You're vacationing with kids:   Worry not. All-inclusives that cater to families are designed with the enjoyment of parents and kids in mind: The properties are enclosed, the price is fixed, the activities are myriad, the food runs from pizza to pappardelle, and Mom can build sandcastles on the beach with little Greg while Dad teaches Marcia how to swim in the build.

You're an active type:   Pack the sunscreen and the sneakers. From beach volleyball and tennis matches to kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, and scuba diving, you'll find plenty to do.

You're planning a trip for a group of friends:   Look no further. Pick an all-inclusive for adults (but not couples-only). These specialize in crowd-pleasers such as sailing trips, surfing schools, and even evening merengue lessons.

You're a spa junkie:   Prepare to spend extra. The majority of all-inclusive resorts now have spas, and some are especially good, but, the treatments usually cost extra.

One-Of-A-Kinds
If you think all-inclusives are all sprawling and all alike, think again. Here, a dozen of our favorite hideaways

Curtain Bluff, Antigua
One of the swankiest resorts on Antigua, Curtain Bluff has just 72 rooms, each with an ocean view and a private balcony. Yoga, waterskiing lessons, scuba diving, tennis, sailing, kayaking and speedboating are among the activities included in the rate (268-462-8400; curtainbluff.com; doubles, $595–$1,350).

Golden Door, California
An Asian influence is evident throughout this luxury spa: Rooms are decorated in Japanese-inspired decor, grounds are landscaped with koi ponds and sand gardens, and activities such as tai chi and Zen archery are on offer. Everything except private lessons and health consultations is included—even a fresh set of workout clothes each day (760-744-5777; goldendoor.com; $7,500 per person per week).

Home Ranch, Colorado
Horseback riding is the main event at this Steamboat Springs dude ranch, with instruction, trail rides, and cattle work available for riders of every skill level. Fly-fishing and nature hikes are also included. A handful of guest rooms are in the main lodge, but the most coveted accommodations are the individual cabins, each with its own deck and hot tub (970-879-1780; homeranch.com; doubles from $420 a night).

Hotel Terrace, Switzerland
Rooms are somewhat basic in this classic Art Nouveau ski lodge a short train ride from Lucerne, but stays are hassle-free, with everything from ski passes to child care covered in the price of the winter all-inclusive package. Drinks and nightly entertainment are also included (41-41-639-6666; terrace.ch; doubles, $940–$1,368 per person per week).