Praia de Lacacao is one of the most visually impressive beaches at any Riu property — wide, white, and uncrowded.
The adults-only zone with Kulinarium access provides a noticeably calmer experience than the main resort.
Boa Vista's turtle nesting season (July–October) adds a genuinely rare excursion option not available at any other RIU location.
Pool temperatures are maintained in winter — Boa Vista can be cool in December and January, and heated pools matter.
Cons
Ocean swimming is genuinely limited by Atlantic swell — guests expecting Caribbean-style calm water will be disappointed.
The resort's décor and room finishes show their age ahead of the 2026 refurbishment; don't book expecting a fresh property.
Boa Vista's isolation means off-resort dining and nightlife essentially don't exist — you're committing to the property for your entire stay.
Most specialty restaurants require reservations and operate limited sittings — failing to book on arrival day means settling for the main buffet.
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.
Summary
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Hotel Riu Touareg is the larger property, while Hotel Riu Touareg has more dining venues, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa offers more activities.
"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.
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.
