Tout-inclus-2400×1260-04

The 12 best destinations for all-inclusive vacations in the sun this winter

To the point To help you choose your vacation in the South, we've selected twelve destinations ideal for an all-inclusive winter trip.

In winter, all-inclusive holidays are an easy way to unwind and create unforgettable memories in the sun. From the trendiest to the most practical and affordable, here are some suggestions for destinations that will satisfy your desire for the beach and exotic cocktails!

In 2023, with airline flight availability vastly improved compared to the pandemic years, it’s worth investigating which destination will best meet your expectations, before looking at the vacation packages offered by Air Canada VacationsSunwing Vacations or Club Med for example.

Tulum – Pixabay

Popular destinations include Cuba, the Dominican Republic and Mexico, which are ideal for an all-inclusive vacation. While some lesser-known exotic countries also offer interesting all-inclusive accommodation.

It all depends on your criteria, whether you’re looking for a pristine white sand beach, an affordable price, a relaxing trip or a lively destination, with adults or with the family… There’s something for everyone!

Tips for booking an all-inclusive trip to the South at a low price

Thanks to points and rewards programs, you can afford to travel better and for less!

There are simple tricks to reduce the all-inclusive bill, get excellent travel insurance, or get your vacation off to a good start in an airport VIP lounge.

These complementary articles on all-inclusive travel savings explain how to get your toes in the sand on a budget.

For example, the welcome offer from RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card offers you many ways to pay for a flight with points, whether by redeeming your points for travel or by transferring them to an airline partner program that will take you to the sun and the beach!

Trendy all-inclusive travel destinations

1. Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda continues to grow in popularity as a premier sun destination. The island, located some sixty kilometres north of Guadeloupe, offers divine beaches, charming towns and blue water like nowhere else.

We also love Antigua and Barbuda for its gastronomy, spectacular scenery and beautiful capital, Antigua, with its harbour and lively center full of restaurants and inspiring architecture. For your next photo session, head to Barbuda, a secluded and picturesque town, to bask in the beauty of the pink sand beaches.

Among the interesting all-inclusives to Antigua and Barbuda:

  • Hammock Cove
  • Carlisle Bay
  • Coco Bay
Antigua – Pixabay

2. Samaná, Dominican Republic

Less well known than Punta Cana and Puerto Plata, the Samaná region of the Dominican Republic is greatly appreciated for its more natural side, superb panoramas, and generous outdoor activities.

Several activities are within the reach of tourists who book at one of the region’s all-inclusives, for example:

  • El Limon Falls
  • A four-wheel drive tour of the hinterland
  • Cayo Levantado, known as Bacardi Island
  • Los Haitises National Park
  • The charming capital Santa Barbara de Samana, Las Terrenas and its beaches
  • Whale watching between December and April
Samana – Crédit Marjorie D. Lafond

3. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is the most popular all-inclusive destination in the Caribbean. Initially, the area had only a handful of resorts along Bavaro Beach. But today, what is called the Greater Punta Cana extends from Cap Cana in the southeast to Uvero Alto in the north.

From family getaways with young children, to adults-only retreats, to golf getaways with friends, there is no shortage of all-inclusive accommodations in Punta Cana.

This sunny destination is undoubtedly one of the most easily accessible, thanks to its generous choice of resorts and daily flights.

Plage Juanillo à Cap Cana – Crédit Marjorie D. Lafond

4. The Bahamas

Winter is one of the best seasons to visit the Bahamas. While temperatures are dropping in much of the world, the sun continues to shine on the archipelago.

Considered by many to be the most romantic place on earth, the countless islands of the Bahamas offer crystal clear coastal waters, luxurious accommodations and a vibrant culture.

Among the all-inclusives in the Bahamas that offer good value for money are the :

  • Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach
  • Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayan Resort
Bahamas – Pixabay

5. Cayo Cruz, Cuba

Are you planning to return to Cuba soon and would like to discover a new part of the country?

Take a look at Cayo Cruz, a small islet halfway between Cayo Coco and Santa Lucia, which entered the Cuban tourism industry in 2019. This new destination offers almost brand new hotels, heavenly beaches and activities such as :

  • sport fishing ;
  • a visit to a marine park;
  • or the charming town of Moron, with its sugar mill and cigar factory.

The two all-inclusive offers in Cayo Cruz are the Valentín Cayo Cruz and the Iberostar Selection Esmeralda.

Cayo Cruz – Iberostar Selection Esmeralda

6. Varadero, Cuba

Varadero is home to Cuba’s largest concentration of all-inclusive hotels. And for good reason: these resorts are located on the edge of a magnificent white sand beach with turquoise waters several kilometres long.

From Varadero, you can visit the country’s capital, Havana, which is worth a visit. Tourists also enjoy the center of Varadero, with its restaurants, lively bars and stores.

Due to the popularity of the destination, there are several direct flights per week to the destination and the prices are often attractive.

Varadero – Pixabay

7. Aruba

The island of Aruba, also known as Happy Island, lies not far from Venezuela. It is appreciated by tourists for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, but also for its very favorable climate. In fact, it’s said that it almost never rains in Aruba!

Destination activities include :

  • The California Lighthouse, a lighthouse with breathtaking views
  • Aruba’s natural swimming pool and butterfly watching.
  • Observe the majestic pink flamingos for which the island is famous

Aruba boasts several all-inclusive, including the Barcelo Aruba and Holiday Inn Resort Aruba.

Aruba – Kiril Georgiev – Unsplash

8. Costa Mujeres, Mexico

Not far from bustling Cancún, Costa Mujeres is an increasingly popular destination in the Mexican Caribbean.

This resort benefits from the recent all-inclusive construction with a modern and sophisticated look. It borders a long and beautiful white sand beach just in front of Isla Mujeres. You can quickly go to the other side of your resort to discover this island, which is very popular with tourists.

TRS Coral Hotel à Costa Mujeres – Crédit Marjorie D. Lafond

9. Cancun and the Riviera Maya

The reputation of the Cancún and Riviera Maya region is well established. In recent months, Cancún airport has continued to post spectacular tourist growth.

No wonder, when you consider that many of the best resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean can be found here, such as :

  • Cancún
  • Tulum
  • Cozumel
  • Playa del Carmen
  • Costa Mujeres
  • Riviera Cancún

And what about the choice of activities? Idyllic natural parks with cenotes, scuba diving, exceptional Mayan sites and even luxury boutiques for the shopping enthusiast.

Le Blanc Spa à Cancun – Crédit Marjorie D. Lafond

10. Barbados

Barbados has become a destination of choice for travellers looking for a winter vacation in the sun.

The island is known for its long sandy beaches and clear, calm waters on the west coast. It is also a paradise for surfers, as the sea enjoys beautiful waves on the eastern side of the island.

Its capital, Bridgetown, offers charming boutique stores, some upmarket on Broad Street, a wide range of activities, including boating and fishing, and a lively nightlife on Baxter’s Road.

There are several all-inclusive on the island of Barbados:

Barbade – Tom Jur- Unsplash

11. Jamaica

Jamaica has much to offer travellers looking for a change of scenery: rich tropical vegetation, heavenly beaches, majestic rivers and beautiful waterfalls. Visitors to the island should explore at least one of the country’s waterfalls on a day trip, including the popular Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios.

We also like Jamaica for its exotic dishes. There’s nothing quite like eating fresh jerk cooked on pimento wood or the taste of an ice-cold Red Stripe beer on a hot summer’s day!

The all-inclusive offer is very generous in Jamaica, and there is something for everyone. Among the sure values:

Plage du Moon Palace Jamaica – Crédit Marjorie D. Lafond

12. Costa Rica

In recent years, Costa Rica has gained popularity as a vacation destination of choice and for good reason. Whether you’re looking for adventure, family activities, fine dining, luxury hotels, low-cost B&Bs or all-inclusives, you’ll find it all in a unique natural setting!

Costa Rica is known for its magnificent national parks. Tourists can enjoy outdoor activities such as rafting, canyoning, cave tubing and zip-lining. It is also one of the best places in the world to see exotic wildlife such as macaws, monkeys, sea turtles and adorable sloths.

Among the most popular all-inclusive in Costa Rica:

Costa Rica – Pixabay

Bottom Line

As you’ve seen, there’s no shortage of southern destinations to choose from when it comes to all-inclusive vacations. Which one do you dream of visiting this year?

Come to discuss that topic in our Facebook Group!
Marjorie
Marjorie has three passions in life: writing, travel and the world of wellness. The last decade has been full of exploration for her! Her travels have taken her all over the world, from Central America to Asia, Europe and Africa. This former travel consultant loves to inspire us and share her best discoveries. She is also the author of several novels and guides.

Suggested Reading