Opened 2018 — the most modern Palladium property in Mexico with contemporary design throughout
Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre with 8 illuminated clay courts and one complimentary hour per day is a genuine differentiator — no other all-inclusive in the area offers this
Costa Mujeres beach is wide, powdery, and quieter than Cancun Hotel Zone properties — one of the better beach situations in the region
Eclipse rooftop bar has the best sunset view in the complex and works as an evening social hub
Cons
The resort is large enough that navigation between areas requires a boat or golf cart — wait times on shuttles can frustrate guests in a hurry
Main buffet Isla Blanca receives inconsistent reviews — a la carte restaurants are better and require early booking
Hydrotherapy circuit requires a day pass fee unless you book a treatment
Sargassum affects the beach April through August
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
Grand Palladium Select Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Grand Palladium Select Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues.
