36 overwater junior suites over the Indian Ocean lagoon with glass-panel floors and direct water access — the overwater experience at a price point significantly below ultra-luxury Maldivian alternatives
Connected walkway to Riu Palace Maldivas effectively doubles the restaurant and facility options
Opened 2019 — relatively new property with modern design and equipment
Cons
House reef for shore snorkeling is limited — excursions to the better reef sites in the Dhaalu Atoll carry extra charges and are necessary to see the marine life the Maldives is known for
Domestic flight from Malé plus speedboat transfer adds 60+ minutes of travel on each end of the trip — budget time and additional costs beyond the main flights
Drinks quality at bars has been described as 'cheap' by some guests — the premium spirits selection may be limited relative to the all-inclusive expectation
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.
Summary
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Hotel Riu Atoll is the larger property, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa offers more activities.
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.
