When one conjures up the image of an all-inclusive property, crowded restaurants and watery drinks often come to mind. But, this is changing: A new interest in luxury properties where guests need not worry about a thing has ushered in resorts that are inclusive of everything – no need to worry about bringing your wallet or signing for the check. Think of it as the new all-inclusive, with top-shelf offerings all across the board.
Palm Island in The Grenadines is an exemplary inclusion to this category. Located on its own private island, the resort comprises fewer than 50 rooms and villas where guests are spread out among five beaches. Here, the hospitality is unrivaled, and the atmosphere is positively rejuvenating.
The Look of Palm Island
When you arrive via boat at Palm Island, you’ll want to pinch yourself. Here, it feels less like real life and more like you’ve been transported to some sort of screensaver. The water is impossibly clear-blue, the sand is soft and white, and the staff is on the dock to welcome you home, as they say.
Once you step foot on the island and complete the quick check-in process in the open-air lobby, you’ll have time to tour the grounds – the entire island is yours, after all. Meanwhile, accommodations are best described as beachy-chic and have a handful of options, from beachfront rooms with an outdoor shower and daybed for al fresco dining and lounging to Caribbean loft-style rooms, garden palm view rooms, spacious suites, and over-the-top villas.
Guests spend most of their time outside though, especially considering that everything from the bar to the lobby, to the two restaurants are all open-air. However, the sand and sea take top bidding, and the property offers access to five different beaches. Guests can grab one of the complimentary cruiser bikes to easily pedal around the entire island, where you can stop for a secluded swim or snorkel, or a hike with 360-degree views.
The Vibe at Palm Island
The vibe here is like that of a chic summer camp, where guests arrive as complete strangers and leave as best friends. Newbies receive a warm welcome and are invited to join groups for dinner or a cocktail. In the evenings, guests will enjoy live music (and, on Tuesday nights, there are movie screenings on the beach), and the small dance floor (also open-air) is often buzzing. Plus, the staff at Palm Island seems to know everyone’s name and vice-versa; it’s not uncommon to see teary-eyed guests hugging each staff member come check-out.
Who Will Love Palm Island
Couples and groups seem to make up most of the clientele, and there are more repeat visitors than not. Between water sports, the spa, and straight-up relaxing, it’s easy to find something for everyone here.
Who Might Not Love Palm Island
Families with younger children might want to stay elsewhere. The resort does not allow children under 16 years of age between January 3 to April 8. However, children 12 years of age and older are welcome from April 9 to January 2.
Best Amenity at Palm Island
Aside from the sensational staff, the spa here is marvelous. The beach cottage has two treatment rooms that can easily accommodate a couple – plus a private outdoor soaking tub that looks out to the ocean. Book a package with a soak, and you’ll be sipping a glass of Champagne in the tub before a fantastic massage, and capping it off with a warm cup of ginger-honey tea.
What’s Included at Palm Island
Once you arrive at Union Island in The Grenadines, there’s no need to worry about expenses. The property is all-inclusive of everything from meals to high-end alcohol, to afternoon tea and a stocked in-room minibar, to wifi – and really, just about everything you could need for a vacation. There’s even a lending library in case you forgot a book.
Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About at Palm Island
The property charges a nightly resort fee of $24. A handful of optional add-ons are offered at an additional cost, too. (For example, guests can have a Champagne breakfast brought to the room or even a private seaside picnic.) There are catamaran excursions and fishing trips, as well. And, while spa treatments also cost extra, they're a worth-it splurge.
How to Get a Deal at Palm Island
To score a deal at Palm Island, check out the resort’s website. Additionally, you can stay in one of the less expensive room categories (like the Palm View rooms), which offer value without sacrificing luxury accommodations or amenities.
Getting to Palm Island isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely worth the trip. Non-stop flights will take guests to Barbados, where a charter plane flies into Union Island (about an hour’s time). From there, a boat will be waiting for the five-minute ride to Palm Island.
Nearest Airport to Palm Island
The nearest airport to Palm Island is the Union Island Airport, which is just a five-minute boat ride from the property.
Island aesthetic and luxury amenities are endless (and all included) at the Palm Island resort.