Sandals Barbados vs Royal Barbados: Differences, Costs, And Amenities

Are you planning a Caribbean getaway and confused about what to choose between Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados? Well, these both neighbouring resorts offer an extraordinary all-inclusive experience with unique amenities. But, which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll explore the differences in costs and amenities that can help you make the best decision for your dream vacation. Let’s get started!

Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados are two amazing resorts that offer an unforgettable all-inclusive experience. At these neighboring resorts, you can choose your preferred style, from classic to modern. While both resorts share amenities and facilities, each has unique features catering to different preferences.

If you prefer a classic Caribbean charm with lush tropical landscaping and a broad range of dining options, then Sandals Barbados is the place for you. With 280 rooms spread across three villages, which include luxury-level rooms, this resort can feel busier during peak times.

However, if you want a more modern and sleek design with one-of-a-kind amenities like a rooftop pool and bar, a 4-lane bowling alley, and all suites with soaking tubs, then Sandals Royal Barbados is the perfect choice.

This newer resort offers seven pools, which include a unique rooftop infinity pool and exclusive dining options like American Tavern and Chi Asian. However, keep in mind that Royal Barbados has slightly higher prices due to its newer facilities and added luxuries.

Overall, it’s up to you to decide which resort best suits your personal preferences and style. But both resorts promise an extraordinary experience with top-notch service and endless activities.

When deciding between Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados, the choice ultimately depends on what you want out of your vacation. In general, Sandals Barbados usually has lower prices, while Royal Barbados offers more luxurious options.

Moreover, consider your personal preferences, whether you want a classic Caribbean feel or modern amenities. Sandals Barbados may be the perfect fit for couples seeking a lively atmosphere with its various dining options and three pools.

On the other hand, if you want a more romantic vibe and unique amenities like an infinity pool and bowling alley, Sandals Royal Barbados is the way to go.

If you’re all about beach time, Sandals Barbados may be the ideal choice as it’s closer to the shore. For honeymooners, Sandals Royal Barbados provides a more romantic atmosphere. Imagine watching the sunset from the rooftop infinity pool with your significant other. You can experience this at Sandals Royal Barbados.

However, consider Sandals Barbados for various room types and spread-out layouts if traveling with friends. With options for affordable rooms and a range of activities, everyone in your group can find something they enjoy at this resort.

Both Sandals Barbados and Royal Barbados offer a wide range of room options. If you want budget-friendly choices, both resorts offer entry-level rooms such as the Caribbean Deluxe at Barbados and the Caribbean Junior Suite with Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub at Royal Barbados.

However, if you’re looking for luxury, then consider staying in one of their Skypool Suites with butler service. And if you can’t get enough ocean views, both resorts have beachfront rooms where you can wake up to the sound of waves crashing.

While both resorts provide swim-up suites, Royal Barbados provides something unique, like Rondoval Suites with private pools and dedicated butler service, which can further enhance your vacation experience.

When it comes to the beach experience at Sandals Royal Barbados and Sandals Barbados, you can’t go wrong either way. Both beaches are pristine, with soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters inviting you to dip. The atmosphere is perfect for relaxation, with palm trees and the soothing sound of waves.

Moreover, both resorts offer various beach activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. For more adventure, you can even try windsurfing. And if you simply want to unwind, there are plenty of loungers and umbrellas available.

While both resorts share the same Maxwell Beach stretch, there are some slight differences in the experience. Sandals Barbados is closer to the beach, which makes it more convenient to access the couple’s room. On the other hand, Royal Barbados, being newer, may have more modern beach facilities.

However, both resorts offer exceptional service. Here, beach waiters are ready to cater to your needs when you’re basking in the sun. So, you can choose based on your personal preferences and enjoy a fantastic beach experience at either resort.

Yes! Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados are incredibly close to each other. It’s convenient for guests as you can easily walk from one resort to another.

This proximity allows you to take advantage of Sandals’ “Stay at One, Play at Two” feature. So, you have full access to all facilities and amenities at both resorts, which include 21 restaurants, 14 bars, and 10 pools. So, it’s like having two vacations in one.

Moreover, with Dover Beach right at your doorstep and various local attractions nearby, you have the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation, which makes for an unforgettable vacation experience.

The resorts are situated in St. Lawrence Gap, so, it’s just a 15-minute drive from the airport. Plus, the island’s tropical climate and breathtaking beaches make it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.

Both, Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados are packed with fun activities and entertainment options. So, you’ll never run out of things to do for adventure or relaxation.

Here are some options including:

• Sandals Royal Barbados features a rooftop infinity pool with stunning ocean views, while Sandals Barbados offers three pools including a beachfront zero-entry pool.
• Both resorts offer a wide range of water sports, which include kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. So, certified divers can enjoy here a free scuba diving.
• For land activities, couples can try out the 4-lane bowling alley at Sandals Royal Barbados or enjoy tennis, beach volleyball, and cricket at both resorts.
• When the sun sets, the fun continues with live shows, themed beach parties, and karaoke nights. Sandals Royal Barbados even has a craft beer bar with 19 different beers.
• Couples can also relax and rejuvenate at the Red Lane Spa, which offers treatments like couples massages and facials. They can even enjoy a massage in a private garden setting.
• Both resorts offer unique dining experiences, with 21 restaurants to choose from between the two properties.

With so many options, both resorts offer something for everyone, which makes them the perfect choice for a Caribbean getaway.

Sandal Royal Barbados is the newer and more modern option of the two resorts. It opened in December 2017, so it’s about two years younger than Sandals Barbados.

Moreover, you can get many modern upgrades at Sandals Royal Barbados. With amenities like the rooftop infinity pool and bar, couples can enjoy stunning ocean views and upgraded entertainment systems.

These suites also feature Tranquility Soaking Tubs for couples, which further adds a touch of luxury to your stay. Guests have good remarks about the modern feel of Sandals Royal Barbados. One guest noted:

“The Royal felt like stepping into the future of all-inclusive resorts. Everything from the room controls to the dining experiences felt cutting-edge.”

Another guest said:

“The rooftop pool at Royal Barbados was a game-changer. It’s clear this resort was designed with modern luxury in mind.”

Yes! There are exclusive and unique experiences at Sandals Royal Barbados that you won’t find anywhere else. These resorts boast a rooftop infinity pool, the first in the Sandals chain. Couples can also enjoy panoramic ocean views from the rooftop bar while sipping cocktails.

At Sandals Barbados, guests can take a special garden tour to admire the tropical landscaping around the property. The Red Lane Spa at this resort offers signature treatments using local ingredients for a truly authentic experience.

Moreover, both resorts offer water sports, Sandals Barbados has an advantage as it is close to prime snorkeling spots and diving sites.

Reviews are a valuable resource for potential guests, as they provide honest and unbiased opinions from those who have already experienced the resorts. For Sandals Barbados, one guest stated:

“The resort is beautiful and we liked the range of restaurants, the various pools and the different entertainment options every night”.

However, some guests expressed their concerns about the slow and chaotic service in the restaurants.

At Sandals Royal Barbados, some guests had an amazing time and praised the staff for their hospitality. One guest shared:

“The resort is amazing. The staff can’t do enough and the beach is gorgeous. Cannot wait to go back”.

One visitor at Sandals Barbados loved Neptune’s and Portofino’s restaurants, and one guest noted that:

“The quality and range of food (when able to access it) was very good for an all-inclusive resort.”

Overall, it’s clear that both resorts offer stunning scenery, top-notch amenities, and impressive dining options. However, like any vacation experience, there may be areas that could use improvement.

Despite some minor setbacks, the majority of guests have had an incredible time at both Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados.

Now, you may be wondering which Sandals resort would best suit your desired atmosphere. Sandals Barbados’s atmosphere is generally quieter and more relaxed. So, it’s an excellent choice if you want to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

On the other hand, Sandals Royal Barbados has a livelier vibe. With its rooftop infinity pool, craft beer bar, and bowling alley, there’s never a dull moment at this resort.

So, it’s a popular choice among younger couples and groups of friends seeking a more vibrant atmosphere. However, keep in mind that there’s no age limitation, and both resorts welcome guests over 18.

Moreover, if you’re traveling alone, it’s worth noting that while neither resort caters specifically to solo travelers, the lively atmosphere at Sandals Royal Barbados may be more appealing for those looking to socialize and make new connections.

Sandals Barbados and Royal Barbados specialize in creating a romantic atmosphere, which makes them the perfect choice for couples seeking a dreamy vacation.

These resorts offer plenty of romantic experiences, such as private candlelit dinners under the stars or intimate dinners in your suite. Moreover, for even more privacy, the South Seas Royal Rondoval Butler Suites at Sandals Royal Barbados provide a more secluded space with a private pool.

However, if you’re planning a family vacation or traveling with a large group, Sandals Resorts may not be the best fit. These adult-only resorts do not offer kid-friendly activities or family suites.

So, if you’re traveling with other adult couples, there are plenty of shared experiences and group activities to enjoy together, such as beach volleyball and daily snorkeling trips.

Just keep in mind that the focus at these resorts is on romance, so it may not be the most suitable option for a big group getaway.

If you want to get the most value for your money at a Sandals Resort in Barbados, both Sandals Barbados and Royal Barbados offer great options. However, each resort has unique offerings that may make one more appealing.

For those on a budget, Sandals Barbados is generally the more affordable option, with slightly lower overall prices. For example, a Caribbean Deluxe Room starts at around $335 per person per night, compared to the South Seas Crystal Lagoon Club Level Barbados Suite at Royal Barbados, which goes for about $380 per person per night.

Royal Barbados maybe your top pick if you’re looking for an all-suite accommodation experience and don’t mind spending a bit more. But if standard rooms suit your needs just fine and you want to save some money, then Sandals Barbados could be the best choice for you.

However, what’s interesting is that both resorts allow guests access to each other’s facilities. So even if you choose the cheaper option at Sandals Barbados, you can still enjoy amenities such as the rooftop infinity pool and bowling alley at Royal Barbados.

Both resorts also offer unlimited water sports, scuba diving for certified divers, and access to multiple restaurants and bars that serve unlimited premium drinks. All this is included in the all-inclusive package, so you can truly indulge without worrying about additional costs.