20-minute transfer from LIR airport — among the shortest Guanacaste resort transfers available.
Tokio's teppanyaki option is a genuinely distinctive dining experience within the all-inclusive format.
Complimentary Splash Water World access at Riu Guanacaste is a strong family amenity.
Two spa relaxation pools (complimentary) are unusual for this property tier.
Cons
Some rooms and facility areas remain dated despite the 2019 renovation.
Matapalo Beach has rocky sections in some areas — not uniformly smooth sand entry.
Four specialty restaurants with no reservation system means early-arrival queuing is necessary.
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.
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.
Summary
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica is the larger property, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica offers more activities.
