All-inclusive resorts are the perfect solution for travelers looking for a hassle-free vacation. When you don’t have to worry about the bill, you can really unplug.
Thankfully, US citizens don’t need a passport to experience some of the world’s best all-inclusive resorts. There are wonderful options throughout the country and its territories, from a cliff-top adults-only resort in California to a world-class wellness retreat in Arizona. I’ve gathered the nine best all-inclusive vacations, no passport needed.
How to find an all-inclusive vacation, no passport needed?
As long as you choose an all-inclusive resort in the US, you won’t need a passport, but you will need a valid ID to fly and check in.
Top family-friendly all-inclusive
Families return to Tanque Verde Ranch in Tucson year after year for an authentic Dude Ranch experience at one reasonable, all-inclusive rate. At the historic guest ranch, surrounded by desert and mountains dotted with saguaros, rates include accommodations in traditional adobe-style structures, three daily meals (from pancake breakfasts to cowboy cookouts), trail rides, kids’ activities and more.
After a packed day of riding lessons, fishing and hiking, I rather enjoyed a prickly pear margarita and a coffee-rubbed pork chop.
Top luxury all-inclusive
Located in Santa Barbara’s oak-tree covered foothills, San Ysidro Ranch is one of the most luxurious resorts in the US. John and Jackie Kennedy even honeymooned there. In-the-know travelers and Hollywood A-listers love the property’s historic structures and easy, all-inclusive policy.
I love that the accommodations are in romantic cottages furnished with fireplaces and hand-picked antiques. Complimentary meals of pan-seared Santa Barbara abalone and steak Diane flambéed tableside are served in the 19th-century Stonehouse.
Top wellness all-inclusive
My favorite wellness retreat in the country is also an all-inclusive resort, where treatments, outdoor activities, accommodations and meals are included in the rate. The fact you don’t have to worry about the cost of dinners and reiki sessions (the only thing that’s not included is alcohol), helps you relax and take in the beauty of Boynton Canyon with its sheer, red rock walls and captivating rock formations.
Top seaside all-inclusive
Set on 160 acres of rugged Central California coastline, Alila Ventana Big Sur is the most luxurious of back-to-nature retreats. Stays include meals, non-alcoholic beverages, wellness programming and curated experiences like guided hiking tours.
The Excursion Outpost also has complimentary gear for guests to use, like coolers and backpacks. Treatments at Spa Alila and experiences like astrophotography, where guests learn to capture the night sky were a highlight for me.
Top mountain all-inclusive
Set in an 1800s ghost town, Dunton Hot Springs is one of the most unique resorts in the US. It also offers an unforgettable all-inclusive experience. Soaking in the property’s springs, known to improve circulation, is the main draw. After hiking in the mountains, guests can take the waters in a restored bathhouse, at several outdoor pools or at the source.
Rates at Dunton Hot Springs include meals, activities, cabin accommodations and all the soaking your heart could desire.
Top island all-inclusive
The adults-only Little Palm Island Resort & Spa specializes in seclusion and romance, at one all-inclusive rate. It’s a true island paradise, with palm trees swaying in the breeze and large bungalow accommodations that lead directly to sugar-white sand and turquoise waters.
The culinary program is a real highlight. Packages include breakfast for two and multi-course lunches and dinners featuring fresh local seafood. A spa credit is also included so you can experience true R&R.
Top outdoorsy all-inclusive
At Castle Hot Springs, a historic resort in Arizona, the meaning of all-inclusive goes well beyond the typical food and beverage inclusions. Itineraries are also crafted for guests’ pre-arrival to ensure a relaxing and well-planned vacation.
As a traveler who has experienced many top-notch all-inclusives around the world, the cuisine at Castle Hot Springs stands out as being a cut above. Tasting menus might include a salad of farm greens, broccolini, charred lemon and brioche dust.
Top tropical all-inclusive
Located on a golden stretch of sand near the El Yunque Rainforest, resort and nature lovers will fall hard for Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Beach and Golf Resort. At one reasonable rate, guests can enjoy the vast property’s three swimming pools, spa and wellness center, as well as food and beverage credits. The Wyndham is only a 30-minute drive from Laguna Grand, a rare “glow in the dark” bioluminescent bay, and a quick ride to Ponce and Old San Juan.
Top countryside all-inclusive
At intimate Twin Farms in Barnard Vermont, guests are immersed in a countryside fairytale with just 28 cottages, treehouses and suites and vast acreage to explore. Both the included meals in the dining room and the private dinners for two are delicious and romantic (Twin Farms is adults-only). I loved the fact that I could ski on the resort’s private mountain in the winter and borrow bikes and pack a picnic during summer sojourns.
Bottom line
Stop dreaming and start planning your next all-inclusive vacation, no passport needed. If you’re ready to book your flight, we’ve got you covered with information about airline classes, the dos and don’ts of drinking on a plane, how to navigate standby flights, and what to do before the flight.
FAQs
No passport is needed if you choose an all-inclusive resort in one of the 50 states, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, or American Samoa.
Many US territories have excellent all-inclusive resorts, including Puerto Rico.
