You might think that all the Sandals resorts are about the same, but that is not the case. While they are all luxurious and romantic, with beautiful settings and a ton of inclusions, each one has its own flair and special characteristics.
After visiting every one, we’ve made a list of the most exceptional Sandals resorts and why we think they are the nicest Sandals resort.
Sandals St. Vincent: New, Upscale, + Untouched Beauty
St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Opened 2024
The newest Sandals resort, Sandals St. Vincent offers an authentic Caribbean escape on an island that’s lesser known. Set between rainforest-covered hills and a serene coastline, this resort offers tranquility, natural beauty, and a distinctly local vibe.
Highlights:
- Breathtaking natural setting between lush mountains and the sea
- Tranquil, unspoiled island
- Innovative new suites, like the two-story overwater villas and beachfront butler villas with private pools
- Delicious dining: Don’t miss the family-style Caribbean meals at Buccan
- Exceptional, warm service
- Spectacular two-tier beachfront infinity pool
- Pretty beach
Sandals Dunn’s River: Elevated Everything in Jamaica
Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Opened 2023
The rebirth of a legend, Sandals Dunn’s River is the newest Jamaican Sandals resort and a stunning example of the brand’s “Sandals 2.0” concept. A modern design pays tribute to the famous Dunn’s River Falls nearby with cascading water features throughout the property. But it’s not just about aesthetics; this is arguably the best Sandals for foodies and luxury-seekers alike.
Highlights:
- Exceptional cuisine with new restaurants: Standouts include the Latin American-inspired Zuka and Asian fusion at Hanami
- Elevated coffee and cocktail culture: Try a craft cocktail at Rum Club or caffeinated bliss at Blum Café
- Show-stopping accommodations: Skypool Suites and Coyaba Sky Rondovals with rooftop decks, private pools, and swim-up access
- Plenty of beachfront, wonderful pools, fabulous spa
- Golf included with free transportation to nearby course
- Excellent service
- A location close to must-see spots like Blue Hole and Dunn’s River Falls
Sandals Royal Curacao: Euro-Caribbean Sophistication
Willemstad, Curacao, Opened 2022
Sleek, stylish, and brimming with Dutch-Caribbean charm, Sandals Royal Curacao blends European elegance with tropical flair. It offers several unique-to-Sandals amenities including a wine and cheese bar, Dutch bikes to ride around, and one of the most stunning infinity pools in the Caribbean.
Highlights:
- Bi-level beachfront infinity pool with glass walls
- Amazing new suite styles: Awa Seaside Bungalows with private pools and Kurason Island Poolside Bungalows
- Dutch-style café
- Unique Dine Out program to try local restaurants
- Top-tier snorkeling and scuba diving
- Access to nearby scenic golf course with complimentary green fees and transfers
- Complimentary Mini Cooper to explore the island comes with select suites; don’t miss the pastel-colored capital city
Sandals Royal Bahamian: Glamorous Vibe + a Private Island
Nassau, Bahamas, Renovated in 2022
For a chic island getaway close to the U.S., Sandals Royal Bahamian checks all the boxes. A recent renovation brought new life to this fun resort, which features elegant beachfront swim-up suites, stylish pools, and a private offshore island with its own beach club.
Highlights:
- Prime location on Nassau’s famous Cable Beach
- Quick flights from the U.S.
- Exclusive offshore island with two beaches, restaurant, pool, and spa
- Renovated beachfront swim-up suites with butler service
- Fitness center with panoramic ocean views
- Nightlife and casino access just minutes away
- Perfect for watersports including scuba diving and snorkeling; can snorkel right off the beach
Sandals Royal Barbados: Swanky Suites + Breathtaking Beach + Healthy Dining Concepts
St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados, Opened 2017
Bold and modern, Sandals Royal Barbados is for couples who enjoy style and innovation. There are multiple “firsts” for the Sandals brand here: first rooftop pool and bar, first bowling alley, first gourmet doughnut shop, and first health-conscious restaurants.
Highlights:
- Club and butler-level suites only
- Delicious and healthy cuisine at Heart & Sol and Greenhouse
- Upscale accommodations including beachfront Skypool suites, Rondovals, and swim-up suites
- Extra options with Sandals Barbados next door (21 restaurants & 14 bars total)
- Rolls Royce airport transfers for guests in select suites
- Rooftop infinity pool and French restaurant with a view
- Gorgeous white-sand beach with crystal-clear water
- Giant glass-front infinity pool on the beach
- Beautiful spa
Sandals Grenada: The Best of Everything
St. George’s, Grenada, Opened 2014
Sandals Grenada delivers the quintessential Sandals experience, with a breathtaking beach, lush landscape, excellent food, and dreamy accommodations all wrapped up in a romantic, relaxed ambiance. And the island is too incredible not to explore.
Highlights:
- Skypool suites with private infinity pools and ocean views
- Prime beachfront and calm water perfect for swimming and snorkeling
- Lush gardens and scenic views
- Close to airport (just 5 minutes away!)
- Diverse dining with international and local options
- Perfect for exploring Grenada’s natural wonders
Sandals Royal Plantation: Peaceful Haven with Incredible Service
Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Opened 2001 with some recent room updates
The most intimate Sandals Resort, Sandals Royal Plantation is a hideaway for couples who prefer privacy, personal attention, and old-world charm. It offers a serene sophistication, with elegant touches like afternoon tea, a caviar and Champagne bar, and impeccable service.
Highlights:
- All suites have ocean views and personal butler service
- Two secluded white-sand cove beaches with calm waters
- Quiet ambiance with a loyal returning clientele
- Guests can access nearby Sandals Ochi for more nightlife and dining
- Includes golf with free green fees and transport
- Upscale dining with water views
Honorable Mentions for Nicest Sandals Resort
Sandals South Coast (Jamaica):
- Secluded setting in nature preserve
- Iconic overwater bungalows
- Long, peaceful stretch of white-sand beach with calm, clear water
- Overwater bar
- Overwater wedding chapel
Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Regency La Toc & Halcyon Beach (St. Lucia):
- Set in stunning St. Lucia for incredible excursions
- Stay at one, play at all three with a complimentary shuttle back and forth
- Gorgeous beaches, excellent scuba diving and snorkeling
- Romantic overwater bungalows at Grande St Lucian and incredible luxury suite options at Regency La Toc and Halcyon Beach
- Choose from a more lively and vibrant atmosphere or more secluded and peaceful vibes
- Golf included with free transportation and green fees