Marriott Bonvoy points earned and redeemable on this stay — a genuine differentiator for loyalty program members who would otherwise lose points value at non-Marriott all-inclusives.
The Camp Club by Marriott with ziplining and wall climbing is meaningfully more substantive than standard kids' club programming.
The 2024 renovation means all 450 rooms are in contemporary condition — no room-condition lottery unlike older unrenovated competitors.
The adults-only infinity pool with its own swim-up bar provides genuine separation from the family pool activity.
Cons
No full-service on-site spa — guests seeking body treatments and facials must walk to the adjacent JW Marriott's Sens Yah spa.
Specialty restaurant dinner reservations fill quickly — book up to 5 days ahead via the resort app.
Some standard rooms are noted as slightly small despite the renovation — confirm room category dimensions if size matters.
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
Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort has a higher guest rating, while Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort has more restaurants, while Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Royal Barbados offers more activities.
