All-inclusive resorts for incentive travel groups and business meetings have zoomed in popularity. But, here’s a cautionary word. Some all-inclusive’s have weaker service for groups and meeting planners. Many all-inclusive resorts cater, instead, to honeymooners, leisure travelers, and vacationing revelers. “I don’t ever want my people to pull out their wallets,” said one CEO. “I love knowing my exact budget; no surprises,” added the meeting planner.
After many President’s Club trips, top producer programs, and dealer incentive trips, we compiled this list of our favorite all-inclusive resorts for group incentive travel and business meetings. Our top properties have a brand commitment to the group meeting business and have a proven track record of excellence.
Hotels listed in alphabetical order
Guests can expect to enjoy turquoise waters and powdery sand at the great expansive beach. The friendly staff provides great service and hospitality. Fiesta Americana Condesa has décor on property for either a Caribbean, traditional Mexican, or Mayan-themed event, which can help to save on décor costs for a group evening event. The property is kid and teen-friendly, with on-site babysitting available at their Kid and Teen Club. Most rooms offer a gorgeous oceanfront view.
At Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancún All-Inclusive Spa Resort MICE events can now delight in their luxury all-inclusive experience: leading-edge cuisine, unparalleled service, and exquisite attention to every detail making every event attendee enjoy the pleasure of feeling unique. Located on the most exclusive beach in Punta Cancún, the all-oceanfront suite resort boasts more than 80,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meeting space, making it a perfect oasis for the events industry market.
If your group likes rolling out of bed at 10 a.m. to AC/DC and Highway to Hell rocking the pool area, this is your place! For younger groups, Hard Rock Hotel Cancun is an energetic, jammin’ experience. The rock-n-roll branding is impressive — guitars stitched in the bed coverings and museum-quality memorabilia throughout the lobby. The pool area is large and a constant gathering place with music and games. Nice stretch of white sand beach too. Oh, each room has a massive Jacuzzi by the bed – perfect for a night of relaxation after a day at the beach.
Zilara is Hyatt Cancun’s adult-only property. Ziva is the family-friendly sister property, located less than two miles north of Zilara. Don’t get these two mixed up! An adults-only resort appeals to many incentive trip planners and gives Zilara two extra rating points in my book. Our experience with this property has been great. All of the sleeping rooms offer excellent ocean views, there’s plenty of good F&B with six restaurants and five bars, and the service has been impressive.
Le Blanc Spa Resort is an upscale resort within the Palace Resort family. The hotel takes all-inclusive food up a notch with a 7-course tasting menu at the French restaurant, Lumiere. A minimalist, contemporary hotel with classy interiors. Every hotel room has an indoor Jacuzzi, a pillow menu, and high-end BVLGARI bath products. Awards include #1 rated hotel in Cancun by TripAdvisor and a AAA 5-Diamond.
Located on the Cancun strip, Live Aqua Cancun caters to the modern adult crowd. The hotel focuses on making each individual experience unique, beginning with offering an aromatherapy menu where you can select the scent of your choice for your room each night. In addition, guests can enjoy any of the seven pools and twelve restaurants on property while listening to music played throughout the resort all day.
A variety of entertainment, restaurants, and activities within the resort for all ages! Rated by TripAdvisor to be among the top 25 all-inclusive resorts in Mexico with a 2014 Travelers Choice ribbon! Moon Palace Golf Resort & Spa features newly renovated rooms and a brand-new events center.
Palace Resorts’ new resort concept is located within the signature award-winning property, Moon Palace Cancun. The Grand at Moon Palace Cancun is poised to become a luxury hotel within the sprawling, AAA Four Diamond resort upon the completion of an ambitious, multimillion-dollar enhancement project. The resort includes the addition of more than 900 guest rooms, a new expansive lobby, seven outdoor pools, including two adults-only swimming pools with a live DJ spinning poolside beats, five swim-up bars, an elaborate beach club, children’s waterpark, gymnasium, Awe-Spa®, more than 80,000 square feet of meeting and event spaces, a bowling alley with six lanes, ultra-trendy teen lounge, chic nightclub, 16 food and beverage outlets and more.
Great value! Opened in 2013 with great room products – especially the oceanfront rooms. Secrets the Vine sports a private VIP pool, but the beach is compact due to the hotel’s high-rise structure. The hotel offers four restaurants including a Steakhouse, Asian restaurant, Sports Club, breakfast and lunch cafés, and a 24-hour coffee bar. Awesome meeting space with nautical theme and state-of-the-art technology and bandwidth for meetings up to 200 people.
Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos offers the very unique Soma Wine Spa, the only spa in Mexico that incorporates wine in its treatments. A unique activity and one I highly recommend! This family-friendly property offers a wide variety of activities and 24-hour dining options for good value. For a group that enjoys golf, the hotel offers access to the famous Jack Nicklaus Ocean Course and the Cabo del Sol Desert Course. There are four outdoor areas to host group events as well as nine indoor banquet halls.
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a new resort designation it’s never had – a 5-star, 5-diamond all-inclusive. The design is contemporary with sleek, high-end construction materials everywhere. Here in Cabo, they add two new dining outlets. Poolside is Cabrilla serving the freshest Baja catch as ceviche and tostadas. And, the Velas family rolls outs a new signature restaurant, Velas 10, with Mediterranean seafood and steaks.
Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos won the 2020 TravelAge West WAVE Award in the category of Best New Resort or Major Renovation, and the Los Cabos 2021 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award Best of the Best (Most Picture-Perfect Hotels in the World). Another great choice for the younger audiences who want to party on property!
Introduced as Hyatt’s first all-inclusive resort in 2013, the Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos has been designated a AAA four-diamond resort. The resort offers upscale accommodations, eight themed indoor restaurants, outdoor grills, swim-up pool bars, a world-class spa, a convention center, and exceptional personalized service for guests of all ages. Groups can enjoy activities such as deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, nightly entertainment, golf, and infinite outdoor excursions on the Baja coast. Or they can relax and soak up the Mexican sun in the resort’s four sparkling pools.
Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos is situated in the beautiful city of San Jose Del Cabo. It offers an experience of sophisticated style, lavish personal attention, and contemporary and minimalist decoration that creates an exceptionally exotic ambiance. This stunning 369-room resort exudes elegance, escape, and intimacy. Savor an international palate of artfully prepared cuisine with 8 world-class restaurants, or toast the night in any of the 6 bars.
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Formerly Melia Cabo Real, this property got a complete overhaul after Hurricane Odile hit September 2014. Opened in January 2017, the highlight of this property is the expanse of the pool area and openness from pool to beach. Additionally, with the reconstruction, they added an amazing Sky Bar that jets over the beach for daytime whale watching or late-night dancing and partying. Paradisus Los Cabos is one of the few in Los Cabos with a swimmable beach making it good for ocean swimming and snorkeling. This is a great meeting hotel (large ballrooms) and a great all-inclusive option!
Kudos for hosting the largest IRF Invitational ever at this property! Secrets Puerto Los Cabos overlooks the Puerto Los Cabos golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman. Good option for large meetings with 500 all-suite rooms and excellent meeting space. While the beach is not swimmable (like most of Cabo), the pounding, 15-foot-high waves are stunning!
The historic downtown’s iconic Malecon boardwalk is a perfect spot to leisurely stroll and shop at street vendors and art galleries. Close to the airport and downtown, the Grand Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta provides a good product for a group looking for value. The resort’s architecture reflects the warmth and charm of the Mexican culture, as guests are greeted in the large thatched-palm “palapa” roof over the lobby. Nakawé Spa is a unique eco-friendly spa with outdoor gardens and water features that provide the ultimate relaxation and tranquility.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is a smaller version of the sister property in Riviera Maya with equally incredible food. The suites are twice as large as most resorts (1,000 square feet). The pool is three-tiered, with lots of palm trees and cabanas, making it easy to find a private and comfy chair with your guest.
Now Amber Puerto Vallarta is a quick 15-minute transfer from the airport, allowing guests to enjoy the pool and beach that much quicker. The property boasts seven restaurants and bars and also offers guests a unique opportunity to dine during dinner at neighboring Secrets Vallarta Bay, Dreams Villamagna Nuevo Vallarta, or Sunscape Puerto Vallarta. With spacious ocean-view suites and the familiar Unlimited-Luxury® experience boasted by other AM Resorts, Now Amber Puerto Vallarta offers great value for groups.
Combo resort Secrets & Dreams Bahia Mita consists of the family-friendly Dreams property which has 363 beautifully appointed guest rooms, while the adults-only Secrets property boasts 278 stunning guest rooms. These properties operate as separate resorts but share many amenities allowing your group many wonderful options when it comes to restaurants, pools, on-property activities, and entertainment. The complex is situated directly on the golden sand beaches of Banderas Bay, opening the possibility for a special group beach event, catamaran picks up for group sailing, and of course many water activities.
Located on the Pacific coast, Secrets Vallarta Bay is a great option for a group that values a view. The views from the rooms as well as the lobby are a “wow!” The hotel delivers on food, including great presentations for your events. This property is adults only and allows guests to visit the next-door sister property, Now Amber Puerto Vallarta. Don’t forget to check out the special event wine room for a VIP dinner.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya’s theme of “Beyond All-Inclusive, Beyond All Compare” is absolutely on key – exceeding preconceived notions of an all-inclusive. This luxury resort has the most exquisite food you will find in Mexico. All the guest rooms are suites and include butler service. Featuring 40 treatment suites and hydrotherapy facilities, the spa is the best in Mexico. Grand Velas exudes its top-tier cuisine, amenities, and overall quality & experience.
Hard Rock Riviera Maya has an adults side and a family side. There is a guitar ‘rental’ program which is a nice touch and very unique. The playlist download feature is another fun guest amenity. It is best to do registration for larger groups in the convention area, as it is more centrally located in the guest rooms than in either lobby. The meeting space is great and sound systems are impressive; however, capacity is overestimated at times. Some of the specialty restaurants serve smaller portions, which is important to note for groups.
Built to support its neighboring adventure parks, Hotel Xcaret Mexico is undoubtedly the perfect property for your adventurous groups! Located in the heart of Riviera Maya, this hotel and its brand new sister property Hotel Xcaret Arte offer “All-Fun Inclusive,” celebrating the heritage of the ancestral Mayan culture. Beyond your hotel stay and F&B, guests at Hotel Xcaret can experience nine adventure parks like Xcaret and Xel-Há, eco-tourism activities, spectacular shows, and much more – all included in the cost!
Paradisus Playa del Carmen resort combines the best of both worlds with its La Perla and La Esmeralda resorts. Bring the family and head to La Esmeralda, or enjoy the adults-only La Perla with exclusive VIP lounges, check-in, and elevated Royal Service amenities. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed to enjoy the breathtaking oceanfront location with views of Cozumel Island and an ideal location near Tulum, Cobá, and Chichen Itzá.
Paradisus Playa Mujeres opened late 2020 and has taken the all-inclusive world by storm. Their attention to detail in the design of the property is evident in their large number of ocean view rooms and modern design and décor in the 498 guestrooms. This property was made with groups in mind with 15 restaurants and bars on property and lots of amazing outdoor group function space. It is about 35 minutes from the Cancun airport and within close proximity of Isla Mujeres which offers thriving bars, restaurants, and shops, as well as a golf course, designed by Australian professional golfer, Greg Norman. Paradisus Playa Mujeres is the ultimate spot for laid-back luxury for those who have been to Cancun and are looking for something new.
Opened in 2015, Secrets Akumal will not disappoint! Located in the heart of Riviera Maya, Akumal is known for its beaches, green sea turtle population, and snorkeling. Don’t let the travel time from the airport deter you. Once your guests arrive, they are sure to immediately feel relaxed at this property and to leave feeling rested, rejuvenated, and excited to tell their friends and family all about their unforgettable experience!
“Secret boxes” are attached to each room where room service, notes, or gifts can be delivered without disturbing guests. This adds a fun element of surprise while respecting guest privacy. Take advantage of Secrets Maroma Beach’s great complimentary hotel décor for functions! While the square footage of meeting space is relatively small, the high ceilings, soft blue, and green walls, and natural light, specifically in the Maroma Ballroom, make this a very desirable space for a meeting.
Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort features water views from all over the property and a good variety of open-air restaurants. A large pool deck offers lots of seating. The theatre and sports bar could both be used for interesting group events. The ballroom is high-tech with great built-in AV features! Swim-up suites have great waterfront views. The guestrooms are smaller than the Secrets Maroma Beach property, but they are more modern in style like Secrets The Vine.
Set on the stunning white beaches of Riviera Maya, UNICO 20°87° immerses guests in the culture of the region, from the locally-inspired cocktails and cuisines to the art in the rooms. The resort redefines the meaning of “all-inclusive” by offering the unexpected from select spa and salon treatments to golf and excursions; your stay includes all the amenities of a luxury hotel and more. Three unique pools and holistic spa and wellness center drive home a sense of relaxed luxury, while exciting pop-up events insert a touch of spontaneity into the experience.
Dreams Las Mareas is a family-friend resort is located in the northern Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. The property is situated in a tropical jungle and close to many cultural landmarks, providing good options for group activities and excursions. The contemporary-designed resort features all suite-style guest rooms with a jacuzzi tub in each room. There are a variety of dining options with eight restaurants and five bars.
Another favorite from the Secrets brand, Secrets Papagayo is located on the Papagayo Peninsula in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. That means a quick 25 minute trip from the airport, and a more secluded stay if that’s what you’re looking for. Secret’s shares the peninsula with the Four Seasons and the Andaz, so you know the neighborhood is nice! Visiting the local town of Ocotal for shopping and restaurants is a 35-40 minute drive, but can also be accessed via boat in under 30 mins. You will find the distinctive Secret’s restaurant offerings (5 restaurants and 4 bars), with the well-above-average AI F&B options. We all know what to expect with this brand, and this resort delivers, with an AMAZING view!
Westin Playa Conchal is Starwood’s first all-inclusive and doesn’t feel like any of their other properties. The two-story building is well spread out, creating a true resort feel, and golf carts make their rounds all day and night to get you where you need to be. What sets this property apart is the food; Ritz-Carlton quality at a Westin price, with 10 F&B outlets that offer an impressive selection. Royal Beach Club access is worth the upgrade and offers additional amenities like a private pool, personal concierge service, and more. Beach, mountains, great food, upscale room with a comfortable bed, and a great location just 15 minutes from Tamarindo- Yes, please!
Situated along the Caribbean beachfront, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana is a good fit for an active, high-energy group. The hotel features a modern designed casino, 15 pools, nine restaurants, a Jack Nicklaus designed golf course, and a spa. Free Wi-Fi and an all-inclusive hotel arcade make the guest experience even more memorable.
Discover the ultimate escape at Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana. Dive into the clear waters of Juanillo Beach, lounge by a swim-up bar in one of our infinity pools, and dine in style at 12 restaurants and bars within the resort. Explore our gated enclave of Cap Cana to find golf courses and deep-sea fishing excursions close by.
Located in the Uvero Alto region of Punta Cana, the newly opened Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana provides a tranquil setting where you can experience the harmony of the Dominican Republic and enjoy an extraordinary encounter with the golden sands of one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Discover and savor a spectacular journey to a setting like no other, adorned with the turquoise blue of the Caribbean Sea that will take your breath away.
Paradisus Palma Real’s open-air entrance is breathtaking, and the rest of the grounds do not disappoint. The overall feel of the property is luxurious and tranquil, only enhanced by a renovation completed in 2018. The beaches are spacious, blue-green ocean and vendor-free. Because of its location, the property draws a more diverse audience of travelers from all over the world from international incentive groups to leisure travelers.
Secret Royal Beach Punta Cana’s white sand beach is scattered with palm trees and has gorgeous Caribbean views. The beach serves as a wonderful dinner reception area for your guests. The hotel is an adults-only property that caters to a crowd looking to relax and have fun, but not necessarily to the party crowd. Unlike many resorts, this property is not huge, which makes everywhere you want to be very accessible.
Hilton Rose Hall is located on a large stretch of beach with a nice, wide beach area for guests. The pool at the end of the property is great for private outdoor events. There is not a sizable amount of meeting space on-site, but there is a large top-notch conference center across the street that is less than five minutes away. The staff is very warm and accommodating, and each guest room has a waterfront view. The food is well prepared and there is a nice variety in the buffets, while the poolside dining offerings are simple. We recommend customizing your buffet menus to ensure that your group has a variety of options.
The newly redesigned Hyatt Ziva & Zilara Rose Hall (formerly Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall) showcases two luxury resorts: Ziva – an all-inclusive experience for everyone, and an all-inclusive adults-only resort, Zilara. A thrilling resort destination for the whole family with dazzling Caribbean vistas, relaxing activities, located on 1500 feet of private picture-perfect coastline and beach. Home to the famous White Witch Course.
Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay is set on a beautiful cove that offers peaceful twinkling hillside views at night and turquoise blue water views during the day. Some outdoor reception spaces, dining, and concert space are set away from guest rooms in the cove, creating a fantastic ambiance. Meeting planners will not be disappointed by the indoor and outdoor function space options.
Sharing the panoramic peninsula with their sister property, Secrets Wild Orchid, Secrets St. James Montego Bay is the quieter of the two set back from all the action and common retail spaces. Exceptional watersports are set up on location for guests’ use, with planned activities daily and a dock for your group to take a catamaran so you don’t need to transfer! Interactive events are also offered daily by the resort such as art classes, cooking classes, pool games, board games, and beachside toys. Restaurant outlets are large and offer more outdoor seating than indoor.
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Helping pick out new incentive travel destinations is just one piece of many when designing a motivational incentive travel program. Consider reading our step-by-step guide on starting an incentive trip or the nine tips from our incentive travel experts to help improve your current trip.
