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 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
Summary
Sandals Royal Barbados has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Hyatt Vivid Playa del Carmen is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Royal Barbados offers more activities.
