Though 2018 may be fast approaching, we still have some summertime left, and what better time is there to explore a warm-weather destination than the fall and winter? So, here is a roundup of new all-inclusive resorts throughout the Caribbean, Central America and Mexico that opened and are set to open this year:
Bahamas
Over in the Bahamas, the 250-room, 12-floor Warwick Paradise Island opened this year. Guests here have access to five dining options, two bars, a fitness center, a tour desk offering sightseeing options and the trademark 10,000 square foot sea terrace.
Cayman Islands
The only opening in the Cayman Islands this year was a soft-opening of Margaritaville Beach Resort Grand Cayman in the heart of the mainstream Grand Cayman island back in February following a multi-million dollar renovation project. However, as Travel Agent learned in an exclusive interview with Rosa Harris, director of tourism for the Cayman Islands, the beach destination is eyeing a number of potential partners for the ultimate goal of opening their first all-inclusive resort on the island.
Harris said she would like to see the first all-inclusive resort in the Cayman Islands to be on the lesser known island of Cayman Brac to "round out" the country's tourism offerings, though there is also a vision for another all-inclusive on Grand Cayman.
Dominican Republic
At the spring break destination of Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, Playa Hotels & Resorts welcomed the dual luxury resort, the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana and the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana. Across the 750-room, 40-acre beach resort, the Hyatt Zilara provides adults with an adults-only space, while the Hyatt Ziva is suitable for guests of all ages.
Jamaica
Though the Azul Beach Resort Sensatori Jamaica by Karisma technically opened a few years ago, Karisma reintroduced the resort this year with full renovations. Now the resort, located beachfront on Negril’s Seven Mile Beach has 149 premium suites as well as several restaurants and bars.
The most recent, over-21 clothing-optional Blue Diamond Resort opened in Grand Lido Negril, Jamaica this past February. Its 26 ocean-facing suites have butler service, rain shower heads and personal terraces—ideal for couples looking to travel au naturel.
Just opened this spring, the 407-room Royalton Negril debuted with eight bars and eight restaurants as well as a Diamond Club wing and a 166-room Hideaway at Royalton Negril for adults.
Mexico
Many new beachfront resorts debuted this year in Mexico—with a few more on the horizon. This past March, the Riviera Maya UNICO 20°87° resort (the name referring to its geographic coordinates) opened its 448 guestrooms, wellness center, spa, five restaurants, six bars and anfitrión (personalized host) service to the public.
Also in the Riviera Maya, set for a December 2017 opening, the Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Riviera Maya will occupy a stretch of beach just north of Playa Del Carmen with its three dining venues, a luxury spa and a gym.
Closed in the fall of 2016 due to extensive renovations, the adult-themed Temptation Resort & Spa Cancun is set for a grand reopening this coming fall, with upgrades to guest rooms, restaurants and spa.
Notably, the Mexican island of Cozumel, The Westin Cozumel opened its doors on San Juan Beach in March. The all-inclusive resort is the only new resort to open on the island this year.
For the eco-minded traveler, the Hotel Xcaret is set for a December 2017 opening as well. It is the first hotel to hold an EarthCheck certification for planning and design; set within the grounds of Xcaret Park, the all-inclusive will have 900 suites grouped in five different categories.
On the Pacific Coast, the Chileno Bay Resort & Residences opened this February; accommodations include 60 guest rooms, 32 villas, private pools and a holistic spa. Los Cabos proved to be an all-inclusive hot spot this year as well. Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort, Los Cabos opened just this June and Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos is set to open this fall.
Other expected openings in Los Cabos include the Puerto Los Cabos Resort on the Sea of Cortez this summer, the Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos in late 2017, the Grand Solmar at Rancho San Lucas Resort in late 2017, Nobu Hotel Los Cabos this winter, and Montage Los Cabos next spring.
If one is looking to get away from the beaches and instead visit Mexico’s colonial cities, the new Rosewood Puebla, with its 78 guestrooms and suites is a prime location for those looking to explore Mexico’s history and culture in the city of Puebla. Four Points by Sheraton Puebla also debuted this past June in the historically rich city.
Saint Lucia
On the isle of St. Lucia, Royalton aims to provide for both families and adults alike. The 352-room Royalton Saint Lucia--opened this past February--has splash pads, waterslides as well as supervised kids’ and teens’ clubs. Adults seeking a quieter getaway however can stay at the 104-room Hideaway at Royalton Saint Lucia, which has private infinity pools, yoga on the beach and mixology classes.
Turks and Caicos
On the Long Bay of the archipelago nation of Turks and Caicos, The Shore Club Turks and Caicos opened with 106 ocean view suites and six luxury villas. It’s the first and, so far, the only development on Long Bay, and it’s geared for the active, wellness-inspired travelers.