The oceanfront water park is genuinely fun for adults, not just kids — and rarely overcrowded despite the resort's 438-suite capacity.
All-suite property means even the entry-level rooms start at 668 sq ft with a jetted tub, balcony, and stocked minibar.
Staff-to-guest ratio gets consistent praise — bartenders and beach attendants learn guest preferences within the first day.
Lunch dining is a standout: Habaneros beachfront ceviche and La Parrilla grill draw strong reviews, better than most comparable Cancun properties.
Cons
Specialty dinner restaurants operate without advance reservations and fill fast — expect 30–45 minute waits at Miyako and Rue de Rivoli if you show up after opening.
The beach is narrow by Cancun-area standards, and sargassum seaweed is a real presence May through September.
The resort is isolated enough in Puerto Morelos that leaving for evening entertainment requires a 20–30 minute taxi ride with no walkable alternatives.
Pool cabanas must be reserved on arrival day — they go quickly, and the main pool has limited natural shade without one.
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 Ziva Riviera Cancun is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Royal Barbados offers more activities.
