2021 Esencia renovation means rooms are in good condition — better maintained than older sections of the La Palma Princess
Sea view rooms face a genuinely distinctive volcanic Atlantic coastline — not your standard beach hotel view
Adults-only (16+) throughout the Esencia section — consistently quiet even in peak season
La Palma itself has low tourist density by Canary Islands standards — if you've done Gran Canaria and Tenerife, this is meaningfully different
Cons
Hilly terrain with no lifts in accommodation blocks — not suitable for guests with limited mobility without ground-floor room assignment
Many drinks carry additional charges beyond the basic all-inclusive selection
A rental car is effectively required to access the island's main attractions — budget for this
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.
"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.
Summary
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa offers more activities.
