The difference between a hotel and a resort may not seem significant at a glance. After all, both offer accommodations at the end of the day! But look closer, and the differences are substantial. These two property types range in size, amenities, service level and more.
If you're deciding what type of property to launch or considering a rebrand, understanding the resort vs hotel distinction is key. This guide breaks down the similarities and differences between hotels and resorts to help you make the smartest choice for your business.
Key Highlights:
A hotel is a commercial property that provides lodging and some amenities, often for short stays. They’re typically located in desirable areas of cities, near airports or by business hubs. They also cater to various types of travelers, including families, business travelers and more.
Hotel amenities depend on the property type, but most offer 24-hour reception desks and daily housekeeping. They also may feature on-site dining, pools or spas.
Note: Hotels are in a service tier between motels and resorts. To learn more about motels, read our motel vs hotel guide here.
Boutique hotels are small, stylish properties that offer a unique, personalized experience. They often reflect the local culture by featuring curated decor, custom amenities and tailored service. They're ideal for travelers looking for a trip that has a tailored, curated feel.
Chain hotels are part of a larger brand or hospitality group. These properties provide consistency across locations, loyalty programs and reliable experiences. They’re a favorite for frequent travelers who value predictability regardless of where they travel.
These hotels cater to corporate travelers, and are typically located near business districts or conference centers. They feature things like meeting rooms, breakfast options, fast Wi-Fi and express services. Some also offer executive lounges and airport shuttle services.
Found in popular gambling destinations like Las Vegas or Monaco, casino hotels combine accommodations with in-house gaming facilities. Guests can enjoy a full entertainment experience with restaurants, live shows and nightlife. These properties typically attract leisure travelers who are looking for an all-in-one stay.
Luxury hotels deliver an elevated experience from start to finish. They offer premium services such as valet parking, concierge access, fine dining and spa facilities. The types of hotel rooms found in a luxury hotel are also usually more spacious than standard properties.
Green hotels prioritize sustainability by implementing energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly practices. These properties appeal to environmentally conscious travelers who prioritize reducing their carbon footprint. Many green hotels also carry certifications like LEED or Green Key.
Also known as aparthotels, these properties blend hotel services with apartment-style living. Guests rooms feature a kitchen and living area, with laundry facilities located in-room or on-site. These properties are ideal for longer stays or families seeking more space.
These properties are destinations tailored directly to food lovers by emphasizing culinary experiences. They often have award-winning restaurants on-site, may offer cooking classes and feature local cuisines.
Set in historic buildings, heritage hotels preserve cultural and architectural significance. Think centuries-old castles in Europe or colonial mansions in India. These hotels offer a unique ambiance and storytelling element.
Inns are typically smaller and more informal than hotels. They often provide basic lodging and a complimentary breakfast. Many are family-owned and located in rural or suburban areas, appealing to travelers looking for homey charm.
Located near major airports, airport hotels offer convenience for short layovers or early flights. Many provide shuttle service, day-use rooms and flexible check-in/checkout times.
For guests staying longer than a week, extended stay hotels are ideal. They offer kitchenettes, laundry facilities and discounted weekly rates. They’re perfect for people relocating or those in need of temporary housing.
A resort is a self-contained property, usually located at a desirable destination. They have multiple options for recreation, entertainment and relaxation on-site. Unlike hotels, resorts often encourage longer stays and have many on-site amenities such as spas, golf courses and dining venues to explore.
All-inclusive resorts bundle accommodations, meals, beverages, activities and entertainment into a single price. They attract guests who want a hassle-free vacation, such as honeymooners, families and international travelers. They commonly feature buffet-style dining, beaches, pools and entertainment, all without additional charges.
Wellness resorts prioritize physical and mental health through their offerings. They feature workout classes, meditation, spas and other rejuvenating experiences. They’re popular among health-conscious travelers seeking a new destination.
Designed for sustainability and immersion in nature, eco resorts are often located in remote or protected areas. They use renewable energy, promote conservation and encourage low-impact tourism. Activities may include nature walks, wildlife viewing and special programming informed by local communities.
Family resorts offer amenities like splash pads, play areas, supervised clubs and family suites. They're designed to offer parents relaxation while kids stay occupied with on-site activities. These resorts often have programming for a range of age groups so everyone can enjoy their vacation.
Beachfront resorts offer direct access to the ocean, water sports, seaside dining and laid-back leisure. Whether surfing in Hawaii or lounging in the Caribbean, beach resorts focus on relaxation and recreation in scenic tropical settings.
Often located near ski slopes or hiking trails, mountain resorts focus on outdoor adventure. These resorts offer opportunities for seasonal activities and the great outdoors. Many also offer luxurious amenities like fireplaces, spas and après-ski dining.
Luxury resorts provide high-end services and world-class amenities, including private pools, gourmet dining, bespoke excursions and personalized concierge services. These are typically found in exclusive destinations and cater to affluent travelers.
Golf resorts are centered around high-profile golf courses and offer access to clubhouses, lessons, tournaments and leisure. They often include additional amenities like spas and fine dining to cater to non-golfers as well.
Dedicated to wellness and pampering, spa resorts specialize in rejuvenating services on-site. They may offer farm-to-table menus, juice bars and full-day spa itineraries.
Geared toward thrill-seekers, adventure resorts offer adrenaline-filled experiences. They're a hub for white-water rafting, ziplining, rock climbing or wildlife safaris. They attract a younger demographic or families seeking immersive, high-energy getaways.
Understanding the resort and hotel difference is essential when comparing properties. While both provide travelers with a place to stay, their core purposes, services and experiences vary widely. Resorts are typically immersive, destination-driven properties designed for longer stays and relaxation. Conversely, hotels often prioritize convenience, accessibility and short-term stays.
Hotels usually focus on essential lodging services like 24-hour reception, banquet halls for events or conference facilities for business travelers. They're optimized for efficiency and accessibility, but guests often have to leave the property to access more robust entertainment and dining options.
Resorts are built to be self-contained destinations. In addition to standard hotel amenities, guests can expect to have everything they need on-site. This often includes multiple restaurants, private beaches and pools, fitness centers and a range of entertainment.
Hotels often offer limited on-site activities, such as a pool or basic gym. Guests usually choose hotels to explore the surrounding area or visit for a specific purpose (like business or events).
Resorts build activities into the experience—think morning yoga sessions, guided hikes or snorkeling excursions. This keeps guests engaged without leaving the property for an all-encompassing feel.
Hotel entertainment is usually minimal: a TV in the room, perhaps a bar nearby or access to local nightlife.
Resorts frequently host live music, themed parties and seasonal events to keep guests entertained around the clock.
Most hotels provide one or two dining options, such as a lobby bar or cafe. They may provide a continental breakfast or have a grab-and-go area for quick snacks.
Resorts often feature a wide variety of food and drink venues. Guests can choose between buffets, specialty restaurants, beachside bars or room service depending on the property. And if it's an all-inclusive resort, these are often part of the stay price as well.
Guests typically stay at hotels for shorter durations. Think overnight, business trips or weekend visits.
Resorts cater to travelers looking for longer stays and more immersive experiences. Because guests often plan their vacation around the resort, they'll also usually stay for a week or more.
Hotels are usually situated near transportation hubs, downtown areas or business districts. Guests can easily go out and explore or access the specific attractions they're visiting for.
Resorts, by contrast, are destinations in themselves. They’re often tucked away in natural, scenic or recreational locations where the resort is the main attraction.
So now that we’ve established what they are, we can dig into the factors that make a hotel or resort thrive. While both share common operational goals, the success factors for each can look quite different. Here’s a deeper dive into what sets standout properties apart.
For the hotel guest experience, success often hinges on speed, convenience and consistency. Travelers expect quick check-ins, reliable Wi-Fi, efficient service and the standard amenities for the class of hotel they’re staying at. Thoughtful touches and extras aren't expected, but can go a long way.
On the other hand, resorts aim to create immersive, memorable experiences. Guests are looking for connections that go beyond just a place to sleep. This can include their experience with the resort itself, the staff, amenities, atmosphere or all of the above. Personalization, thoughtful extras and regular touchpoints are often expected.
Hotels often cross-train their staff so they can step into multiple roles. This reduces the impact of unexpected peak times or staff shortages, but results in a more generalized staffing model.
For resorts, a more specialized approach is key. Activity coordinators, wellness experts and entertainment staff are generally specialized roles. It's expected that every resort employee delivers high-touch service that shapes the guest experience.
Hotels and resorts both benefit from using integrated tech solutions so their systems can communicate. For hotels, this enables streamlined operations and a modernized guest experience.
For resorts, the guest journey spans multiple touchpoints and has many variables. Integrated tech prevents oversights and mistakes that negatively impact guests. It also provides a more luxurious feel, as guests can access in-stay necessities on their own devices.
Hotel revenue management strategies typically focus on optimizing room rates and occupancy. Because hotels are often located in markets with many competitors, strategic pricing is a necessity.
While resorts may also need to dynamically adjust their room rates, ancillary revenue is a larger focus. Add-ons like spa services, activity bookings and room upgrades offer guests a more personalized and tailored experience.
Marketing a hotel often centers on convenience. It’s beneficial to highlight a good location, area attractions and reasonable pricing.
Resort marketing leans into aspirational elements, like relaxation, escape and all-inclusive luxury. Storytelling, visuals and experience-based marketing play a larger role.
Sustainability in hotels is no longer optional. Guests increasingly expect eco-conscious practices, from reduced plastic to energy-efficient systems. Linen reuse programs or letting guests skip housekeeping save money and increase eco-friendliness.
Since resorts have a bigger footprint, they also have broader opportunities. Features like organic gardens and on-site water recycling boost sustainability, and can enhance the guest experience through tours and educational materials.
What’s in a name? For hotels and resorts, quite a lot. The way you label your property, whether it’s a “hotel,” “resort,” “boutique escape,” or “urban oasis,” directly shapes guest expectations. This strategic branding decision impacts marketing, room pricing, operations and more.
Your property’s label sets the tone for the guest experience long before a guest enters your lobby.
The label “hotel” implies functionality, convenience and possibly a business-oriented stay. A “resort” suggests something immersive, where guests expect leisure, relaxation and on-site amenities. Hybrids like “boutique resort” cater to niche segments, promising luxury or experiential travel within specific contexts.
Misalignment here can lead to disappointment. If a guest expects a tranquil spa retreat but finds a business-oriented property with a few leisure amenities, it’s a recipe for negative reviews. To make sure your marketing matches the experience you offer, do an audit of the language you use. Does your label match the experience you deliver? If not, it might be time to refine your positioning.
While there are plenty of overlapping demographics, different hotel labels naturally appeal to different types of travelers when booking accommodations.
In addition to being a helpful branding guideline, how you label your property is also a pricing lever.
The term “resort” often commands a higher ADR (average daily rate). This is because it implies access to premium amenities and an all-encompassing guest experience. That said, high-end hotels in desirable destinations may surpass the ADR of resorts in less expensive areas.
Understanding the perceived value of your hotel is also important. If your property offers amenities like a spa, multiple F&B outlets or curated guest experiences, labeling it as a hotel may leave revenue on the table. It might be beneficial to rebrand as a resort or a hybrid term to better reflect what you offer.
Hotels and resorts operate very differently. From staffing models to amenity management, each property type has its own requirements. Understanding what each type of accommodation needs will help you as you determine which label suits your operations best.
Staffing strategies differ widely between hotels and resorts. Guests will expect a different service level from each, and staffing must adjust accordingly. A resort typically has a higher staff-to-guest ratio, featuring specialized roles for an immersive experience. Hotels, in contrast, often operate with leaner teams focused on core services.
Here’s a breakdown:
If you’re delivering a resort-like guest experience but operating with hotel-style staffing, it may be time to reconsider. Could cross-training your team improve flexibility during peak periods? Is there ROI for introducing specialized roles that drive higher guest satisfaction? All of these factors are important to evaluate when considering what your property has on offer.
From multiple pools to guided excursions, resorts are known for offering a rich variety of amenities. But each feature carries not just a price tag, but an ongoing management commitment. Hotels looking to emulate resort appeal should consider which services drive value without draining resources.
Here are some high-ROI additions that won’t balloon your overhead:
On the flip side, evaluate existing amenities that may be underperforming. Is your continental breakfast bar rarely used? Is the business center still relevant in the age of laptops and coworking spaces? Retire what doesn’t serve guests or your bottom line—and reinvest in features that do.
Your property’s label also plays a critical role in shaping your revenue strategy. Resorts tend to lean into ancillary revenue and longer guest stays. Hotels often maximize shorter bookings through efficiency and quick turnaround. The key is identifying where your property sits and making the most of the revenue opportunities that align with your strengths.
Resorts excel at earning beyond the room rate. Between spa services, private excursions, wellness packages and premium dining, they’ve built a strong ancillary revenue strategy. But even if you don’t operate a full-service resort, you can still tap into these opportunities.
Using a solution for dynamic hotel upsells shows guests all the add-ons your hotel has on offer. From late checkout to room upgrades, they can easily choose what’s most relevant to their stay. This gives travelers more customization options and creates a revenue stream that goes beyond just room rates.
You can also showcase ancillary services with a digital compendium solution. Showcase menus, services and experiences in a mobile-friendly format so guests can convert from their phones. Whether it’s a wine tasting or a pet welcome kit, every upsell is a chance to elevate the guest experience and boost revenue.
Resorts cater to leisure travelers booking multi-night stays full of relaxation and amenities. Hotels, especially in urban or transit-heavy areas, see shorter bookings for business travel or sightseeing. Understanding booking patterns opens the door to smarter revenue strategies.
For example, does your average guest stay for a long weekend? Then focus on fast-accruing loyalty programs, convenient dining and getaway packages. Know your guests like to stay longer? Offer bundle deals and personalized itineraries that increase their connection to your property.
Deciding how you brand your property has far-reaching implications. It shapes everything from site planning and capital investment to long-term operational strategy. Here’s how:
The land and zoning requirements are often different between hotels and resorts. Resorts typically require larger plots to make room for pools, spas, recreational areas or other amenities. This impacts the physical footprint, the utility infrastructure and environmental considerations.
The capital required to get started tends to be higher for resorts due to the cost of building and maintaining expansive facilities. However, it can yield stronger returns from higher ADRs, ancillary revenue and guest loyalty.
Hotels prioritize efficient flow and high guest turnover. Property designs focus on easy access and a high volume of traffic. Resorts focus on immersive experiences that engage guests at every turn. This can include aesthetic landscaping and spatial elements that encourage leisure and discovery.
Ultimately, deciding on “hotel vs resort” should align with your target audience, desired guest experience and revenue model. There's no universal blueprint for success. Whether you’re a sleek urban hotel or a luxury eco-resort, what matters most is delivering an experience that resonates with your guests (and doing so consistently!).
Choosing the right label is just the beginning. Operational excellence and a standout guest experience are what ultimately drive revenue and loyalty. That's why Canary’s solutions are perfect for properties of all types.
Ready to unlock your property’s full potential? Book a demo today and discover how Canary can help you delight guests and stay ahead in a competitive market.
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