All-Inclusive Resort Drink Counter
Calculate Your Daily Drink Count
Resorts typically count drinks differently. This calculator helps you understand your daily consumption based on common resort policies.
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You’ve booked your all-inclusive resort vacation. The brochures say "unlimited drinks"-so how many can you actually have? If you’re wondering whether there’s a hard cap on those 6 cocktails a day, you’re not alone. Many travelers assume "all-inclusive" means no limits. But the truth? It’s not that simple.
What "Unlimited Drinks" Really Means
When resorts advertise "unlimited drinks," they’re usually talking about access, not volume. You can order as many drinks as you want during operating hours, but that doesn’t mean you’ll get them all. Most all-inclusive properties have internal policies to prevent excessive consumption, especially with alcohol.
There’s no federal law or global rule that says "you can have six drinks per day." But if you’ve heard that number before, it’s likely because many resorts quietly enforce a six-drink-per-person-per-day limit. This isn’t written on the contract, but staff are trained to notice patterns. If you’re ordering a new cocktail every 20 minutes, you’ll get a polite warning. If you keep pushing it, they may stop serving you.
Why Do Resorts Enforce Drink Limits?
It’s not about being stingy-it’s about safety and liability. Resorts are legally responsible for guests’ behavior. If someone gets too drunk, falls, gets into a fight, or ends up in the hospital, the resort can be held accountable. In places like Mexico, the Caribbean, or Thailand, local laws are strict about serving intoxicated guests. Resorts don’t want to risk fines, lawsuits, or bad press.
Also, consider the cost. A single premium cocktail can cost a resort $5-$8 to make. Multiply that by 100 guests drinking 10 drinks each, and you’re talking about thousands of dollars in losses per day. Even with bulk pricing, unlimited alcohol adds up fast. Most resorts bake drink costs into the room rate, but they’re not going to lose money on a few guests who treat the bar like an open faucet.
What Counts as a "Drink"?
Not all drinks are treated the same. A standard serving of beer, wine, or well liquor usually counts as one drink. But if you order a frozen piña colada with three types of rum, a blender full of fruit, and whipped cream? That might count as two or even three drinks. Same goes for large pitchers, cocktails served in novelty containers, or shots ordered in rapid succession.
Some resorts track drinks by the glass, others by the hour. You might see a server write down your name and the number of drinks you’ve had. It’s not surveillance-it’s standard procedure. If you’re unsure, just ask: "How many drinks does this count as?" Most staff will tell you honestly.
Are There Exceptions?
Yes. Premium resorts like Sandals, Secrets, or Excellence often have more flexible policies for guests in higher-tier suites. If you’re staying in a butler-served villa or a luxury concierge room, you might get a higher daily allowance-sometimes up to 10 drinks, or even no hard limit as long as you’re not visibly intoxicated.
Non-alcoholic drinks usually don’t count toward any limit. Soda, juice, water, coffee, and tea are truly unlimited. If you’re trying to avoid the 6-drink rule, stick to mocktails, iced tea, or sparkling water. Many resorts offer fresh fruit smoothies and specialty non-alcoholic cocktails that are just as satisfying.
What Happens If You Go Over the Limit?
Most resorts won’t kick you out. But they will stop serving you alcohol. If you’re loud, aggressive, or clearly impaired, staff will cut you off immediately. You might get a gentle reminder: "We can’t serve you any more alcohol today, but we’d be happy to bring you some water or a snack."
Some resorts will let you buy drinks at full price after hitting your limit. Others won’t sell you anything else until the next day. It depends on the property and the staff’s discretion. If you’re caught trying to sneak alcohol from the minibar or buy drinks from another guest, you could be asked to leave without a refund.
How to Enjoy Drinks Responsibly
You don’t need to hit a limit to have a great time. Here’s how to make the most of your drinks without running into problems:
- Slow down. Sip slowly. Enjoy the flavor, not just the buzz.
- Alternate alcohol with water. It keeps you hydrated and reduces hangovers.
- Order drinks during meal times. Staff are more relaxed when you’re eating.
- Try non-alcoholic options. Many resorts have excellent mocktails you won’t find elsewhere.
- Don’t pressure others. If your group is pushing for more drinks, set your own pace.
Remember: the goal is relaxation, not intoxication. The best vacations are the ones you remember clearly.
Do All Resorts Have the Same Rules?
No. Policies vary by brand, location, and even season. A resort in Cancún might be stricter than one in the Dominican Republic. Luxury properties tend to be more lenient than budget chains. During peak season, limits are tighter. In low season, staff might be more relaxed.
There’s no universal standard. That’s why it’s smart to check the resort’s website or call ahead. Look for phrases like "responsible service of alcohol" or "reasonable consumption guidelines." If you can’t find anything, ask your travel agent or book through a provider that discloses policies clearly.
What About Non-Alcoholic Beverages?
These are almost always unlimited. You can drink as much soda, juice, iced tea, coffee, or bottled water as you want. Some resorts even offer unlimited fresh coconut water, herbal teas, or house-made lemonade. If you’re trying to avoid the alcohol limit, these are your best friends.
Don’t assume "unlimited" means "no limits" on alcohol. But do assume it means you’ll have more than enough to enjoy your vacation without stress.
Final Reality Check
There’s no official 6-drink rule written in stone. But if you’re ordering more than six alcoholic drinks in a day, you’re already pushing the boundaries-and most resorts will notice. The limit isn’t about punishment. It’s about balance: letting you enjoy your vacation without risking your safety, your wallet, or your next day’s energy.
So yes, you can have six drinks. Maybe even seven or eight, if you’re polite and slow. But if you’re trying to break the system? You’ll lose. And you’ll miss out on the real reason you came: to relax, unwind, and make memories-not to black out on the beach.
Is there a legal limit on drinks at all-inclusive resorts?
No, there’s no legal limit set by governments. But resorts follow local alcohol service laws, which often require them to cut off visibly intoxicated guests. Resorts create their own internal limits to stay compliant and avoid liability.
Can I bring my own alcohol to an all-inclusive resort?
Almost always, no. Most resorts scan bags at check-in and confiscate outside alcohol. Some may let you bring a small bottle of wine for your room, but you won’t be allowed to drink it at the bar or pool. Violating this rule can result in being asked to leave.
Do all-inclusive resorts serve premium brands?
It depends. Budget resorts typically serve well liquor, house wine, and domestic beer. Premium resorts like Secrets, Sandals, or Excellence often include top-shelf brands like Grey Goose, Patron, or Jack Daniel’s. Check the resort’s drink menu online before booking.
Are drink limits enforced at midnight?
Yes. Most resorts reset their drink counters at midnight, so you can start fresh the next day. Some bars close at 1 a.m. or 2 a.m., and others stay open 24/7. But even 24-hour bars still track daily limits.
Do kids get unlimited drinks too?
Yes-but only non-alcoholic options. Kids get unlimited soda, juice, water, and mocktails. Alcohol is strictly restricted to guests 18 or 21+, depending on the country and resort policy. No exceptions.