Adult-Only, All-Inclusive Resorts with Lazy Rivers
UPDATED June 2024
We have previously reviewed resorts with lazy rivers, but most of them are family-friendly resorts. When I go on vacation, I am not interested in kids splashing by me or racing past me on a river meant to be relaxing. Okay, that may seem harsh, but we had a very frustrating experience at a resort with a lazy river in the family side of the resort.
A true lazy river is continuous (no beginning or end) and has some form of current to keep you moving. This is a real challenge to find in an adult-only resort. There are a number of resorts that say they have a lazy river when it is really the row of connected swim-up rooms without even connecting to a main pool. We do not include these resorts.
The truest lazy river would also include a current that propelled you. But, we have decided to also include pools without the propelling current, since these fundamentally meet the purpose of a lazy river in a resort — at least for us — relaxing while floating or walking from one area of the resort.
The following resorts are not listed in any particular order.
Excellence Playa Mujeres
Excellence Playa Mujeres pampers guests in oversized suites with private garden oases, terrace with plunge pools, or swim-up access. Most have oceanfront views. Unwind by the lazy river or multiple pools, savor gourmet cuisine at world-class restaurants, and soak up the sun on pristine beaches. This all-inclusive paradise caters to every whim, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Quick Facts: 440 rooms, 11 restaurants, 13 bars, 6 pools, lazy river, spa, adults-only.
Excellence Riviera Cancun
This adults-only resort is one of our favorite resorts and is in our top 4 resorts with lazy rivers. This resort has 6 pools, 11 restaurants and 10 bars including swim-up bars. In our stay, the food was amazing, the resorts were beautiful, and the hospitality was exceptional. The entertainment team was engaging, offered all sorts of activities, and kept the main pool lively. But with all the pools it was also easy to find pools to relax and enjoy the warm Mexican sun.
Quick Facts: 437 rooms, 11 restaurants, 13 bars, 6 pools spa, swimup, lazy river, adults-only
Iberostar Selection Rose Hall
This resort offers a luxurious, beachfront haven perfect for couples or adults seeking an all-inclusive escape in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Unwind in spacious suites with stunning ocean views and personalized butler service. Take a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea, or float along the relaxing lazy river surrounded by lush tropical foliage. Savor gourmet meals at a variety of international restaurants, or sip on handcrafted cocktails at swim-up bars. Participate in water sports, challenge yourself at the tennis courts, or tee off on a nearby championship golf course (fees may apply).
Quick Facts: 295 rooms, 6 restaurants, 5 bars, 4 pools, lazy river, spa, adults-only
Excellence Punta Cana
Indulge in sophisticated luxury at the adults-only Excellence Punta Cana, a beachfront paradise in the Dominican Republic. Unwind in spacious ocean-view suites with private Jacuzzis and balconies, perfect for taking in the breathtaking Caribbean vistas. Dive into the refreshing infinity pool overlooking the turquoise waters, or embark on a relaxing journey along the resort’s signature lazy river, winding its way through lush tropical gardens. Savor gourmet cuisine at a variety of à la carte restaurants, or sip on handcrafted cocktails at swim-up bars. For the active traveler, the resort offers water sports, tennis courts, and nearby championship golf courses.
Quick Facts: 461 rooms, 9 restaurants, 11 bars, 4 pools, swimup, lazy river, spa, adults-only
Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa
Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere at Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa, an all-inclusive haven ideal for couples and singles seeking a lively and luxurious escape in the Dominican Republic. Unwind in trendy suites with stunning ocean views or private terraces with plunge pools (in select options). Take a dip in the infinity pool with captivating ocean backdrops, or float along the lazy river, a delightful pathway that winds its way through the resort’s lush tropical foliage. Indulge in delectable international cuisine at a variety of restaurants, or sip on handcrafted cocktails at stylish bars, some located poolside or even in the swim-up bar. At night, the energy transforms as pulsating music fills the air at trendy nightclubs and lively shows.
Quick Facts: 750 rooms, 10 restaurants, 8 bars, 2 pools, lazy river, spa, adults-only
Heaven at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya
Designed for adults seeking a luxurious escape, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya’s Heaven Section offers a haven of tranquility. Spacious rooms with private balconies or swim-up access pamper you, while multiple pools cater to different desires. Float along the lazy river surrounded by tropical foliage, or unwind by the beach with live DJ sets keeping the vibe energetic. Indulge in world-class dining and sip on handcrafted cocktails before electrifying nights at clubs with renowned DJs. This all-inclusive paradise blends luxurious amenities, world-class entertainment, and moments of blissful relaxation by the lazy river.
Quick Facts: 394 rooms, 4 restaurants, 6 bars, 4 pools, spa, lazy river, adults-only
Ocean El Faro El Beso
Immerse yourself in sophisticated luxury for adults only at Ocean El Faro El Beso, a beachfront haven in Punta Cana. Unwind in stylish suites with private balconies or swim-up access, all boasting stunning ocean views. Take a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the turquoise waters, or float along the relaxing lazy river that winds its way through the lush tropical gardens. Savor gourmet cuisine at a variety of on-site à la carte restaurants, or indulge in the exclusive dining options across the wider Ocean El Faro resort complex. With poolside bars, curated entertainment, and the tranquility of the adults-only lazy river, El Beso promises an unforgettable escape in paradise.
Quick Facts: 293 rooms, 1(10) restaurants, 2(12) bars, 2(4) pools, swimup
These next resorts do not have lazy rivers that form a loop, but the quality of the adult experience circling these freeform pools makes our Not Quite Lazy River list.
Valentin Imperial Maya
Located on Playa del Secreto Beach, this resort is one of our favorites and consistently excellent every time we go. Spacious suites with private balconies, multiple pools including a lazy river, a swim-up bar, and world-class dining promise an unforgettable escape, while the surrounding Mayan jungle adds a touch of exotic beauty. The river is quiet and you can hang out under the bridges for some shade.
Quick Facts: 540 suites, 7 restaurants, 11 bars, 3 pools, spa, Adults-only.
El Dorado Royale
This 600 foot long pool is the inner circle to the swim-up rooms and connects to the center pool. El Dorado Royale boasts a staggering fourteen pools across the resort, catering to every mood. From lively swim-up bars for socializing to tranquil spots for relaxation, there’s even a natural saltwater pool for an ocean-like experience. Guests in swim-up suites enjoy private pool access from their patio, making El Dorado Royale a paradise for poolside lounging under the Mexican sun.
Quick Facts: 476 suites, 13 restaurants, 9 bars, 6 pools, 2 spas. Adults-only.
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