Plan an All-Inclusive Beach Resort Vacation

Things to Consider When Planning

When You Visit

Before reserving, decide for yourself what sort of experience you’re looking for from a Caribbean vacation. People wanting to travel at a time when the islands and the resorts are most upbeat will find what they crave during peak season (mid-December until mid-April), though as with everything, there are pros and cons associated with traveling during this season. More people travel during the peak season, so you can expect the beaches, swimming pools and restaurants to be more populated. Certain tours may be harder to secure if you don’t book them in advance. The low season is a little calmer, which is ideal for people who just want some peace and quiet. The low season will see lower rates, as well, so depending on your budget, it may be better to go during those times. Just keep in mind that June through November is the raining season and there may be tropical storms during this time.

What Location

While the resort will have anything and everything you could need on-site, you might want to venture out to nearby excursions for a little more adventure in your beach vacation. You’re in a different country, after all! Although you won’t be bored at the resorts, most guests recommend spending at least half a day out of the resort during your stay.

Level of Service

If you really want to go all out on your vacation, the Beaches and Sandals Butler Service is a must. Butlers are professionally trained by the Guild of English Butlers and are there to cater to your every whim while at the resort. Butlers can do almost anything from helping you unpack, to making dining and spa reservations and saving you a spot at the beach or pool with your favorite drink.

Butler Service is tied to room type, so look at booking a room with Butler in the name if this is an amenity you don’t want to miss out on. Tipping is also not something you need to worry about with other services, but Butlers are one of the few exceptions.

What Activities

While all Beaches and Sandals Resorts have beautiful pools, pristine beaches and watersports galore, some activities and offerings are specific to particular resorts. Love golf? Only some of the resorts will offer spots to tee off. We suggest Beaches Ocho Rios or Sandals Emerald Bay. All of the resorts offer watersports, but Beaches Negril or Sandals Negril offers a plethora of (motorized) watersports — including waterskiing! — on Jamaica's beautiful Seven Mile Beach.

Scuba diving is one of the most popular activities for guests traveling to the Caribbean. Guests of Beaches and Sandals Resorts have a sweet deal in this regard, as they offer free scuba diving trips as part of your stay, just as long as you’re PADI^® certified. This includes professional equipment! And if you are not yet PADI^® certified, you can get your certification through the resort at an additional cost. While it is available at all of the resorts, some of the best Sandals resorts for scuba diving include Beaches Turks & Caicos, Sandals Royal Bahamian and Sandals Grenada.

There is so much to do at a Beaches or Sandals property that’s included in your trip! However, you might want to explore the area outside the resort, take a boat trip or look at some of the extra add-on experiences at the resorts. Take a catamaran ride, climb waterfalls or go for a dune buggy ride to experience more of the beautiful natural beauty of the Caribbean. Some options may be more convenient or readily accessible at some properties than others.

Be sure to check out what other activities and amenities are offered at the nearby Beaches and Sandals Resorts as well — with resort-hopping, you can have access to so many options!

Transportation

Beaches and Sandals want to start taking care of you as soon as you arrive. Relax and enjoy your stress-free ride from the airport in a non-stop resort transfer, featuring air-conditioning and comfortable, spacious seating. All airport transfers (from the specified international airport) are included! Higher tier rooms also have access to a private luxury vehicle (you can also opt for this option for an additional cost).

While all destinations include a complimentary transfer, the length of travel time varies. Some resorts are ten minutes away and some are ninety minutes (or more!). While adults may enjoy a scenic drive, younger travelers may be ready to just be there already.