P.B. Dye golf course on property — not a shuttle ride away, which is unusual for Caribbean all-inclusives
Coral restoration lab is genuinely interesting, not a marketing prop — worth visiting with or without children
Access to the shared Iberostar Bávaro Suites complex expands dining and beach amenities
UNESCO-recognized Bávaro Beach is one of the best stretches of sand in the Dominican Republic
Cons
Rooms haven't been renovated since 2006 — showing their age relative to newer Punta Cana competition
Specialty restaurant reservations must be booked on arrival day; waiting until day two limits options
Sargassum seaweed is a real variable between May and September — not a resort problem, but worth knowing before booking summer dates
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.
"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.
Summary
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Iberostar Waves Dominicana is the larger property, while Iberostar Waves Dominicana has more dining venues, while Iberostar Waves Dominicana offers more activities.
