What Does All-Inclusive Mean? Answering All Your Questions.

An all-inclusive vacation is a dream for many—and it’s easy to see why. It’s not just a hassle-free way to travel; it’s a chance to have everything you need in one place, whether you’re up for exploring or just want to stay put and soak it all in.

So, what does all-inclusive really mean? At Sandals Resorts, it means going all in on the best of the Caribbean—meals, bottomless drinks, anytime snacks, activities, and entertainment, all wrapped into one upfront price. While some resorts tack on extras, we keep it simple: even tips and water sports are included. You can leave your wallet behind and just ease into island time—no fine print, no surprises.

Picture: An aerial view of Sandals Grande Antigua St. Johns, Antigua and Barbuda.

So now that you know what all-inclusive really means—what else should you think about when choosing the right resort? Some lucky travelers get to turn their all-inclusive daydreams into reality in tropical spots like Jamaica, Curaçao, or The Bahamas. And when they see what's included at Sandals, it’s easy to understand why they decide to treat themselves to a getaway that truly has it all.

In this article on the Sandals Blog:

Are all all-inclusive resorts the same?
Are all-inclusive resorts worth the money?
What you can expect to be included.
Adults only resort, or bringing the kids?
Are all-inclusive resorts safe?
Know the difference...
What about the fine print?
What you’ve heard versus the reality
Is the all-inclusive vacation right for you?
Bonus: Take all-inclusive to the next level

Are all all-inclusive resorts the same?

No. All-inclusive resorts vary the benefits they include in their all-inclusive vacation package.

The trick is to do your research ahead of time, as what’s included can vary quite a bit depending on the hotel or resort you choose. Some resorts cover meals and drinks, but things like tours or water sports may come with extra costs—and that’s not ideal if you're ready to hop on a jet ski but left your wallet in the room...

Pictured: Our Blue Mahoe Overwater Bungalows at Sandals South Coast offer the ultimate all-inclusive experience.

What you’re looking for is the best version of the all-inclusive concept—one that lets you step out the door with little to no cash and still enjoy an incredible vacation.

This is possible because when you pay for your vacation package, it often includes everything from flights and airport transfers to plush accommodations, meals, and entertainment.

Just keep in mind, all-inclusive means different things depending on where you go. The good news? Some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the world are in the Caribbean, which means they’re super accessible.

Are All-Inclusive Resorts Worth the Money?

It’s easy to assume that all-inclusive means the same thing everywhere—that what you get at one resort is what you’ll get at all. But that’s not always the case. Some all-inclusive resorts are worth every penny, while others fall short. If you’re a seasoned traveler, you already know that with some places, the truth is in the fine print.

Read up on what’s really included, and decide for yourself.

What you can expect to be included.

If you haven’t experienced an all-inclusive vacation yet, Sandals’ award-winning beach resorts are a great place to start. With so much thoughtfully included—like watersports (yes, even scuba diving), convenient airport transfers, themed dining inspired by Caribbean, French, Italian, Asian, Mediterranean and a host of other flavors, plus bars and entertainment—you’ll find it hard to settle for anything less.

Meals + anytime snacks

Picture: Izakaya-inspired sushi specialties are always on the menu at Hanami restaurant at Sandals Dunn's River.

One of the standout all-inclusive perks at Sandals Resorts is the dining experience. With up to 16 restaurants at each resort, there’s always something delicious to enjoy—morning, noon, or night. That means breakfast, lunch, dinner—even those anytime snacks—are always within reach. Foodies will love this all-you-can-eat vacation experience that ensures there’s something everyone can enjoy.

With the curated dining options available at Sandals, your taste buds can take a trip around the world. At Sandals Ochi, for example, you’ll find dishes inspired by the Orient, Northern Italy, Caribbean favorites, and classic French cuisine.

Learn more about Sandals all-inclusive dining ahead of your stay!

Drinks (including alcoholic drinks)

Fancy a drink? Not all all-inclusive resorts include alcoholic beverages—but at Sandals, up to 11 bars per resort are ready to pour your favorite cocktails, spirits, and soft drinks whenever the mood strikes.

Bars are open from early morning until late night. Whether you’re into whiskey, cocktails, or just a cold beer from top local and international brands, you’re covered. Even better? You don’t have to leave the pool—swim-up bars let you sip and splash without missing a beat.

Back in your room, you’ll find a fully stocked mini fridge, available 24/7. And if wine’s more your thing, you’ll love that Sandals includes Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks® wines as part of your stay.

An ocean of water sports

A vacation in the islands without watersports? That’s like reggae without the bass. The best all-inclusive resorts know this and make sure the sea plays a starring role in your stay.

At Sandals Resorts, you have full access to the beach and the waves—our resorts sit right on some of the Caribbean’s most striking shores. If you’re a PADI-certified scuba diver, good news: everything you need to dive into the undersea magic is included in your stay. So is sailing, waterskiing, snorkeling, and a mix of both motorized and non-motorized water sports.

That means you can switch between Hobie Cats, paddleboards, and kayaks, all surrounded by the beauty of the Caribbean Sea. You’ll also get professional instruction, so there’s no stress about figuring things out solo. Want to level up the adventure? At Sandals Royal Bahamian, you can hop on a boat and explore nearby private offshore islands—a story that will certainly be worth sharing!

Insider Tip: Not PADI-certified yet? Try snuba diving or even get your PADI certification at Sandals Resorts. The certification package costs around USD $450. Once certified, you can keep diving—free—for the rest of your stay.

Round the clock options for entertainment

Even if all you really want to do is relax in the islands (see our post on how to relax on vacation), it’s still comforting to know that when the mood strikes—whether you’re on a couples-only vacation or flying solo—you’re never far from the action. At Sandals Resorts, you can keep things mellow by day, then turn up the energy at night with a live band, beach party, or even dance the night away at one of the resort’s nightclubs (Sandals Ochi definitely brings the vibe!).

And if you’re not quite in the party mood? No worries—you can stay in your chill zone and enjoy something more laid-back, like a sing-along at the piano bar, smooth saxophone by the fire pit, or a candle-lit dinner on the beach

Golf

Picture: Cap Estate Golf & Country Club in Saint Lucia.

Championship golf with green fees included. If that sounds like your kind of all-inclusive escape, then that’s just one more reason Sandals Resorts might be perfect for you. If you golf at Sandals, you'll be able to tee off at top-rated golf courses across the Caribbean, including the 18-hole Upton Estate Golf and Country Club in Jamaica and the 18-hole Sandals Golf and Country Club in Saint Lucia. Both resort-style courses, they’re also among the most scenic spots to golf anywhere in the world.

Along with complimentary green fees, guests of select Sandals Resorts in Saint Lucia and Jamaica enjoy round-trip transfers from nearby resorts to the course—at no extra cost. There’s even a weekly golf clinic with pro instruction included in your vacation package. That means you can focus less on logistics and more on your swing!

Good to know: In Jamaica, enjoy complimentary transfers to the Upton Estate Golf and Country Club from Sandals Ochi, Sandals Royal Plantation, and Sandals Dunn’s River. In Saint Lucia, complimentary transfers are also available from nearby Sandals Resorts.

Beach volleyball

Stay at one, play at three! Beach volleyball in Montego Bay (Jamaica) is one of the activities you’ll be able to enjoy while staying at Sandals. Compete with guests from nearby Sandals Resorts on at least three different beach settings as part of your stay.

Basketball, day and night tennis, pool tables…

Take your pick—these are all yours to enjoy. Whether you’re beating your partner (or letting them win!) in a friendly showdown, there’s no shortage of fun ways to leave your mark in the islands. We especially love the Sandals Resorts in Saint Lucia for how well these activities are curated—they really bring the competitive spirit to life!

Fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment

When considering an all-inclusive property, it’s only natural to want the amenities to live up to what you’ve seen online or in the brochure. At Sandals Resorts, every location features top-of-the-line gym equipment along with complimentary classes and training sessions across a range of activities. That means you can keep up your fitness routine—or try something brand new—without skipping a beat.

Tips, gratuities & hotel taxes included!

At many all-inclusive resorts, tips, taxes, and gratuities aren’t fully covered in your stay, which means you’ll need to bring along some cash to tip at bars, restaurants, and the front desk (USD is generally fine). It’s always worth reading the fine print! At Sandals Resorts, these costs are already included—so there’s no need to worry about tipping staff during your stay. The one exception? Butlers. While tips aren’t required, many guests choose to tip butlers based on the level of service received. If you’re assisted by multiple butlers, you can divide the tip however you’d like.

Good to know: If you’re planning to venture off the resort, it’s a good idea to have cash on hand, as many local vendors may not accept credit or debit cards.

Luxury rooms and amenities

Picture: Our Bamboo Palm Room with a balcony soaking tub at Sandals Saint Vincent.

Last but not least—the accommodations. Stylish and effortlessly elegant, Sandals offers rooms that range from cozy hideaways to expansive villas with private pools and Butler service. Every room is designed with personal touches in mind—like the Sunchi Beachfront Butler Suite at Sandals Royal Curaçao, with ocean and garden views.

If you can't get enough of the ocean, you can also check out the Mammee Bay Oceanview Club Level Room at Sandals Dunn’s River, complete with a balcony soaking tub for two. With so many options—many offering 24-hour room service, VIP check-in, and more—it all comes down to the kind of escape you’re dreaming of.

The Little Things Matter Too…

When it comes to all-inclusive vacations, every detail counts. It all adds up to either feeling confident you made the right choice—or wishing you had gone another way. At Sandals Resorts, the thoughtful touches go beyond the big inclusions we’ve already covered. There’s even more to look forward to—small conveniences that make your stay smoother and your vacation even more memorable. Here’s what you can expect:

Roundtrip airport transfers

From the moment you clear customs, a Sandals representative will be waiting to greet you and guide you to your fully air-conditioned shuttle, ready to take you straight to the resort. When it’s time to head home, a complimentary return shuttle will get you back to the airport. With select suites, you can even update to exclusive Rolls Royce transfers!

Convenient airport arrival lounge

Few all-inclusive resorts offer exclusive airport arrival lounges—but Sandals Resorts does. In Jamaica, The Bahamas, and Saint Lucia, you’ll be welcomed into a relaxing space that ensures your arrival experience is as smooth as it should be. It’s a touch of comfort that sets the tone for everything to come.

Free Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi matters, especially when you’re away from home. Sandals gets it—and provides complimentary wi-fi in all room categories and common areas. You’ll receive the access codes at check-in, and you’re free to stay connected for as long as you like.

Adults Only All-Inclusive Resort, or Bringing the Kids?

One of the things that sets Sandals Resorts apart in the all-inclusive space is that all properties are adults-only, designed for couples. That means that you can expect a more intimate, romantic, and quiet getaway—perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or just reconnecting. With a wide range of curated activities, dining selections from around the world, and beachside relaxation, it’s easy to see why so many couples choose Sandals for their honeymoons, weddings, and vow renewals. Love is all you need—and Sandals takes care of the rest.

Picture: Ocean views from the Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows with Private Pool at Sandals Royal Curaçao.

Prefer bringing the kids on an all-inclusive vacation? Beaches’ family friendly resorts, part of the Sandals Resorts family, are designed with families in mind. Known for being the ultimate family beach getaway, Beaches has beloved properties in both Turks & Caicos and Jamaica, drawing in families from around the globe every year.

Picture: The Beaches Turks and Caicos’ lazy river is just the place for some effortless island relaxation with the whole family.

At Beaches Resorts, you’ll enjoy the same all-inclusive perks as Sandals, plus even more attractions—including action-packed Pirates Island Water Parks, Xbox lounges, Kids Camps with certified nannies, and more. Through a partnership with Sesame Street®, kids can also meet their favorite characters. VIP packages include a Meet & Greet, a themed buffet breakfast, and unforgettable Caribbean adventures your little ones will treasure.

Are All-Inclusive Resorts Safe?

Generally speaking, all-inclusive resorts are one of the safest ways to vacation. They’re typically gated and monitored 24/7 by trained security personnel. Established brands like Sandals Resorts have been around for over 44 years and implement best-in-class safety practices across all properties.

Sandals works closely with government agencies and local law enforcement—including the U.S. embassy—at each destination. Every staff member undergoes background checks, including criminal record screenings, and receives continuous training. The resorts are also equipped with state-of-the-art CCTV systems, monitored around the clock by professional security teams.

Rest assured—Sandals Resorts go the extra mile to make sure your vacation stays worry-free.

Know the Difference…

You may be wondering how all-inclusive vacations compare to other travel options. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the most common alternatives:

All-inclusive vs A la carte

All-inclusive resorts typically bundle your accommodation, meals, drinks, tips, and more into one fixed price. À la carte resorts let you build your own vacation by paying only for what you use—but that can lead to surprise costs by the end of your trip.

All-inclusive vs Self-catering

Self-catering stays often include access to kitchen facilities, so you can prepare your own meals and manage your own schedule. It’s a great option for independence, but it also means shopping, cooking, and cleaning—unlike all-inclusive, where everything is taken care of for you.

All-inclusive vs Half-board

Half-board properties tend to include some options and services, and not others as part of your package. This option usually includes two meals a day—typically breakfast and either lunch or dinner. Snacks, drinks, and additional meals are extra, making it less comprehensive than an all-inclusive stay.

All-inclusive vs Full-board

Full-board covers three meals a day, but extras like snacks and alcoholic drinks may not be included. This sets it apart from all-inclusive resorts, where all meals and drinks are covered from check-in to check-out.

What About the Fine Print?

When choosing an all-inclusive resort, you’ll want to be sure the price you pay really does include everything. At some resorts, not all meals and drinks are part of the package—so you might end up paying extra for certain menu items or top-shelf spirits. In other cases, all-inclusive perks may only last until check-out time, something not always made clear in advance. At Sandals Resorts, you can enjoy your all-inclusive benefits right up until you leave the property on departure day. It’s always a good idea to ask ahead and know exactly what’s included.

Check out the Sandals FAQ to learn more.

What You’ve Heard About All-Inclusive Resorts vs. The Reality

Every travel experience is unique. Two people can visit the same place and come back with entirely different stories. Whether you go all-inclusive, à la carte, self-catering, half-board, or full-board, what really matters is knowing what to expect before you go.

Some all-inclusive resorts can leave guests disappointed—especially when hidden costs surface after the trip. But with Sandals Resorts, the all-inclusive experience is truly comprehensive. There are no surprise fees, and everything is thoughtfully taken care of from start to finish.

Is An All-Inclusive Vacation Right for You?

If your dream vacation involves letting go of planning and just focusing on having the time of your life, then an all-inclusive getaway could be just what you need—even if you don’t drink alcohol. All-inclusive vacations are a true escape from the everyday. And these vacations are set up in a way where you won’t have to worry about the final bill. Enjoy meals at top-tier restaurants, live music, entertainment, and lounging on some of the most radiant beaches without a care in the world.

With beachfront resorts in Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, Grenada, Antigua, The Bahamas and more, the Sandals all-inclusive experience is truly one-of-a-kind.

Any other questions about Sandals’ all-inclusive package? Call us on (888) 726-3257. We’ll be happy to assist you!

Bonus: Take All-Inclusive to the Next Level

Overwater bungalows

The overwater bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean in Montego Bay, Jamaica, stretch out along a classic heart-shaped pier—but they’re just the beginning when it comes to the whimsy that Sandals Resorts often bring.

When it comes to overwater bungalows, you’ll also find these intricate accommodations at Sandals Saint Vincent, Sandals South Coast and Sandals Royal Caribbean in Jamaica plus Sandals Grande Saint Lucian Beach Resort & Spa. With glass floor panels, overwater hammocks, and private swim-up platforms, these bungalows offer all the exclusivity of a Maldives-style getaway—without the long-haul flight.

Seeing is believing:

Overwater bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean.

Skypool Suites

The Skypool Suites at Sandals Grenada are unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. Wake up to your own infinity plunge pool, elegant décor, and personalized butler service—all part of the stay. And yes, our signature Soaking Tubs are included!

Seeing is believing:

Skypool Suites at Sandals Grenada.

Swim up rooms

At many Sandals Resorts in Jamaica and The Bahamas, you’ll find enticingly tropical swim-up rooms that make it easy to get from your room or suite to the pool. With nearby Zen gardens, scenic views, spa-style bathrooms, and plush mahogany four-poster beds, these rooms are a total vibe.

Seeing is believing:

River pool suites at Sandals Royal Bahamian, The Bahamas.

Swim up crystal lagoon suites at Sandals Royal Caribbean, Jamaica.

Swim up suites at Sandals Negril, Jamaica.

Swim up suites at Sandals Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Beachfront Rondoval Suites

The Beachfront Rondoval Suites at Sandals Grande Saint Lucian bring beachfront living to a new level. Enjoy your own private plunge pool, whirlpool, and personal butler—all steps from the sand. All you’ll need to lift is a fork (or maybe a glass).

Seeing is believing:

Beachfront Rondovals at Sandals Grande Saint Lucian.

Rondoval Suites at Sandals Grande Antigua.

And last, but not least...

The Millionaire Suites

For those who love to indulge in the very best, the Millionaire Suites at Sandals Regency La Toc Golf & Spa were made just for you. With sweeping hillside views, butler service, and a private plunge pool, this suite is where island indulgence meets serenity. It’s the kind of place that makes you wonder why you didn’t come sooner.

Millionaire Suites at Sandals Regency La Toc.

Give Yourself the Gift of an All-Inclusive Vacation!

Whether you’re dreaming of white-sand beaches, swim-up bars, or simply more time to reconnect, an all-inclusive vacation takes the stress out of planning and puts the focus back on you. With Sandals Resorts, it’s not just about what’s included—it’s about how effortlessly it all comes together. So go ahead—pick your island, pack light, and get ready to soak up every moment. We’ll take care of the rest.

Find out which Sandals Resort is best for you!