The Caribbean and Latin America have long been go-to destinations for travelers chasing the summer sun … and for good reason. The region offers everything from luxe island escapes to laid-back beach towns, all within a short flight from the U.S. Not to mention, it’s home to all kinds of idyllic accommodation options, including several from IHG Hotels & Resorts.
Recently, I had the chance to explore one of these standout properties in IHG’s expanding luxury and lifestyle portfolio, the Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa in Bay Islands Grand Roatán, Honduras, and was surprised by how diverse the brand’s offerings have become.
With upscale amenities, locally inspired experiences and world-class service, their resorts cater to a wide range of travelers, especially those looking to earn or redeem IHG One Rewards points.
Let’s dive into what sets IHG’s hotels apart from all the others in the region.
Why choose one of IHG’s Luxury and Lifestyle resorts in Latin America and the Caribbean
With more than 30 new Luxury & Lifestyle properties in development and a portfolio of standout resorts already open, IHG is making major moves across Latin America and the Caribbean.
One of the most exciting developments is seeing the Kimpton brand expand into more resort destinations. Everything you know and love about Kimpton, from bold design, standout service, exceptional dining and a warm, effortlessly social atmosphere, now comes with beachfront amenities and personalized experiences that tap into the local destination.
At Kimpton Grand Roatán, for example, I got to enjoy a spa treatment using locally sourced jade, plus easy access to the world’s second-largest barrier reef for diving — all just steps from my room. More on that later, but it’s these kinds of thoughtful amenities that make these properties feel truly special.
The perks of booking IHG resorts with points
Many of IHG’s Luxury & Lifestyle resorts across Mexico, Latin America and the Caribbean can be booked using IHG One Rewards points, a major advantage for loyalty travelers looking to maximize value. Reward Nights vary by property and season, but savvy redemptions can unlock luxurious stays by choosing points when booking on ihg.com.
Plus, IHG One Rewards Platinum and Diamond Elite members can also get added benefits like room upgrades, early check-in and late checkout, depending on the property and availability — all of which will make your stay feel even more luxurious.
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Where to stay with IHG
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, once-in-a-lifetime dive trip or kid-friendly vacation, IHG has a standout resort for every kind of traveler. Here are three of our top picks that all bring something unique to the luxury experience.
For one-of-a-kind island escapes: Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa
From the moment I arrived at the Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa, I felt like I had discovered a secret island paradise. The atmosphere was breezy yet refined, and it was one of the most peaceful vacations I’ve had in a while. I mean, Season Eight of “Love is Blind” was filmed here, after all.
A big reason to stay here is the sheer number of unique excursions. The highlight is a full-service scuba diving center that provides direct valet access to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, the Mesoamerican Reef. And if you’re a beginner like I was, you can take a free class with West Bay Divers in the resort pool before you (literally) dive in. Before you know it, you’ll be swimming alongside sea turtles and tropical fish.
If diving isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities you can book directly through the resort, like a catamaran sunset boat tour, zip lining and horseback riding.
To truly unwind, reserve one of the private cabanas by the beach or pool. I wanted to be as close to the Caribbean water as possible during my stay, so I opted for a beachfront cabana just steps away from the shoreline. It came with fresh fruit, local craft beer or prosecco, bottled water, and top-notch Kimpton service.
One thing I love about Kimpton spas is that they always focus on treatments that immerse you in the local culture, and the Kao Kamasa Spa is no exception. I opted for the Pesh “Painted-Jade” Restorative Facial, which uses jade stone therapy and botanicals drawn from ancient Mesoamerican rituals. It was energizing and deeply restorative.
Dining was another highlight. Each morning began with a generous buffet breakfast at Alera — think fresh fruit, local pastries, and made-to-order omelets. I loved that breakfast could be included in the room rate, making it easy to fuel up before a day of snorkeling or spa treatments.
For a splurge, the Green Flash Table ($500 per couple) is a must: an intimate chef’s tasting dinner timed with sunset, with just one seating for up to eight guests each night. There’s no better way to end a day on Roatán.
In true Kimpton fashion, they also never forget about the little details and thoughtful touches. From daily Kimpton social hour and the “Forgot It? We’ve Got It!” essentials program to pet-friendly accommodations and in-room yoga mats, it’s that signature mix of comfort and personality that makes Kimpton feel like a home away from home.
For romantic retreats: JOIA Paraíso by Iberostar
New to the IHG portfolio, JOIA Paraíso by Iberostar is a luxury all-inclusive resort designed for an adults-only escape. Located in Mexico’s gorgeous Riviera Maya, this beachfront sanctuary sets the stage for a romantic getaway.
Accommodations range from modern suites to spacious villas with sleek designs. Many feature outdoor soaking tubs, ocean views, and even private butler service for an added layer of pampering.
The resort offers an array of elevated experiences that make it perfect for couples and honeymooners. Spend your days lounging by one of the many pools, indulging in couples massages at the full-service spa or enjoying beachside yoga and mixology classes together. When the sun sets, enjoy candlelit dinners at gourmet restaurants serving global and locally inspired cuisine, or sip cocktails under the stars at the chic rooftop bar.
With unlimited golf access, immersive wellness offerings and curated activities designed to deepen connection, the resort seamlessly blends the ease of all-inclusive travel with luxury-level personalization.
For family fun: InterContinental Presidente Cancún Resort
With direct access to calm, swimmable waters and soft white sand in the heart of Cancún, Mexico, the InterContinental Presidente Cancún Resort is ideal for families, especially those with young children. This beachfront resort has multiple pools, family-style dining options, paddleboarding, snorkeling and easy access to local nature excursions for the perfect balance of relaxation and recreation.
Thoughtful design and flexible offerings make it easy for families to unwind without compromising on luxury. For parents, the full-service spa and spacious ocean-view suites offer comfort and convenience while little ones enjoy their own adventure at InterContinental’s signature kids club.
Another highlight for families is the shallow-entry beachfront pool that offers stunning ocean views and a safe environment for younger children to splash and play. Surrounded by loungers and just steps from the bar and snack areas, it creates a central hub where the whole family can unwind together without missing a moment of Cancún’s gorgeous beaches.
And if you’re looking to explore beyond the beach, the resort also offers easy access to family-friendly attractions like the Interactive Aquarium Cancún and nearby eco-parks such as Xcaret and Xel-Há, which can be booked directly through your resort concierge. Whether you’re planning a laid-back beach day or an off-site adventure, the InterContinental Presidente Cancún makes it easy to customize your itinerary to fit everyone’s idea of fun.
Bottom line
From exclusive couples getaways to adventurous reef diving or a family beach vacation, IHG’s Luxury & Lifestyle resorts in Latin America and the Caribbean deliver a curated experience for every kind of traveler. With plenty of redemption opportunities and a growing footprint in the region, IHG makes it easy to enjoy a memorable, elevated escape with little effort.
Click here to browse IHG’s Luxury & Lifestyle resorts and find the perfect property for your next tropical getaway.
