Unlimited Drinks on All‑Inclusive Resorts: What’s Really Included?

When you book an all‑inclusive resort is a property that bundles accommodation, meals, activities and most drinks into a single upfront price, the idea of endless cocktails feels almost magical. But does the term really mean you can keep the glasses coming without a single extra charge?

Quick Takeaways

• Most resorts include standard unlimited drinks such as house wines, beers, soft drinks and basic spirits.
• Premium brands, top‑shelf liquors and certain cocktail mixes often carry a surcharge.
• Time limits, refill caps and designated drink‑only venues are common hidden restrictions.
• Reading the fine print and checking recent guest reviews can save you surprise bills.
• Strategic ordering (early‑day service, lounge‑only bars) maximises value.

What “Unlimited” Usually Covers

All‑inclusive packages are built around three beverage categories:

1. Soft drinks - sodas, juices, water and coffee are almost always free, 24/7.
2. Beer - most brands from the local brewery and a few imported lagers are included, usually served in pint glasses.
3. House wine & basic spirits - red, white and rosé wines by the glass, plus standard spirits like vodka, gin, rum, tequila and whisky mixed in simple cocktails.

These items are typically available at the main pool bar, beachfront kiosk and buffet restaurants. The idea is you can order as many of them as you want during operating hours.

Hidden Limits & Extra Charges

Nothing feels limitless if you keep hitting invisible walls. Here are the most common ways resorts narrow the "unlimited" promise:

• Premium liquor surcharge: Top‑shelf bottles (think Grey Goose, Belvedere, Macallan 12) carry a per‑drink fee that can range from $2 to $10.
• Brand restrictions: Some resorts only serve a house‑label whiskey; ordering a recognized brand triggers a markup.
• Time limits: Sunset bars may close at 10pm, and many pools stop serving alcoholic drinks after 8pm for safety reasons.
• Refill caps: Certain all‑inclusive contracts limit the number of refills per guest per day, especially for cocktails.
• Venue exclusivity: Premium beachfront restaurants or rooftop lounges often operate on a "pay‑as‑you‑go" basis, even within an all‑inclusive resort.
• Resort surcharge: A modest service charge (5‑10%) may be added to the beverage tab for room service orders.

These constraints are usually mentioned in the resort’s brochure or fine print, but they can be easy to miss if you skim the brochure.

How to Spot a Good Drink Deal

Before you click "book now," run a quick mental checklist:

1. Read the beverage list. Look for words like "standard," "house," or "included" next to each drink type.
2. Search recent guest reviews. Travelers love to flag hidden fees - a quick glance on TripAdvisor or Booking.com can reveal whether premium liquors are extra.
3. Ask about the open bar policy. Some resorts label their pool bar as an "open bar" but charge for anything beyond the main bar.
4. Check for a "premium lounge" or VIP lounge. These are usually "pay‑as‑you‑go" zones, even if the rest of the property is all‑inclusive.
5. Verify the operating hours. Knowing when the alcohol service stops helps you plan your evenings efficiently.

Choosing the Right Resort: A Quick Comparison

Use this table as a starting point. If your budget allows, a mid‑range resort with a "premium package" upgrade often gives you the best balance of variety and cost.

Pro Tips to Maximise Your Drinks

• Ask for the open bar schedule as soon as you check‑in; order your first round early to beat the crowd.
• Stick to the main pool bar for most drinks - it’s usually the only venue with true unlimited service.
• If you love top‑shelf spirits, check whether the resort offers a "premium lounge pass" - a one‑time fee that unlocks all premium brands for the stay.
• Remember to tip the bar staff. A small gratuity can speed up service, meaning you spend less time waiting and more time sipping.
• Stay hydrated with water between alcoholic drinks - most resorts provide free bottled water, which helps you pace yourself and avoid over‑indulging.

What If You Get an Unexpected Charge?

Even with careful planning, you might see a surprise line item on your final bill. Here’s a quick troubleshooting flow:

1. Review the item. Is it labelled as "premium liquor" or "VIP lounge"?
2. Ask the front desk. They can explain whether the charge was for a brand you ordered or a venue that isn’t covered.
3. Provide evidence. If you have a receipt showing the drink was listed as included, politely request a correction.
4. Escalate. If the desk can’t help, ask for the manager - most properties want to keep guest satisfaction high.

Most resorts will waive the fee if it was a misunderstanding, especially if you raise the issue before checkout.