The Maspalomas Dunes walk to the beach is genuinely scenic — the 800m route through protected dunes is unlike any other Canary Island resort access
Adults-only (18+) with a genuinely quiet atmosphere — the 2021 repositioning eliminated family noise
El Oasis dinner terrace with sea views is one of the better restaurant settings in the southern Gran Canaria resort strip
Cava included at breakfast every day — a consistent highlight mentioned by returning guests
Cons
No direct beach attached to the property — the 800m dune walk is beautiful but not accessible for all guests
Half-board means lunch and drinks are extra costs — full-day poolside guests face significant additional charges
Specialty restaurants (Krystal and El Oasis) only open select evenings — limited booking windows for stays shorter than 5 nights
The 2021 renovation upgraded the hotel to adults-only but some room finishes in lower categories remain dated
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 Maspalomas 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.
