All Inclusive Resort Drinks: What’s Really Included?

When you hear all inclusive resort drinks, the promise that every beverage you touch comes at no extra cost while you’re staying at a resort. Also known as all‑inclusive beverage package, it aims to let guests sip without constantly checking the bill. The all‑inclusive resort itself bundles lodging, meals, and often a selection of drinks into one upfront price. But the beverage policy—what’s covered, what’s limited—varies wildly between properties. And the phrase free drinks can hide extra fees for premium brands or specialty cocktails.

All inclusive resort drinks are a big selling point for many holiday‑makers, but understanding the fine print can save you a lot of surprise charges.

Most resorts define the package by three simple triples: all inclusive resort drinks encompass unlimited soft drinks, include a selection of local wines, and offer house‑crafted cocktails during set hours. The water, juice, coffee, and tea are almost always truly unlimited. Wine and beer are usually limited to house labels, and premium bottles often trigger a surcharge. Cocktails are typically available only during lunch and early dinner; ordering after 9 pm can lead to a per‑drink charge. Knowing these boundaries helps you plan when to order a fancy cocktail versus sticking to the included options.

Hidden Costs and How to Dodge Them

When the brochure says “free drinks,” it usually means “free if you follow the policy.” Premium spirits, top‑shelf wines, and branded bottled water fall outside the standard list. Some resorts charge a “premium drink fee” that adds $5–$10 per cocktail. Others impose a per‑hour limit on how many drinks you can have at the pool bar. Tipping is another invisible cost; staff often expect a small tip for cocktail service even when the drink is covered. A quick scan of the resort’s beverage menu before you settle in can reveal which items are truly inclusive.

To stretch your budget, stick to the included items during peak hours and save premium drinks for special occasions. Request the “house” version of a cocktail—often a simple swap of a cheaper spirit that still tastes great. Bring a reusable water bottle; many resorts refill it for free, saving you from pricey bottled water. If you love wine, ask the sommelier for a glass of the house label rather than a named vintage. These small moves keep your tab at zero while you still enjoy a full bar experience.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear picture of what all inclusive resort drinks really mean, the typical limits you’ll face, and a handful of tricks to avoid surprise charges. Below you’ll find articles that dive deeper into specific resorts, compare drink policies across regions, and share real‑world guest experiences, giving you everything you need to sip confidently on your next getaway.