Travel's Best All-Inclusive Resorts 2015

Our recommendations for the best all-inclusive experiences for 2015.

By: Kwin Mosby

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Get the new year started off right and unplug at one of our recommendations for Travel's Best All-Inclusive Resorts 2015. From the rustic Ranch at Rock Creek to the luxe Parrot Cay and Como Shambhala Retreat, our coveted list has something for every type of traveler.

Check out our previous list, Travel's Best All-Inclusive Resorts 2014, if you're looking for more travel inspiration for a worry-free getaway.

Blackberry Farm

People may not think of Tennessee as a typical spot for an all-inclusive vacation, but Blackberry Farm is exceptional. “This secluded Smoky Mountains escape is one of the top destinations in the country for foodies and outdoorsy types, and the delicious farm-to-table cuisine is included in the price,” says Kelsey Blodget, managing editor of Oyster.com. It’s a working farm, and activities include horseback riding, fly-fishing and tastings at the on-site brewery.

Carlisle Bay, Antigua

Carlisle Bay, a CampbellGray Hotel and one of the Leading Hotels of the World, is an intimate, comfortable and contemporary resort on the Caribbean island of Antigua. Tucked between a tranquil bay to the front and cascading rain forest behind, it offers ample opportunity for exploration and adventure or simply lying back and relaxing, enjoying the sun’s warm rays.

“Each of the 82 suites, ranging from studio to 3-bedroom, boasts ocean views and amenities that will have you yearning for nothing, other than more time to spend in paradise,” says Susan B. Barnes, travel writer for TravlinGirl.com. Carlisle Bay’s amenities include the Blue Spa, a state-of-the-art health club, a multimedia screening room, 3 bars, 4 restaurants, a pool and excursions such as deep-sea fishing, golfing and yachting.

Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort, Antigua

Christopher Columbus discovered Jumby Bay in 1493, and today, guests can enjoy all the pleasures this island paradise has to offer by staying at the all-inclusive Jumby Bay Resort. Located on a 300-acre private island, where cars are forbidden, this resort has 5 places to dine; the Sense Spa with breathtaking views of the Caribbean; an 82-foot, family-friendly pool; an oceanfront infinity pool; and luxe accommodations that range from rooms and suites to villas and beach homes. “This resort is perfect for couples or families and a little more distinctive than your typical Sandals or other all-inclusive resort,” says Anthony Melchiorri, hotel fixer on Travel Channel’s Hotel Impossible.

Marival Resort & Suites Nuevo Vallarta

Located 16 miles from Puerto Vallarta, the Marival Resort & Suites is the place to go if you’re looking for an all-inclusive getaway. The resort has 495 luxe rooms and suites spread out among 14 buildings. “Don’t miss out on the great deals,” says Kwin Mosby. “Book an all-inclusive room or suite and receive a $250 airfare credit or a spa credit. Bring the family, and you can cut 50% off the regular rate.” Talk to the concierge about an array of fun activities in the area, such as a 4x4 mountain adventure, a Sierra Madres excursion, a swim with dolphins, golfing at Vista Vallarta, a canopy tour above Banderas Bay or a sunset cruise to the private cove, Las Caletas.

One&Only Palmilla, Los Cabos, Mexico

“This is one of the top all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon,” says Kelsey Blodget. And when they say it’s all-inclusive, they mean it. Guest won’t believe the numerous unexpected extras are included – from luggage unpacking to 24-hour butler service to snacks delivered to the rooms. Gorgeous room decor incorporates traditional Mexican accents, and some have private pools with ocean views.

Parrot Cay and Como Shambhala Retreat

Located on a private island, Parrot Cay by Como rests on 1,000 acres and a mile-long beach. “For those looking for a secluded, uber-decadent getaway in the Caribbean, this is hands-down one of the best options out there,” says Kelsey Blodget. This all-inclusive resort is a 30-minute boat ride from Providenciales in Turks and Caicos, with a jaw-dropping beach, a world-renowned spa, free yoga classes and breathtaking ocean-view villas. The food is incredibly high quality, and since the resort has a wellness focus, healthy options are available, too.

The Ranch at Rock Creek, Philipsburg, MT

Go glamping at the Ranch at Rock Creek. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this ranch provides guests with the option to stay in a luxe tent, a canvas cabin, a private log home or 1 of 9 rooms at the Granite Lodge. All rates include the regionally inspired meals and drinks served in the lodge’s dining room, the Blue Canteen and the Silver Dollar Saloon.

You’ll need sustenance to participate in the wide array of activities available at the ranch, such as mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, fly-fishing and clay shooting. “This is my kind of all-inclusive getaway,” says Kwin Mosby, managing producer for TravelChannel.com. “After a long day outdoors, I’d recommend a customized massage, body treatment or facial in the Granite Spa.”

Red Mountain Resort, St. George, UT

Photo by: Kimberly Cornelison

Kimberly Cornelison

Bright red rocks blend perfectly into the early-morning sky as you awake in the beauty of St. George, UT. Red Mountain Resort is the perfect place to relax and renew your spirit, offering guests luxurious spa treatments, weekend wellness retreats, outdoor excursions such as canyoneering, and much more. This resort has something for everyone — from hiking in state and national parks such as Snow Canyon State Park to a relaxing Zen yoga retreat or a visit to a Navajo reservation. “If you go, be sure to visit the Sagestone Spa, which offers nature-inspired treatments using indigenous desert botanicals and locally sourced, mineral-rich muds and clays,” says Shane Green.

The Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real, Punta Cana

“This resort is one of my favorites,” says Anthony Melchiorri. “The white sand of Bavaro Beach, which was recognized by UNESCO, is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world.” In addition to the beach, this resort has a full-service Yhi Spa with a fully equipped gym, 3 pools, a family concierge, the Kids Zone (for children ages 1-12) and 2 a la carte restaurants. The Cocotal Golf Course & Country Club and Palma Real Shopping Village are only 2 minutes away. Movie nights, beach volleyball classes, salsa lessons, finger-painting, pizza-making classes and live music performances are just a few activities and workshops available to guests. Don’t miss out on occasional deals that allow kids to stay for free.

Travaasa, Austin, TX

When it comes to healthy getaways, there are plenty of destinations from which to choose, but few can hold a candle to Travaasa, outside Austin. Perched atop one of the hills in Texas Hill Country, the resort offers guests 5 pillars of experience: culture, fitness, wellness, culinary and adventure. “Travaasa’s greatest asset may just be its staff, who go above and beyond to make sure each of their guests have experiences that will make memories to last a lifetime,” says Susan B. Barnes.