Discover Caribbean Wildlife At These Luxurious All-Inclusive Resorts

by · Forbes
The white-nosed coati (Nasua narica) is a common sight across the Yucatan Peninsula.getty

While the Caribbean is rife with fascinating cultural relics spanning from Nassau’s Fort Charlotte to Puerto Rico’s El Morro, humans are far from the only species that call the region home. From the lush shores of the Yucatan to the arid ABC Islands, there’s no shortage of fascinating biomes to explore all across the Caribbean, each one offering its own unique array of native flora and fauna for visitors to discover—and to sweeten the deal, the Caribbean also comes equipped with its fair share of all-inclusives that are perfect for ecotourists. As you plan your next foray into the Caribbean, don’t miss out on the following resorts, each one the perfect blend of both luxurious amenities and captivating outdoor adventure opportunities.

Sunscape Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino

The three official languages of Curaçao are Papiamentu, Dutch and English.Sunscape Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino

Located in the southernmost reaches of the Caribbean, Curaçao plays host to a wide array of fauna ranging from the bananaquit to its very own endemic subspecies of white-tailed deer—but it’s not just the interior of the island that’s teeming with wildlife. The azure waters beyond the Curaçao shoreline are rich in colorful marine species, and to come face-to-face with its most dazzling inhabitants, the Sunscape Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino serves as the perfect base. The property comes equipped with its own specialized Dive Center, providing the perfect opportunity for scuba aficionados to set off along the shoreline in search of species like the puddingwife, spotted drum and Spanish hogfish.

In addition to top-tier diving opportunities, Curaçao is also renowned for its unique culture, with the capital city of Willemstad serving as the perfect spot for some off-property exploration. Guests are welcome to bask in the beauty of the Punda district or take a stroll along the Curaçao Rif Mangrove Park, while those willing to venture far beyond resort limits can explore northern destinations like Shete Boka National Park and the idyllic Playa Kalki. But of course, the resort also offers its fair share of attractions for guests to enjoy, with amenities spanning from the Sunscape Spa—a colorful space that comes equipped with its own sauna, steam room and hydrotherapy circuit—to more than ten distinct drinking and dining concepts.

Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana

The Dominican Republic is home to both the tallest mountain and largest lake in the Caribbean.Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana

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The island of Hispaniola boasts a wide array of native Caribbean birds like the mangrove cuckoo, bananaquit and palmchat—all of which can be encountered during a stay at Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana. This sprawling resort offers the opportunity to spot colorful Caribbean birds ranging from the Hispaniolan emerald to the Antillean palm swift, while those willing to venture off-property can discover a wealth of animals at some of the Dominican Republic’s top tourist attractions. Just west of the property, Monkeyland provides guests with an opportunity to encounter the island’s resident squirrel monkeys, while Punta Cana’s 12-track zipline course is perfect for scoping out native avian life as you soar along the treetops.

In addition to ample wildlife-watching opportunities, the property also offers its fair share of high-end amenities to keep guests occupied during a stay. On a sunny day, the on-site outdoor pool complex draws crowds thanks to its lazy river and water slides, while the Dreams Spa is perfect for a relaxing day indoors, with a hydrotherapy circuit, sauna and full-service salon all available for guests to enjoy. Post-treatment, visitors have a massive array of bars and restaurants to choose from, with high-end French fare, gourmet Italian cuisine and classic coastal Mexican food serving as just a few of the options found across the resort.

Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya

Mexico's Riviera Maya was once referred to as the "Cancun–Tulum corridor."Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya

Ocelots, howler monkeys and sea turtles are just a few of the fascinating creatures that can be found during a visit to the Yucatan, and for those hoping to catch a glimpse of these animals in the flesh, the Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya offers ideal accommodations. During early morning hours, guests can spot native white-nosed coatis and common raccoons strolling through the brush, while bird species span from the colorful great kiskadee to the golden-fronted woodpecker—but some of the region’s most eye-catching animals can be found just beyond the beach. During a stay, guests can embark on an expedition to nearby El Cielo—a natural sandbar that’s renowned for its stellar snorkeling opportunities—and marvel at native Caribbean wildlife spanning from the gray angelfish to the foureye butterflyfish.

Once you’ve had your fill of snorkeling, there’s no shortage of attractions to enjoy back at the Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya. Guests are welcome to make use of the property’s eight drinking and dining venues, with options spanning from Tempest—a top spot for sushi and teppanyaki—to Lola Beach, a polished space that’s perfect for a refreshing cocktail during golden hour. The resort also comes equipped with a sprawling outdoor pool complex that’s perfect for sunbathing, but for those in need of some added rest and relaxation, the on-property spa is the perfect spot, with treatments spanning from cacao body wraps to deep tissue massages.