These Romantic, All-Inclusive Resorts Are Perfect For Couples, According To Reviews

Whether it's for an anniversary, honeymoon, or just to reconnect, there's nothing like a romantic getaway full of sun and sand. With ocean views on the horizon, cocktails flowing freely, and nothing but lounging on the itinerary, it's easy to keep the romance alive on a tropical vacation. But, nothing kills the mood quite like tallying up your expenses and worrying about stretching your budget too far. That makes all-inclusive resorts the real MVP of romantic getaways, where everything from your drinks to your massage treatments are on one convenient tab that you can forget about until it's time to check out.

To help you plan your next getaway, we've rounded up the most highly-rated romantic all-inclusive resorts worldwide, ranging from hot spots with private plunge pools in every suite, to those with incredible gourmet cuisine. We researched and selected the resorts with the greatest number of outstanding reviews from couples, focusing on those with the best amenities and offerings for couples. 

Crystal Cove, St. James, Barbados

With just 88 rooms, a stay at Crystal Cove in St. James, Barbados is an intimate one. The elegant rooms are washed in shades of cream and sand, with vibrant pops of color inspired by its tropical surroundings. Every room — including those with ocean, pool, and garden views — has its own balcony or deck for optimal privacy. You'll never have to wait long for a cocktail while you're lounging at the lagoon-style pool, thanks to the attentive staff, who can also plan romantic experiences like beach massages and rum tastings for two. "We went to celebrate our [wedding anniversary] and they did not disappoint helping us do that," wrote one past guest on Tripadvisor.

For a cocktail an intimate setting, head to the resort's Cave Bar tucked behind a waterfall, which was named one of them best swim-up bars on the planet. For couples that like to hit the town, the resort is just a five-minute drive to local bars, restaurants, and shops. Or, book a private three-course dinner — maybe for a proposal or an aniversary surprise — on the beach at the hotel.

Those looking for more peace and quiet on their trip will find it on the vast stretch of white sand that the resort is situated upon. Activities like waterskiing, tubing, sailing, snorkeling, and kayaking are available and included with your stay. Complimentary lessons can also be booked for beginners. 

El Dorado Royale, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

You and your special someone might find it difficult to leave your room at the El Dorado Royale in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, thanks to its plush beds with Egyptian cotton sheets, private spa tubs, and free minibar items. Some of the rooms have personal hammocks and private balconies, while others are swim-up accessible to the hotel's lazy river.

Don't stay holed up for long, though, especially around dinnertime. Food is the star of the show here, as every other week, chefs and sommeliers visit from around the world to show off their culinary skills to guests in the Fuentes Culinary Theatre. Here, epicureans are treated to a multi-course meal made in front of them under a 90-foot-high thatched roof alongside thoughtful wine pairings. Guests can also choose from 20 on-site restaurants and bars for a new culinary experience each day. "The food and drinks were excellent across the entire resort. The quality, presentation, and variety were impressive, and the à la carte restaurants truly stand out," wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor. Better yet, El Dorado Royale is an adults-only hotel, making the atmosphere even more conducive to romance.

Couples will love the resort's Mexican-themed Náay Spa, which offers one-of-a-kind services such as authentic Mayan Temazcal rituals. The spa also offers conventional treatments like massages, body wraps, facials, manicures, and pedicures.

Excellence Playa Mujeres, Playa Mujeres, Mexico

At Excellence Playa Mujeres in Playa Mujeres, Mexico, the romance starts the second you check into your room. All suites come equipped with rainfall showers, oversized jet tubs, floor-to-ceiling windows, and private patios. And if you really want to splurge, the extravagant two-story suites include private plunge pools and swim-up pool access. You won't have to worry about being splashed by any kids at the pool, as Excellence Playa Mujeres is an adults-only resort, all set within a gated community. Plus, it offers some of the best all-inclusive vacation packages for couples.

Excellence Playa Mujeres lives up to its name — it was rated one of the top all-inclusive resorts in Mexico by U.S. News and World Report. The resort has 11 restaurants, including a Mexican restaurant and an Asian restaurant, as well as another 11 bars. "Me and my husband came here on our honeymoon, and it was absolutely incredible!!" wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor. "The food and drinks were incredible, staff was amazing, and the views are insane!"

Hermitage Bay, Saint Mary's, Antigua

If you're the kind of couple that's content to linger in your room, then Hermitage Bay in Saint Mary's, Antigua offers plenty of reasons to do just that. Only 30 secluded accommodations are available at the resort, including ocean-facing, beachfront, poolside, and hillside garden villas. The suites boast private decks, pools, and outdoor showers, complete with stylish Caribbean-inspired interiors, white linens, and rattan furniture.

Hermitage Bay is surrounded by the stunning scenery that the small island of Saint Mary's is known for. To add to its remote appeal, the use of technology is discouraged so guests can truly unplug and connect with their surroundings. "From the moment you arrive, everything slows down. The nature, the beach, the light, the silence... it all makes you disconnect from the world and truly relax," wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor.

Being that Hermitage Bay is owned by Daniel Shamoon, who is also a key partner in Nobu Hotels, the resort also has tasty touches perfect for sushi lovers. Each day, talented chefs serve up fresh sushi rolls and bites at a complimentary happy hour. Foodies will also enjoy the abundance of fruit, vegetables, and herbs, all grown at the resort's organic kitchen garden, as well as regular cooking and sushi-making demonstrations. It's no surprise that Hermitage Bay has earned two Michelin Keys for its outstanding service, setting, and amenities. 

Hyatt Ziva Cancun, Punta Cancun, Mexico

Couples that love a night out on the town will be in the heart of the action at Hyatt Ziva Cancun in Punta Cancun, Mexico. The hotel and its nearly 550 rooms are spread out along a serene oceanfront peninsula. Despite the peaceful surroundings, guests have easy access to Cancun's vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and entertainment. Not that you'll need to leave Hyatt Ziva Cancun to have a good time. The hotel has 18 dining venues, including an Italian restaurant that makes its own pasta, a massive buffet, and an adults-only French brasserie.

Those looking for an adults-only experience will find it here as well — Turquoize is Hyatt Ziva Cancun's all-inclusive experience for adults, located in a separate tower overlooking the ocean. Within this modern building, couples can enjoy private hot tubs, butler services, access to an infinity pool, and other exclusive amenities. "Food was delicious, staff attentive and accommodating! We stayed in a Turquoize room and our butlers Rubelsi and Roman were FANTASTIC! Everything was met with a YES!" wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor.

Of course, if your main objective is to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, you'll find plenty of it at Hyatt Ziva Cancun. The hotel has two beaches, which can be seen from many of the guest rooms, as well as three pools outfitted with chaise lounges, swim-up bars, and hot tubs.

Jumby Bay Island, Antigua

It doesn't get more intimate than Jumby Bay Island, a 300-acre resort on a private island located 2 miles off the coast of Antigua, only reachable by boat. Accommodations include coastal cottages, stylish villas, and lavish private estates with oceanfront views. It's no surprise that A-list celebrities like Mariah Carey and Paul McCartney have found respite here.

You don't need to be a celebrity to dine like royalty on this idyllic island discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493. Located inside a mansion dating back to the early 19th century, The Estate House restaurant serves West Indian cuisine in an upscale setting. Couples can also opt for a private dinner on the beach, or keep it casual at The Veranda, a beachside lounge that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Cool off with a dip in the resort's infinity pool, or enjoy a couples' treatment at the on-site spa.

To explore the island and the resort's many amenities, guests are provided with their very own beach cruiser bicycle. The idyllic beaches are staffed with dedicated servers ready to get you a cocktail or anything else at a moment's notice. "In addition to being physically gorgeous, the resort has possibly the best staff and service we have encountered in the Caribbean," wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor.

Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Perched on the stunning sands of Bavaro Beach in the Dominican Republic, Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort is a tropical getaway like no other. With endless ocean views, Spanish tiles in the lobby, cobblestone walkways, and colonial white columns, the resort is incredibly picturesque. Plus, its location behind a golf course offers a serene retreat away from busy roads and tourist crowds.

The rooms are just as sophisticated, complete with marble floors, wood accents, and of course, waterfront views. The Reserve is the resort's adults-only experience with suites overlooking the resort's gardens, swim-up pool access, and private balconies. The Reserve guests have access to exclusive amenities such as private check-in, an upscale Mediterranean restaurant, and a dedicated beachfront. "We stayed on the Reserve side in a second-floor oceanfront room, and the view was absolutely breathtaking," wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor. "The room was thoughtfully arranged with the bed facing the ocean, allowing us to wake up to stunning sunrises." Couples can find even more peace at the on-site spa, which offers holistic services and Eastern treatments such as Thai massage.

Marquis Los Cabos, Los Cabos, Mexico

Marquis Los Cabos in Los Cabos, Mexico is an adults-only respite, but don't expect cheesy over-the-top romance here that will make your eyes roll. Instead, this sophisticated member of The Leading Hotels of the World features tasteful Mexican artwork and stylish accommodations overlooking the Sea of Cortez.  In fact, each of the hotel's 234 rooms feature private balconies with waterfront views. Some suites and casitas are equipped with plunge pools and terraces.

As for dining, the options at Marquis Los Cabos span the entire globe. The hotel's five on-site restaurants are a diverse tapestry of Asian teppanyaki, fresh seafood, French cuisine, and Latin American dishes, helmed by experienced Executive Chef Claudio Hotter. Couples can also book a private meal in their room. "Extremely satisfied with our stay at Marquis Los Cabos. The food, drinks, and staff were wonderful. We will definitely be returning as soon as possible!" wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor.

Couples will find plenty to do at Marquis Los Cabos besides eat and lounge in the sun. Activities like wine tastings, dance lessons, and archery are always on the calendar, as well as live music. Unwind at the 13,000-square-foot on-site spa, which offers an impressive variety of treatments with natural products. It also has a full-service salon as well as a hydrotherapy circuit overlooking the beach.

Sanctuary Cap Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is filled with resorts, but you'll experience a quieter, more exclusive side of the island at Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Spanish castle-like property located in a private gated community with 30,000 acres of beaches. Despite its private feel, it's just a 15-minute drive from the Punta Cana International Airport, so you won't have to wait long for your frosted coconut lemonade from the time you land. You also won't encounter any children, as this is Marriott Bonvoy's first luxury all-inclusive, adults-only resort. The sprawling property is home to five pools, including one with music and a swim-up bar and another filled with saltwater.

Sanctuary Cap Cana is considered one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana. There are various accommodations to choose from, including suites with ocean views, floor-to-ceiling windows, private pools, and dedicated butler service. There are also Spanish Colonial-style suites and villas, each of which comes with a private patio or terrace, silk bathrobes, and an espresso machine. "The resort was absolutely beautiful and our room was in the perfect location, right next to the pool and ocean. It was peaceful and quiet," wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor.

The food is just as luxurious at Sanctuary Cap Cana. The resort has five on-site restaurants, including a pan-Asian eatery, an Italian eatery, a seafood restaurant, a buffet, and an American steakhouse. True foodies will appreciate the variety of desserts and drinks infused with locally-sourced ingredients.

Sandals Royal Plantation, Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Whether you book an oceanfront suite or a villa with a private pool, you'll have a butler at your beck and call while staying at Sandals Royal Plantation in beautiful Ocho Rios, Jamaica. "The accommodations were beautifully appointed with a wonderful view of the sea," wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor. "Our butlers, LaDana and Jason, attended to every detail for us. It was our 45th wedding anniversary and could not have been more wonderful."

With coveted features like its own private beach, Sandals Royal Plantation — one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica — delivers romance in abundance. That's especially true at its champagne and caviar bar, the only bar of its type in the country. Couples can head to the tea terrace for an 1800s-inspired afternoon tea experience overlooking the ocean. The hotel's four dining options include a chic French restaurant, a casual beach grill, a British pub, and an Italian eatery, so you'll always be excited at mealtime here. Plus, there's plenty to do before and after dinner — the hotel offers scuba diving, golf, live entertainment, and unlimited Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks wines. It's no surprise that this is one of the top all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean for adults only.

Yasawa Island Resort & Spa, Fiji

The word "yasawa" means "heaven" in the Fijian language, and no title could be more fitting for this exquisite private island resort. As the only hotel on a 14-mile volcanic island, Yasawa Island Resort & Spa is one of the most romantic destinations in Fiji, perfect for couples seeking a luxurious and secluded getaway. Guests can choose from 20 traditional Fijian "bures," or thatched huts, outfitted with amenities such as outdoor showers, hammocks, and of course, creature comforts like air conditioning. "The accommodations are without comparison with spacious rooms and very nice furnishings," wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor. "Great deck for relaxing and listening to the ocean."

The resort boasts 11 private beaches, which could easily be considered some of the most beautiful beaches in Fiji. There's always something interesting on the itinerary at Yasawa Island Resort & Spa. Couples can take a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon where the famous 1980s movie was filmed, reserve a private beach picnic, or take a guided snorkeling tour. The resort's award-winning beachfront spa was the first of its kind to open in Fiji. Each week, the resort hosts traditional Fijan feasts with local cuisine prepared in an authentic earth oven. 

Methodology

With such a vast array of exceptional choices, narrowing down the world's most romantic all-inclusive resorts based on reviews was no easy task. It goes without saying that our primary goal was to select the resorts with the greatest number of five-star ratings on reputable platforms such as Tripadvisor. With renowned resorts like Hyatt Ziva Cancun amassing nearly 12,000 five-star reviews on Tripadvisor, at the time of writing, it's safe to say that many couples found the romance they were searching for. 

In addition to reviews, our selection process was based on other criteria that couples may find valuable, such as privacy and seclusion, dining choices, and romantic activities such as spa treatments, wine tastings, and beachside picnics. While a handful of these resorts are only open to adults, others have adults-only areas with exclusive amenities. Some resorts are situated far away from major tourist hubs, while others have nightlife and entertainment nearby, ensuring there's something to suit every couple's style and priorities. Of course, what all of these resorts have in common is that all of your expenses are covered, so you won't have to worry about a single dollar spent until it's time to get back to reality. 

Recommended