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
Tropical Deluxe Princess - All Inclusive
Pros
Cross-property access to Caribe Deluxe Princess and shuttle to Grand Bávaro extends the campus experience without paying for a larger resort.
Six à la carte restaurants included at a mid-tier price point is more than most Bavaro Beach competitors offer.
The family room two-bathroom configuration is a thoughtful design that makes the tight square footage more practical.
The animation team is the property's standout feature — Kids and Teen Clubs receive more consistent praise here than at comparable properties.
Cons
Club Concierge timeshare-style presentations are persistent — some guests report multiple approaches over a single stay.
Drinks at the Areito Discotheque are charged after midnight — not covered by the all-inclusive plan, which guests sometimes discover unexpectedly.
Summary
Sandals Royal Barbados has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more restaurants, while Tropical Deluxe Princess - All Inclusive is the larger property, while Sandals Royal Barbados has more dining venues, while Sandals Royal Barbados offers more activities.