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 Tulum Resort & Beach Club
Pros
The cenote-inspired architecture and jungle setting are genuinely distinctive — this is one of the few all-inclusive properties that has a strong sense of place rather than generic resort design.
Multiple pool types (courtyard, main, rooftop, swim-out) mean it's possible to find quiet water even on busy days.
Zamna Beach Club delivers excellent beach quality — white sand, clear water, Bali beds — even if the commute takes planning.
The Temazcal ceremony is a culturally specific offering unavailable at most Secrets properties.
Cons
Not beachfront — the shuttle to Zamna Beach Club (15–30 minutes each way) is a real time cost on beach days and requires planning rather than spontaneity.
The resort layout is genuinely confusing; multiple guests describe getting lost, which adds frustration on longer walks between buildings and venues.
Summary
Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club offers more activities.
