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
Sunscape Sabor Cozumel
Pros
Largest private beachfront on Cozumel with walk-in snorkeling to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef — the main reason to choose this property over other island options.
128 rooms means the resort operates with a small-hotel feel: staff learn names and preferences within a day, and there's no impersonal mega-resort atmosphere.
The 2021 renovation freshened rooms and common areas — this is not a dated property despite being a decade-old brand.
Sunny Side Grill runs late-night bites from 11 PM to 7 AM — important for guests on night dive schedules.
Cons
Four restaurants for a week-long stay is limiting — the dining rotation will feel repetitive by day five or six. Plan to eat dinner in Cozumel town at least twice on extended stays.
Room service carries a service and delivery charge even with the all-inclusive wristband — worth knowing before you pick up the phone.
Summary
Sandals Royal Barbados has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Sandals Royal Barbados is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sunscape Sabor Cozumel offers more activities.
