When looking into the different Sandals Resort in Jamaica, you will come across Sandals South Coast and Sandals Royal Caribbean. Both have their pros and cons and in this article, we will compare the two resorts to help you choose which is the best match for you.
Overview
Sandals South Coast was named “Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort” in the 2019 World Travel Awards. It is quiet and serene, nestled along a 2-mile stretch of pristine white beach amid a 500-acre nature preserve.
The biggest con to Sandals South Coast is the drive from the airport. The drive takes 90 minutes after leaving the airport and is on a windy road.
Sandals Royal Caribbean is a luxurious resort with an intimate feel, nestled on a small but stunning private beach. It is located about 5 minutes form the airport.
When you stay here, you also get access to all the activities, restaurants, and bars at neighboring Sandals Montego Bay, so this is the best option if you are looking for a lot of variety.
Sandals Royal Caribbean currently has some areas under renovation which should conclude in the fall or 2024 while Sandals South Coast is currently renovating the overwater bungalows and recently completed renovations on the area formerly known as the French village, now known as the Longbeach area.
Location
Sandals Royal Caribbean is located in Montego Bay and is close to the airport, so travel time is minimal. This should be your choice if you want to get your vacation started as quickly as possible.
Sandals South Coast is located in White House, along the unspoiled southern coast of Jamaica and further away from the airport.
Sandals South Coast is about 30 miles from Montego Bay airport. The drive to the resort is rough; you may want to take Dramamine beforehand due to potholes and sharp turns.
Sandals South Coast feels very secluded and is on a very large stretch of beach.
Rooms and Suites
Both Sandals South Coast and Royal Caribbean are some of the best Sandals in Jamaica for honeymoons because they feature the uber-romantic Over-the-Water Bungalows.
At both resorts, these incredible overwater bungalows are perched over the stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean. The difference is that the overwater bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean are on a private island, whereas the ones at Sandals South Coast are connected to the beach on the far end of the resort. Also, some of the overwater bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean offer private infinity pools.
Sandals South Coast also has the unique Rondoval Suites, which are round thatched-roof structures that feature a private patio with zero-entry access to the river pool plus a private plunge pool, spa-style bathrooms, and a Tranquility Soaking Tub™ for two. These romantic hideaways also come with butler service.
All of the other rooms are comparable at each resort. You can find one-bedroom butler suites with oceanfront views, swim-up suites, or more entry-level rooms at either resort.
Food and Drink
Of these two resorts, Sandals Royal Caribbean offers the most food options.
Sandals Royal Caribbean has 9 restaurants and 6 bars, including swim-up bars and a piano bar. The 9 restaurants offer a range of world-class dining, including authentic Thai, French cuisine, Indian, Italian, and the Caribbean. A casual pizzeria, Caribbean jerk shack, seaside bar and grill, and British pub round out the culinary offerings here.
We loved the Thai and Indian food the most since we were able to try a lot of food that was high quality.
When you stay at Sandals Royal Caribbean, you also get access to all the restaurants at nearby Sandals Montego Bay (and easy transportation back and forth via the free shuttle).
Sandals South Coast has 7 bars (including swim-up bars) and 9 global gourmet restaurants, many of which overlook the beautiful beach. These include Italian, Asian, and Caribbean cuisines; the beachside Mediterranean and Jamaican seafood restaurants; Sushi on the Sand; the Jerk Shack; and a Parisian café.
New to Sandals South Coast are two food trucks, one serving tacos and the other serving chicken tenders. Both are a great addition to the resort.
Activities
There are plenty of complimentary activities at both Sandals South Coast and Sandals Royal Caribbean, including water and land sports. Even scuba diving is included; certified divers can dive up to twice a day at either resort.
One thing that sets Sandals South Coast apart are the many Pickleball Courts, so if you would like to play, that is a great option.
Something that sets Sandals Royal Caribbean apart is its private offshore island. This is a unique amenity that is available for all guests.
Just a few minutes by boat from the main resort, the island features a beautiful beach lined with thatch-roofed cabanas, a pool with a swim-up bar, a Jacuzzi, and two dining experiences including an authentic Thai restaurant. At night you can enjoy bonfires, “island-style extravaganzas,” and dancing on the sand.
Other than these differences, Sandals South Coast and Sandals Royal Caribbean are fairly similar when it comes to activities.
Excursions
When comparing excursions, Sandals South Coast has less variety but they are less busy. Sandals Royal Caribbean has more options, but many require a long drive and the attractions may be crowded.
Going to YS Falls near Sandals South Coast was one of the best excursions we enjoyed during our last trip to Jamaica. We arrived after a 30 minute drive and were the first ones there.
Comparing the Pools & Beaches
If you are looking for big, active pools then Sandals South Coast is the clear winner. There are 4 pools here, which range from a 17,000-square-foot river pool with a swim-up bar to Jamaica’s largest zero-entry pool. All of the pools are very close to the beach as well.
At Sandals Royal Caribbean you will find several smaller pool areas. The main pool is smaller and quieter than what you would find at Sandals South Coast, but we enjoyed the pool since it seemed very friendly there.
The pristine white sand beach at Sandals South Coast stretches for two miles along crystal clear water. There are shade trees and lounge chairs, or you can book a private cabana. One thing to keep in mind is there are sea urchins in the water so you might want to use goggles to watch your step or wear water shoes.
The beach at Sandals Royal Caribbean is smaller but it is a very social beach area that we liked. There is also the beach on the private island that is quiet and close to the Jerk Shack.
Some people will also enjoy the clothing optional beach on the private island at Sandals South Coast.
When it comes to the beaches and pools, it really depends on what you are looking for to choose which resort is best for you.
Cost
When it comes to cost, Sandals South Coast does have a few options that are less expensive than Royal Caribbean, but it comes down to your room choice.
Both resorts have deals and specials regularly; you can look for these on the Sandals website. Another way to get the best price at a Sandals resort is to work with a Certified Sandals Travel Agent.
The Verdict
For us, we prefer Sandals Royal Caribbean due to the proximity to the airport, variety of food, ability to visit Sandals Montego Bay, and the relaxed vibes.
We know a lot of people still prefer Sandals South Coast and understand why since the resort is huge and away from most of the other resorts. The size of the pools and the long beautiful beach are also appealing.
He is an expert travel advisor and enthusiast. He has traveled extensively in the USA, Central America, South America, and Europe. He has visited every Sandals Resort and is one of a select few Diamond Elite members of the Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club.
Dan graduated from Johnson & Wales University with an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Later he graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a focus on people and culture.