The 300-meter river-style pool is genuinely distinct from any other pool configuration in Punta Cana and makes a real difference for guests who spend significant time in the water
The Elegance Club's à la carte breakfast and lunch access at Il Botaccio means adults can realistically skip the main buffet for all three meals daily
The 19-minute transfer from PUJ airport is shorter than most Bávaro-area properties — a meaningful logistics advantage for late arrivals or guests with connections to make
Cons
The property opened in 2008 and shows wear in areas that 2019-vintage sister properties don't — guests comparing photos to other Majestic properties may find the physical plant less polished
The Kids Club is shared with the adjacent Majestic Colonial, which requires a short walk between properties — convenient in good weather, less so when it rains
Kabuki's teppanyaki tables require reservations and fill fast — guests who don't book on day one often find their preferred evenings unavailable
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
Service at restaurants and bars is noted as slower than expected given the pricing — allow extra time for meals
Summary
Majestic Elegance Punta Cana has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Majestic Elegance Punta Cana is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues.
