Adults-only infinity pool with promenade and ocean views is the standout physical feature of the post-2023 refurbishment
Riu4U teen program (ages 13–17) runs several times weekly — genuinely unusual and fills a gap most all-inclusives ignore
Heated pool (winter) makes the resort comfortable year-round when the Atlantic water temperature drops
Suite with Private Pool category gives complete privacy — no sunbed competition if you're paying for that category
Maspalomas sand dunes are 15 minutes on foot — one of the best free day-trips from any Canary Islands resort
Cons
All-inclusive cocktails are consistently described in reviews as overly sweet with weak spirit pours
Specialty restaurant reservations fill quickly in peak season; guests who don't book on arrival day often end up at the buffet most evenings
At 639 rooms the property is large enough that good sun lounger positions at the main pools require early arrival
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 Gran Canaria is the larger property, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more dining venues.
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.
