Adults-only swim-up pool rooms are a genuinely distinctive accommodation category — private in-pool access is unusual in the all-inclusive market.
8–10 minute airport transfer (1.5km from BVC) is among the shortest of any resort destination globally.
Boa Vista is less developed than other Cape Verde islands — the isolation is an asset for guests seeking genuine quiet.
Two swim-up bar pools provides variety across the day.
Five massage rooms in the spa means better treatment availability than most properties of this size.
Cons
Boa Vista's isolation is also a limitation — there's minimal off-property culture, shopping, or dining.
Trade winds that make windsurfing excellent also make the beach feel windy and blow sand — not for everyone.
Specialty restaurants operate on fixed two-sitting system — if both sittings are full, there's no flexibility.
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 Palace Boavista 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.
