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
Sandos Papagayo Beach Resort
Pros
The 10-minute coastal walk to Papagayo natural park beaches is the property's strongest asset — guests who make the walk to Playa del Pozo or Playa de la Caleta find some of Lanzarote's finest sand.
24-hour snack access via the Snack Grill means late arrivals, early departures, and non-standard meal times are handled without extra cost.
The heated pool during winter months and the adults-only pool give the property genuine year-round appeal beyond peak summer.
Cons
The Las Coloradas beach directly in front of the hotel has rocky sections — guests expecting a pristine sandy resort beach should know the Papagayo beaches require a walk rather than being on the doorstep.
The Maison Jaune and Fusion Restaurant fill within the first day of arrivals each week — guests who don't book on check-in day may miss their preferred specialty dining dates.
Summary
Sandals Royal Barbados has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Sandos Papagayo Beach Resort is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Royal Barbados offers more activities.
