15 Sober Resorts All Over the World

You’re sitting on a bulky rattan chair, looking at the ocean in the evening as a clutch of baby turtles sprouts from a nest in the sand. They jump out like popcorn and immediately shuffle en masse straight into the dark moonlit ocean. One or two lucky survivors of the bunch will return to the same beach roughly 30 years from now to lay her own eggs on the sand, the memory of which will remain as fresh as it was the first time she touched the shore with her tiny flippers.

And so will your memory — it will stay clear for years to come. You don’t even notice that the glass sitting next to you contains tonic water (no gin or vodka). And so does the glass of the person next to you. And no, it’s not because the bar has run out of booze. Instead, it’s because  you’re at one of the all-inclusive resorts without alcohol (or one where drinking is not the focus) that have been flourishing around the world. 

Why Choose Sober Resorts?

Let’s face it: resorts are supposed to be relaxing. But if you’ve ever seen a plane full of people returning from a boozy “vacation,” you may think twice about drinking as a way to let loose. The truth is, these post-party passengers look anything but relaxed. Their faces are blotchy, their hair is matted, their eyes are glazed over, and they’re sunburnt from spending hours on the beach (it’s easy to forget to reapply sunscreen when you’re on your fifth margarita).

Without all those drinks (which often start with a morning mimosa and continue throughout the day), there’s more time in the day — a lot more. This means there’s time to rent that jet ski (and not fall off), more time to explore new towns, and more people to meet (and actually remember).

Alcohol-Free Resorts Around the World

There are many reasons why alcohol-free resorts are gaining traction. For an in-depth look on sober travel, check out “How To Enjoy an Alcohol-Free Vacation: A Case for Sober Tourism.”

For now, let’s set sail for a virtual journey to 15 great destinations!

1. Akumal Bay Beach and Wellness Resort, Mexico

If that turtle beach we mentioned earlier resonated deeply, this one’s for you! Located on the sunny Riviera Maya, the Akumal Bay all-inclusive resort takes “wellness” to a whole new level.

It dubs itself “your home under the sun,” and, indeed, it is! Many people come back year after year, and there’s even a vibrant Facebook community for regulars. True to its name, this wellness resort is all about mindset change. While there’s booze for those who want it and it’s not explicitly prohibited, it’s somehow … discouraged. It’s there, but it’s in the background. Most of the resort restaurants and bars close around 10 p.m. If you were to drink after that, nobody would stop you, but you might stand out. And you might be asked if you’re doing okay — a few too many times.

All in all, many find that spending a few days at Akumal is a transformative experience. Your thinking changes in a seemingly effortless way as you slip into new habits and discover a happier, healthier version of yourself.

Don’t miss:

• The turtles. See a group of people leave their seats and head for the door of the dining hall during dinner? Don’t worry, it’s not a collective bout of food poisoning. They’re probably rushing to see that miraculous sight of turtles hatching on the beach. You can’t help feeling a bit “reborn” yourself after watching this heartwarming and magical sight.
• Snorkeling. If you love snorkeling, you’re in for a real treat. A reef right at the shore provides hours of underwater entertainment and is chock-full of colorful inhabitants: the Yellowmargin Triggerfish will keep your triggers away, while the goofy Clownfish will boost your endorphins at first glance.
• The sax player. If the saxophone player is on the program, don’t miss him. You’ll thank us later.


2. Somerton Lodge: An Alcohol-Free Hotel in England

For fans of the beach a bit farther away from the equator, there’s Somerton Lodge — a booze-free hotel England’s Isle of Wight. Pretend you’re Hercules Poirot solving a mystery or Edith Crawley from Downton Abbey out on a morning stroll as you wander through the gardens sipping one of the many mocktails available at the alcohol-free bar. Remember, science says that getting in touch with our playful side by using our imagination isn’t just for kids — it’s a natural way to let dopamine flow, keeping those cravings safely docked at bay.

Don’t miss:

• Newtown Creek. The "rickety bridge" is a top favorite on the Isle of Wight. 
• The Needles. These “Needles” are famous chalk landmarks on the coast, known for its colorful sand, World War II gun remnants, and a chair lift to boot.

3. Sober Danube River Cruise

In the words of poet Charles Hamilton Aide,

Do you recall that night in June
Do you recall that night in June
Upon the Danube River;
We listened to the ländler-tune,
We watched the moonbeams quiver.

And maybe you, too, would like to recall your own night in June upon the “blue Danube” that flows out of Germany’s Black Forest and runs to the Black Sea through 10 countries (more than any other river in the world!).

However, while many of its counterparts are notorious for round-the-clock drinking, the Sober Danube is no “booze cruise.” Here, you can enjoy the architecture, listen to the music, and feast on some authentic culinary gems, all from the comfort of the AmaMagna boat.

Don’t miss:

• The Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. This elaborate relic of the Habsburg Dynasty is a masterpiece of all things Baroque.
• The Castle District in Budapest. With its “fairy-tale turrets” and winding cobblestone streets, the Castle District will leave you feeling as if you’re wandering through a fairy tale (think "The Elves and the Shoemaker,” not “Hansel and Gretel”).

4. The Retreat Palm Dubai, UAE

The first (and, so far, only) 5-star wellness resort in the UAE, the beachfront Retreat Palm Dubai offers personalized retreat options and other well-being perks. It’s perfect for a family trip, romantic getaway, or personal journey to rest and recharge — you’ll leave refreshed, inspired, and hangover-free.

Don’t miss:

• The Dubai Museum. Located in what used to be Al Fahidi Fort built in 1787, the museum features dioramas of Dubai’s vibrant past and artifacts that date back to 3,000 B.C.
• Burj Khalifa. Towering at 2,722 feet, Burj Khalifa is taller than any other building in the world. Check out the observation decks on levels 124, 125, and 148 and think of them as a metaphor for how far you’ve come. (Floor 163 might be as far as you can go in the Burj Khalifa, but in your own journey, the sky's the limit!)


5. Adin Beach Hotel, Turkey

The website of this unique women-only Mediterranean haven invites guests to “leave their footprints” on the private 100-meter-long beach. Complete with sunbathing areas and a pier, the Adin Beach Hotel is a true private sanctuary. 

Ready to feel like the captain of your own journey and “emancipate your mind and your soul”? Research says that self-reflection — for example, through journaling — is a crucial ingredient when it comes to making changes that stick. (Want to learn more? Check out “Benefits of an Addiction Recovery Journal.”) 

Don’t miss:

• Concerts. The many live performances at the Adin Beach Hotel are a perfect complement to daytime fun in the sun.


6. Fiyavalhu Resort, Maldives

Described as “one of the most outrageously beautiful island nations in the world” where “the islands are scattered like ivory pearls,” Maldives is the perfect setting for a sober retreat. 

Feeling adventurous? You’ve got a whole island to discover! The Fiyavalhu Resort’s website invites you to explore Mandhoo Island and be the Jane or Tarzan “of your newfound booze-free paradise.

The Mandhoo Island sounds like it’s straight out of Glenn Harrold’s “Abandoned Island” guided meditation, but it’s real! Its lush jungle and sun-soaked beaches provide a “natural and private alcove” that’s perfect for a morning meditation session. And science says that mindfulness works wonders when it comes to changing habits and reducing alcohol cravings!

Don’t miss:

• The dolphin cruise. Any Flipper fans out there? Make sure to fit this one into your schedule. There’s nothing like watching these social and playful creatures splashing and frolicking in the sun. 

7. Al Maaden Villahotel and Spa, Morocco

This unique complex of luxury villas at the heart of the al Maaden golf resorts is a self-care paradise. The Al Maaden Villahotel in Marrakesh provides a private sanctuary and allows you to fill your days with various self-care activities, such as the traditional Mediterranean hammam. Wash away your worries and soak in serenity as you check out the steam bath, exfoliate with Ghassoul wrapping, and scrub down with black soap. 

As we know, self-care is key in the alcohol journey. Nurturing our body through routines that leave us feeling rejuvenated clears our mind and makes us stronger when it comes to dealing with cravings. And science says that hydrotherapy in particular works wonders for both body and mind. Stemming from the earliest civilizations in India, Egypt, China, it has benefits for the cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous system. (And if our ancestors found time to squeeze in a healing bath or two, so can we!)

Don’t miss:

• The Sculpture Park. The first of its kind on the continent, the open-air Sculpture Park on the golf course grounds features works by international artists. As an extra perk for art lovers, there’s also the MACAAL museum of contemporary African art.


8. Hedef Beyt Hotel Resort and Spa, Turkey

Can’t choose between soaking in the sun, steeping yourself in history, or sliding down a thrilling ride at a water park? Do all three when you stay at the Hedef Beyt Hotel! This alcohol-free resort is a short ride away from historical relics and theme park thrills alike.

Science says that adding new experiences — whether that means doing something adventurous or brainy — can deepen our alcohol journey. It’s all about engaging the mind and pushing ourselves outside our comfort zones — “living” instead of simply “existing.”

Don’t miss:

• The Library of Celsus. An ancient Roman architectural marvel, the library is on par with the two largest libraries in the world, Alexandria and Pergamum. In addition to 12,000 scrolls, you can pay a visit to Celsus himself, who is buried underneath in a fancy marble sarcophagus. (If sarcophagi are not your thing, no problem — they’re not for everyone. There’s also the Ephesus Ancient Greek Theatre nearby.)
• The Adaland Water Park. Splash, slide, and raft your way through this family-friendly, fun-filled water park. Whether you’re looking to test your courage and scream your way down some of the world's most exhilarating water slides or float peacefully along the lazy river, Adaland is perfect for taking your alcohol journey deeper. The park's star attractions include the adrenaline-pumping Kamikaze and the swirling vortex of the Black Hole, each offering a unique way to beat the heat with a dose of aquatic adventure.


9. Wome Deluxe Hotel, Turkey

Send your friends a photo from the Wome Deluxe Hotel in Turkey and they’ll swear you retouched it, but no — the Mediterranean water really is that clear and the trees really are that green! This alcohol-free resort is perfect for anyone looking for some much-needed relief from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

In addition to the healing power of nature, the hotel’s architecture alone is enough to put your mind in a grounded and peaceful state. According to research, our physical surroundings play a crucial role in recovery from alcohol misuse. When we are away from the clutter, triggers, and overstimulation that normally surrounds us, a space opens up in the mind that allows room for new possibilities.

Don’t miss:

• The games. Many resorts have their version of game night (or day), but the folks at Wome Deluxe take it to a new level. Both indoors and outdoors, the games are designed to promote a sense of adventure. And science says that adventure and playful pursuits alike are helpful on the alcohol journey!


10. Plumeria Hotel, Maldives

Another take on the Maldives experience, Plumeria Hotel dubs itself “affordable luxury.” Located on the island of ​​Thinadhoo, Plumeria Maldives is a “boutique hotel” that’s a more active counterpart to the serene Fiyavalhu. 

In addition to plenty of sea, sun, and spa time, there’s also scuba snorkeling! Remember those turtles from Riviera Maya? Here, you can meet their relatives on the other side of the world.

Don’t miss:

• Shark feeding show. In Akumal, it’s all about the turtles, and here — well, it’s still about the turtles, but also about the sharks! The feeding happens every evening, and it’s a treat for everyone (guests and sharks alike).

11. AROYA Cruises, Saudi Arabia

Ready for another cruise without the booze? AROYA Cruises has you covered! When it comes to major cruise lines, alcohol is usually factored into the price, making it much steeper than it needs to be for those wishing to go booze-free. The 335-meter-long AROYA cruise liner complete with 19 decks, 1,682 cabins, 17 restaurants, and, to top it all off, its own water park with 5 slides is a perfect alternative. (Where else can you spend your morning sliding down into a pool of water while gazing out into the open sea?)

As a press release covering AROYA’s upcoming launch in December 2024 puts it, 

Alcohol-free travel is nothing new in Saudi Arabia — all airlines flying to the kingdom refrain from serving alcohol and Saudia Airline, Saudi’s flag carrier, as well as all other Saudi airlines, are entirely dry … Anyone who can or wants to go without a drink for a few days would find this new cruise line appealing, especially considering its offerings.

Let’s set our sober sails!

12. Sobertopia Retreats 

The founder of Sobertopia knows what it’s like to be the odd one out when it comes to booze. Her own alcohol journey inspired her to start Sobertopia retreats as a much-needed break for women to let loose and connect with others like them. Here’s how she describes it:

“What are my retreats all about? Think: Trips full of sun, yoga, hikes, amazing food, fun activities, relaxation, and connection … without the booze! My sober retreats are aimed at sober (curious) women like you and me that like (or need!) a break from day-to-day life, while wanting the possibility to connect with each other … On my retreats you are the normie!”

In short, Sobertopia retreats are all about community. And science says that social support is crucial for success on the alcohol journey! (For more tips on building a support network, check out “Types of Social Support and How They Work.”)

13. Euphoric AF Retreats

“Ditch alcohol and express your greater purpose” — that’s the mission of Euphoric AF retreats in a nutshell. Over the last few years, the owner has hosted retreats for sober and sober-curious women in some of the most exotic and inspiring locations in the world. Past destinations included Puerto Vallarta, Costa Rica, and Bali. The emphasis on mindfulness and empowerment makes these adventures deeply personal and fulfilling, helping “alcohol-free and sober-curious women to become confident in an AF identity and discover their greater purpose.” 

Climb through the jungle, soak up the sun, and think of all the perks of an alcohol-free life waiting for you as you continue your journey. (And for a deep dive on what being sober-curious is all about, check “What Is the Sober Curious Movement?” and “What Does It Mean To Be Sober Curious?”)

14. Hooked Alcohol-Free Travel

When founder Dacri Murray stopped drinking in 2017 and got “hooked” on travel instead, she wanted to share her passion with others on the same journey. Based in Toronto, Darci’s HOOKED travel company takes people all over the world, from “Iceland on the Rocks” (the geological kind!) to “Hold the Sauce in Sayulita,” Mexico. 

At its core, HOOKED is all about discovering new sources of joy — a crucial part of recovering from alcohol misuse. Alcohol floods our brain with dopamine, and while there are healthy sources that can provide the same (and even deeper) reward, it takes a bit of work on our part. We need opportunities to explore the world without booze to prove to ourselves that we don’t need it to have fun, and HOOKED does just that!

As the HOOKED website reads, 

Our purpose is to get you HOOKED on healthy habits … Being alcohol-free heightens your awareness drastically: Colors become brighter, food tastes better, touch is more intense. In this full sensory state, we introduce the element of travel making your brand new experience in an unfamiliar place euphoric! 

Ready to turn those hours that have been gifted back to you into experiences that will give your alcohol journey new momentum? Then it’s time to get “hooked”!

15. Sober Celebrations Cruises

And finally, another cruise to finish off our list! Sober Celebrations is all about sailing the sober seas together, in the company of others who want to experience the world without booze.

The founder gives a delicious explanation of the recent 10-day Mediterranean cruise:

There are two times that define a particular dimension of reality in my life: the first 35 years before I experienced crème brulée and the years that follow. Explaining the last 10 days on islands in Italy and Greece with a band of adventurous recovering alcoholics is like trying to explain the experience of having crème brulée. The silky richness of it rolls around your mouth and brain like the siren's song that secluded the sailors into the glistening Aegean sea at dusk; there is a smooth yolk texture that slips under your tongue like the egg tempera wood covered in gold leaf by ancient artists in Byzantine paintings, and while the dessert is similar to a religious experience, it can't compare to whispering the Serenity Prayer with people who have been raised from the dead while inside St. Mark's Basilica in Venice where the saint himself is buried.

If you’re eager to discover the world without the fear of what’s lurking in the bar across the deck (it’s all mocktails!), then this one’s for you. And maybe grab a crème brulée before you go. Happy sailing!

Time To Travel

What happens when we leave alcohol behind? Well, many things (all good), but there’s one that’s easy to overlook: time. Imagine all the hours you used to spend thinking about drinks, buying booze, drinking it, and — sometimes the worst time-stealer of all — recovering in the aftermath. Now you have them back! What will you do with yours?