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
Zoëtry Mallorca Balearic Islands
Pros
Michelin-starred Restaurant Andreu Genestra with zero-mile cuisine from the estate's own garden and vineyards is a world-class dining experience that no other all-inclusive in Europe can match.
The 14th-century estate setting with original manor house, 15th-century windmill, and neo-Gothic chapel provides architectural character that is impossible to replicate at a newly built property.
Endless Privileges covers unlimited à la carte at the Michelin-starred restaurant, premium spirits (Lagavulin 16, Don Julio), and daily minibar restocking — genuinely comprehensive for the European market.
Pure Spa hydrotherapy circuit is complimentary for all guests, not a paid add-on.
Cons
Andreu Genestra is only open Wednesday through Sunday evenings — Monday and Tuesday dinner options are limited to Es Mercat and the gastro bar.
Summary
Zoëtry Mallorca Balearic Islands 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 Sandals Royal Barbados offers more activities.
