Walking distance to Fifth Avenue means you can leave the resort for dinner or shopping without a taxi — a real advantage over hotels further north.
All 524 suites include a double-jetted tub and private balcony at every price tier, including the entry-level category.
The Tequileria stocks genuine Mexican expressions by region — not just mass-market brands found at standard resort bars.
The rooftop tennis court is a genuinely unusual amenity; most resorts in PDC do not have one.
No reservation requirements at most specialty restaurants — La Casona and Asiana are walk-in despite being full à la carte dinner venues.
Cons
The beach directly in front of the resort is rocky and poor for swimming — you need to walk 100 meters north to reach a sandy-bottom section, which is a real limitation if beach access is central to your trip.
Poolside cabanas cost extra unless your suite category includes one — this is not clearly communicated at booking and surprises guests on arrival.
Chef's Plate carries a surcharge for Junior Suite guests, so the headline 'no reservations required' dining policy has a notable exception at the top of the restaurant menu.
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
Summary
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Hyatt Vivid Playa del Carmen is the larger property, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa offers more activities.
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.
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.
