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Adults only holidays are designed for guests who want a quieter, more relaxed break without children around. They can suit couples, friends, solo travellers and anyone who wants peace and a different pace. They are not automatically better or worse than a standard hotel, and the details matter, so this guide explains what adults only means, what to expect, and what to check before you book.
What does adults only mean?
An adults only hotel or resort restricts guests to people above a certain age, so there are no children staying in the building or using the pool. The aim is a calmer atmosphere, with quieter pools, more relaxed restaurants and an evening scene that suits adult guests. Some properties are adults only all year, while others set aside specific areas or seasons.
It is worth knowing that the term is not tightly defined. Some hotels use adults only to describe the whole property, others only part of it, and a few are described as adult friendly rather than strictly adults only. Always read the booking description and the hotel policy rather than assuming.
What age limit applies?
Age limits vary by hotel. Many adults only hotels set the minimum age at 16 or 18, and some use other limits. The rule applies to every guest in the booking, so if you are travelling with an older teenager, check carefully before you reserve a room.
The hotel website and the terms shown at checkout are the best sources. If the policy is not clear, contact the hotel or your travel provider before booking, and keep a record of their reply.
Are adults only hotels more expensive?
Not always. Some adults only hotels cost more, because they offer a more premium experience or a more limited number of rooms. Others are priced similarly to standard hotels in the same area, especially outside peak season. Price depends on the destination, the hotel category, the board basis and the dates you travel, not just on the adults only label.
To judge value, compare like with like. Look at the same star rating, the same board type and the same dates, then see what the adults only property offers in return, such as quieter facilities, spa access or a better location. Our cheap holidays and last minute holidays guides explain how to find better prices.
Is all inclusive available?
Yes, many adults only hotels offer all inclusive, half board or bed and breakfast, and all inclusive is a popular choice. As with any all inclusive holiday, it pays to read what is included, which restaurants you can use, which drinks are covered and whether there are time limits. Our all inclusive holidays guide explains what to look for.
Adults only all inclusive can suit people who want to relax without budgeting each day. It can feel less good value if you plan to spend most days away from the hotel, or if premium drinks and restaurants cost extra.
Which destinations are best?
Adults only hotels are found in many popular holiday regions, including Spain and the Canary Islands, Greece, Turkey, Cyprus, Portugal, the Caribbean and the Maldives. The best choice depends on the kind of holiday you want, such as a beach break, a city stay, a spa weekend or a lively resort.
For a warm weather break from the UK, our guides to when to visit Tenerife, Lanzarote and Albufeira can help you choose the right season. For shorter trips, our city breaks guide covers options without a long flight.
Who are adults only holidays best for?
They suit couples seeking a romantic break, friends wanting a relaxed trip, honeymooners and solo travellers who prefer a quieter setting. They are also a good option for people who simply want a holiday without the noise of a family resort.
They are less suitable if you are travelling with children, or if you want a very lively family atmosphere. Some people also find that an adults only resort can feel quiet in the evenings, so check the entertainment and activities if you want an active social scene.
What to check before you book
- The age policy, and whether it covers the whole property.
- The board basis, such as bed and breakfast, half board or all inclusive.
- What is included, including drinks, snacks and activities.
- The location, including distance to the beach and the airport.
- Recent guest reviews, particularly about noise, food and cleanliness.
- The cancellation and change rules.
- Whether you need travel insurance before paying.
It also helps to check transfer times and the flight options, because a long transfer can take the shine off a short holiday. For flights from the south east, see our holidays from Gatwick guide.
Tips for a better adults only break
Book early for peak dates, since adults only hotels often have fewer rooms. Consider shoulder months for better value and milder weather, and read reviews from guests who travelled at a similar time to you. Be realistic about what you want, whether that is a quiet spa retreat or a lively resort with evening entertainment, and choose accordingly.
Finally, remember that a label is just a label. A well run hotel with a good location and good reviews will usually beat a poorly reviewed one, whatever its policy on children.
Adults only versus family friendly resorts
The difference between the two is not just about children. Adults only hotels tend to design their pools, restaurants and evening entertainment for grown up guests, so you may find quieter pool areas, later dinner times and more relaxed music. Family resorts focus on activities, kids clubs and early evening shows. Neither is better, but they suit different trips, and a booking that suits one group can disappoint another.
If you are unsure, read recent reviews and look for comments about the pool, the noise levels in the evening and how busy the hotel feels. Those details tell you more than the star rating.
Types of adults only holidays
Adults only breaks come in many forms. Beach resorts with all inclusive food and drink are popular for sun seekers. Spa and wellness hotels suit people who want treatments, quiet and good food. City hotels with an adults only policy are less common but exist, and some boutique hotels and country house stays are designed for couples. Cruises also offer adults only ships or sections for people who prefer a quieter voyage.
If you like the idea of a spa, our guide to choosing a spa break explains what to look for. If you would rather stay in the UK, our UK holidays page covers short breaks that do not need a flight.
When to travel
The best time depends on the destination. For sun in southern Europe, late spring and early autumn often bring pleasant weather and lower prices than peak summer. For winter sun, the Canary Islands and parts of North Africa are popular choices. Adults only hotels often have a quieter atmosphere in the shoulder seasons, but some facilities may close or run reduced services, so check what will be open on your dates.
School holidays are a point worth noting. Adults only hotels are less affected by family demand than standard resorts, but flights and prices can still rise at the busiest times. Flexibility about dates is one of the simplest ways to save money.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common mistake is booking on the label alone. An adults only hotel with poor reviews, a long transfer or a weak location can disappoint just as easily as any other hotel. Another is ignoring the small print about what is included, which matters most on all inclusive deals where premium drinks, a la carte restaurants or sun loungers may carry extra charges.
It is also easy to overlook the practical details, such as the length of the flight, the transfer time from the airport and whether the hotel is walkable to shops and restaurants. If you plan to explore, a hotel in a good location with a bus or taxi link can matter more than a fancy pool. Finally, check the cancellation rules before paying, especially if your plans depend on leave from work or on other people.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take a teenager to an adults only hotel?
Only if the age limit allows it. Check the policy before booking.
Are adults only hotels quieter?
Generally yes, but it depends on the hotel and its entertainment.
Do adults only hotels have kids clubs?
No, they normally do not, because they are designed for adult guests.
Are adults only holidays good for solo travellers?
They can be, especially where there are social areas and activities. Check reviews from solo guests.
Is adults only the same as adults friendly?
Not always. Adult friendly may mean children are allowed but the hotel is aimed at adults. Read the policy.
When is the best time to book?
Book early for peak dates, or look at shoulder months for better prices.