For years, Americans looking for a true “wristband-and-cocktail” all-inclusive experience had two choices: renew their passports for the Caribbean or settle for domestic resorts that charged for every burger and soda. That changed in January 2026 with the official debut of the voco Sandpiper All-Inclusive Resort in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
Following a massive $50 million transformation, this property isn’t just a renovation of the old Club Med—it’s the launch of IHG’s first-ever all-inclusive resort in the United States. Here is why this riverfront escape is the most talked-about Florida opening of the year. Note that this is located not on the ocean but on the Sanit Lucia River which flows into the ocean.
1. A Total Transformation: From “Dated” to “voco Chic”
The site was previously home to Club Med Sandpiper Bay, a beloved but aging sports-focused resort. The new owners, along with the voco brand, have stripped away the neon plastic and “camp” feel, replacing it with a minimalist, modern aesthetic.
The resort now features 335 redesigned rooms and suites. The vibe is “clean and breezy,” featuring white-washed wood, soft yellow accents (voco’s signature color), and floor-to-ceiling windows.
- Space to Breathe: Standard rooms are a generous 495 square feet, but the real winners are the two-bedroom family suites (730 sq. ft.) that offer walk-out patio access—perfect for families who want to go from the living room to the pool in ten seconds.
2. The “True” All-Inclusive Model
The most significant change is the move toward a premium, transparent pricing model. Your nightly rate now covers:
- Global Gastronomy: Under the direction of Executive Chef Mark Jones (who brings Michelin-starred experience), the resort has ditched the “mystery meat” buffets for seven unique concepts.
- Riverside Market: The main culinary hub featuring live-action stations. Think Tandoor ovens for fresh naan, a Moroccan tagine corner, and a Neapolitan pizza station.
- Lucie’s & Solara: Beach-style “container concepts” serving high-end street food like zesty mahi-mahi tacos and savory sliders right by the water.
- Unlimited Sips: While some U.S. “all-inclusives” only include house beer and wine, voco includes a full selection of spirits and creative cocktails across four bars, including the stunning Sunset Bar overlooking the St. Lucie River.
3. Sports & Recreation: Keeping the Legend Alive
The property has always been famous for its sports academies, and voco has doubled down on this. Through the RPS Sports Academy, guests have access to:
- Pickleball & Tennis: Professional-grade courts with instruction available for those looking to sharpen their game.
- The Marina Lifestyle: Because the resort sits on the tranquil St. Lucie River rather than the choppy Atlantic, it is a haven for water sports. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are all included. For an extra fee, you can rent jet skis or book a fishing charter from the on-site marina.
- Fitness: A state-of-the-art gym equipped with Peloton bikes and Life Fitness gear, plus daily waterfront yoga and nature walks.
4. Pools for Every Vibe
The resort design intelligently separates the “energy” zones so that different types of travelers aren’t on top of each other:
- The Main Pool: The heart of the action with music, games, and the “Rixy-style” kids’ activities.
- The Splash Pad: A brand-new area specifically for the youngest travelers, keeping the chaos (and the joy) in one spot.
- The Adults-Only Infinity Pool: Located at the edge of the property with unobstructed views of the river. This is where you go for a quiet cocktail, a book, and a complete lack of splashing.
5. Why It’s the Smart Play for 2026
Voco Sandpiper is filling a massive gap in the market. It’s located 45 minutes north of Palm Beach and within two hours of four international airports, making it incredibly accessible for those who want to skip the customs lines at the airport.
More importantly for travelers, it is the premier way to use IHG One Rewards points for a domestic all-inclusive stay. During its 2026 “Grand Opening” phase, the resort has been offering “Book Early and Save” deals with up to 35% off, making it a high-value alternative to the increasingly expensive resorts in Mexico or the Bahamas.
The Verdict
If you want a white-sand ocean beach directly at your doorstep, you’ll still need to drive 7 minutes to nearby Jensen Beach. But if you want a stress-free, high-activity, “wallet-free” vacation where the food is actually good and the sports are world-class, Voco Sandpiper is the new king of the Florida Treasure Coast.
What do you think? Is having an all-inclusive resort on a river the same experience as a resort on the coast? Check the best rates!
