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
Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana
Pros
The Preferred Club lazy river pool is a distinctive feature — uncommon at Punta Cana all-inclusives and a concrete reason to upgrade to Preferred Club rather than just gaining lounge access.
Free-flow access to Dreams Royal Beach and the 'Sip, Savor & See' dine-around program effectively doubles the dining variety for evening meals.
The 2020 renovation is recent enough that room finishings, bedding, and fixtures remain in good condition — fewer wear complaints than at unrenovated Punta Cana properties.
Cons
At 639 suites, the main social pool reaches capacity during peak season by late morning — the Preferred Club pools are the reliable crowd-free alternative.
Beach vendors and occasional sargassum are consistent guest complaints — both are a function of the Bávaro Beach location rather than resort management.
Summary
Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana offers more activities.
