Discover the World of Sober Resorts

Picture yourself relaxing in a comfortable rattan chair, watching the evening ocean as a nest of baby turtles emerges from the sand. They pop out like popcorn and immediately begin their journey toward the moonlit water. Only a few of these tiny creatures will survive to return to this same beach in about 30 years to lay their own eggs—a memory that will remain as vivid as the first time their flippers touched the shore.

Your own memory of this moment will stay just as clear for years to come. You might not even notice that the glass beside you contains only tonic water—no gin or vodka. The same goes for your companion’s drink. This isn’t because the bar has run out of alcohol; you’re at one of the many all-inclusive resorts around the world where alcohol is either absent or not the main focus.

Why Choose Sober Resorts?

Resorts are meant to be relaxing, but if you’ve ever seen a plane full of people returning from a boozy vacation, you might reconsider drinking as a way to unwind. These travelers often look anything but relaxed—faces blotchy, hair messy, eyes glazed, and skin sunburned from forgetting to reapply sunscreen after one too many margaritas.

Without starting the day with a mimosa and continuing to drink throughout, you’ll find you have much more time. Time to rent a jet ski (and stay on it), explore nearby towns, and meet new people—and actually remember them later.

Alcohol-Free Resorts Around the World

There are many reasons alcohol-free resorts are growing in popularity. For a deeper look into sober travel, you can read “How To Enjoy an Alcohol-Free Vacation: A Case for Sober Tourism.” Below, we take a virtual tour of 15 great destinations.

• Akumal Bay Beach and Wellness Resort, Mexico

  If the image of turtles on the beach spoke to you, this resort is a perfect match. Located on the Riviera Maya, Akumal Bay takes wellness to another level. It calls itself “your home under the sun,” and many guests return year after year. While alcohol is available, it’s not emphasized—most restaurants and bars close by 10 p.m., and drinking late might make you stand out. Many visitors find their stay here transformative, helping them discover a happier, healthier self.

  Don’t miss: The turtle hatchings, snorkeling along the vibrant reef, and live saxophone performances.

• Somerton Lodge, England

  For those who love cooler beach climates, Somerton Lodge on the Isle of Wight offers an alcohol-free hotel experience. Stroll through the gardens while sipping a mocktail and imagining yourself in a classic mystery or period drama. Using your imagination isn’t just for kids—it’s a natural way to boost dopamine and keep cravings at bay.

  Don’t miss: Newtown Creek’s “rickety bridge” and The Needles, famous chalk formations along the coast.

• Sober Danube River Cruise

  Unlike many river cruises known for nonstop drinking, the Sober Danube lets you enjoy architecture, music, and authentic cuisine from the comfort of the AmaMagna ship. The Danube flows through 10 countries, offering rich cultural experiences without the booze.

  Don’t miss: Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna and the fairy-tale Castle District in Budapest.

• The Retreat Palm Dubai, UAE

  This beachfront 5-star wellness resort is the first of its kind in the UAE. Ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers, it offers personalized retreats and well-being perks. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and free of hangovers.

  Don’t miss: The Dubai Museum and the breathtaking Burj Khalifa observation decks.

• Adin Beach Hotel, Turkey

  A women-only Mediterranean sanctuary with a private beach, Adin Beach Hotel encourages guests to “leave their footprints” and embrace self-reflection. Journaling can help make positive changes stick.

  Don’t miss: Live concerts and performances held at the hotel.

• Fiyavalhu Resort, Maldives

  Set on stunning Mandhoo Island, this resort invites you to explore like Tarzan or Jane in your own booze-free paradise. The lush jungle and serene beaches are perfect for meditation, and mindfulness is known to help reduce alcohol cravings.

  Don’t miss: The dolphin cruise for an unforgettable encounter with playful marine life.

• Al Maaden Villahotel and Spa, Morocco

  Nestled within a golf resort in Marrakesh, this luxury villa complex focuses on self-care. Enjoy traditional hammam treatments, including steam baths and exfoliation. Hydrotherapy has been used for centuries to benefit mind and body.

  Don’t miss: The Sculpture Park and the MACAAL contemporary art museum.

• Hedef Beyt Hotel Resort and Spa, Turkey

  This alcohol-free resort offers sun, history, and thrills—all close by. New experiences, whether adventurous or intellectual, can enrich your journey and help you break out of your comfort zone.

  Don’t miss: The ancient Library of Celsus and the exciting Adaland Water Park.

• Wome Deluxe Hotel, Turkey

  With unbelievably clear water and lush greenery, Wome Deluxe offers a peaceful escape from daily life. Research shows that calm, beautiful surroundings can support recovery by reducing triggers and mental clutter.

  Don’t miss: The hotel’s creative indoor and outdoor games designed for adventure and fun.

• Plumeria Hotel, Maldives

  This “affordable luxury” boutique hotel on Thinadhoo Island offers a more active alternative to other Maldives resorts. Enjoy sea, sun, spa treatments, and snorkeling with sea turtles.

  Don’t miss: The nightly shark feeding show—a thrilling experience for guests and sharks alike.

• AROYA Cruises, Saudi Arabia

  Set to launch in December 2024, this 335-meter cruise liner features 19 decks, 1,682 cabins, 17 restaurants, and its own water park. Alcohol-free travel is standard in Saudi Arabia, making AROYA a great option for those who prefer a dry voyage.

• Sobertopia Retreats

  Founded by a woman who knows what it’s like to be the odd one out, Sobertopia offers retreats for sober and sober-curious women. Activities include yoga, hiking, great food, and connection—all without alcohol. Community support is key to a successful journey.

• Euphoric AF Retreats

  These retreats help women “ditch alcohol and express your greater purpose.” Held in exotic locations like Bali and Costa Rica, they focus on mindfulness and empowerment, helping participants build confidence in their alcohol-free identity.

• Hooked Alcohol-Free Travel

  Founded by Dacri Murray, Hooked organizes trips worldwide to help people discover new sources of joy without alcohol. Traveling sober can heighten your senses and prove that you don’t need booze to have fun.

• Sober Celebrations Cruises

  These cruises bring together people who want to explore the world without alcohol. One recent Mediterranean voyage was described as a rich, almost spiritual experience—like tasting crème brûlée for the first time. All mocktails, no regrets.

Time To Travel

When you leave alcohol behind, you gain something precious: time. Imagine all the hours once spent thinking about, buying, drinking, and recovering from alcohol—now returned to you. What will you do with yours?