Direct access to Grandes Playas — one of the Canary Islands' finest beaches — from a budget-tier all-inclusive
Bus stop directly outside the hotel gives access to Corralejo town center and independent restaurants without a taxi
Atlántico restaurant serves authentic Canarian food — papas arrugadas and mojo sauce in a setting that most international all-inclusives don't offer
Single room category available — uncommon in all-inclusive resorts and useful for solo travelers avoiding the single supplement
Cons
Last major renovation was 2004 — rooms are dated across the board, with the annexe bungalows being the most worn. Pest issues (ants, cockroaches) appear in enough reviews to be a real possibility
808 rooms across one main building and 24 annexes means the property sprawls — the annexe buildings are least convenient
Pool provision (two main pools) is modest for 808 rooms
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 Oliva Beach Resort 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.
