Special Needs Resorts

Autism – Intellectual Disabilities

Many resorts are finally realizing the importance of providing an inclusive and comfortable environment to guests with intellectual disabilities, autism and related disabilities. This list, however, is focused only on those resorts that have completed sufficient training of their staff, and put together appropriate programs, to become certified by either of the 2 bodies that provide autism certification.

International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) was formed over 20 years ago and provides cognitive disorder training and certification around the globe. IBCCES provides evidence-based training and certification programs created in conjunction with its board of clinical and subject matter experts and autistic individuals to provide professionals with a better understanding of autism and other neurodivergencies.

The founder of Autism Double-Checked has a child with autism and realized that vacation time is challenging and often not restful. By providing training and certification levels to resorts, both the person with autism and their caretakers will benefit from a resort who understands autism and is equipped with the tools and programs to meet their needs. They offer 3 levels of certification based on the level of training and competency demonstrated by the resort.

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  • Beaches Negril Resort

    Beaches Resorts Autism Certification

Beaches Resorts

Beaches (Sandals International) is a resort chain that takes this seriously, holding the Advanced Certified Autism Center (ACAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This makes Beaches the only hospitality company globally to hold the rigorous ACAC certification, demonstrating its commitment to accommodating Autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors. View more information on Beaches Resorts here.

Resorts: Beaches Negril, Jamaica, Beaches Ocho Rios, Jamaica, and Beaches Turks & Caicos

Karisma Hotels & Resorts

  • Azul Beach Resort Riviera Cancun, MX
  • Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun, MX
  • Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, MX
  • Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, DR
  • Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, DR

Royal Caribbean Ships

Through a partnership with Autism on the Seas make select sailings autism friendly. While at sea, volunteers help with care and provide respite. Participants also have access to accommodations that should make cruising easier, such as expedited boarding, a private muster drill, priority dinner seating, private activities with fewer crowds, and reserved show seating.

Lomas Hospitality Group

These resorts are certified by Autism Double-Checked, at the highest level of certification. See more information about these resorts here.

United States Hotels and Resorts

The following hotels in the United States have become certified as Autism-Double Checked:

Virgin Hotels

In addition to all staff being trained, the hotel also offers a hanging alarm inside the room that will go off if a child tries to get out of the room without the family knowing. Hotels:

Great Wolf Lodges

These lodges have the highest certification by IBCCES as Certified Autism Centers:

Legoland Resorts

These resorts have the highest certification by IBCCES as Certified Autism Centers:

Would you like some help in planning your vacation? Let Young At Heart Destinations find you the best resort that meets your unique needs!