The Top All-Inclusive Destinations to Book for 2026

Planning a vacation well in advance is the key to getting the best deals and the most anticipated spots. If an all-inclusive getaway is on your mind for 2026, you’re thinking smart. We’ve analyzed the trends to see where travelers are setting their sights for a stress-free, all-in-one vacation experience.

Why All-Inclusive Resorts Remain a Top Choice

Before we dive into the specific destinations, it’s worth remembering why this travel style is so popular. An all-inclusive resort simplifies vacation planning immensely. Typically, one upfront price covers your accommodations, all meals and snacks, beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and a variety of onsite activities and entertainment.

This model removes the constant need to pull out your wallet, allowing you to relax fully. It’s especially beneficial for families and groups, as it makes budgeting straightforward and predictable. For 2026, travelers are seeking destinations that offer not just value, but also unique experiences, exceptional service, and stunning natural beauty.

1. Riviera Maya, Mexico

The Riviera Maya, stretching along the Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, continues to be a dominant force in the all-inclusive world. Its blend of pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant cenotes (natural swimming holes) offers something for every type of traveler.

Why it’s trending for 2026:

  • New Luxury Developments: The region is seeing a boom in high-end resort construction. Properties opening in 2024 and 2025 will be in their prime by 2026, offering the latest amenities and designs. Brands like Secrets and Dreams are continuously updating their properties here.
  • Eco-Conscious Travel: Many resorts are focusing on sustainability. For example, Hotel Xcaret Arte is renowned for its “All-Fun Inclusive” concept, which includes unlimited access to the group’s famous eco-parks and tours, all while emphasizing Mexican culture and nature.
  • Accessibility: With robust flight service into CancĂşn International Airport (CUN), it’s one of the easiest Caribbean destinations to reach from North America and Europe.

Specific Resorts to Consider:

  • For Adults: Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun is a perennial favorite for its romantic atmosphere and world-class beach.
  • For Families: The Grand at Moon Palace Cancun offers an incredible water park, a kids’ club, and dining options that please even the pickiest eaters.

2. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Known for its 20 miles of breathtaking white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, Punta Cana is the definition of a tropical paradise. It has perfected the all-inclusive model, offering a vast range of resorts that cater to different budgets and styles, from party-centric to peacefully secluded.

Why it’s trending for 2026:

  • Exceptional Value: Compared to some other Caribbean islands, Punta Cana often provides more luxury for your money. You can find sprawling resorts with swim-up suites and gourmet dining at competitive prices.
  • Modernized Resorts: Many established resorts have undergone significant renovations. The all-new Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana and Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, for instance, offer a modern, luxurious experience within a massive complex that includes a water park and extensive dining.
  • Beyond the Beach: While the beaches are the main draw, travelers are discovering more activities, including championship golf courses, zip-lining adventures, and cultural excursions to Santo Domingo.

Specific Resorts to Consider:

  • For Ultimate Luxury: Excellence Punta Cana offers a sophisticated, adults-only experience with a focus on fine dining and impeccable service.
  • For Active Travelers: The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana is massive, featuring a huge casino, numerous pools, and nightly entertainment.

3. Costa Rica

For those who want more than just a beach chair, Costa Rica is emerging as a top all-inclusive destination for adventure and nature lovers. While it has fewer mega-resorts than Mexico, its offerings focus on unique experiences rooted in its incredible biodiversity. The “Pura Vida” (pure life) philosophy is woven into every stay.

Why it’s trending for 2026:

  • Eco-Adventure Focus: Travelers are increasingly seeking vacations that connect them with nature. Costa Rican all-inclusive resorts, primarily located in the Guanacaste province, serve as comfortable home bases for exploring rainforests, volcanoes, and wildlife reserves.
  • Wellness and Sustainability: Many properties emphasize wellness, with yoga pavilions, organic farm-to-table dining, and spas that use local ingredients. Resorts like the Westin Reserva Conchal are leaders in sustainability practices.
  • Unique Experiences: Instead of just water sports, activities here often include guided nature hikes, bird-watching tours, and trips to see monkeys and sloths in their natural habitat.

Specific Resorts to Consider:

  • For Families & Golfers: The Westin Golf Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal offers a beautiful setting, a large lagoon-style pool, and access to a championship golf course.
  • For a Secluded Feel: Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica is an adults-only resort nestled in a serene bay, perfect for a quiet and romantic escape surrounded by nature.

4. Jamaica

Jamaica offers a vibrant cultural experience that sets it apart. The island’s infectious spirit, reggae music, and flavorful cuisine create a backdrop for a memorable all-inclusive vacation. From the lively shores of Montego Bay to the dramatic cliffs of Negril, the island has a diverse range of settings.

Why it’s trending for 2026:

  • Authentic Culture: Travelers want more than a generic beach experience. Jamaican resorts, especially brands like Sandals and Couples, excel at integrating local culture, from jerk chicken shacks on the beach to live reggae bands at night.
  • New and Renovated Properties: The island continues to attract investment. For example, the new Sandals Dunn’s River offers innovative suite designs, including their first-ever Skypool Suites, elevating the luxury standard.
  • Natural Wonders: Jamaica is home to stunning waterfalls like Dunn’s River Falls, the Blue Mountains famous for coffee, and the luminous lagoon in Falmouth, offering incredible excursions.

Specific Resorts to Consider:

  • For Classic Romance: The Couples Tower Isle in Ocho Rios is an adults-only classic with its own private au naturel island.
  • For Families: Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall in Montego Bay is highly rated for its family-friendly activities, excellent food, and compact, easy-to-navigate layout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “all-inclusive” actually include? Typically, it covers your room, all meals at various restaurants (buffet and à la carte), all drinks (soda, juice, beer, wine, cocktails), and non-motorized water sports like kayaking and snorkeling. Some resorts also include gratuities, Wi-Fi, and kids’ clubs. It’s always best to check the specific resort’s policy, as premium liquor, spa treatments, and off-site excursions usually cost extra.

When is the best time to book a trip for 2026? For the best prices and availability, start looking 10 to 12 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during peak seasons like winter holidays or spring break. Booking early often locks in better rates before they rise with demand.

Are all-inclusive resorts a good option for solo travelers? Absolutely. Many resorts are solo-traveler friendly, offering a safe environment with plenty of organized activities to meet other people if you choose. It simplifies the logistics of dining and entertainment, allowing you to relax without worrying about planning every detail. Look for resorts that don’t charge a hefty “single supplement” fee.