June 23, 2026, 8:56 am | Read time: 5 minutes
Until recently, our author didn’t even know that adult-only hotels existed. Today, she can’t imagine a better vacation. Read on TRAVELBOOK about what makes adults-only accommodations different, who might particularly enjoy them, and what to consider when booking if you desire explicit “adult entertainment” (or not).
“Do you swing?” was the first question from a friend when she found out we were staying at an adults-only hotel on the Thai island of Koh Samui. I, too, couldn’t imagine what an “adults-only hotel” entailed. The term is relatively self-explanatory, but I was surprised by how different the experience was from what I was used to.
Overview
What is an Adults-Only Hotel?
Adults-only hotels offer rooms exclusively to adult guests. The age requirement varies by hotel, typically starting at 16, sometimes 18 or 21 years. Importantly, the minimum age is relevant not just for booking but especially for the actual stay. Children of hotel guests are not allowed.
My first stay at such a hotel in Thailand was by chance. The pictures of the resort (with an infinity pool right on the beach, a bar, …) were more than convincing, as was the price. Honestly, I had forgotten the “adults only” label by the time I booked. Now I know that many travelers specifically seek out adults-only hotels, and travel agencies have responded by offering bundled options.
Also interesting: More than half of the 7 most popular adults-only hotels worldwide are in Europe
The First Time “Adults Only” – Here’s How It Was!
Pleasantly Quiet
On-site, nothing was risqué or gave the impression that it was exclusively for adults for any particular reason. Sure, you wouldn’t find toys or similar items for children’s amusement. Overall, the resort was extremely quiet. Pleasant! Naturally, where there are no children, there are no loud games or splashing. To ensure this tranquility isn’t disturbed by young-at-heart adults who enjoy a good splash, belly flops and the like are generally prohibited by house rules in most adults-only hotels.
Consideration at the Pool
Even though I love swimming, I often avoid hotel pools if they’re too crowded or if I doubt the hygiene of other guests. It was different at the adults-only hotel on Koh Samui, where the clientele seemed exceptionally well-groomed. It was great that there was never a crowd in the water; guests gave each other space, and when I wanted to swim laps, it was no problem. There were plenty of loungers, all uniformly covered with the hotel’s dark blue towels. People on them spoke quietly, most read or slept. Both were easily possible, as the soft musical backdrop à la Café del Mar was unlike the usual poolside noise.
Catered to Adult Needs
Most adults-only hotels are explicitly designed to meet the desires and needs of adult guests. This is evident in the relatively large number of relaxation areas (spa, gym) and even in the dining room hours. While many hotels close dining at 9 p.m., many adults-only hotels allow for later dining.
It’s Not About Being Anti-Children
The fact that children are not welcome in adults-only hotels is not about discrimination or a negative attitude. After all, there are plenty of family-friendly hotels where kids can play and have fun to their heart’s content. And not just them, their parents also benefit from the right hotel choice.
When I raved about my experience at the adults-only hotel to another friend—a mother of two—she did the same about her family hotel experience. “The little ones could be louder there without me feeling uncomfortable,” she reported. Normally, she avoids having others feel acoustically disturbed by her children. Additionally, family hotels provide childcare, where kids can make new friends. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy some peace or quality time together.
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Who I Would Recommend an Adults-Only Hotel To
Couples looking to relax together are well-suited for an adults-only hotel. And, of course, those who would be very disturbed by potential child noise in regular hotels. The hotel on Koh Samui also had several solo travelers who visibly enjoyed their time. The staff made it very easy for them to do so.
Family-oriented people who want to take a break at an adults-only hotel should be prepared for it to be much quieter than they might be used to. Perhaps too quiet for their taste.
What to Consider When Booking
“Adults-only hotel” is a broad term. There are some adults-only hotels where adult guests can particularly enjoy themselves freely, further emphasizing the exclusion of minors. Here, the mentioned “swinging” is worth noting again. Depending on what you’re looking for, check the hotel’s website carefully. Often, images or written notes like “nudist” or “fetish parties” will indicate what to expect.