Choosing between Sandals Royal Barbados and Sandals Negril comes down to the vibe you're seeking. Sandals Royal Barbados is a newer, ultra-modern all-suite property offering exclusive brand firsts like a rooftop pool, craft beer bar, and bowling alley. In contrast, Sandals Negril is set right on Jamaica's legendary Seven Mile Beach, offering a more laid-back, classic Caribbean atmosphere with arguably better calm-water swimming right off the resort. If you want cutting-edge luxury and dining, choose Barbados; if a pristine, expansive beach is your priority, choose Negril.
Key Metrics
Metric
Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa
Sandals Royal Barbados
Our Rating
7.8
8.2
Star Rating
5.0
5.0
Room Count
222
222
Restaurants
8
21
Pools
4
11
Year Opened
1988
2017
Year Renovated
2004
2021
Features
Metric
Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa
Sandals Royal Barbados
All-Inclusive
Yes
Yes
Adults Only
Yes
Yes
Beach Access
Yes
Yes
Spa
Yes
Yes
Kids Club
No
No
Dining Comparison
Metric
Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa
Sandals Royal Barbados
Total Venues
18
26
Included
17
26
Extra Charge
1
0
Room Comparison
Metric
Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa
Sandals Royal Barbados
Room Categories
19
12
Suite Categories
10
12
Activities Comparison
Metric
Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa
Sandals Royal Barbados
Total Activities
25
24
Included
22
18
Extra Charge
3
6
Pros & Cons
Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa
Pros
Exceptional and attentive staff providing outstanding service.
Stunning beachfront location directly on the widest stretch of Seven Mile Beach.
High quality and variety of gourmet dining options across 8 specialty restaurants.
Extensive array of included water sports, including motorized options like water skiing.
Breathtaking sunsets visible from the beach and various resort areas.
Romantic, intimate, and laid-back atmosphere perfect for couples and honeymooners.
Unique 'barefoot elegance' vibe due to its proximity to the water's edge.
Strong commitment to environmental sustainability (EarthCheck, Green Globe certifications).
Round-trip airport transfers from MBJ are seamlessly included.
Consistently high guest satisfaction and positive reviews (4.5/5 rating).
Cons
Relatively long drive (75-90 minutes) from Sangster International Airport (MBJ).
Encounters with local vendors can occur on the public Seven Mile Beach.
Some 'Luxury' category rooms or older areas may show their age despite recent renovations.
Pools are noted by some guests as being smaller compared to other larger Sandals properties.
Proximity to the clothing-optional Hedonism II resort, a consideration for some guests.
Specific smallest/largest room sizes across all categories are not always explicitly detailed.
Sandals Royal Barbados
Pros
Extensive dining variety with 20-21 restaurants across two resorts due to 'Stay at One, Play at Two' access.
Multiple unique pools, including a beachfront infinity pool and the Caribbean's first rooftop infinity pool and bar.
Friendly, warm, and accommodating staff, with excellent butler service for those in applicable suites.
Beautiful white-sand Maxwell Beach with calm, blue waters, ideal for relaxation and swimming.
Exceptional gardens and well-maintained landscaping contribute to the resort's luxurious ambiance.
Modern feel, clean rooms, and luxurious all-suite accommodations, especially SkyPool and Swim-up suites.
Summary
Sandals Royal Barbados has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa offers more activities.
