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
The scale of the combined Royal Barbados and Sandals Barbados property means it's a larger, more crowded operation than quieter Sandals resorts
Sandals Royal Curaçao
Pros
The Dos Awa two-level infinity pool is architecturally distinctive — a Sandals brand first that's genuinely different from the standard resort pool format
Butler-level guests staying 7+ nights get a complimentary MINI Cooper convertible for island exploration — one of the most useful resort perks in the Sandals portfolio
Curaçao has excellent diving conditions — clear water, wall dives, and healthy reefs that rank among the top Caribbean dive destinations
The beachside food truck format (three trucks) is a Sandals brand first — casual dining in an outdoor format that works well in the Caribbean climate
The property opened in 2022 from a full renovation — facilities are current and modern compared to older Sandals properties
Cons
The resort is 26–45 minutes from Willemstad and sits on an isolated estate — guests who want easy access to local restaurants, culture, and shopping will find it inconvenient
Summary
Sandals Royal Curaçao has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Sandals Royal Curaçao is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Royal Curaçao offers more activities.
The beach directly in front of the main pool has a rocky coastline — it's not swimmable from that section; guests need to know which beach areas are sandy
The Santa Barbara Estate is large and spread out — Dutch bikes and golf carts are practical necessities, not just amenities
