2022–23 full renovation plus 2024 rooftop pool additions make this the most recently updated Excellence property.
No wristband policy and no reservation requirement at most restaurants are genuine daily-life advantages.
Unlimited lobster included in the rate, along with premium alcohol throughout.
Six winding pools with meandering hacienda design create naturally private corners throughout the property.
Complimentary calls to USA and Canada included — a genuinely useful operational perk.
Cons
Building 6 and areas near activity hubs generate consistent noise complaints — room selection matters.
Some suites have semi-open bathroom layouts (shared with bedroom) that not all couples prefer.
Seaweed on the beach is seasonally variable despite active maintenance.
Competition for palapas around the main pool requires early morning setup.
The price point is upper-luxury — not a value all-inclusive even within the Excellence brand.
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 more restaurants, while Excellence Riviera Cancun is the larger property, while Excellence Riviera Cancun has more dining venues, while Excellence Riviera Cancun offers more activities.
