Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana and Sandals Royal Barbados represent the modern vanguard of Caribbean adults-only resorts. Zilara sits on a spectacular, wide swimmable beach in the Dominican Republic with breathtaking infinity pools and a massive underground spa. Sandals Royal Barbados is an all-suite property on a slightly smaller beach, but it compensates with highly unique amenities like a rooftop pool, a 4-lane bowling alley, and access to the adjacent Sandals Barbados. Zilara is ideal for those seeking a grand, cohesive resort with a flawless beach, while Sandals Royal Barbados appeals to travelers desiring ultra-modern suites and an energetic, tech-forward atmosphere.
Key Metrics
Metric
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
Sandals Royal Barbados
Our Rating
9.1
8.2
Star Rating
4.5
5.0
Room Count
249
222
Restaurants
6
21
Pools
3
11
Year Opened
2019
2017
Year Renovated
—
2021
Features
Metric
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
Sandals Royal Barbados
All-Inclusive
Yes
Yes
Adults Only
Yes
Yes
Beach Access
Yes
Yes
Spa
Yes
Yes
Kids Club
No
No
Dining Comparison
Metric
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
Sandals Royal Barbados
Total Venues
28
26
Included
27
26
Extra Charge
1
0
Room Comparison
Metric
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
Sandals Royal Barbados
Room Categories
9
12
Suite Categories
9
12
Activities Comparison
Metric
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
Sandals Royal Barbados
Total Activities
22
24
Included
18
18
Extra Charge
4
6
Pros & Cons
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
Pros
Exceptional and attentive staff, often going "above and beyond" for guests.
High-quality and diverse gourmet dining options, including French-Polynesian and Indian cuisines.
Beautifully maintained, immaculate property with modern design and stunning beaches.
Tranquil and refined adults-only atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
Full access to the family-friendly Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana's facilities, including its water park.
Premium top-shelf wines and liquors are included in the all-inclusive rate.
Spacious, modern, and well-equipped suites with comfortable beds and great decor.
Pristine Juanillo Beach featuring white, powdery sand directly accessible from the resort.
Cons
Some guests report "ridiculously long" wait times for restaurant seating and at bars.
Occasional mentions of cold pools and dirty hot tubs.
While generally praised, food quality can sometimes be average or inconsistent for certain dishes.
Some guests felt pressured by upselling attempts for Club Level or specialty dining.
Inconsistent mini-bar refills and in-room supplies were occasionally mentioned.
Nightlife on the Zilara side is generally quiet or non-existent, with most bars closing by 11 p.m.
Sandals Royal Barbados
Pros
Extensive dining variety with 20-21 restaurants across two resorts due to 'Stay at One, Play at Two' access.
Multiple unique pools, including a beachfront infinity pool and the Caribbean's first rooftop infinity pool and bar.
Friendly, warm, and accommodating staff, with excellent butler service for those in applicable suites.
Beautiful white-sand Maxwell Beach with calm, blue waters, ideal for relaxation and swimming.
Exceptional gardens and well-maintained landscaping contribute to the resort's luxurious ambiance.
Modern feel, clean rooms, and luxurious all-suite accommodations, especially SkyPool and Swim-up suites.
Unique 'Sandals Firsts' features such as the four-lane bowling alley, craft beer bar, and gourmet donut shop.
Wide array of included water and land sports, including scuba diving for certified guests and glass-bottom boat tours.
Summary
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana is the larger property, while Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana has more dining venues, while Sandals Royal Barbados offers more activities.
