Whether you have children or not, sometimes an adults-only vacation is necessary for a full recharge. While many resorts are family-magnets—with theme parks, kids’ clubs, and lots of high-pitched voices— you can generally find at least a handful of adults-only resorts in all the same destinations. Sometimes they’re even on connected properties, so older generations can find respite during family vacations while everyone remains at the same hotel property.
Here are five top adults-only resorts around the world to inspire your next 18+ getaway, wherever you’re headed.
HOTEL XCARET ARTE—MEXICO’S RIVIERA
Xcaret is best known for its series of adventure and theme parks dotted around Mexico’s Riviera Maya region, but the group is also behind one of the area’s top adults-only resort for those seeking a break from the rest of the family.
The Hotel Xcaret Arte is also all-inclusive. The impressive culinary collection at Hotel Xcaret Arte is several steps above the traditional all-inclusive resort fare, boasting celebrity chefs (including one with a Michelin star) in eye-popping venues across the waterfront property.
And it’s not only the food and drinks that are included. The eight parks around the region are also part of the all-inclusive package, including transportation to and from, plus all-day entertainment with or without little ones. Don’t miss the massive lagoon and cliffside hammocks along the shore of Hotel Xcaret Arte, especially memorable at sunrise if you’re an early riser.
HOTEL RIU PALACE ANTILLAS—ARUBA
Aruba is one of the Caribbean’s honeymoon havens, making the adults-only Hotel Riu Palace Antillas an ideal booking for newlyweds. The all-inclusive hotel includes complimentary 24-hour room service for late night cravings and celebrations.
The hotel is located on one of the island’s most desirable beaches, Palm Beach, which makes it one of the most crowded beaches, so hit the sand early if you’re looking for some extra space. Pools are massive, and, yes, there’s a swim-up bar. Rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the casino, an Aruba staple, is relatively large, too.
A couple’s treatment at the Renova Spa makes a great honeymoon gift to each other, and a romantic alfresco dinner for two can also be arranged as a special treat.
NOBU HOTEL MARBELLA—SPAIN
On Southern Spain’s “Golden Mile,” Nobu Hotel Marbella is an enclave of sophisticated escapism in a romantic resort town. This adults-only hotel brings modern elegance to the old-world charm of the region with chic, open rooms just off the beach in the most desirable section of Marbella.
If that’s not enough tranquility, the Six Senses Spa provides next-level indulgence and serenity with both indoor and outdoor canopied treatment spaces, a hydrotherapy circuit, and a hammam. There is, of course, a Nobu restaurant, and the coveted Japanese cuisine is also available through 24-hour room service if you can’t bear to get out of your cozy robe.
DARA SAMUI BEACH RESORT—KOH SAMUI, THAILAND
Combining modern comfort with traditional Thai charm, Dara Samui Beach Resort excels at beachfront hospitality on the island of Koh Samui. Even though the resort is located in Southern Thailand, it brings Northern Thai culture to life—with authentic architecture, luxurious rooms, multi-bedroom suites, and private villas.
Dara Samui’s all-day restaurant overlooks the sea, but alfresco dinners on the sand under romantically netted teepees are the highlight of this resort’s culinary scene. Feel free to kick off your shoes, even if you’re otherwise dressed in your island best. This is a space for refined relaxation in a bucket-list locale. Upscale, yes; stuffy, no.
ELLERMAN HOUSE—CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Atop a cliff overlooking Bantry Bay in Cape Town, South Africa, Ellerman House is for the cultured traveler looking to be pampered in style. The adults-only boutique hotel offers 13 rooms and suites along with two private villas, for the most exclusive jetsetters. Despite its urban location, Ellerman House is dotted with indigenous gardens, mature trees, terraced lawns, and a dreamy pool-scape, all overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
The intimate spa offers specialty treatments for muscle relief and relaxation with premium skincare products, plus a quiet relaxation area with steam room, sensation shower, and sauna facilities. Still, it’s the property-wide modern art collection that attracts the most discerning eyes.
