Included PADI-certified scuba diving is genuinely rare at all-inclusive resorts — even certified divers who have dived elsewhere should take advantage
The 15,000 sq ft Mediterranean pool is one of the most impressive pool facilities in the Eastern Caribbean
Dickenson Bay's calm, clear water makes it one of the most reliably swimmable resort beaches in Antigua
The Rondoval circular suite rooms are architecturally unusual and distinctive — worth booking if the design appeals to you
Sandals' couples-only policy creates a meaningfully different atmosphere from mixed-demographic all-inclusives
Cons
Restaurant reservations for Kimonos and Eleanor's are effectively required but not always formally available — arriving at opening is the practical solution
Beach vendors at Dickenson Bay can be persistent — this is a known irritant and the resort manages it imperfectly
Some rooms show age-related wear despite ongoing renovations since 2020
Late check-out fees apply — a minor but annoying reality when flights depart in the evening
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 Grande Antigua Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa offers more activities.
