The resort boasts a beautiful beachfront location on Tambor Beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and stunning sunrises.
Guests frequently appreciate the extensive, well-maintained gardens and abundant local wildlife, including monkeys, macaws, and iguanas.
The large, warm swimming pools, some connected by a waterfall, are a major highlight and serve as a social hub for daytime activities.
The à la carte restaurants, specifically the Asian (Miyako Japanese) and steakhouse options, generally receive praise for their good food quality.
Entertainment, including evening shows and children's activities, is positively mentioned by families.
Direct access to Tambor Beach allows for easy enjoyment of the sand and ocean.
Cons
The food quality at the main buffet is a pervasive complaint, often described as "underwhelming" or "very ordinary" with limited variety.
Guests frequently face difficulties securing reservations for à la carte dining, reporting long queues and limited availability.
Service and staffing issues include unenthusiastic buffet staff, long wait times at bars and check-in, and communication problems due to language barriers.
Room maintenance and condition are concerns, with reports of outdated decor, musty smells, dripping air conditioning, and non-working safes.
There are recurring complaints about poor deep cleaning in rooms, loud music late at night, and a lack of eco-friendly practices.
Wi-Fi is often costly and unreliable, especially in rooms, contrary to modern expectations for a resort.
Sandals Royal Barbados
Pros
Extensive dining variety with 20-21 restaurants across two resorts due to 'Stay at One, Play at Two' access.
Multiple unique pools, including a beachfront infinity pool and the Caribbean's first rooftop infinity pool and bar.
Friendly, warm, and accommodating staff, with excellent butler service for those in applicable suites.
Beautiful white-sand Maxwell Beach with calm, blue waters, ideal for relaxation and swimming.
Exceptional gardens and well-maintained landscaping contribute to the resort's luxurious ambiance.
Summary
Sandals Royal Barbados has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Barceló Tambor is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Royal Barbados offers more activities.