The natural saltwater pool is a legitimate differentiator — 3,000 sq m with no chlorine, notably gentler on skin and eyes
Adults-only infinity pool stays open until midnight with Pacific views and nearly no crowd after 8 PM
Baby Club accepts children from age one, which is younger than most resort programs — a real advantage for parents with toddlers
Weekly beach BBQ and Friday tequila tasting break up the dining routine on longer stays
Sustainable tourism credentials (EarthCheck, Travelife Gold) are audited certifications, not self-reported claims
Cons
50-minute transfer from Puerto Vallarta airport and no walkable restaurants or shops — you are committed to the resort once you arrive
Property spread means 10-15 minute walks between some buildings and the beach — not ideal if mobility is a concern
A la carte restaurants book out during peak season; guests who don't reserve on arrival day end up at the buffet by default
Many rooms face garden rather than ocean despite the beachfront setting — check your room category carefully before booking
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 Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort & Spa is the larger property, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Grand Palladium Vallarta 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.
