We did it! We visited every Sandals Resort to determine which is the best, but more importantly, to help you decide which is the best Sandals Resort for what you are looking for. As we have visited the different resorts, we have learned that everyone has their own preferences and a favorite of their own.
How We Rank the Best Sandals Resorts
Our rankings are based on a combination of first-hand stays and aggregated guest reviews. We look at factors such as overall experience, value for money, resort amenities, location, and how well each resort suits different travel styles. Rather than ranking resorts purely from best to worst, we highlight which Sandals resorts stand out for different priorities.
Best Sandals Resorts Based on Our Experience
- Dan’s Pick: Sandals Dunn’s River
- Newest Sandals Resort: Sandals Saint Vincent
- Most Affordable: Sandals Ochi & Sandals Negril
- Best for Honeymoons: Sandals Royal Plantation or Sandals Dunn’s River
- Best for Nightlife: Sandals Royal Barbados
- Best Beach: Sandals Grenada, Sandals Royal Barbados or Sandals Royal Bahamian‘s Private Island.
- Best Pools: Sandals Ochi, Sandals Grande Antigua or Sandals Royal Barbados
- Best Food: Sandals Dunn’s River & Sandals Saint Vincent
- Best Close to Airport: Sandals Royal Caribbean or Sandals Grenada
Sandals Resorts Comparison
| Resort | Location | General vibe | Suitable for | Key consideration |
| Sandals Dunn’s River | Jamaica, beachfront | Balanced, modern | First-time guests, honeymoons, foodies | Dan’s Pick for overall experience |
| Sandals Saint Vincent | Saint Vincent, beachfront | Quiet, secluded | Couples wanting something different | Newest Sandals resort |
| Sandals Royal Plantation | Jamaica, boutique | Very quiet, refined | Honeymoons, low-key stays | Boutique, all-butler resort |
| Sandals Grenada | Grenada, compact | Romantic, relaxed | Couples prioritising location | Award-winning beach |
| Sandals Grande St Lucian | St Lucia, peninsula | Peaceful, scenic | Relaxed stays | Iconic peninsula setting |
| Sandals Negril | Jamaica, beachfront | Laid-back, casual | Beach-first trips | Direct access to Seven Mile Beach |
| Sandals Royal Curacao | Curaçao, coastal | Modern, open | Couples who like exploring | Off-resort dining perks and island vibe |
| Sandals South Coast | Jamaica, remote beachfront | Relaxed, spread out | Couples wanting space and quiet | Long beach with a secluded feel |
| Sandals Halcyon Beach | St Lucia, beachfront | Quiet, intimate | Couples wanting simplicity | Most intimate St Lucia option |
| Sandals Royal Caribbean | Jamaica, near airport | Calm, convenient | Short stays | Private offshore island |
| Sandals Montego Bay | Jamaica, near airport | Social, classic | First-time guests | Original Sandals resort |
| Sandals Regency La Toc | St Lucia, hillside | Spacious, varied | Guests wanting choice | Largest Sandals resort in St Lucia |
| Sandals Ochi | Jamaica, large resort | Busy with multiple areas | Value-focused travellers | Best value Sandals resort |
| Sandals Grande Antigua | Antigua, beachfront | Classic, relaxed | Traditional Sandals fans | Beautiful beach with friendly locals |
| Sandals Barbados | Barbados, beachfront | Social, upscale | Couples wanting variety | Shared amenities with Royal Barbados |
| Sandals Royal Bahamian | Bahamas, near airport | Fun, social | Short, lively trips | Private offshore island |
| Sandals Royal Barbados | Barbados, beachfront | Lively, social | Couples who enjoy nightlife | Best choice for nightlife |
How to Use This Guide
Start by identifying what matters most to you, such as golf, scuba, restaurants, beaches, or overall vibe. Below, we have compared the different resorts for these interests to help you narrow down the best choice for you.
The ratings above of the best Sandals Resorts are based on 150,000+ online reviews and our personal experience. The recommendations above draw on insights from over 150,000 guest reviews, alongside our own first-hand experience. If you prefer video, we have done a video review of each resort, which you can find on our YouTube channel.
1. Sandals Dunn’s River
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Google Rating: 4.7
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.7
Resort Highlights: Sandals Dunn’s River is now the third Sandals resort in the Ocho Rios area. This likely explains why the opening went so smoothly. The resort was actually a Sandals Resort in the past, but was sold and later repurchased by Sandals. It has now opened after being completely reimagined.
There are 12 unique dining experiences with Latin Fusion, Sushi, Greek, Asian, and much more available. There is also room service. We think the food here is some of the best at any Sandals.
One unique feature at Sandals Dunn’s River that we loved is the Rum Club, where authentic Jamaican craft cocktails are expertly mixed with locally sourced ingredients, served alongside snacks and small plates.
The Blum coffee shop is a major step above the Cafe de Paris coffee shops located at most of the other Sandals Resorts.
Sandals Dunn’s River introduced the first-ever Coyaba Sky Rondovals. These private, round villas have access to the river pool, an oversized private swim-up pool, and a terrace that takes up the entire roof. You’ll also find spacious swim-up suites that overlook the ocean; Swim-Up Rondoval Suites, beachfront suites, oceanview suites, and suites that overlook Jamaica’s lush mountains, all with oversized soaking tubs on private balconies.
We loved Sandals Dunns River for the variety and quality of food, as well as the lack of restaurants requiring reservations or evening attire.
We have stayed at Sandals Dunn’s River 3 times now, once during a hurricane, and can’t wait to go back.
Why Sandals Dunn’s River is the #1 Best Sandals Resort?
- Sandals Dunn’s River has a fun, vibrant atmosphere.
- Convenient to some of the best excursions in Jamaica.
- High-quality, delicious food and amazing service.
Cons to Sandals Dunn’s River
The only complaints we hear about the resort are that it is on the smaller side and it can be inconvenient to get to.
2. Sandals Saint Vincent
Saint Vincent & The Grenadines
Google Rating: 4.5
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.7
We were able to visit Sandals Saint Vincent in May 2024 and had an amazing experience, and then returned again in 2025. The food is elevated, the island feels like it is off the beaten path, and since the resort is new, everything is fresh.
Sandals Saint Vincent offers a luxurious Caribbean escape with a variety of exclusive accommodations, including Vincy Overwater Two-Story Villas and Beachfront Butler Villas, which provide stunning views, private pools, and personalized butler services.
The resort features 12 dining options, such as Buccan, a family-style restaurant unique to this location, and Butch’s Island Chop House, renowned for its surf and turf.
The resort’s amenities are designed for both relaxation and wellness, with private fitness rooms in some suites and the Red Lane® Spa offering treatments using natural volcanic minerals. Nestled amidst lush landscapes and pristine beaches, Sandals Saint Vincent provides a tranquil environment complemented by advanced in-room comforts and personalized services, ensuring an unforgettable vacation experience.
Why Sandals Saint Vincent is the #2 Best Sandals Resort
For a few years, Sandals has been promising a Sandals 2.0 experience, elevating the experience in every way. With this resort, it is clear what that means. The food is some of the best at all the Sandals Resorts, and the service is pretty amazing. The resort is also huge and spread out, so it doesn’t feel crowded.
Sandals Saint Vincent Cons
The only cons to consider are the flights and the room choices.
- Flights can be tricky, and from many destinations means an overnight stay somewhere.
- For rooms, a lot of people want an ocean view and butler service, but most of the butler suites are garden villas, making this difficult.
3. Sandals Royal Plantation
Ochos Rio, Jamaica
Google Rating: 4.7
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.7
US News Travel Ranking (Best Sandals Resorts International): #1
Awards: Fodor’s Choice, AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2021, TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best Awards 2021, TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Hotels for Romance – Caribbean Best of the Best Awards 2021, TripAdvisor’s Top 25 All-Inclusive Resorts – Caribbean 2021
Resort Highlights: Coming in next on our list of Best Sandals Resorts is Sandals Royal Plantation. The resort is Sandals’ only all-butler, all-suite resort. With just 74 ocean-view suites, this resort is the perfect quiet getaway where you can relax by the pool with drinks brought to you by the butler who is trained by the Guild of Professional English Butlers.
We have never met anyone who did not rave about the level of service provided at Sandals Royal Plantation, and it makes sense that people looking for a quiet getaway would consider it the best Sandals Resort.
It is also a perfect resort to elope or have a small wedding at Sandals. Most couples get married at the gazebo, and the entire resort stops to watch.
When you aren’t relaxing by one of the two pools, you can take advantage of the nearby Sandals Golf & Country Club, where transportation and green fees are included in your stay.
You can also have an English-style Afternoon Tea on the terrace.
What makes a stay at Sandals Royal Plantation unique is that you get to stay at a smaller, quieter resort while still having access to the larger Sandals Ochi, which has an additional 16 restaurants, giving you the best of both worlds.
Sandals Royal Plantation is so relaxed, and since it is so small, your butler is going to know exactly where you are all the time. That means they will know when you need a drink or where to surprise you with a drink. Personally, I was jet-lagged and woke up very early. I would go outside and start working at around 5 a.m. until I adjusted, and someone would always offer me coffee or anything else I needed.
You will not like Sandals Royal Plantation if you are looking for a modern resort or a lively resort with tons to do. This is for the people who just want to unwind and relax.
4. Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa
St. Georges, Grenada
Google Rating: 4.6
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.6
US News Travel Ranking: #2
Awards: AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2021, TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards 2021, “World’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort”, 4 years in a row, “Grenada’s Leading Resort”, 8 years in a row.
Resort Highlights: Another one of our favorite Sandals Resorts, Sandals Grenada, provides excellent service in an amazing location. Just looking at all the awards Sandals Grenada has won, it seems pretty clear that is one of the best Sandals Resorts overall.
Located in the heart of Grenada’s exclusive Pink Gin Beach, here you can enjoy a truly romantic and exotic Caribbean experience. Personalized butler service is available in 69 suites, which will include Swim Up Pool Suites, Rondovals, and Skypool Suites.
Romantic Tranquility Soaking Tubs™ for two are found in all suites in the Italian Village and in the Lover’s Hideaway Village. This area is set further from the beach, but also comes with a lower price tag.
There are 12 dining options to choose from, including Butch’s Chophouse and two of our favorites, Spices and Soy.
The Island itself provides the opportunity to explore the rainforest, black sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife on a safe island in the Caribbean. It is definitely worth venturing off the resort to experience the culture and see what the island is all about.
Why Sandals Grenada is the #4 Best Sandals Resort
When we stayed at Sandals Grenada, we loved that the resort had great facilities and attentive service, and we loved the location. The beach at the resort is beautiful, and we never had to worry about finding chairs. The water was a beautiful blue and had great snorkeling. For pools, there are two options: a quiet one and a lively one. It is also a perk that the resort is so close to the airport.
5. Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Gros-Islet, Saint Lucia
Google Rating: 4.5
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
US News Travel Ranking: #3
Awards: AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2021, TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards 2021, TripAdvisor Top 25 All-Inclusive Resorts – Caribbean 2021,
Resort Highlights: If you’re dreaming of over-the-water bungalows, Sandals Grande St. Lucian has your name on it. The resort has a long beach on Rodney Bay, known for having the calmest waters in Saint Lucia. It’s located on its own peninsula, offering 360-degree views that are often described as picture-perfect postcards.
The resort boasts unlimited fine dining at 12 restaurants, offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and anytime snacks. Guests can enjoy unlimited premium liquors across 7 bars, including swim-up bars. Every room also has a stocked bar. As if that wasn’t enough to choose from, there are 15 additional restaurants at the other two Sandals resorts in St. Lucia.
You also have access to the Sandals St. Lucia Golf & Country Club at Cap Estate, with complimentary transfer and green fees included.
One thing that makes Sandals Grande St. Lucian an amazing resort is the water activities. It is one of the few resorts that have motorized boat activities available, like tubing, wakeboarding, and water skiing.
The main negative aspect of the resort is that the drive takes at least 90 minutes and is very winding. When we went, we took a ferry to the resort and a helicopter ride back since we usually get car sick.
Other than this, we love the resort and think is a great, well-rounded resort. We loved that the beach was very long, so we could be in a quiet area on one end or get closer to the pool area for a more lively atmosphere.
6. Sandals Negril Beach Resort
Negril, Jamaica
Google Rating: 4.5
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
US News Travel Ranking: #7
Awards: AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2021, TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards 2021
Resort Highlights: We found Sandals Negril to be one of the best well-rounded Sandals Resorts. You can easily find a room that walks out onto the beach, or you can stay in one of the signature swim-up suites that put you directly at the pool and steps from the beach.
Our favorite breakfast experience is at Sandals Negril. While many people choose the buffet, you can go to Barefoot By the Sea, a restaurant directly in the sand. Since so few people go here, the servers recognized us and memorized our orders after a couple of days.
There are a total of 6 other restaurants, and if you would like more variety, you can go to Beaches Negril by taxi or on a 30-minute walk down the beach. Most recently, they opened Yaku at Beaches Negril, one of the best restaurants at all Sandals or Beaches Resorts.
We recently returned to Sandals Negril and loved the new suites, including the Sky Pool suites, that made it feel like you were at a completely new resort.
Sandals Negril is one of the best resorts for watersports, as there is wakeboarding, kneeboarding, water skiing, and tubing, as well as sports found at all resorts, like kayaks and paddleboarding.
This beautiful resort is Sandals’ most green, having been awarded an EarthCheck Double Platinum Certification for an unwavering commitment to environmental excellence for over a decade.
Before Sandals Dunn’s River opened, Sandals Negril was our personal favorite Sandals Resort in Jamaica. We love that it is spread across the beach, so almost all the rooms are beachfront and have a sunset view. It is also one of the cheapest Sandals resorts, making it an excellent value.
While we loved that the resort is quieter, we know not everyone loves that. It is also a 90-minute drive from the airport, which makes it hard to rank any higher.
A few other new features are the Crema coffee and ice cream shop, Perla, the taco shop, and Brava, a tapas restaurant on the beach.
7. Sandals Royal Curacao
Nieuwpoort, Curacao
Google Rating: 4.6
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.4
Resort Highlights: Sandals Royal Curacao is one of the newest Sandals Resorts and the only Sandals resort in Curacao. The resort is set on the southernmost tip of Curacao, on 44 acres nestled into the exclusive 3,000-acre private preserve of the Santa Barbara estate.
We had a fantastic stay at Sandals Royal Curaçao and found it to be one of the best resorts for food lovers in the entire Sandals collection. The resort features 11 restaurants with an impressive variety of cuisines, including everything from Mediterranean fare and gourmet French to island-inspired seafood and Japanese-style fusion. In addition to the sit-down options, three colorful beachside food trucks serve up casual local bites, Spanish tapas, and Asian street food—perfect for a laid-back lunch with ocean views. The quality, creativity, and presentation at each venue made every meal feel like a highlight of the trip.
Sandals Royal Curacao is also a beautiful resort, having been recently remodeled, and new Rondoval suites have just opened up.
The beach here is different from what you might expect at a typical Caribbean resort. Instead of a wide-open stretch of shoreline, the beach is nestled within a protected inlet, offering calm, clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling. A dock separates the inlet from the open sea, creating a unique setting that’s tranquil and scenic, if not as expansive as some other Sandals beaches.
The resort itself is beautifully designed, with modern architecture, sweeping views, and lots of open, airy spaces.
8. Sandals South Coast
White House, Jamaica
Google Rating: 4.5
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
US News Travel Ranking: #9
Awards: AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2021
Resort Highlights: Sandals South Coast Resort is one of Jamaica’s best resorts, with most of the rooms beachfront with an ocean view. The over-the-water bungalows are gorgeous and the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. At night, you can enjoy bonfire areas and fire pits for even more memorable experiences.
Along with all the water and land activities, you can dine at 9 on-site restaurants, from Italian cuisine to Asian and Mediterranean, to Caribbean, Jamaican, and more. Our personal favorites are the Jerk Shack and sushi.
We found Sandals South Coast to be a bit more remote, away from the other busier areas in Jamaica. This meant that when we went off the resort, there weren’t any crowds.
One of the top features of the resort is the long beach, which provides an ocean view for almost every room. Additionally, the resort has been updated throughout the years, keeping it well-maintained.
The biggest downside for us is the drive from the airport, which will be hard for anyone with motion sickness, so pack your Dramamine! If you see in reviews that the resort is outdated, know that the most outdated rooms have been renovated and look amazing.
9. Sandals Halcyon Beach
Castries, St. Lucia
Google Rating: 4.5
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
US News Travel Ranking: #17
Awards: TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards 2021
Resort Highlights: Sandals Halcyon Beach is described as a true Garden of Eden due to the lush, majestic islands, the pristine beach, the turquoise sea, and the majestic mountain view. Enjoy dining at one of six on-site restaurants, or one of the other 21 restaurants available to you at nearby Sandals resorts. Plus, if golf is your game, you’ll have complimentary transportation and green fees at both The Sandals La Toc Golf Club and Sandals St. Lucia Golf & Country Club at Cap Estate.
The Sandals Halcyon Beach is the quietest Sandals Resort in Saint Lucia. It makes it easier to make friends with other guests since you will recognize them at the pool.
The resort is about 20 minutes from Sandals Grande St Lucian and Sandals Regency La Toc, making it easy to spend some time at one of the other resorts without paying more.
More recently, multiple new suites were built, including beachfront suites with private pools, Rondoval villas, and suites along the Crystal Lagoon.
Sandals Halcyon is the cheapest Sandals Resort in Saint Lucia, making it a great choice for couples looking for a quiet getaway, earning great reviews for the resort. But while some people are looking for relaxation, many want something a little more active. Unfortunately, the beach isn’t as clear as others.
10. Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Google Rating: 4.4
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
US News Travel Ranking: #13
Awards: AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2021, TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards 2021
Resort Highlights: Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort is located just a few minutes from the airport in Montego Bay. It is a quieter resort with a private off-shore island where you’ll find luxurious over-the-water bungalows.
Enjoy global gourmet at one of nine on-site restaurants, or explore one of the 12 restaurants you will also have access to at the nearby Sandals Montego Bay. One experience you won’t want to miss is riding to one of the offshore restaurants called Royal Thai by hopping aboard an authentic dragon boat. We also love the Indian restaurant, Bombay.
There are several new rooms available on the resort and several other new ones under construction. We love the new Skypool suites.
I do not know why Sandals Royal Caribbean isn’t rated higher by reviews online. We think it is the best Sandals in Jamaica for the food because of the variety and quality of the food, and the ability to go to Sandals Montego Bay for even more variety. We also love how close it is to the airport without the loud plane noises heard at Sandals Montego Bay.
Many visitors find it too quiet, which we understand. It also has construction going on now, which will leave the resort with more updated rooms in the near future.
11. Sandals Montego Bay
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Google Rating: 4.4
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.4
US News Travel Ranking: #6
Awards: AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2021, TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards 2021
Resort Highlights: Sandals Montego Bay, the very first Sandals resort, remains one of the best Sandals Resorts with many fans. It has been totally modernized to include a fabulous over-the-water bar and an over-the-water chapel for an unbelievable experience. Next up are the overwater bungalows, which should start construction soon.
The resort boasts a modern, open-air hotel lobby and main bar that provides breathtaking sea views.
Here you’ll find 12 on-site restaurants, with access to 9 more at nearby Sandals Royal Caribbean. The resort boasts 12 gourmet restaurants, 6 unique bars with premium liquors, and a resort exchange program where you can stay at 1 and play at 2 resorts.
For accommodations, most suites face the beach, and there are beachfront swim-up suites that allow you easy access to both your pool and the beach within a few steps. There are four swimming pools and a private beach so you can make the most of your time in and out of the water.
Personally, we loved how spread out the resort is and how you can find party vibes at some pools and more relaxed areas on the same property. We love that you can always go to Sandals Royal Caribbean for more food options, especially the Indian and Thai restaurants.
The only complaint we hear is how loud the airplanes can be, but they are mostly from 11 am to 4 pm, so they are not a problem all day. It is also one of the more expensive Sandals resorts in Jamaica.
12. Sandals Regency La Toc
Castries, St. Lucia
Google Rating: 4.3
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.4
Resort Highlights: Sandals Regency La Toc covers 210 hillside acres overlooking the sea at La Toc on the southern shore of Castries Bay. The resort has its 9-hole golf course down the hillside to a magnificent golden beach.
The resort has 3 magnificent Freshwater pools, 3 Whirlpools, and 1 Dive Pool.
As with other Sandals Resorts in St Lucia, you can take advantage of the “Stay at One, Play at Three” program. There is a complimentary shuttle and exchange privileges with Sandals Grande St. Lucian and Sandals Halcyon, offering a total of 27 restaurant options.
We loved the variety of areas at Sandals Regency La Toc. There is the sunset bluff area, which is more relaxed and provides amazing sunset views, and the resort’s main area, which feels like its own large all-inclusive resort in its own right.
We love the variety of food at the restaurants as well. The only complaints we heard were complaints about the hills and the length to walk from one side to the other, but there is a van running to help with that.
Another comment is about the beach. It is my second favorite of all Sandals Resorts, but some people do not like that the waves can be a bit powerful. This also limits water sports like kayaking on days when the seas are rougher.
13. Sandals Ochi Beach Resort
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Google Rating: 4.3
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.3
US News Travel Ranking: #10
Awards: AAA/CAA Four Diamond Awards 2021
Resort Highlights: Sandals Ochi is the largest Sandals Resort and one of the most affordable. There are 11 bars (including the Caribbean’s first speakeasy), a hot new beach club, and 16 restaurants to enjoy. If you’re looking to enjoy a good time, this is the resort for you.
One reason fans of Sandals Ochi keep going back is the variety. You can enjoy the party atmosphere of the main pool or the beach club, or the opposite by relaxing in a semi-private pool. There are so many things to do and green fees are included at Sandals Golf & Country Club, plus unlimited land and sea activities.
Some people do not see Sandals Ochi as the best Sandals Resort because of the size, requiring a shuttle ride, or because some of the rooms are outdated.
We enjoyed Sandals Ochi and have been there twice. The only negative we found was less personalized service. Since the resort is so large, it is less likely you will receive the same level of service you might find at the other Sandals Resorts. They do have new management, and I found the service improved since our last visit.
The benefit of having a large resort is that there are tons of restaurants to choose from, multiple pools, and different sections of beach. There are plenty of activities throughout the day, and it is located close to the popular Dunn’s River Falls.
14. Sandals Grande Antigua
St John’s, Antigua & Barbuda
Google Rating: 4.3
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.2
US News Travel Ranking: #17
Awards: TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards 2021, “Caribbean’s Most Romantic Resort”
Resort Highlights: Sandals Grande Antigua is situated on the most beautiful and longest white-sand beach in Antigua – Dickenson Bay. The resort is located only fifteen (15) minutes away from the V.C. Bird International Airport. You can eat anything from Teppanyaki-style Japanese, classic Caribbean, Italian, French, Tex-Mex, or freshly made sandwiches.
The resort was voted the “Caribbean’s Most Romantic Resort” 7 years in a row, making it perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, and destination weddings.
Sandals Grande Antigua features the original Rondoval suites that have been so popular, they have been recreated in other Sandals Resorts. The beach is beautiful with soft sands and plenty of lounge chairs. Keep in mind the beach is a public beach with vendors coming by regularly.
Sandals Grande Antigua has some of the best staff among Sandals Resorts. The resort rooms may seem a bit outdated, but renovations are in the plans. It’s a good idea to go sooner rather than later since pricing will go up once renovations are done.
15. Sandals Barbados
St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados
Google Rating: 4.2
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.2
US News Travel Ranking: 11
Awards: Fodor’s Choice, TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards 2021
Resort Highlights: Sandals Barbados touts world-class cuisine at its 11 on-site restaurants (including Sandals’ first Indian restaurant), plus 9 additional restaurants at the neighboring Sandals Royal Barbados resort you’ll also have full access to. Take a dip in one of two beautiful beaches or five pools. When you want some more private relaxation time, most patios and terraces have private Tranquility Soaking Tubs.
The resort is located about 15 minutes from the airport along the south coast of Barbados, in the St. Lawrence Gap area. This location offers a nice blend of seclusion while still being close to local attractions, dining, and nightlife.
There is a large range of luxurious room categories, including beachfront suites, swim-up suites around the long Crystal Lagoon, and even some with butler service.
Sandals Royal Barbados is just a few steps away, providing access to additional pools, restaurants, a bowling alley, and even more activities. With the combination of both resorts, it is easily one of the best Sandals Resorts.
Sandals Barbados would usually be in our top 5 resorts, with the amazing variety of restaurants and entertainment available between the two resorts. The complaint we have heard from time to time is that some people have trouble getting restaurant reservations, even though most are available without reservations.
Some people have also mentioned that it can be hard to get chairs at the beach or pool, even if you tend to wake up early. Some of the rooms are more outdated than others, but you save a lot of money compared to the rooms at Sandals Royal Barbados.
16. Sandals Royal Bahamian
Nassau, Bahamas
Google Rating: 4.1
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.1
Resort Highlights: Sandals Royal Bahamian is located on the famous Cable Beach in Nassau, the main island in the Bahamas. Recently renovated, this glamorous resort now offers beachfront swim-up suites with butler service, 2 huge pools and 6 whirlpools, 10 restaurants, and 8 bars. The resort also has a British influence, with billiard rooms and daily high tea.
The recent renovations added the Island Village with stand-alone villas, as well as The Coconut Grove, a beachfront area with food trucks and a lounge that includes live music and entertainment into the late evening hours.
One of the highlights of the resort is the resort’s private island, Parasol Island Beach Club, where you can have a more secluded feel to your vacation and go snorkeling. They recently switched up the vibes here with new music, menu, and specialty drinks.
This is the best Sandals Resort if you are looking for a short distance from the US. It is also great if you want a lively vacation or want to go to a casino, since there is one nearby. We had a great time going to the nearby water park at Bahamar.
If you want a secluded, laid-back environment, you can find that on the private island, but you may not enjoy the rest of your time at the resort.
17. Sandals Royal Barbados
St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados
Google Rating: 4
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.1
Resort Highlights: Sandals Royal Barbados is located next door to Sandals Barbados, and it actually feels like the same resort. You have access to all the same restaurants, bars, pools, and activities. The only difference is the location of the rooms and the accommodations you choose.
The resort is situated on Maxwell Beach, where there is natural shade to relax in and clear blue waters to enjoy. Sandals Royal Barbados has the largest Glass-fronted Infinity Pool in the Eastern Caribbean.
All rooms are either club or butler-level suites, which means they all have room service. This may be the best Sandals resort for health and wellness since it has the first health and wellness-inspired restaurant concepts. It also has the first rooftop restaurant, rooftop bar, and rooftop pool.
Sandals Royal Barbados is a beautiful, newer resort with tons of great restaurants to choose from. We love the variety of things to do and the newer accommodations. Some things guests complain about are having to wake up early to secure a seat on the beach or waiting longer than usual for food.
What is the Best Sandals Resort during Hurricane Season?
Hurricane season is from July to November, which makes up half of the year. If you are worried about hurricane season, don’t worry so much. Hurricanes only affect a small portion of travelers each year.
If you want to go to the best Sandals resort for hurricane season, Curacao is the best bet because it is outside of the hurricane belt.
Sandals St Lucia, Barbados, and Grenada, and Sandals Saint Vincent are also great options with reduced risks.
What is the Sandals Resort in Jamaica?
Jamaica is home to 7 Sandals resorts, each with its own flavor and vibe. Sandals Dunn’s River is the best overall. Sandals Royal Plantation has the best personalized service, with every suite having a butler.
Sandals Negril is one of the best because of its laid-back, Jamaican vibe, where every room is close to the beach. Sandals South Coast is also a favorite because it is huge and spread out.
What is the best Sandals Resort in Saint Lucia?
The best-rated Sandals Resort in Saint Lucia is easily Sandals Grande St Lucia. The key differentiator is the beach. It is located on a long beach with calm, clear waters.
Which is better: Sandals Barbados or Sandals Royal Barbados?
They are basically the same resort, so just find the accommodations that work for you and enjoy both!
What is the best Sandals Resort for seclusion?
Sandals Saint Vincent is huge and very spread out, giving plenty of room to feel secluded. Sandals Royal Plantation is also ideal, with only 74 suites.
What is the best Sandals Resort for foodies?
Sandals Saint Vincent and Sandals Dunn’s River tie for this one. Both have amazing food options. Sandals Royal Caribbean is my next choice because of the Indian and Thai restaurants, with the ability to go to Sandals Montego Bay for additional food options.
What is the best Sandals Resort for Golf?
Sandals Grande St Lucian is the best for golf, but Sandals Ochi, Royal Plantation, and Dunn’s River are also good options.
What is the best Sandals resort overall?
Sandals Dunn’s River is ranked as the best Sandals resort overall. It stands out because it delivers the strongest all-around experience, combining excellent dining, a lively but polished atmosphere, modern rooms, strong service, and a location that offers both a great beach and easy access to excursions.
While other Sandals resorts may excel in specific niches, such as ultra-luxury, intimacy, or dramatic scenery, Sandals Dunn’s River consistently performs at a high level across every major category, which is why it earns the top spot in the ranking.
How are Sandals resorts ranked?
Sandals resorts in this article are ranked using a combination of first-hand experience and aggregated guest feedback, rather than a single score or marketing metric.
The Honeymoon Always team has personally stayed at every Sandals resort, allowing us to compare factors like food quality, beach conditions, resort layout, service consistency, room categories, and overall vibe from a real guest perspective.
Additionally, we hear from hundreds of our own clients to understand how their trips went after visiting a Sandals Resort.
That on-the-ground experience is then balanced with large-scale guest sentiment by reviewing tens of thousands of online reviews across platforms such as Google and TripAdvisor.
The final rankings reflect how each resort performs overall, not just in one category, while also considering how well it suits different types of travelers, from honeymooners to couples looking for nightlife or relaxation.
Which Sandals resort is best for first-time visitors?
Sandals Dunn’s River is often the best choice for first-time guests because it offers a well-balanced experience across food, service, amenities, and location. It gives a strong sense of what Sandals does best without being too niche.
Is there a big difference between newer and older Sandals resorts?
Newer Sandals resorts like Sandals Saint Vincent tend to feel more modern in design and layout, while older resorts often have more established grounds and a classic Sandals atmosphere. The best choice depends on whether you prioritise modern design or a more traditional resort feel.
How do I narrow down my choice if several resorts sound right for me?
Start by deciding what matters most to you, such as beach quality, food, nightlife, or seclusion. From there, focus on resorts that consistently stand out for that priority, rather than trying to find one that does everything equally.
Why We Love Sandals Resorts
We know you are looking for the best Sandals Resort, but we also wanted to share why we love them. Sandals have been around for 40 years, and with that comes experience. They know how to make sure you have carefree locations. With that comes the best of what all-inclusive resorts can offer.
- Dining – With up to 16 restaurants per resort, the variety is unmatched.
- Drinks – Sandals Resorts have up to 11 bars per resort with unlimited premium spirits.
- Activities – Sandals has more activities included, like scuba diving and water sports, that I don’t see at other all-inclusive resorts.
- Service – Sandals goes above all to make sure you have a good time.
- Ease of booking – You only need to make a small deposit to make a reservation. This can be changed or canceled up to 30 days before your trip.
- Access to nearby Sandals Resorts – We love that you do not have to decide on just 1 resort. If you stay at a resort that has other Sandals nearby, you can visit it.
You do not need to take our word for it. Here are the most recent awards Sandals took home.
At the 32nd Annual World Travel Awards – Caribbean & The Americas, Sandals Resorts International took home 16 prestigious titles, reaffirming its leadership in Caribbean hospitality. Highlights include:
Brand-level honors
- Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand 2025 — Sandals Resorts International (32nd year in a row)
Individual resort recognitions
- Caribbean’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort 2025 — Sandals Dunn’s River, Jamaica
- Caribbean’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025 — Sandals Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort 2025 — Sandals Grande St Lucian
- Caribbean’s Most Romantic Resort 2025 — Sandals South Coast, Jamaica
- Caribbean’s Leading Dive Resort 2025 — Sandals Royal Curaçao
- Bahamas’ Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025 — Sandals Royal Bahamian
- Grenada’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025 — Sandals Grenada
- Jamaica’s Leading Adult-Only All-Inclusive Resort 2025 — Sandals Negril
- Saint Vincent & The Grenadines’ Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025 — Sandals Saint Vincent …and additional regional honors in Jamaica, Curaçao, and St. Lucia.
Travel Weekly Magellan Awards 2025
Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts were also recognized at the 2025 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards for excellence in storytelling, marketing, creative experiences, and wellness design. Notable honors include:
- Gold – TV Commercial: “Three Things” — Sandals Resorts
- Gold – Spa Design — Red Lane® Spa at Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Other Gold and Silver recognitions for virtual experiences, brand films, and community initiatives (e.g., Sandals Foundation’s GRENROP Project).
Travvy Awards 2025 (Industry Voting)
Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was recently named Best All-Inclusive Resort in the World at the 2025 Travvy Awards, a jury and travel advisor-voted honor often referred to as the “Oscars of travel industry awards.”
Other Recognitions
Sandals Resorts has also been listed as a Best All-Inclusive Hotel Brand in the 2025 Times and Sunday Times Travel Awards, underscoring broader industry and consumer acclaim.