In the last year, we have visited every Sandals Resort. Along the way, the most frequently asked question is always, what is the best Sandals Resort?
So first we will share our top 5 Sandals Resort, then share a few other options based on location and other things you might be looking for.
How to choose the best Sandals Resort
Finally, it’s always helpful to speak with a travel agent who specializes in Sandals Resorts, as they can provide additional insights and help tailor your vacation to your specific needs.
Price
Your budget is going to have a huge effect on which Sandals you choose. From under $200 a night per person to over $1000 per night per person, you can find the best Sandals resort for you with a variety of options.
Check Current Travel Deals
When looking at prices, make sure you check current specials before deciding which Sandals Resort is best for you. Each week there are new specials on 7 different suites, there are always last-minute deals and they have seasonal sales as well.
Water Preferences
Are you a beach person or a pool person? Do you want a pool with a party vibe or a quiet pool where you won’t be disturbed? You’ll want to keep this in mind as you review each resort.
Accommodations
Sandals Resorts have some of the most unique accommodations available in the Caribbean. There are overwater bungalows, rooms with private pools, and amazing views. You can find rooms in the middle of the action or secluded away from everything.
Resort Locations
When choosing you Sandals Resort you’ll want to check the location. How far is the resort from the airport? How long will the flights be to arrive? Some of the resorts are within 15 minutes while some will take 90 minutes of windy roads. The location will have a huge impact on the overall feel of your Sandals vacation.
Sandals Resorts Ranked
Sandals Saint Vincent (Buccament Bay, Saint Vincent)
We just visited Sandals Saint Vincent in May of 2024 and it is easily the best Sandals resort. Now it may not be the best for you because it is the most expensive Sandals Resort and flights are a bit trickier to navigate. Still, overall the food, service, beaches, pools, and destination all come together to make it a unique and inspiring experience.
The resort is a 40-minute shuttle from the airport and getting through customs doesn’t really take long since the plane you arrive on is likely the only one arriving anytime soon. (make sure you pay extra to sit near the front)
The resort is nestled near the beach and surrounded by mountainous terrain formed from volcanic activity. The water is clear and beautiful with plenty of room on the beach. There are four pools on-site and a spa with an additional pool, cold plunges, sauna, and steam room.
The food and drink at the resort shine with new concepts including a local family-style restaurant, salad restaurant, Italian, seafood, a steak house, and several others.
- Location: Saint Vincent
- Highlight Features: Brand new resort in an off-the-beaten-path destination.
- Suitable For: Anyone with the budget available and decent flights.
Sandals Dunns River (Ocho Rios, Jamaica)
Recently added to our list is Sandals Dunns River. We agree that one of the newest Sandals Resort has gotten great reviews from early visitors. The resort is full of improvements over the traditional Sandals concepts. For example, there are three specialty bars with unique craft cocktails. The food is better at the unique dining concepts and the service was top-notch.
The pool is river-style with one swim-up bar. Of course, you’ll want to visit the Dunns River Falls nearby during your stay.
- Location: Ocho Rios, Jamaica
- Highlight Features: New and reimagined resort with new food concepts.
- Suitable For: Travelers seeking modern luxury in a romantic Caribbean resort.
Sandals Grenada (Pink Gin Beach, Grenada)
For us, Sandals Grenada is one of the best all-around resorts that we regularly recommend to guests. It is located near the airport, has great food, has a quiet pool and a more lively pool with a swim-up bar. All of this is made better with great staff and a beautiful island to explore.
On resort there is a section of rooms that are located right on the beach. Additionally this resort has a lot of rooms that have private pools or swim-up pools which we love! We highly recommend getting off the resort. We took an island tour that went into the mountains where we saw monkeys, a spice garden, rum tasting, shopping and local cuisine with a friendly informative guide.
- Location: Nestled on Pink Gin Beach.
- Highlight Features: Known as the “Island of Spice,” this resort brings contemporary luxury to the unspoiled landscapes of Grenada. It boasts stunning pools, waterfalls, and innovative accommodations such as SkyPool Suites and Rondoval Suites.
- Suitable For: Couples seeking a mix of natural beauty and modern luxury, with a touch of exotic island flair.
For me, Sandals Grenada is the best Sandals Resort because it is a well rounded resort with something for everyone. It have a quiet beautiful beach, a quiet pool, and a more lively pool during the day. There is a variety of excursion options and the food is high quality.
Dan Bagby
Sandals Grande St. Lucian (Gros-Islet, St. Lucia)
We really enjoyed our visit to Sandals Grande St Lucian. The resort is located on one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean and has a very calm beach perfect for relaxing or trying motorized water sports. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from and the service is top-notch.
The only reason it is not higher on our list is because of the distance from the airport. However, we loved making our way to the resort with a boat ferry which was better than most excursions.
This resort is also famous for the overwater bungalows available, but they are very expensive and availability is limited.
- Location: On a peninsula adjacent to Pigeon Island National Park.
- Highlight Features: Offers panoramic views, overwater bungalows, and Rondoval suites. The calm waters are ideal for water sports.
- Suitable For: Those wanting a beachfront experience, water activity enthusiasts, and honeymooners or couples desiring overwater accommodations.
Sandals Regency La Toc (Castries, St. Lucia)
Also on Saint Lucia is Sandals Regency La Toc, a very large with two distinct areas. We prefer the quieter sunset bluff area which has a pool with a swim-up bar and sunset views. The beach is one of our favorites, but that is because we like a beach with some waves, while a lot of people prefer a calm beach.
The resort has a little bit of everything with entertainment, beautiful sunsets and a variety of restaurants.
- Location: Set on 220 acres with a dramatic oceanfront cliff setting.
- Highlight Features: Home to the Sunset Oceanview Bluff Millionaire Butler Villa with Private Pool Sanctuary and its executive-style golf course.
- Suitable For: Golf enthusiasts and travelers seeking an upscale, glamorous experience combining beachfront and hillside environments.
I’d have to pick Sandals Regency La Toc as the best Sandals Resort. It may be far from the airport, but we had a blast getting there on the ferry boat. The service was great and there was plenty of food options. Would definately return!
Michelle Burnett
Sandals Royal Plantation (Ocho Rios, Jamaica)
Sandals Royal Plantation is the smallest Sandals Resort and it is polarizing. Most people love the intimate feel. They have the best service since there simply are not that many people around to serve. Your butler will know where you are so they can stop by regularly and there are additional servers to bring you drinks during the day.
The beach is calm, relaxing and a clear blue water. After you have enjoyed Sandals Royal Plantation you can go to the nearby Sandals Ochi which is much larger.
The only complaint is that the rooms can be a bit outdated. Many have been recently refreshed, but the bathrooms need a more extensive update.
- Location: Situated on the northern coast of Jamaica.
- Highlight Features: An all-butler, all-suite boutique resort known for its intimate setting. Offers afternoon tea and is the only Sandals with both a private cove and an overwater bar.
- Suitable For: Couples looking for a more exclusive, peaceful, and personalized experience.
Sandals Royal Barbados (St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados)
Sandals Royal Barbados has something for everyone. When combined with Sandals Barbados next door, the resort is huge. There are plenty of dining options, a beautiful beach, multiple pools to choose from, and fun activities. The resort is a short drive to the resort and the people of Barbados are some of the most friendly in the Caribbean.
- Location: Adjacent to Sandals Barbados in the lively St. Lawrence Gap region.
- Highlight Features: Features a contemporary design with state-of-the-art facilities like the rooftop pool and bar, a gourmet donut shop, and a four-lane bowling alley. Home to Skypool, Swim-up, and Millionaire Suites.
- Suitable For: Travelers seeking modern luxury and unique amenities in a lively Caribbean destination.
Each of these Sandals Resorts offers a unique experience based on its location, design, and offerings. The best fit for a traveler will often depend on personal preferences related to ambiance, activities, and desired level of luxury. However, all five ensure the high standards of luxury, service, and all-inclusive amenities that the Sandals brand is renowned for.
Sandals Montego Bay (Montego Bay, Jamaica)
Sandals Montego Bay is the most popular and well-known Sandals Resort offering a convenient location along a private stretch of beach. Since the beach is so long you can find a chair pretty easily and can enjoy the pristine waters while also relaxing.
One of the highlights of this resort is the range of room options, from simple luxury rooms to extravagant “Love Nest” suites with butler service. We love that so many of the rooms are oceanfront with an option to book a swim-up suite, providing easy access between the ocean and pool.
Another standout feature is the ability to visit Sandals Royal Caribbean, located nearby, which adds even more dining and pool options, including favorite restaurants like Royal Thai and Bombay. With so much to explore and indulge in, Sandals Montego Bay offers an incredible variety of experiences for every type of traveler.
We love that there are very calm areas of the resort with other areas that feel like a party.
One common complaint is that the airplane noise can be loud from the airport. In our experience, you get used to the noise after the first day, but it makes it hard if you are the type of traveler who likes to nap on the beach.
- Location: Montego Bay, Jamaica, 5 minutes from the airport.
- Highlight Features: The beautiful beach and access to Sandals Royal Caribbean.
- Suitable For: A great option for travelers seeking a convenient, quick vacation due to its proximity to the airport and the U.S.
Sandals Grande Antigua (St John’s, Antigua)
Nestled on the famous Dickenson Bay, Sandals Grande Antigua is known as an amazing resort that has been named the “World’s Most Romantic Resort” multiple times. With two distinct sections—the Caribbean Beachfront Village, a charming and serene garden escape, and the Mediterranean Oceanview Village, featuring a more luxurious vibe with the largest zero-entry pool in the Eastern Caribbean—Sandals Grande Antigua offers an ideal setting for couples seeking both relaxation and indulgence.
The resort boasts a variety of accommodations, though some may find the rooms slightly dated compared to newer Sandals properties. However, this comes with the benefit of a more affordable price point. Standout options include the Mediterranean One Bedroom Butler Villa with a Private Pool Sanctuary, offering privacy and spaciousness, and the original Rondoval rooms, though smaller than those at other resorts.
While the beach is public, vendors tend to be respectful and unobtrusive, and the brilliant blue waters make it easy to see why this beach is a highlight. Dining options are plentiful, with 11 restaurants and 7 bars, including favorites like The Drunken Duck, Soy, and the largest Kimonos location in the Sandals family.
- Location: Dickenson Bay, Antigua, 15 minutes from the airport.
- Highlight Features: An amazing beach and a variety of quiet pools, quality service, and a variety of restaurants.
- Suitable For: Great for beach lovers who want a balance of luxury, great service, and affordability in a quiet environment.
Sandals Negril (Negril, Jamaica)
Sandals Negril is situated right on Jamaica’s iconic Seven Mile Beach, this resort offers beachfront living at its finest. Almost every room is just a few steps from the soft white sand and the clear Caribbean waters.
The accommodations here range from luxurious suites with private pools and rooftop terraces to more affordable but equally enjoyable beachfront rooms. On our recent trip to Sandals Negril, we stayed in one of the new resorts with Skypools and we did not want to leave the room. These newer suites make you feel like you are at a brand-new luxury resort within a resort.
The resort’s vibe is all about embracing Jamaica’s “no worries” lifestyle, making it the perfect place to relax. With new dining options like Brava for Spanish cuisine and Perla for Latin fusion, along with favorites like Barefoot by the Sea and Sundowner, you’re in for a culinary treat.
- Location: Jamaica’s world-famous Seven Mile Beach, just over an hour’s drive from Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport.
- Highlight Features: New suites with private pools, new dining options, and the beautiful Seven Mile Beach.
- Suitable For: Couples looking to embrace Jamaica’s laid-back spirit with a luxurious touch.
Sandals Royal Curacao (Santa Barbara Estate, Curaçao)
Sandals Royal Curacao has been getting some rave reviews recently from a lot of our clients. Sandals Royal Curacao is one of the newest additions to the Sandals family, bringing a sleek, modern design and a focus on elevated cuisine to the stunning island of Curacao.
The resort’s signature feature is its two-level infinity pool, where daily entertainment and a swim-up bar make it the social hub of the resort. For guests seeking a quieter experience, there are additional pools, including a peaceful retreat on the edge of the property. The combination of a stunning seaside location and modern amenities makes this resort a standout in the Caribbean.
Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by Sandals Royal Curacao’s diverse dining options. With eleven restaurants, including three creative food trucks, guests can indulge in a wide range of flavors—from local Curaçao cuisine and Spanish tapas to Asian fusion. The upscale dining options like Zuka, featuring Latin Fusion, and a Café & Wine Bar offer gourmet experiences that set this resort apart.
Whether you’re staying in the luxurious Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows or the vibrant Kurason Island Poolside Bungalows, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views and top-tier accommodations, making Sandals Royal Curacao an unforgettable destination.
- Location: 40 Minutes from the airport in Curacao.
- Highlight Features: A stunning two-level infinity pool that serves as the resort’s lively entertainment hub.
- Suitable For: Foodies and people who love hanging out around the pool.
Sandals South Coast (White House, Jamaica)
Guest love Sandals South Coast because it is away from the touristy areas of Jamaica providing a serene sanctuary located on an expansive private beach. The resort is divided into three distinct villages, newly renamed in 2024 as the Starlight, Silver Sun, and Longbeach areas.
The resort also boasts Jamaica’s largest swimming pool, along with two other expansive pools and a winding river pool near the Rondoval village.
With recent renovations to many of the rooms, including the French Village, Sandals South Coast has never looked better, offering a fresh and luxurious experience for guests.
We have met so many guests at Sandals South Coast that go back year after year because of the beautiful beach and the friendly atmosphere around main pool. Our biggest hesitation to returning is the windy drive from the airport, but we did better last time with dramimine.
- Location: Southern coast of Jamaica about 90 minutes from Montego Bay’s airport.
- Highlight Features: Multiple large pools, expansive beach, and overwater bungalows.
- Suitable For: Perfect for couples looking for a secluded, luxurious escape far from the hustle and bustle.
Sandals Royal Bahamian (Nassau, Bahamas)
Sandals Royal Bahamian stands out from the other Sandals properties for its lively party atmosphere that also has the option to retreat to a tranquil, private island for some downtime. Located in the Bahamas, just a short drive from Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport, this resort offers an ideal balance between fun and relaxation.
The beach is beautiful with crystal clear water both on the main resort and at the private island where snorkeling gear is provided.
The standout feature is its private offshore island, where guests can escape to serene beaches and enjoy incredible snorkeling in a true Caribbean paradise. With two pools and the vibrant Coconut Grove, there’s no shortage of opportunities to socialize and soak in the sun.
For accommodations, the West and Easy Bay rooms have a hotel-like feel and are close to all the options. The Island Village is more tranquil, but some rooms are close to the road noise.
Recently renovated, the resort now offers even more choices for dining and relaxation, making it an exciting and versatile destination. We notice that guests enjoy getting off the resort to visit nearby attractions like Baha Mar’s casino and water park more often than at other resorts, which we highly recommend doing.
Guests also love how close the resort is to the USA since it is just a 30 minute flight from Miami.
- Location: Nassau Bahamas, the closest Sandals Resort to the USA.
- Highlight Features: Private offshore island
- Suitable For: Travelers seeking modern luxury and unique amenities in a lively Caribbean destination.
Sandals Royal Caribbean (Montego Bay, Jamaica)
When I think about Sandals Royal Caribbean my mouth starts to water. The resort has several amazing restaurants and has access to Sandals Montego Bay as well. The Indian restaurants and Thai restaurant on the private island are perfect destinations for foodies.
One of the standout features of Sandals Royal Caribbean is its private island, where guests can enjoy a quiet beach, a swim-up pool, and even a clothing-optional area. This is also home to the resort’s famous Over-the-Water Bungalows and villas, providing ultimate luxury and direct access to the sea.
Located just a short 10-minute drive from the airport, this resort offers an easy and seamless transition from travel to relaxation. With its smaller size and quieter atmosphere, it provides an intimate escape while still offering plenty of variety through its exclusive private island and access to nearby Sandals Montego Bay.
The beach on the main area of the resort has a great atmosphere, there is a large pool for relaxing and if you want to try out other areas you can head to Sandals Montego Bay nearby.
They are currently finishing up construction of some new rooms that will modernize a section of the resort that was outdated and in need of a change.
- Location: 10 minutes from the Montego Bay airport.
- Highlight Features: Private offshore island, variety of cuisine, and accessible to Sandals Montego Bay
- Suitable For: Couples seeking a quieter, more intimate resort experience with easy access to both adventure and relaxation.
Sandals Barbados (St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados)
Sandals Barbados is a fantastic option for those looking to experience a luxurious all-inclusive stay with the added benefit of Sandals Royal Barbados right next door. While Sandals Barbados is a bit older and its accommodations may not be as modern as those at Royal Barbados, it still offers incredible value, especially when you score a great deal.
When it comes to accommodations, the Crystal Lagoon Swim-up suites are a favorite, offering direct access to the expansive lagoon pool. For those who prefer ocean views, the beachfront rooms are just steps away from the soft white sand and turquoise waters of Barbados.
The resort features 11 restaurants, including popular spots like Butch’s Chophouse and Bombay Club, alongside the 10 restaurants at Sandals Royal Barbados. The beachfront pool, with its swim-up bar, is a highlight, as is the peaceful atmosphere of the quiet pool at Sandals Barbados. Whether you prefer lounging by the pool or exploring Barbados’ stunning beaches, Sandals Barbados offers the perfect blend of relaxation and island adventure.
- Location: Adjacent to Sandals Royal Barbados in the lively St. Lawrence Gap region.
- Highlight Features: Combined 21 restaurants, beautiful beach and beachfront pool with swim-up bar.
- Suitable For: Beach lovers who want easy access to Barbados’ stunning white sand beaches and clear waters.
Sandals Ochi (Ocho Rios, Jamaica)
Sandals Ochi is one of the most affordable Sandals Resorts and maybe the most polarizing. Located in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, this resort spans over 100 acres, offering a unique blend of lively beachfront activities and tranquil hillside retreats. Divided by a road, the resort’s two sides—beachside and hillside—are connected by a shuttle, giving guests the flexibility to explore both areas. While some may find the size of the resort polarizing, it offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking vibrant beachside fun or a peaceful garden oasis.
The resort boasts 105 pools, but most of these are private or semi private pools. The lively Manor House Pool is the largest, but we prefer the more laid-back Riviera Pool. When it comest to dining at Sandals Ochi there are 16 restaurants to choose from. The Rabbit Hole, the Caribbean’s first speakeasy, adds a unique flair to the experience. Plus, guests enjoy complimentary green fees at the Upton Estate Golf & Country Club, making Sandals Ochi a standout for both relaxation and adventure.
- Location: Ocho Rios, Jamaica
- Highlight Features: Multiple large pools, 16 restaurants, beautiful beach and a speak easy.
- Suitable For: Budget-conscious travelers looking for variety.
Sandals Halcyon (Castries, Saint Lucia)
Sandals Halcyon is the quietest and most laid-back of the three Sandals resorts in St. Lucia, offering a serene and intimate escape. With only 194 rooms, guests can enjoy personalized service in a relaxed, cottage-style setting, with every room offering patios or balconies that overlook lush gardens or the calm sea. This intimate resort is perfect for couples seeking peace and quiet, while still having access to exciting activities.
One of the resort’s standout features is the “Stay at 1, Play at 3” exchange privileges, which allow guests to access 27 restaurants across all three Sandals resorts in St. Lucia. The resort’s Crystal Lagoon Pool offers a peaceful retreat, while those looking for a livelier vibe can enjoy the main pool with daily activities. The recent addition of the Joli Beachfront Suites and Koko Rondoval Villas adds even more privacy and luxury to this already intimate resort.
This is not the best resort for someone looking for clear water beaches.
- Location: Located Casties
- Highlight Features: Long calm Crystal Lagoon Pool, 20 minutes from 2 other Sandals resorts you can visit.
- Suitable For:
Perfect for couples seeking a peaceful, laid-back getaway in a lush, natural setting.
What is the best Sandals Resort for honeymoons or romance?
Choosing the best Sandals Resort for a honeymoon depends on the preferences and desires of the honeymooning couple, as each Sandals Resort offers its own unique charm and romantic setting. However, several Sandals Resorts are often highlighted as favorites for honeymooners due to their romantic ambiance, intimate settings, or unique offerings. Here’s a rundown of some of our top picks:
- Sandals Grande St. Lucian (St. Lucia):
- Why it’s romantic: Located on a stunning peninsula, this resort offers breathtaking views of both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The over-the-water bungalows provide an immersive romantic experience, with direct water access and unrivaled privacy.
- Special features: Over-the-water bungalows, scenic views of the Rodney Bay, and the historic Pigeon Island.
- Sandals South Coast (Jamaica):
- Why it’s romantic: This resort is nestled within a 500-acre nature reserve and offers an extensive 2-mile beach. The over-the-water bungalows and heart-shaped overwater bar add to the romance.
- Special features: Over-the-water bungalows, a serene setting away from the crowds, and a unique heart-shaped overwater bar.
- Sandals Emerald Bay (Great Exuma, Bahamas):
- Why it’s romantic: Its location on the out-island of Great Exuma provides an exclusive feel. The mile-long beach with powdery white sand and crystal-clear water is a dream come true for honeymooners.
- Special features: A championship golf course, marina, and stunning beach.
- Sandals Royal Plantation (Ocho Rios, Jamaica):
- Why it’s romantic: This all-butler, all-suite boutique resort offers unparalleled intimacy and service. It’s perfect for couples who seek a more personalized and quiet experience.
- Special features: Ocean-view suites, afternoon tea service, and a private cove for beachgoers.
- Sandals Grenada (Grenada):
- Why it’s romantic: This innovative resort is located on Pink Gin Beach and features stunning pools, waterfalls, and unique room types like the SkyPool Suites.
- Special features: Romantic fire pits, infinity-edge plunge pools in certain suites, and lush gardens.
- Sandals Royal Barbados (Barbados):
- Why it’s romantic: Offering the latest in luxury accommodations such as Skypool Suites and Rondoval Suites, this resort ensures a lavish and intimate experience.
- Special features: The Caribbean’s first rooftop pool and bar, beachfront whirlpool, and a four-lane bowling alley.
Remember, the best Sandals Resort for your honeymoon will depend on your preferences—whether you prioritize seclusion, activities, luxury, or unique features. It’s always a good idea to discuss your priorities as a couple, review recent guest feedback, and maybe even consult with a travel specialist to ensure the chosen resort aligns with your dream honeymoon experience.
What is the best Sandals Resort for foodies?
If food is as important to you as it is to us you will find great options at every Sandals Resorts, but Sandals Barbados, Royal Barbados, Montego Bay or Royal Caribbean at the best overall for foodies.
Another new option is Sandals Dunns River. While it does not have a ton of restaurants, the ones that are there are new concepts with delicious food.
Sandals Royal Caribbean & Sandals Montego Bay
One of the prime benefits of staying at Sandals Royal Caribbean is its proximity to Sandals Montego Bay. Guests of the Royal Caribbean are granted full access to the Montego Bay resort’s restaurants.
We loved Royal Thai which offers a unique dining setting that requires a boat ride to the island. The server encouraged us to try as many menu items and they were all delicious.
The Bombay Club was equally as impressive with delicious food and amazing service.
Beyond these specialty restaurants, Sandals Royal Caribbean offers an array of other dining options, ensuring that every palate, whether craving Italian delicacies or Caribbean staples, is satisfied. You’ll find Butch’s Steakhouse, Kimonos Hibachi Grill, and tons of other options between the two resorts.
Sandals Barbados & Sandals Royal Barbados
When you stay at one of the two Sandals in Barbados, you can easily walk to the other within 5 minutes to enjoy the restaurants at both.
Both sides offer great options, but Sandals Royal Barbados houses our favorite restaurants. The newest restaurant is The Greenhouse, a farm-to-table concept with fresh ingredients. Chi was another one of our favorites with Dim Sum and other Asian specialties.
For breakfast, there are tons of options from donuts, crepes, a la carte restaurants, or buffets.
The sheer variety, authenticity of flavors, and innovative concepts like farm-to-table dining ensure that guests are always in for a culinary delight. It’s not just about satiating hunger; it’s about embarking on a gastronomic voyage of discovery.
What is the best Sandals Resort for beaches?
Sandals Resorts are sprinkled across some of the Caribbean’s most pristine beaches. If you are looking to enjoy a beach during most of your time on vacation, here are the top 5 to help you narrow it down.
1. Sandals Emerald Bay (Great Exuma, Bahamas): Emerald Bay offers one of the most captivating beaches in the Bahamas. With its powdery white sands stretching over a mile and crystal-clear waters, it’s a haven for beach lovers. The water here is tranquil, making it perfect for both relaxation and water sports.
2. Sandals Grande St. Lucian (St. Lucia): This resort is uniquely positioned on a peninsula, so guests get to experience both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The beaches are spectacular, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the historic Pigeon Island. The water is calm, so you can even do motorized water sports while you are there.
3. Sandal Royal Plantation (Ocho Rios): The beaches here are simple, but you can count on calm clear water. What sets these beaches apart are the service. It is the best Sandals Resort where you can stay on the beach all day and know you will always be able to get food and drinks served to you.
4. Sandals Negril (Jamaica): Located on the famous Seven Mile Beach, this resort boasts one of Jamaica’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. The beach’s long expanse is perfect for romantic walks, sunbathing, and water activities. You can start your day at breakfast with your feet in the sand and end your evening with a beautiful sunset.
5. Sandals Grenada: This beach is small, but was my personal favorite. The swimming area is enclosed by rocks, providing for fun snorkeling off the beach. There are occasional waves which keep things interesting and the water is beautiful.
What is the closest Sandals Resort to an airport?
No one likes flying for several hours to then be on a long transfer to the resorts. Here is a table of the best Sandals Resorts if you are looking one that is close to the airport.
| Resort Name | Airport Code | Transfer Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sandals Montego Bay | MBJ | Just a few minutes |
| Sandals Royal Caribbean | MBJ | Approx. 10 minutes |
| Sandals Grenada | GND | 5-10 minutes |
| Sandals Royal Bahamian | NAS | About 15 minutes |
| Sandals Emerald Bay | GGT | About 10 minutes |
| Sandals Grande Antigua | ANU | 15-20 minutes |
Some people find Sandals Montego Bay to be too close to the airport since the planes can be noisy flying above. You will also notice any of the Sandals in Saint Lucian are not on the list above because they are a long drive from the airport. If you want a quick commute with them, consider a helicopter transfer or take a boat ride that is still 90 minutes, but much more enjoyable than a windy road.
What is the cheapest Sandals Resort?
Going to a Sandals Resorts is never cheap, but there is a huge price range.
Among the Sandals Resorts, the following are often considered to be more affordable options:
- Sandals Ochi Beach Resort (Ocho Rios, Jamaica)
- Sandals South Coast (Whitehouse, Jamaica)
- Sandals Negril (Negril, Jamaica)
- Sandals Antigua (St Johns, Antigua)
- Sandals Halcyon Beach (St. Lucia)
Keep in mind that current promotions can have a huge effect on what different Sandals Resorts cost. You can check them here.
What is the best Sandals Resort in Jamaica?
Choosing the “best” Sandals Resort in Jamaica largely depends on individual preferences, as each offers its own unique experiences and amenities. However, I can provide an overview of the top Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, highlighting their distinctive features:
- Location: It’s the flagship Sandals property and is located very close to the Sangster International Airport.
- Highlights: This resort boasts an energetic vibe with a private white-sand beach, numerous pools, and a variety of restaurants. Being the first Sandals resort, it has a unique charm, and the location makes it ideal for short transfers from the airport.
- Location: Also in Montego Bay, this resort is a short drive from the airport.
- Highlights: It offers a unique offshore private island experience with a Thai restaurant. The resort has a mix of traditional Caribbean and British colonial architecture. It’s known for its tranquility and the over-the-water bungalows, which are a luxurious treat.
3. Sandals Negril:
- Location: Situated on the famous Seven Mile Beach in Negril.
- Highlights: If beach quality is a top priority, this resort is hard to beat. It’s perfect for sunbathers, beach walkers, and water sports enthusiasts. The atmosphere here leans towards laid-back and relaxed.
- Location: This Ocho Rios resort is located near Dunns River Falls.
- Highlights: Brand new resort with river-style pools and a beautiful stretch of beach. New restaurant concepts perfect for foodies.
- Location: Found in Ocho Rios.
- Highlights: This sprawling property offers a mix of beachfront relaxation and hillside villas. It’s well-suited for guests who prefer a lively atmosphere, with numerous pools, restaurants, and bars. The resort also has a golf course.
- Location: Nestled in a secluded 500-acre nature reserve.
- Highlights: This resort offers an over-the-water bar and romantic over-the-water bungalows. It’s perfect for couples seeking serenity and seclusion. The heart-shaped overwater bar is a highlight.
- Location: In Ocho Rios.
- Highlights: This is an all-butler and all-suite boutique resort, ensuring personalized attention. It’s the most intimate among Sandals’ offerings in Jamaica and is ideal for those looking for a quiet, luxurious, and pampered stay.
Finally, it’s beneficial to check the latest reviews and perhaps even speak with a travel agent familiar with Sandals Resorts to get the most up-to-date and personalized recommendations.
What is the best Sandals Resort in Barbados?
When choosing between Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados it really comes down to accommodations. The resorts are next to each other, separated by a path.
Find the accommodations that work best for you. In general Sandals Royal Barbados is newer and the rooms are all club lever or butler level. Sandals Barbados will be more affordable.
What is the best Sandals Resort in St Lucia?
Its hard to say what is the best Sandals Resort in St Lucia because they are all so unique. Below is how we rank them and why to give you context to help your decide.
- Sandals Regency La Toc:
- Location: Located in Castries, it’s set on 220 acres with a dramatic oceanfront cliff setting.
- Highlight Features: Known for its “Sunset Oceanview Bluff Millionaire Butler Villa with Private Pool Sanctuary,” this resort has its executive-style golf course. The resort has two distinct areas and is very large. The beach has more waves and current than the other two Sandals in Saint Lucia.
- Suitable For: Everyone, unless you are looking for a calm beach or water sports.
- Sandals Grande St. Lucian:
- Location: Situated on a peninsula adjacent to Pigeon Island National Park, it offers panoramic views and overwater bungalows.
- Highlight Features: It boasts a sheltered mile-long beach, and its location provides calm waters ideal for water sports. The overwater bungalows and rondoval suites offer a particularly luxurious experience.
- Suitable For: Beach lovers, water activity enthusiasts, and honeymooners or couples looking for overwater accommodations.
- Sandals Halcyon Beach:
- Location: In Castries, this resort is the smallest and most intimate of the three.
- Highlight Features: It’s known for its tranquil ambiance and the recently added beachfront honeymoon butler suites with private pools. The resort has a garden-like setting and a laid-back vibe. It is also the most affordable of the three.
- Suitable For: Those seeking a serene, romantic, and intimate environment.
What is the best Sandals Resort for Seclusion?
If you are looking for seclusion there are a lot of options for your.
If you are looking for a small resort, Sandals Royal Plantation can not be beaten. If you are looking for a suite that provides for a secluded environment, Sandals South Coast has overwater bungalows and rondoval suites with private plunge pools.