San Salvador's wall dives, blue holes, and reef drop-offs are some of the most distinctive dive sites accessible from any Club Med — the dive operation is the main reason serious divers choose this resort
Bonefish Bay Beach is a genuine mile-long white sand beach with calm, clear water — not manufactured by the resort
The 5-minute transfer from San Salvador Airport (ZSA) is one of the easiest resort arrivals in the Caribbean
Post-2023 renovation has addressed many of the room quality issues that affected pre-renovation reviews
Cons
Sand flies are active at dusk and can be severe — oil-based insect repellent is essential, not optional, for outdoor evening activities
Scuba diving is extra cost and is the primary activity draw — guests who don't dive get less unique value from this specific location vs. other Club Med properties
Limited flight connections to ZSA mean any disruption (weather, missed connections) can strand guests — book direct flights if available
Sandals Royal Barbados
Pros
The rooftop infinity pool is the Caribbean's first — an evening pool experience with ocean views that's unavailable at other Sandals properties
All-suite property means no standard rooms — every guest has suite-level accommodations
'Stay at One, Play at Two' with adjacent Sandals Barbados effectively doubles dining to 20+ restaurants and 10+ bars
15-minute transfer from Grantley Adams International Airport — one of the shortest Sandals arrivals in the Caribbean
Lovers Lanes bowling alley and craft beer bar are genuine novelties within the all-inclusive format
Cons
Maxwell Beach is a public beach — other hotel guests and persistent local vendors are present and regularly cited by guests
Lounge chair competition is consistent: early morning positioning is required for both the main pool and beachfront spots
Service at restaurants and bars is noted as slower than expected given the pricing — allow extra time for meals
Summary
Sandals Royal Barbados has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Club Med Columbus Isle is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Royal Barbados offers more activities.
