Most of these resorts include accommodation, meals, beverages, and activities. Many are high-end and low-impact eco-resorts, with sustainability and conservation at their core. Others cosset guests in luxury villas on some of the most beautiful islands in the world, from over-the-water bungalows on one of Fiji's best islands to eco-chic nature resorts in Indonesia. A couple are among the most expensive resorts in the world, while others offer excellent value — with everything, even activities, included.
ClubHotel Riu Guarana, Portugal
If the Algarve region in southern Portugal isn’t already on your bucket list, it should be. Although it's more under-the-radar than the beaches of Spain and France, the Algarve impresses with its rocky coastline, bright blue water, fascinating Moorish-influenced culture, and delicious food. If you want to explore the region without spending an arm and a leg, this all-inclusive resort is an excellent option. Balance excursions to the medieval village of Faro and the surrounding towns with time spent chilling out at the spa or unwinding with a drink at the swim-up bar.
Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa, Crete, Greece
Dreaming of the Greek Islands? With a stay at this full-service resort in Crete’s capital of Heraklion, you’ll be right on the beach and perfectly positioned to explore the island's ancient sites. Bungalows feature elegant décor in breezy shades of blue and white (many have sea views) while the seven on-site restaurants serve everything from traditional Cretan cuisine to sushi. Five outdoor pools, waterslides, tennis, beach volleyball, and more will keep you occupied on the property, or you can borrow a pedal boat or canoe and get out on the water.
Little Palm Island, Florida Keys
Little Palm Island is a close as you can get to an exclusive private island experience in the USA. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the adults-only and all-inclusive resort is located on a tiny private island off the coast of the Florida Keys with a romantic Robinson Crusoe appeal. Ranking among the USA’s finest resorts, it is a secluded world of lush tropical gardens, crushed seashell paths, and 15 thatched-roof, Bahamas-style bungalows which house 30 luxurious suites. With no phones or television, the soundtrack at this resort is the lapping of ocean waves, the rustle of the leaves in the breeze, and the melody of neighboring birds and tree frogs. Days are spent in hammocks fixed to the palm trees, lounge chairs on the small beach, and the world-class restaurant and spa. The resort is currently undergoing extensive refurbishment and is expected to reopen early 2020.
Club Med Opio Provence, France
Want to explore Provence picturesque lavender fields and olive groves without worrying about expensive meals tabs and hard-to-get reservations? Book a room at this all-inclusive resort, just a 40-minute drive from Nice on France’s glittery Côte d’Azur, and everything is taken care of for you—from all-day dining highlighting regional cuisine (think lavender-infused honey and creamy French cheeses) to an included kid’s club, nightly entertainment, and activities like tennis, archery lessons, and even a flying trapeze school. Guest rooms are simply furnished, but you won't be spending much time inside them, what with all the exploring there is to be done just outside your doorstep. Take a walk to the charming, off-the-radar village of Opio nearby, known for its centifolia roses and olive oil production
Grecotel White Palace, Crete, Greece
All rooms at this luxurious resort in Crete are sleek and modern, but we suggest requesting one in the Rethymno Wing for exclusive access to the beachfront infinity pool or upgrade to a suite with a private pool. Plenty of honeymooners escape to the property, but you'll also find a fair amount of families, who love combining group-friendly excursions (visits to the nearby Agreco Farm include pressing grapes, making cheese, and visiting its mini-zoo) with adult-centric indulges like treatments at the spa and hammam, yoga classes, and snorkeling in the turquoise sea. After long days in the sun, guests reconvene at the domed lounge bar for cocktails or sparkling wine and stunning sunset views over the Rethymno Riviera.
Hermitage Bay, Antigua
Hermitage Bay is a natural paradise – a perfect retreat for anyone wanting to escape the stresses and strains of a busy life. The privately owned five-star boutique hotel is located in a perfect bay on the west coast of Antigua. The 27 individual suites nestle on the beach and hillside in beautiful tropical gardens, in the perfect seclusion offered by the surrounding 140 acres of lush, undeveloped land. Reclining in a plantation chair on your verandah, you feel transported back to Antigua’s colonial era – with all the conveniences of an upscale hotel. This ultra-luxurious all-inclusive resort features the clean lines and conveniences found in contemporary decor and design yet remains true to its Caribbean location by offering organic locally sourced gastronomy. The result is a natural and sophisticated retreat for those looking to unwind and become reacquainted with their environment and the one they are with.
