The 2021 renovation is thorough — rooms and common areas feel genuinely modern rather than refurbished-over-dated.
Ten-minute taxi ride from Lanzarote Airport makes this one of the least stressful transfers in the Canaries.
RiuLand Kids' Club is properly organized with dedicated staff and structured programming — parents get genuine downtime.
The back gate promenade access to Playa de los Pocillos makes beach access simpler than at resorts requiring a road crossing.
Six pools means pool deck congestion is manageable even when the resort is near full occupancy.
Cons
Sunbed claiming starts early and management enforcement is inconsistent — early risers have a significant advantage.
The main buffet can become loud and crowded during peak lunch and dinner service.
Beach sunloungers are not included — budget for external rental or claim resort pool chairs instead.
The specialty restaurants require advance booking and fill up fast, particularly Yaiza.
Sandals Royal Barbados
Pros
The rooftop infinity pool is the Caribbean's first — an evening pool experience with ocean views that's unavailable at other Sandals properties
All-suite property means no standard rooms — every guest has suite-level accommodations
'Stay at One, Play at Two' with adjacent Sandals Barbados effectively doubles dining to 20+ restaurants and 10+ bars
15-minute transfer from Grantley Adams International Airport — one of the shortest Sandals arrivals in the Caribbean
Lovers Lanes bowling alley and craft beer bar are genuine novelties within the all-inclusive format
Cons
Maxwell Beach is a public beach — other hotel guests and persistent local vendors are present and regularly cited by guests
Lounge chair competition is consistent: early morning positioning is required for both the main pool and beachfront spots
Service at restaurants and bars is noted as slower than expected given the pricing — allow extra time for meals
Summary
Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Hotel Riu Paraiso Lanzarote is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Royal Barbados offers more activities.
