Waterskiing and wakeboarding with group lessons are included — this is rare at any all-inclusive and the primary sporting differentiator at Rio Das Pedras over other Brazil Club Meds
The Ilha Grande excursion (extra cost) is one of the most genuinely distinctive nearby destinations available from any Club Med in the Americas — a car-free national park island with Atlantic Forest and clear water that looks nothing like a standard day-trip
Cons
The drive from Rio's Galeão International Airport is 110–150 km and averages 2–2.5 hours under normal conditions — plan for up to 4 hours during Carnival; factor this transfer time into arrival/departure scheduling
Unrenovated standard rooms co-exist with the 2024-renovated deluxe units — always book a confirmed renovated Deluxe or Junior Suite category and verify at check-in
Jangada reservations are limited to one per stay and fill within hours of arrival — go to the restaurant between noon and 1pm on the day you arrive to secure your slot
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa
Pros
Pink Gin Beach is genuinely calm and swimmable — sheltered cove geometry prevents the choppy surf that affects more exposed Caribbean beaches.
Ten restaurants for 257 rooms is a high ratio, resulting in shorter waits and more consistent kitchen quality than larger Sandals properties.
Five-minute airport transfer is among the shortest in the Sandals chain — no long bus rides after a redeye.
SkyPool suites with private infinity plunge pools are architecturally distinctive and not replicated at most other properties.
PADI scuba diving up to two dives/day is included — at $80–100 per dive externally, this adds real value for certified divers.
The property's smaller, quieter personality makes it work well for couples who want intimacy over high-energy activity.
Cons
The Sandals app reservation system is unreliable — restaurants show as fully booked while tables are available, and closures go unannounced.
Summary
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Club Med Rio Das Pedras is the larger property, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa offers more activities.
"Partial ocean view" and even some "ocean view" rooms deliver disappointing sightlines — verify the specific building and floor before booking.
Butler Elite categories represent a meaningful price jump; the value is clearest for guests who actually use 24-hour room service and prefer to delegate planning.
Beach lounger availability at the South Seas pool requires early claiming (pre-8:30 AM on busy weeks) — not ideal for late risers.
Older sections of the property show maintenance wear relative to the newer Italian village buildings.
