The Adults Only Hotel Hunt… And Why It Shouldn’t Be This Hard

You Just Want a Kid Free Vacation—Why Is That So Complicated?

Booking an adults only vacation should be simple. You’re not asking for much—just a serene, luxury filled getaway without the soundtrack of screaming toddlers, snack time meltdowns, or an unsupervised eight year old launching himself into the pool like he’s training for the Olympics. But somehow, despite your late night scrolling, obsessive review reading, and aggressive Instagram stalking, you keep running into the same problem: “Adults-only” doesn’t always mean what you think it does.

The Sneaky "Adults Only" Loophole No One Warns You About

Here’s the truth: Not All “Adults-Only” Resorts Are Created Equal. The term “adults only” is as loosely defined as “business casual”—which, depending on who you ask, could mean anything from a blazer to yoga pants. Some resorts take “adults-only” seriously—no kids, no exceptions, not even a rogue sippy cup in sight. Others? Well, let’s just say their definition of “adults” is as questionable as a hotel’s “continental breakfast”—technically there, but not quite what you were expecting.

The problem isn’t that one version is better than the other—it’s that resorts aren’t always upfront about which type they are. That’s where things get frustrating. The travel industry loves a good marketing loophole, and unless you know what to look for, you might book what you think is a peaceful, child free retreat—only to realize that while they don’t allow babies, a group of preteens filming the latest Tik Tok dance? Totally acceptable.

The Four Main Types of "Adults Only" Resorts (Because One Definition Would Be Too Easy)

First, there are 10+ and 16+ resorts, also known as “adults-preferred”. This is the resort industry’s way of saying, “No, there won’t be toddlers throwing spaghetti at dinner, but a 12 year old might be next to you at the spa getting a mani-pedi.” Expect a relatively peaceful vibe, fewer families, and mostly well behaved kids who won’t be setting off the fire alarm. These work well if you don’t mind a little background chatter but still want to avoid the full blown chaos of a family resort.

Then you’ve got 18+ resorts, which are true adults only—no kids, no teens, no exceptions. These resorts are where you can finally breathe easy knowing you won’t accidentally step on a rogue action figure in the hallway. Expect luxury, tranquility, and a crowd that knows how to appreciate a handcrafted cocktail without a side of Goldfish crackers.

For those who take their kid-free peace seriously, there’s the 21+ category—the absolute gold standard of adult vacations. No children, no college spring breakers, just a crowd that values good wine, good service, and zero chaos. If your idea of relaxation includes Champagne and Michelin-star dining with absolutely no risk of hearing “Mom, watch this!” from across the pool, this is where you want to be.

How Resorts Get Away with the “Adults Only” Bait and Switch

Even within these categories, resorts find ways to get creative with the definition. Some places advertise as "adults only" but only certain sections of the resort are actually kid free—so while your infinity pool might be peaceful, one wrong turn and you’re in the middle of a family friendly foam party. Others enforce their adults only rule most of the year—except during school breaks, when suddenly, exceptions are made for VIP guests who just happen to bring their entire extended family.

Then there’s the fine print. Some resorts promise a “serene and sophisticated environment” but still allow children in select areas, like restaurants and lounges—because nothing sets the mood for a romantic dinner quite like a teenager fighting with their mom over their screen time.

Want a Kid Free Vacation Without the Fine Print Headache? That’s Where I Come In.

You shouldn’t have to play travel agent, lawyer, and detective just to make sure your vacation is actually what you paid for. That’s my job.

I don’t just rely on a resort’s marketing fluff—I know which hotels actually enforce their adults only policies, and which ones are using the term like a trendy buzzword. Whether you want a 10+ boutique hideaway, an 18+ all inclusive retreat, or a 21+ ultra luxurious sanctuary where the loudest thing you’ll hear is the ocean, I handpick the perfect adults only experience based on exactly what you’re looking for.

And I don’t just book hotels — I take care of everything from flights, transfers, excursions, spa/restaurant reservations—so you don’t have to lift a finger. And because I work directly with these properties, I can secure VIP perks that most travelers don’t even know exist.

So, If you’re tired of scrolling through vague resort descriptions, decoding misleading marketing, and hoping your “adults only” trip doesn’t turn into a surprise family resort experience, let’s make this easy.

Click the button below to get started planning your perfect adults only getaway.