Las Salinas beach's 2 km of calm shallow water is genuinely one of Cuba's best beaches — the sheltered cay location protects it from wave action
Beach chairs are consistently available even at peak occupancy — rare for a Caribbean beach
Catamaran sailing and kayaking conditions at Las Salinas are among the best at any Cuban resort due to the calm bay
Staff friendliness and warmth are one of the most consistent positives across independent reviews
Snorkeling from the beach accesses coral reefs without any boat required
Cons
Biting insects (sandfly-type) at Las Salinas beach are documented across multiple reviews — bug spray is not optional
U.S. bank credit cards are not accepted anywhere in Cuba — bring cash in Canadian dollars, Euros, or Cuban pesos
Food variety is limited and supply of some cocktail ingredients can be inconsistent — Cuba's import situation affects drink menus
Some rooms have been reported with musty smells and dated fixtures — request a recently refreshed room and inspect on arrival
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 a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Grand Sirenis Cayo Santa María is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Royal Barbados offers more activities.
