to Augusta and explore Maine’s state capital

3. Mohonk Mountain House, New York

Aerial view of Mohonk Mountain House
MAJR / Adobe Stock

Address: 1000 Mountain Rest Road; New Paltz, New York 12561

Price: $$$$

Mohonk Mountain House is one of the most well-known, well-rated, and celebrated all-inclusive resorts in the United States, and with good reason. This place is beautiful, and it has everything anyone might even possibly want to enjoy or do on their vacation.

Located in the Shawangunk Mountain section of the Catskills, this resort opened – on a much smaller scale – in 1869. Over the years, it has grown and grown into the incredible property it is today.

Enjoy three meals daily in any one of four restaurants onsite, and participate in a busy schedule of experiences that include fun outdoor activities like hiking, axe throwing, golf, archery, kayaking, beach swimming, and so many others. This resort is open year-round, too, so if you choose to visit in the winter, you can go ice skating, snow tubing, and snowshoeing too.

On top of all that, there’s yoga, meditation, forest bathing, guided history talks, a museum, a spa, a greenhouse, and even an indoor heated pool, so you can truly have whatever type of vacation you want at Mohonk Mountain House. You’ll love the nightly entertainment, too – and the rooms are upscale, classy, comfortable, and spectacular.

This is a great resort for families, too. There’s a drop-off Kids Club program for ages 4 through 12 that will keep your littles busy all day. Again – all of the above is included!

What Guests Think:

“The most remarkable hotel we have ever been to. Mohonk is truly a place everyone should go visit. Our stay, along with all the activities we did, was better than we could have ever imagined.”

Things to do Nearby:

  • Hike and explore the adjacent Mohonk Preserve
  • Discover the history of the Hudson Valley at Historic Huguenot Street
  • Browse the shops and galleries in downtown New Paltz

4. Hilton Head Health, South Carolina

Hilton Head Health in South Carolina
Hilton Head Health / Hotels.com

Address: 14 Valencia Road, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29928

Price: $$$$

Hilton Head Health is an all-inclusive wellness retreat center that will really help you relax, refresh, renew, and re-dedicate yourself to a healthier lifestyle. This place offers numerous plans and packages with various inclusions.

Spa treatments, fitness classes, personal training, personalized meals, luxury accommodations, self-care workshops and presentations, evening recreation, yoga, are among the highlights. Choose from among nightly, weekly, and monthly options.

You may be busy with everything this retreat center has to offer but don’t miss out on the beach. Hilton Head Health isn’t right on the beach, but it’s super close, and many of the resort’s activities will take you to the ocean, including group beach walks, beach yoga, and boardwalk bike rides.

Also – you’ll love the food – it’s all super healthy, and not even diet soft drinks are served on-site. Everything is so tasty, you’ll be surprised that it’s all good for you.

One of the best things about Hilton Head Health is the fact that they’ll teach you how to take some aspects of the experience home with you – so, in some ways, a trip to this property can be the vacation that never ends.

What Guests Think:

“Couldn’t be better as a getaway to reset and jump start a healthy regimen — mind and body. Comfortable, modern facilities, amazing staff, an incredible array of activities, lectures, experiences.”

Things to do Nearby:

  • Tour the Hilton Head Distillery
  • Learn about ecology and nature at the Coastal Discovery Museum
  • Explore one or more of the island’s incredible natural areas: Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, Sea Pines Forest Preserve, Coligny Beach, and others
  • Take a 2-hour guided kayak nature tour

5. Lodge on Little St. Simons Island, Georgia

Lodge on Little St. Simons Island, St Simons Island, Georgia
Lodge on Little St. Simons Island / Facebook

Address: 1000 Hampton River Club Marina Drive, St Simons Island, Georgia 31522

Price: $$$

If you love nature, you’re going to absolutely fall in love with the Lodge on Little St. Simons Island in Georgia. This property offers rooms, cottages, and even full island rentals – so figure out how many people you’re bringing along with you and plan a trip as soon as you can!

Little St. Simons Island is an 11,000-acre island, only accessible by boat, that is full of incredible wilderness. Enjoy education, naturalist-guided excursions, hands-on conservation activities, and more.

Spend your days birdwatching, fly fishing, hiking on spectacular hiking trails, boating, biking, and beach walking, and indulge yourself with three included meals each day from the farm-to-table kitchen – with meals made from ingredients like oysters from nearby Eagle Creek and herbs and vegetables from the onsite garden. A few days or more at the Lodge on Little St. Simons Island will be both rewarding and serene and like no other vacation you’ve been on before.

What Guests Think:

“This experience was definitely five star! The island is [a] natural beauty. The accommodations were outstanding.

The staff treats everyone like long-time friends. The cost is high, but you definitely get your money’s worth!! I would love to return…soon!!”

Things to do Nearby:

  • Because the Lodge at Little St. Simmons Island is only accessible by boat, you’ll be spending the majority of your time at this all-inclusive resort on the island – but you won’t be bored with all the activities and excursions the staff has planned for you.
  • However, on your way to the island or afterward, you might go to nearby Jekyll Island to visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, the famous Driftwood Beach, or Summer Waves Water Park
  • In nearby Dock Junction, you might visit the spectacular Lovers Oak, sip some spirits at Richland Distilling, or go horseback riding at Three Oaks Stables.

6. Bungalows Key Largo, Florida

Aerial view of Bungalows Key Largo
Bungalows Key Largo / Booking.com

Address: 99010 Overseas Highway; Key Largo, Florida 33037

Price: $$$$

Bungalows Key Largo is lovely, and visiting it is truly a trip to paradise right here in the USA. Located on the south end of the largest of the Florida Keys, it has it all, and the fact it’s all-inclusive makes it one of the best choices in the area.

This resort is honestly a beachfront paradise with all the amenities you’d expect from a Florida beach resort, including comfortable beach chairs, an award-winning resort spa, a fitness center, a large swimming pool on the ocean, nightly entertainment, watersports, and so much more. Included dining is available at five on-site restaurants and bars, and private bungalows surrounded by beautiful landscaping and ocean views are perfect for romance – or simply for relaxation.

Bungalows Key Largo is truly all-inclusive. Your meals, drinks (including alcoholic beverages), room, activities, nightly turndown service, entertainment, and transportation within five miles are all part of the deal. You’ll love it.

What Guests Think:

“This resort is super nice……the overall setting and landscaping throughout the resort is amazing, tropical and island-like. The bungalows are really cool and perfect for a couple’s getaway.”

Things to do Nearby:

  • Take a snorkeling tour to the famous John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
  • See colorful birds and support their rescue at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center
  • Walk amongst the flora at Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park

7. Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, Florida

Panoramic view of Little Palm Island Resort & Spa
Little Palm Island Resort & Spa / Hotels.com

Address: 28500 Overseas Highway, Little Torch Key, Florida 33042

Price: $$$$

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa is expensive, but it’s worth every penny. This is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the country and in the world.

This small resort on a private island in the Florida Keys is luxurious in every way. It’s only reachable by boat or seaplane; when you arrive, you’ll be treated to welcome cocktails, and then you’ll be whisked away to your own private, standalone villa.

Each villa comes with a veranda, a private hot tub, and ocean views. There are only 30 of them, so you can enjoy the type of high-level, personalized service that you’d expect in a small resort like this one.

Relax on the beach or in the resort-style pool during the day and indulge in epic meals at the fine-dining restaurant at night. This resort is mostly tech-free, but there’s free WiFi, too. It’s no surprise that celebrities love Little Palm Island Resort & Spa – you’ll feel like one while you’re there.

Definitely book some resort spa treatments and sign up for some high-end excursions, too. The Culinary Indulgence package includes all your meals and some alcoholic beverages, too – but you can also stay a la carte if you so choose.

What Guests Think:

“This is everything it is built to be. One of the finest resorts in the nation and a great four-night getaway for my wife and me. There is attention to detail everywhere you look, and the service is outstanding. It is worth the price tag.”

Things to do Nearby:

  • As with the Lodge at Little St. Simmons Island above, you’ll have to take a boat (or seaplane) to reach Little Palm Island Resort and Spa off the coast of Little Torch Key, so you’ll kind of be stuck on the island during your stay. That’s a good thing, though! Soak up all the luxury and relaxation it has to offer.
  • However, when you leave, or before you arrive, there are lots of incredible attractions nearby. Little Torch Key itself is home to the beachfront Veterans Memorial Park and lots of excellent fishing charter operators.
  • Nearby Big Pine Key is home to the National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center, Bahia Honda State Park, boat tours, and, for shoppers who love unique shopping opportunities, Big Pine Key Flea Market.

See Related: Best Houseboats for Rent in Florida

8. Fair Hills Resort, Minnesota

Aerial view of Fair Hills Resort in Detroit Lakes
Fair Hills Resort / Fair Hills Resort

Address: 24270 County Highway 20, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota 56501

Price: $$

Fair Hills Resort in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, is a gorgeous summertime destination. Relax upon the beach between dips into the calm waters of Pelican Lake. This property is award-winning and is nationally recognized as one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the nation, and it’s been owned and operated by the same family since 1926.

This resort is like a summer camp for the whole family, much like Medomak Family Camp in Maine described above, but it’s quite a bit larger. Cabins are basic with bedrooms and bathrooms, but no televisions, fridges, microwaves, or phones – but you won’t need any of that since you’ll be outside having fun for the vast majority of the time that you’re on site.

There are bunches of activities to keep you and your family busy, like fishing, tennis, nature crafts, water aerobics, games, scavenger hunts, yoga, and so much more. Take lessons in water skiing, tennis, sailing, golf, or swimming; enjoy shows and great meals in the evenings – especially the famous “Hootenanny & Smorgasbord” on Tuesday nights.

What Guests Think:

“Fair Hills is a real gem! We took the family for a visit in August and absolutely loved it. The cabins are cozy and are a throwback to the family cabins from the 1950s.

True, they don’t have TVs, WiFi, or AC (those things are available in parts of the resort), but what they had was beautiful lake views, lots of fresh air, a quiet night’s sleep, and a chance to connect with the family. We loved it so much that we extended our stay.”

Things to do Nearby:

  • Go on a horseback riding adventure at Timberline Ranch
  • Shop for antiques at SuLaine’s Antique Mall or unique items at the Shady Hollow Flea Market
  • Visit nearby Maplelag Resort and go mountain biking in the woods

See Related: Best Resorts in Minnesota

9. Lake Austin Spa Resort, Texas

Panoramic view of Lake Austin Spa Resort
Lake Austin Spa Resort / Facebook

Address: 1705 South Quinlan Park Road, Austin, Texas 78732

Price: $$$

Lake Austin Spa Resort is on the outskirts of Austin, Texas, on Lake Austin on the Colorado River. It is 100% waterfront and offers all the things you’d want from a waterfront resort, and it is entirely all-inclusive.

At Lake Austin Spa Resort, you’ll find plush rooms with garden or lake views, all of which have porches with lounge chairs, mini-fridges, and WiFi, and some even have private gardens and hot tubs. Resort amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, a wonderful resort spa called The LakeHouse, yoga, dance classes, and personal training opportunities.

All meals are included at the all-inclusive rate, and you’ll love relaxing on the beautiful, wooded property during your stay. Many travelers will further be relieved to learn that Lake Austin Spa Resort is adults-only, so you won’t have to worry about your quiet moments being disrupted by enthusiastic little ones.

What Guests Think:

“Feels like a luxury summer camp for adults! A purely magic experience, from the amenities and location to the activities and spa treatments. We loved every moment spent here and felt so truly wrapped up and present from start to end!”

Things to do Nearby:

  • Take a rideshare to Austin to check out the city’s many incredible breweries
  • Learn all about Texas history at the Bullock Texas State History Museum
  • Relax and wander around beautiful Zilker Metropolitan Park
  • Go on a Live Music Crawl in Austin to check out the lively music scene

10. Hilton Waikoloa Village, Hawaii

Aerial view of Hilton Waikoloa Village
Hilton Waikoloa Village / Booking.com

Address: 69-425 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa Village, Hawaii 96738

Price: $$

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive option in Hawaii, then you’ll love Hilton Waikoloa Village on the big island of Hawaii. It’s on 62 acres of tropical paradise, and if you choose The Inclusive Package, you’ll get just about everything you could hope for.

The package includes breakfast, dinner, and drinks at your choice of several onsite restaurants, free parking, fitness classes, cultural classes, and a one-hour beach rental of a kayak, stand up paddle board, water tricycle, or pedal boat during your stay. Considering everything else this resort offers, the add-on of this package is a great deal.

Additionally, you can enjoy spa treatments, golf, pools and cabanas, excursions, and so much more during your visit to Hilton Waikoloa Village. And – it wouldn’t be a Hawaiian vacation without a luau, so don’t miss that either – they happen from 5-8 p.m. on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays every week.

What Guests Think:

“Great food, amazing luau, friendly staff, clean rooms, comfortable atmosphere. I would definitely stay there again and recommend it to others.

If you don’t want to leave the resort, you don’t have to. They have everything.”

Things to do Nearby:

See Related: Where To Stay In Hawaii: Best Areas & Neighborhoods

11. Bolongo Bay Beach Resort, St. Thomas

Panoramic view of Bolongo Bay Beach Resort
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort / Booking.com

Address: 7150 Bolongo, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, USVI 00802

Price: $$

People seeking an all-inclusive resort experience in the Caribbean with no need for a passport will love Bolongo Bay Beach Resort on St. Thomas in the United States Virgin Islands.

This resort is not entirely all-inclusive – you can simply book a room and stay as a regular guest if you prefer – but the all-inclusive package here is really the way to go. It includes 100% a la carte dining, unlimited cocktails, beer, house wine, champagne, water sports, and live music. You’ll surely get your bang for your buck here.

Bolongo Bay Beach Resort is right on the beach, and what a beautiful beach it is! Bolongo Bay is quiet and secluded, and the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean will be lapping at your feet while you relax on the beach for most of each day.

There are activities available, too, if you’d like, including snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. This resort is truly a tropical paradise, and you’ll feel supremely refreshed when the time comes to head back home.

What Guests Think:

“Fantastic. We will continue to come here every year as long as we can.

We are getting on in years, and we come for the relaxation and friendship with all the staff. They are like family to us, and it always feels like we came home every time we visit.”

Things to do Nearby:

  • Take a day and visit each and every beautiful beach on this small island, including Magen’s Bay, Sapphire Beach, Coki Point Beach, Lindqvist Beach, and others
  • Take a kayak and snorkel tour through the mangroves
  • Walk the famous St. Thomas 99 Steps
  • Learn about pirates at the Pirates Treasure Museum
  • Take a day trip to nearby St. John or the British Virgin Islands

12. Divi Carina Bay Resort & Casino, St. Croix

Panoramic view of Divi Carina Bay Resort & Casino
Divi Carina Bay Resort & Casino / Booking.com

Address: 5025 Turner Hole Road, Christiansted, St Croix, USVI 00820

Price: $$$

Divi Carina Bay Resort is the only all-inclusive resort on the quiet East End of St. Croix. It’s adults-only, and everything is included, so you won’t have to worry about a thing during your stay – just relax. Since this property is all-inclusive, you can enjoy unlimited food and drinks at five different establishments onsite, including an Italian restaurant, a bar and grill, a buffet, a coffee shop, and a bar.

On top of all that, you’ll also be able to enjoy the included non-motorized water sports, pickleball, miniature golf, the fitness center, shuffleboard, and more during the day when you’re not super busy lying on the beach. Swim in two pools or soak in the hot tubs, and hit up the concierge if you’re looking to explore the island offsite.

There’s some nightly entertainment, but this resort keeps it mellow and serene for the most part. If you’re looking for a quiet, all-inclusive beach vacation, then this may be the place for you.

On the other hand, if you’re a night owl who loves to party, the Divi Carina Bay Casino is right across the street. You’ll have a blast there – regardless of whether you lose or win. This resort on St. Croix is lovely and is a great little getaway for anyone wanting to visit the Caribbean without leaving the legal confines of the United States of America.

What Guests Think:

“Enjoyed our honeymoon here! Had a nice and clean room, the food and drinks were great, and the staff was awesome!! Activities on a daily basis made for a really enjoyable time. Would definitely recommend, and planning to come back.”

Things to do Nearby:

  • Admire the flowers and plants at St. George Village Botanical Garden
  • Tour Fort Christiansvaern and learn about the island’s history
  • Explore the Carambola tide pools at low tide
  • Rent a clear, stand-up paddleboard and explore the island’s clear waters

FAQ

How can I choose from among all these amazing all-inclusive resorts?

These are, without a doubt, the best all-inclusive resorts in the United States, and it’d be great for all of us to visit each and every one of them. However, that’s not possible for most of us – at least not over a very long timeline. If you’re looking to choose one from this list, perhaps first consider if you’re in search of a true ocean beach vacation or if a lakefront resort would be plenty of sand and water for you; this list is divided nearly half and half between the two types.

Second, determine whether you’re looking for a luxury resort to get away on your own or with one other person, or if you’re looking for something more family-friendly – that will narrow the list further. Finally, after you’ve narrowed this list down in both those ways – go with your gut. One of these all-inclusive resorts will call to you – and that’s the one you should plan to go to first. Have a great trip!

What are the most affordable all-inclusive resorts on this list?

There are several very, very high-end properties on this list, but don’t worry – all-inclusive resorts are not only for the rich. Some of the best all-inclusive resorts in our nation are reasonably priced.

You might try Basin Harbor Resort in Vermont or Fair Hills Resort in Michigan if you’re looking for a rustic lakefront stay, or you might try Bolongo Bay Beach Resort on St. Thomas or Hilton Waikoloa Village in Hawaii if it’s a true oceanfront beach resort type of vacation that you seek.

Related Resources

RELATED ARTICLES

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

- Advertisment -

Most Popular

Recent Comments