What is an Adults Only Resort? The Ultimate Guide to Child-Free Travel (2024)

Introduction

If you’ve been considering a vacation to an adults-only all-inclusive but aren’t quite sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Read on for a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know before booking your adults-only getaway.

What is an adults only resort? It’s is exactly what it sounds like – a hotel that only allows guests above a certain age, usually 18 or 21 years old. This means that no children or teens are permitted as guests or visitors. 

But what does being “adults-only” look like in practice at these hotels and resorts? Here’s a breakdown…

What is an adults only resort? 

An adults only resort is a vacation destination that caters exclusively to adult guests, typically ages 18 and up. These resorts provide an atmosphere tailored specifically for grownups looking to relax and unwind without the presence of children.

At an adults only resort, you’ll often find amenities like spas, golf courses, signature restaurants, bars and lounges that aren’t always featured at traditional family resorts. The overall vibe is sophisticated, upscale and romantic.

While adults-only resorts may sometimes have a higher upfront cost, the tailored experiences, luxurious amenities, and the level of personalization they offer make them good value for travelers seeking the tranquility that comes from child-free resorts. 

What is the minimum age?

The minimum age can vary, but is typically 18 or 21 years old. Some resorts set the minimum age at 25 or even 30 years old. This minimum age applies to all guests staying at the resort.

The most common minimum age is 18 years old. Many popular adults-only resort chains, like Secrets set their minimum age at 18. This allows the resorts to cater to a younger adult crowd right out of high school.

Other resorts set their minimum age higher, usually at 21 years old. These resorts aim to appeal to a bit of an older crowd by keeping out teenagers and college students on spring break.

Some more upscale luxury and couples-only adults resorts have an even higher minimum age of 25 or 30 years old. These resorts create an environment with more mature adult guests for a quieter and more relaxing vacation experience.

So in summary, 18 and 21 are the two most common minimum ages. But the age requirement ultimately varies by resort, based on the type of adult clientele they aim to attract. The minimum age is a key factor for adults to research when finding the right adults-only resort that fits their interests and lifestyle.

What is an all-inclusive resort?

An adults-only all inclusive resort is a vacation destination that caters exclusively to adult guests, typically ages 18 and up. At an all inclusive adults only resort, all meals, drinks, activities, entertainment, taxes, tips, and more are included in the initial booking price.

The all inclusive aspect means that once you arrive, you don’t have to take out your wallet for anything. All meals, snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are covered in the upfront rate. Activities like fitness classes, non-motorized water sports, nightly entertainment and more are also included. Tips and taxes are bundled too. 

By paying one flat fee upfront, you can fully immerse yourself in the resort experience without worrying about nickel-and-diming every expense.

What is included in an all-inclusive adults only resort?

All inclusive resorts aimed at adults include a wide variety of amenities and services as part of the room rate. Here’s an overview of what is typically included:

Meals

Most all inclusive resorts offer multiple dining options and restaurants that are included. There will usually be a buffet serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Specialty restaurants for dinner are also common, with cuisines like Italian, Japanese, Mexican, steakhouse and more. Many resorts feature 24-hour room service as well. Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are usually available from any restaurant and bar on the property as well.

Drinks

At all inclusive adults only resorts, domestic alcoholic beverages like beer, wine and cocktails are part of the package. Some resorts also include premium liquor brands. Non-alcoholic drinks like soda, bottled water, coffee and juices are unlimited too. Most have swim-up pool bars and bars near the beach in addition to regular bars and lounges. 

Activities

A huge perk is access to non-motorized water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and paddle boarding. Some resorts offer scuba diving for an extra cost. Land activities like fitness classes, yoga, dance lessons and more are usually included too. There are daytime pools activities like aqua aerobics and volleyball. Nightly entertainment like live music, shows or theme parties are common as well.   

Gratuities

No need to tip at an all inclusive, as all gratuities for servers, housekeeping, bell staff and other workers are included.

Transportation

Roundtrip airport shuttle service to and from the resort is usually provided. Some resorts offer shuttles to nearby attractions for an added fee.

Adults Only vs Family Resorts – What’s Better?

Adults only resorts offer a significantly different experience compared to family resorts. Here are some of the key differences:

Peace and quiet

No loud kids or crying babies means the resort will have a more relaxed and tranquil vibe. You can nap by the pool without interruption.

No kids in the pool or hot tub

Many adults only resorts have swim-up bars, hot tubs, and pools designated for adults, removing the worrying about kids being around alcohol or bothering other guests in the water.

Adult entertainment

No, not that type of adult entertainment! Resorts can provide live music, shows, casino nights and other adult entertainment options without worrying about content.

Couples massages and amenities

Spas, fitness centers and other amenities at adults only resorts cater more exclusively to adults.

Designed for romance

The rooms, restaurants and resort activities often have a romantic or sensual flair.

Are adults only resorts expensive?

Not necessarily! When comparing prices, look at total cost and inclusions rather than just room rates. An all-inclusive may be cheaper than paying a la carte.

While some luxury adults only resorts can run $500+ per night, there are also many options under $300 per night. And in destinations like the Riviera Maya, you can even find some as low as $100-150 per night for a quality adults only all inclusive stay. There’s a hotel for every budget!

Some key factors that influence pricing at adults only resorts include:

Location

Beachfront resorts or those in premium destinations like Hawaii tend to command a price premium. Properties in Mexico and the Caribbean offer some of the most affordable prices.

Size and amenities

Smaller boutique adults only resorts with limited amenities will have lower rates than sprawling all-inclusive properties with tons of dining, bars, activities, and entertainment.

Time of year

Peak season rates in places like Cancun or Jamaica will generally be higher than low season. Look for discounts on shoulder seasons. 

Meal plans

All-inclusive resorts include food, drinks, activities, etc while European plan or room-only rates are lower.

Conclusion

In summary, there are several key benefits that make adults-only resorts a great vacation option for travelers without kids. 

The most obvious benefit is the peace and quiet that comes from not having children around. Adults-only resorts offer a much more relaxed and serene atmosphere without all the noise and disruptions young kids tend to generate. You can truly unwind without being bothered.

Adults-only resorts are also ideal for romantic getaways. The setting provides enhanced opportunities for couples to spend quality time together and enjoy more privacy. From beachfront massages to candlelit dinners, the environment is perfect for reconnecting.

Finally, some travelers simply prefer being around other adults. The vibe at an adults-only resort is typically more sophisticated, elegant, and refined. Guests don’t have to self-censor their behavior or language as much. The dynamic differs greatly from a family-oriented resort.

For travelers seeking peace, relaxation, romance, and indulgence, adults-only resorts deliver significant advantages over conventional family resorts.

Discerning adults looking for an enhanced vacation experience would be wise to consider an all-inclusive getaway tailored exclusively for them.