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
Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa
Pros
Access to Bluebay Beach Resort's Oasis Spa, gym, and PADI dive centre is a genuine value — 5-star amenities at a 4-star room rate.
Zanzibar's east coast reefs are legitimately world-class for diving and snorkeling — the location matters more than the star rating for underwater enthusiasts.
The Swahili-Arab architecture gives Sultan Sands an authentic regional character that sets it apart from generic tropical resort design.
Organized family activities and kids-friendly programming are consistently well-reviewed by families with children.
Cons
Tidal variation on Kiwengwa Beach means morning swimming is frequently not possible — this requires adjusting expectations significantly if beach swimming is the primary activity.
Room quality varies considerably between updated Bahari rooms and older, un-renovated categories — specify a renovated room when booking.
Summary
Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Sandals Royal Barbados is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa offers more activities.
