Included access to Royalton Splash's water park next door — this is genuinely free and unlimited, not a token day pass
Post-2024 renovation means all 317 rooms have new finishes — one of the most recently refreshed properties on Bavaro Beach
All rooms are Diamond Club tier, so butler service and lounge access come standard without an upgrade fee
Gourmet Marché buffet draws consistently positive reviews for quality and variety — above average for the brand
23–32 minute airport transfer from PUJ is one of the shorter drives on Bavaro Beach
Cons
Drink service at the buffet is consistently reported as slow — the food quality is praised but drinks often require multiple requests
At 409 sq ft, the entry rooms are smaller than comparable properties at this price point on Bavaro Beach
Vendors have been reported entering hotel grounds — more of an issue near the beach entrance than inland
Some minor punch-list maintenance items in newly renovated rooms — flag any issues at check-in rather than day 3
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
Summary
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Royalton Punta Cana, Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino has more restaurants, while Royalton Punta Cana, Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino is the larger property, while Royalton Punta Cana, Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino has more dining venues, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa offers more activities.
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.
Beach lounger availability at the South Seas pool requires early claiming (pre-8:30 AM on busy weeks) — not ideal for late risers.
Older sections of the property show maintenance wear relative to the newer Italian village buildings.
