How to choose the Best Sandals Resort for your Getaway?
With 17 resorts located in the beautiful countries of Antigua, Jamaica, Grenada, St. Lucia, Barbados , the Bahamas and now Curacao, how do you pick the BEST Sandals Resort for your honeymoon, anniversary celebration, destination wedding or vacation? At Rivage Travel, we've been specializing in Sandals for more than 15 years and have been recognized by Sandals as one of their top 10 agents in the United States as a Sandals Chairman's Royal Club Diamond Elite travel expert. Today we're going to share our professional experience focused on our top 12 categories for how to pick the best Sandals resort.
We hope that this information helps you make the best decision for your time away. If you have any additional questions, our professional travel planning services are complimentary and we look forward to help you plan an amazing getaway!
Let's connect!
- Jonathan & Angela
Table of Contents: Top 12 categories for how to pick the BEST Sandals Resort
1) Best Sandals Resort for Privacy & Seclusion
2) Best Sandals Resort for a Honeymoon
3) Best Sandals Resort for Plant Based Diets
4) Best Sandals Resort for a Quick Getaway
5) Best Sandals Resort for Long Walks on the Beach
6) Best Sandals Resort for a Destination Wedding
7) Best Sandals Resorts for Island Hopping
8) Best Sandals Resort for a Young Couple
9) Best Sandals Resort for Island Adventure
10) Which Sandals Resort is the least expensive?
11) Which Sandals Resort is Closest to the United States?
12) Which Sandals Resorts have the Best Reviews?
Best Sandals Resort for Privacy & Seclusion
When you're planning the perfect getaway that gives you a sense of total relaxation and exclusivity what is the best Sandals Resort for privacy and seclusion? Here are our top 3 recommendations with detailed reviews for Sandals Resorts located in the Bahamas, St. Lucia and Grenada.
Sandals Emerald Bay // Exuma, Bahamas
Sandals Halcyon // Castries, St. Lucia
Sandals Grenada // Pink Gin Beach, Grenada
#1 - Sandals Emerald Bay
Sandals Emerald Bay is a sophisticated resort located in Exuma which is in the out islands of the Bahamas; only 30 minutes away from Miami and home to only 20,000 residents. It's our pick for the #5 Best Sandals Resort in the Caribbean and for those visiting, you’ll find yourself getting lost in the moment from the second you first lay your eyes on one of the most incredible beaches not only in the Caribbean but in the world. In fact, Astronaut Scott Kelly called Exuma “The Most Beautiful Place from Space”. This resort is a fun yet, low key and relaxed property that features all Club & Butler level accommodations. Here you'll find a Greg Norman designed golf course with amazing views on the back nine. Along with our favorite tour which is an island with the swimming pigs, these gentle giants will welcome you at the boat and are so much fun to feed and swim with.
Why is Sandals Emerald Bay our #1 pick for the Best Sandals Resort for Privacy and Seclusion?
Sandals Emerald Bay features only Club Level & Butler room categories.
The rooms are large and well appointed with many beachfront accommodations.
The restaurants are great and there’s something for everyone here. One thing to note… Reservations are required at the II Cielo (Italian), and La Parisienne (French) restaurants. Make it a point to visit these restaurants as their some of the best in the Sandals portfolio.
The mile long beach is stunning, private and relaxing. There can be some waves but it’s very swimmable.
There are numerous beach palapas and lounges and it never feels crowded.
Water sports are available to all of the guests and includes kayaking, Hobie cats, windsurfing, snorkeling tours and scuba diving.
The pools are beautiful and the main pool features a swim up bar with chairs.
The spa is a must do and if you’re looking for something different, have your massage outside on the beach or in a private hut.
The resort is expansive, as such there are many areas to explore and find time alone.
The piano bar and the Drunken Duck Pub are where the nightly activities take place.
The resort and grounds are impeccable. There’s a view from every angle of the resort.
Tips for visiting Sandals Emerald Bay:
The main pool is not heated so in the winter months the water can be chilly.
It can be hard to get reservations at the French and Italian Restaurants so it is recommended to take book those upon arrival.
This is not a party resort. While it is fun and lively this is a great place to visit if you’re seeking more of a relaxed getaway.
The resort is secluded on a small Bahamian island so there are very limited activities available off resort.
There are eleven restaurants including two of our newest favorites the Jerk Shack, Soy and Bombay Indian cuisine.
If you go between January and April, the water will likely be chilly and not as swimmable as the summer months.
Sandals Emerald Bay Golf and Spa Resort is a beautiful resort on one of the most spectacular islands in the world. You'll love it here!
If you are looking to relax and be looked after while enjoying a remote island on an amazing beach Sandals Emerald Bay is the resort for you. Contact us today for more information and let us put our expertise to work by planning your personalized vacation to paradise!
#2 - Sandals Halcyon
Sandals Halcyon is a quaint tropical oasis located on a pristine beach in St. Lucia. Of the three Sandals Resorts on the island, Sandals Halcyon offers a more personalized and quiet stay. Nestled among St. Lucia's verdant landscape, there is no building higher than the tallest palm tree and each cottage-styled room features a serene patio overlooking the beautiful grounds. Because Sandals Halcyon is part of the Sandals exchange program, you can use the complimentary shuttle service to Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa and to Sandals LaToc which expands your dining options to 27 restaurants 10 pools and 21 bars.
Why is Sandals Halcyon Beach our #2 pick for the Best Sandals Resort for Privacy and Seclusion?
Sandals Halcyon is situated on an unspoiled beach set on a perfect stretch of paradise and is quiet and peaceful.
The staff take real pride in their work and will do everything possible to make sure you have an amazing vacation experience.
There are 2 pools at Sandals Halcyon; both with swim up bars. The larger pool has music and hosts many of their daily aquatic activities. The second pool is the quiet pool.
The beach is very clean and well maintained.
The rooms are well appointed and for 2023, there are brand new beachfront butler suites.
There are many loungers available on the beach and at the pools.
Fire pits are located throughout the resort. We love having a night-cap here and striking up conversation with new friends.
Scuba diving is available and St. Lucia has some of the best diving in the Caribbean.
If you're into golf, the Cap Estate Golf & Country Club and La Toc Golf Course are perfect for all levels of play.
Stay at 1 play at 3 is a big bonus and Sandals Halcyon offers free shuttle service between resorts.
Sandals Halcyon is the least expensive of the three resorts in St. Lucia. expensive than Sandals Regency LaToc and Sandals Grande St. Lucia so if you’re here you can save some money while still enjoying all that Sandals has to offer.
While Sandals Halcyon is the smallest of the three resorts we love the intimate, laid back, relaxed feel of this property.
Tips for visiting Sandals Halcyon:
Sandals Halcyon typically attracts a more mature crowd and is a resort focused on relaxation, privacy and seclusion.
The resort is located off the main road which means is you are in the 700 – 800 block of rooms it’s possible you’ll hear some street noise.
First floor rooms are close to walking paths so there can be a lot of people walking by. For more privacy, we recommend an upper level.
While there are beach vendors selling items and tours on the beach. They are respectful and a polite, “no, thank you” is enough to send them on their way.
How long does it take to get to Sandals Halcyon? It takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to get from the airport over curvy, windy roads to the resort.
There are differences between ocean view and ocean front so we’ll work with you to ensure
Sandals Halcyon is an intimate, quiet and serene resort designed for those who want a quiet relaxing vacation with luxurious amenities. Contact us today for more information and let us put our expertise to work by planning your personalized vacation to paradise!
#3 - Sandals LaSource Grenada
This secluded property nestled along Pink Gin Beach is a luxurious all-inclusive resort catering to couples. It’s located .5 miles from Maurice Bishop International Airport and 11 miles from Annandale Waterfalls so you're on site within 5 min of leaving the airport. Sandals LaSource Grenada features well appointed modern styled rooms with tropical décor, in-room minibars, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs; most feature balconies or patios with soaking tubs. All Club Level and Butler suites are spacious and provide access to dedicated lounging areas; some even have second levels with infinity pools showcasing sweeping ocean views. At Sandals LaSource Grenada there are 10 restaurants and 6 bars with multiple pools, hot tubs, a gym and a Red Lane Spa. Other amenities include yoga, tennis and some of the best scuba diving in the Caribbean.
Why is Sandals LaSource Grenada our #3 pick for the Best Sandals Resort for Privacy and Seclusion?
Sandals Grenada is a small intimate and modern resort with many areas to find time alone.
The staff is caring and are always looking after your best interests and desires.
The rooms are updated, spacious, clean and comfortable.
Butler Service… At Sandals Grenada the butlers and butler rooms are well worth the investment as the rooms are among the best in the Sandals portfolio and your butler team will anticipate your needs, make dinner reservations, find you the best location at the pool or beach and surprise you with special gifts throughout your stay.
The food is world class with something for everyone including a Sandals first steakhouse “Butch’s Chophose”.
Sandals LaSource Grenada features two main pools and several other beautiful pools throughout the resort. The large main pool is where most of the activity takes place and features a unique sunken fire pit which is a great place to end the night. We love the Play Makers and they’ll help keep you involved and entertained.
The beach is beautiful and private but not that expansive so it’s easily walkable.
The towel game is not as prevalent here as there are many spots to relax both around the pool and beach.
The diving in Grenada is excellent and some of the best in the Caribbean. The dive team is fun, professional, safety conscious and efficient. Unlike some of the other resorts though, at Sandals LaSource Grenada, you have to take a short shuttle to the boat or enter the boat through a shallow beach entry.
Photographers are on property to capture those memorable moments of your vacation.
Nightly entertainment is ever present and there is a different party theme each night.
The resort is beautiful and everything is within easy walking distance.
The water is clear and with the breaker, its very easy to swim in.
There are no beach vendors so there are no motorized sports unless you’re going on an excursion.
Additional Considerations for Sandals LaSource Grenada
There can be a lot of mosquitos on the beach at dusk so bring bug spray!
If you’re located in the beachfront Pink Gin building, be aware that there are some steep hills to climb.
The Dress Code at Butch’s is strictly enforced. No open toed shoes allowed for either men or women.
The private pools are not heated.
As with most Sandals Resorts, the Butlers reserve sunbeds early in the morning for their guests.
In some of the rooms there is no privacy in the vanity and shower area because there is no bathroom door.
If you’re looking for an upbeat island vibe with lots of activities while having many remote locations to relax with great food, this may be the place for you. Contact us today for more information or click the button below for the most up to date promotions and offers!
Best Sandals Resort for a Honeymoon
What is the best Sandals resort for your honeymoon? This is one of the most popular questions we get from our clients and it's a very personal one as each resort offers you something unique. Now that there are 16 Sandals resorts in the Caribbean to choose from with another debuting in 2023, let's take a look into our top 3 with a detailed review for the best Sandals resort for a honeymoon. Our focus will be on the best Sandals resorts that connect you with nature, romance and luxury amenities all designed to give you a memorable honeymoon experience.
Sandals Grande St. Lucia // Gros Islet, St. Lucia
Sandals Royal Barbados // Oistins, Barbados
Sandals LaToc, St. Lucia // St. Lucia
** Looking for our Top 5 Ranking for the Best Sandals Resort for a Honeymoon? Check out our Sandals reviews here.
#1 - Sandals Grande St. Lucia
St. Lucia is our all time favorite destination for a honeymoon celebration and the Grande is our #1 pick for the best Sandals resort overall. This island is as unique as it is magical and it will captivate your mind, body and soul. Surrounded by lush mountains and fern-frilled jungles St. Lucia brings about a sense of complete relaxation and the location of this resort feels secluded and exclusive. At Sandals Grande St. Lucia they have created a resort that will give you the ultimate honeymoon vacation experience. With panoramic views nestled in a protected bay surrounded by sailboats and super yachts that are docked in it's calm waters, it’s also on one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. At Sandals Grande St. Lucia you'll find up to 27 restaurants between Sandals LaToc and Sandals Halcyon along with some of the BEST scuba diving you’ll do anywhere in the Caribbean. And with the free inter-Sandals shuttle service, there are numerous beach options available.
Note… because of its position on the northern side of the island, getting to Sandals Grande St. Lucia can be a little challenging for some and the transfer time is approximately ninety minutes. If this a concern the helicopter transfer to the George F.L Charles Airport is highly recommended. Even if you’re comfortable with the drive, this transfer is one that you’ll remember for a lifetime!
Why is Sandals Grande St. Lucia our pick for the #1 Best Sandals Resort for a honeymoon?
As you exit your transfer and are greeted by the breathtaking views in the lobby, this resort is true paradise. It's hard to photograph or even write about but when you're there you feel it from the moment you arrive.
While the resort is beautiful, the amazing people who work at Sandals Grande St. Lucia make this a true destination to experience.
There are twelve restaurants to choose from including one of our favorites “Gordons on the Pier”.
For those with strict dietary needs, the chef will be more than happy to create a meal plan for vegan’s, vegetarians or anyone with allergies.
The rooms are not super modern as compared to the newer Sandals resorts but are well appointed and the Caribbean Beachfront suites have spectacular views of Rodney Bay.
The Red Lane Spa at Sandals Grande St. Lucia features a rare amenity - a eucalyptus steam room. All guests have access to it located behind the spa but it's rarely used so make sure to visit and enjoy this experience!
The main pool hosts a swim-up bar where all the activity takes place. This is the fun resort and the playmakers will keep you entertained but if you’re looking something more relaxed there are private retreats and quiet pools around the resort.
If you’re into snorkeling you can swim with beautiful fish and coral right around the main pier.
There is no shortage of lounge chairs around the pools and on the beach.
Non-motorized watersports are included. If you're into sailing, kayaking, snorkeling, paddle boards or scuba diving, it's all available. Jet ski's are also available from vendors on the beach but are not included at Sandals.
From beautiful and healthy coral reefs to seeing the pitons from the ocean, a dive trip with the amazing dive team will give you a true sense of appreciation for nature.
While Sandals Grande St. Lucia is the best Sandals resort overall and on the island of St. Lucia, we love getting off property and visiting the other resorts. As a guest of the Grande, you stay at 1 and play at 3. Best of all there is complimentary shuttle service both to and from Sandals Regency LaToc and Sandals Halcyon.
New to Sandals Grande St. Lucia are the overwater bungalows are perfect for a honeymoon celebration. If you’re looking for an amazing experience, these are for you! Contact us today for more information.
Additional considerations and tips about your honeymoon at Sandals Grande St. Lucia:
The resort transfer is approximately 90 minutes through twisty and sometimes narrow roads. It is a scenic drive and a great way to see the country but for those who are prone to car sickness, we'd recommend the helicopter transfer which reduces the transfer time down to about 15 min (plus a short drive to the Grande).
All of the beaches in St. Lucia are public and there are a few vendors selling tours but they are friendly and a polite "no thank you" is enough to let them know you’re not interested. If you are interested, there are some good ones including the Simon Says & Joe Knows tour.
Dinner reservations are required at a few of the restaurants. If you’re in Club Level, contact your concierge upon arrival to make your reservations. If you are in a butler room, your butler will do it for you. Those in the Luxury level room category, there is a food and dining agent in the main lobby who will assist with making your reservations.
Guests are able to walk to the village and to Pigeon Park. You can climb Pigeon Mountain for $7.00. The spectacular views are well worth it but wear Sneakers!
Sandals Grande St. Lucia is a great place to relax and enjoy time together. If you're looking for something truly unique for your honeymoon our travel blog "Planning the Perfect St. Lucia Getaway" highlights our trip between Sandals Grande & Stonefield Estates.
Contact us today for more information or click the button below for the most up to date promotions and offers!
#2) Sandals Royal Barbados
Sandals Royal Barbados is one of the newest Sandals resorts in the Sandals portfolio and our #2 pick for the best Sandals Resort for a honeymoon. Located in the St. Lawrence Gap - this is the dining and nightlife district for Barbados which adds to the offerings of this resort. Unlike it's neighboring Sandals Barbados resort, this was built from the ground up and features many firsts, including a bowling alley, an infinity edged roof top swimming pool, two new restaurant concepts and a gourmet donut shop. Sandals Royal Barbados is an all-suite Club & Butler level resort that features the popular Skypool suites, swim-up suites and Millionaire Suites. Included with your stay, you also have full access to the amenities and offerings of its neighbor, Sandals Barbados which brings the total number of restaurants up to 17, 5 pools and 12 bars. There is truly something here for everyone and know that your honeymoon trip at Sandals Royal Barbados will be a trip of a lifetime.
Why is Sandals Royal Barbados our pick for the #2 Best Sandals Resort for a honeymoon?
The people of Barbados are warm and friendly. They care about your experience and will do everything in their ability to make sure you have an amazing honeymoon getaway.
The infinity edge roof top bar and pool is modern and sophisticated.
The food and dining experiences are world-class and with both resorts you'll get to truly experience the Global Gourmet Dining that Sandals is known for.
For those opting for Butler Service, the highest room categories offer Rolls Royce Phantom or Rolls Royce Ghost transfers.
The exchange program at Sandals Royal Barbados gives you full access to its neighboring property Sandals Barbados.
Lovers Lane features a new bar concept with more than 15 beers from around the world.
Scuba diving in Barbados is some of the best in the Caribbean and it's all included!
While the water can be choppy, the watersports team is more than happy to give lessons for Hobie sailing or paddle boarding.
Additional considerations and tips for visiting Sandals Royal Barbados on your honeymoon:
The boat dock for snorkeling and diving excursions is a short 15 minute into the capital city of Bridgetown.
The beach is not expansive and at times the water can be rough. Also due to it's proximity, there may be seaweed on the beach on occasion but is always quickly cleaned up.
We love the design of this resort and it's modern room options.
The personalized butler service is recommended. The staff is well trained and nothing is ever too much trouble. Also, being that the beach is not that large, getting a good beach chair could be challenging without a butler.
Sandals Royal Barbados features stunning ocean views and exchange privileges with Sandals Barbados this resort gives a true luxury experience. If you want to experience the cutting edge of design along with luxurious amenities this may be the resort for your honeymoon celebration. Contact us today for more information and let us put our expertise to work by planning your personalized vacation to paradise!
#3) Sandals Regency LaToc
Sandals Regency LaToc is our #3 pick for the best Sandals Resort for a honeymoon due to it's stunning location on the amazing island of St. Lucia. This serene resort is located on over 200 acres of lush landscape and features a half-mile, crescent shaped beach with scenic bluffs that showcase some the best views in the western Caribbean. This resort offers elegant amenities including the famed Millionaire Suites with Butler service. These personalized services provide guests with an unforgettable honeymoon experience by creating a trip around your specific desires and interests. We love this resort for many reasons but mainly due to it's price point and the island it sits on. There is truly something for everyone and if golfing is your passion, there is a challenging nine-hole course on property that is part of your all-inclusive honeymoon package. Additionally, you'll have access to the Sandals St. Lucia Golf & Country Club at Cap Estate which is a Greg Norman designed 18 hole golf course. If you’re into scuba diving, you’ll experience some of the BEST diving in the Caribbean and while there is not a dock on site, the transfer to the marina is only a short 5 - 10 minute ride. Best of all, with your Sandals all-inclusive honeymoon vacation in St. Lucia you'll have full access to Sandals Grande St. Lucia and Sandals Halcyon Beach with complimentary transfers between resorts.
Why is Sandals Regency La Toc our pick for the #3 Best Sandals Resort for a honeymoon?
The staff are warm and friendly at Sandals LaToc and will treat you like family from the moment you arrive until the second you leave.
There are multiple dining options and the chefs will make sure any special dietary requirements are met.
The rooms are well appointed and have great price points throughout the Luxury, Club and Butler level room categories.
The pools are fun and the main pool has a swim up bar featuring a beautiful waterfall. You’ll find many activities taking place including, bingo, pool volleyball, trivia and more.
If you want something more secluded, there are two additional pools to visit.
The beach while not expansive is beautiful and well cared for.
There is a lot to do during the day and night as the Playmakers keep the fun going at all times. For a true local experience, visit the Friday Night Jump up in Gros Islet!
The bartenders enjoy their work and will serve up an endless array of creative cocktails.
The “Stay at 1, Play at 3”, exchange program is a big plus that allows you to enjoy all of the Sandals Resorts in St Lucia.
If you’re looking for a romantic dining experience during your honeymoon vacation the candlelight dinner on the beach is highly recommended.
Additional considerations and tips for visiting Sandals Regency La Toc on your honeymoon:
Similar to both Sandals Grande St. Lucia and Sandals Halcyon, the airport transfer takes approximately 75 - 90 minutes. For those prone to car sickness, the roads can be bumpy in places so we recommend either motion sickness prevention or if you’re adventurous the helicopter transfer is only 10 - 15 minutes and something you’ll remember for a lifetime!
The ocean is not as calm as it is at Sandals Grande St. Lucia and from time to time you may see red flags which makes non-motorized water sports unavailable.
There are a number of rooms built on the bluff so plan to do quite a bit of walking. Travel TIP...There are staff members in golf carts that will take you to where you'd like to go - with your cocktail in hand (of course!)
Resort shuttles run on a frequent schedule and the times are posted in the main lobby.
The Millionaire Suites with a private plunge pool are highly recommended. The view is absolutely breathtaking as are the butlers services provided.
Sandals Regency La Toc is a beautiful oceanfront resort with so much to offer for your honeymoon vacation and is one of the best Sandals resorts for a honeymoon! Contact us today for more information and let us help plan your personalized vacation to paradise!
Best Sandals Resort for Plant Based Diets
While all Sandals resorts cater to all types of dietary restrictions, Sandals Royal Barbados is the stand out when it comes to setting the bar for guests who prefer a plant based diet. Having been a vegan for over 20 years and after visiting all of the Sandals Resorts our most recent stay at Sandals Royal Barbados proved to have the most options. With two restaurants focused on a healthy lifestyle, you'll find creative menu items designed to give us the best of the best dining experience.
Between Sandals Barbados & Sandals Royal Barbados you'll find 21 world-class restaurants, each with vegetarian and vegan options. Today we're going to focus on two of our favorites Heart & Sol and The Greenhouse.
For our in depth review of these resorts, please see below. If you have any questions or are ready to book, let us know. We look forward to hearing from you!
Best Sandals Resorts for Plant Based Diets
#1 - Heart & Sol
This far from an ordinary restaurant creates fresh, clean, healthy foods focused on wellness. Sandals uses locally-sourced, farm-to-table fruits and vegetables to fresh, make light soups and salads, healthy sandwiches, energy-boosting smoothie and Acai bowls. Here you'll also find nutrient-packed fresh fruit and vegetable smoothies and juices. The Coco-Dragon & Celery Ginger our our favorites! Whether you have time to stop and relax a while or need to grab and go, Heart & Sol is the perfect complement to your wellness plan. Check out the menu items below and let's go!
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#2 - The Greenhouse
Open for breakfast and dinner, this is one of our all time favorites. With a focus on wellness you'll find clean and nutritious foods here. As part of Sandals commitment to wellness The Greenhouse is a rustic farm-to-table eatery offering colorful, elegant cuisine prepared with locally sourced, farm-to-table fruits and vegetables, meats and seafood. As with many Sandals properties, they've formed strong partnerships with local, small-scale Barbadian farmers and every dish at The Greenhouse is delivered with quality, delicious flavors and straight-from-the-garden freshness. Included at the Greenhouse you'll find multiple plant-based options designed to give you a world-class dining experience.
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For our full review of Sandals Barbados & Sandals Royal Barbados, please check out our blog here were we take a closer look at two of these magnificent resorts!
Best Sandals Resort for a Quick Getaway
We don't always have a week or more for a vacation so when time is of the essence but a vacation is top of mind, let's take a look at the best Sandals resort for a quick getaway. Many of our clients ask us which Sandals resort is closest to the United States. With 16 available to choose from the closest are, Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau, Sandals Exuma, Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Royal Caribbean in Jamaica followed by Sandals Grande Antigua.
Sandals Grenada has great proximity to the airport but has limited air service requiring a connection from the United States. For that reason, we're leaving this one off the list but have 5 great recommendations to consider for finding the best Sandals Resort for a quick getaway!
Please click the links below where you'll find the most comprehensive review of each resort anywhere on the internet. Have questions? Feel free to reach out. We're here to help plan an amazing getaway!
What is the Best Sandals Resorts for a Quick Getaway
Sandals Montego Bay // Montego Bay, Jamaica
Sandals Royal Bahamian // Nassau, Bahamas
Sandals Grande Antigua // Dickenson Bay, Antigua
Sandals Emerald Bay // Exuma, Bahamas
Sandals Royal Caribbean // Montego Bay, Jamaica
** All recommended resorts, are located less than 15 min away from the airport and have direct flight options from many airports throughout the United States.
Best Sandals Resort for Long Walks on the Beach
We all have different reasons for traveling and needing to get away. Some are looking for adventure and others are looking for relaxation. For those who are looking for all the above along with being able to soak in the Caribbean sunshine we're going to give you our top recommendations for visiting the best Sandals resort for long walks on the beach.
For many of our clients, this is a must do and after visiting all of the Sandals resorts, our favorites are Sandals Negril, Sandals Grande Antigua, Sandals South Coast and Sandals Emerald Bay. Located in the beautiful countries of Jamaica, Antigua and the Bahamas you'll find that these resorts are not only safe to walk but a number of them sit on private beaches!
Let's take a closer look at these resorts and help you pick the perfect travel destination. Please click the link below for more information about these spectacular resort and let us know if you have any questions!
What are the Best Sandals Resorts for Long Walks on the Beach?
Sandals South Coast // South Coast, Jamaica * Private Beach
Sandals Grande Antigua // Dickenson Bay, Antigua * 2.2 miles
Sandals Emerald Bay // Exuma, Bahamas * Private Beach
Sandals Negril // Negril, Jamaica * Famed 7 mile beach
Best Sandals Resort for a Destination Wedding
The popularity of doing a destination wedding has grown immensely over the recent years and having planned many of these, I can say with full confidence that Sandals is the best of the best. With 16 Sandals resorts to choose from there are options at many price points and while there are slightly less expensive resorts in Mexico or other locations, the care and support that is provided by the Sandals Wedding team is hands down above the rest. They genuinely care about your experience and having a competent dedicated wedding team member to help plan every part of your destination wedding is a welcomed addition, best of all if you stay for three nights or longer - your wedding is free!
Before we get into the Best Sandals Resorts for a Destination Wedding, let's take a closer look at what's included.
Before you Arrive:
Personal wedding planning team, Preparation of marriage documents, Wedding Gift Registry, Customizable Wedding Website
After you Arrive:
Receive 15% discount on Red Lane® Spa services for the bride and groom.
Wedding Ceremony:
Picturesque Ceremony Location.
Bouquet and Boutonniere. A bridal bouquet and a groom’s boutonniere fuchsia Dendrobium orchids.
White cushioned Chiavari chairs for all guests.
Pre-recorded musical accompaniment of your choice.
Complimentary 5”x7” wedding photo.
Wedding Reception:
Enjoy a two-tiered white fondant wedding cake with with fuchsia Dendrobium orchids.
Table setting with white linens, silverware and crystal, white china, sparkling crystal, crisp white linens and shining silverware.
White cushioned Chiavari chairs for all guests.
Decorative lantern centerpiece for head table.
Cocktail reception with sparkling wine and hors d’oeuvres.
Bride and Groom signature cocktail.
The Honeymoon:
Romantic turndown service with flower petals on the first evening of your honeymoon.
Breakfast in bed with mimosa on any morning of your choice.
Honeymoon dinner served by a personal waiter in a specialty restaurant.
And... All of this is complimentary with a three night stay - how awesome is that! But is gets better, for those looking at 7 nights or longer, you'll qualify for even more with Sandals Premium Perks where you'll earn up to an additional $1,500 to spend on pictures, license and administration fees, videography and items like scuba, snuba, cabana, or a candlelight dinner.
Now that we have a better understanding of what the Sandals Destination Wedding includes, let's talk about the best Sandals resort for a destination wedding. While this is subjective and can vary based on your interests, today we're going to focus the best sandals resort for a destination wedding based on price, adventure and resort size.
Starting with price, while every Sandals resort offers the perks of a complimentary wedding there are a couple standouts for entry points into the Sandals destination wedding offerings. Sandals Ochi is the cheapest Sandals resort in the portfolio. Here you'll find true Caribbean charm and while it could be seen by some as in need of updating, it's one of the remaining Sandals resorts with the original design philosophy. Sandals Ochi features an over the water chapel and is an expansive resort which can accommodate the largest of groups. We love the over water chapels too as each one features a stunning 360-degree, panoramic water view with a glass floor aisle. They do come with at an additional cost and have limited capacity so these are best for smaller groups.
Moving into adventure, our favorite is Sandals Grande St Lucia. Located in the heart of Rodney Bay, this resort sits on it's own peninsula and has the calmest waters in St. Lucia. With volcanic mountains rising out of the ocean and surrounding the resort, it's palatial styled lobby and sweeping views will take your breath away. If you're into golf you'll find yourself with plenty to do as it hosts it's own Greg Norman designed golf course and off the resort you'll want to take in the sites with a day trip to the Pitons for snorkeling and a mud bath at the volcano. For your wedding day, you'll be able to pick from a number of spectacular garden locations all the way up to their over the water chapel. If you're looking for an amazing resort with breathtaking views all the way to off resort adventure, Sandals Grande St. Lucia is the best Sandals resort for a destination wedding.
Lastly, let's look at the best Sandals resort for large groups. The ones with the most space are located in the islands of Jamaica, St. Lucia and the Bahamas. The following resorts are not only expansive in size but they have the capacity and locations for that perfect location to say "I do" all the way to the reception.
Please click the links below for detailed information about these amazing resorts and let us know if you have any questions!
What are the Best Sandals Resorts for a Destination Wedding
Sandals Grande St. Lucia // Gros Islet, St. Lucia * Best Sandals Resort overall and for adventure
Sandals South Coast // South Coast, Jamaica * Best Sandals Resort for a large wedding
Sandals Ochi // Ocho Rios, Jamaica * Best Sandals Resort for a large wedding and price
Sandals Emerald Bay // Exuma, Bahamas * Best Sandals Resort for a large wedding
Sandals Negril // Negril, Jamaica * Best Sandals Resort for an intimate wedding
Best Sandals Resorts for an Island Hop
For adventure seekers or those looking at making something truly unique out of your honeymoon, vacation or destination wedding, how awesome is it that not only are there multiple Sandals resorts in a single country but also Sandals resorts in nearby countries! Split stays are some of our favorite ways to experience different cultures and with the regional airlines like Liat, they make it an easy thing to do.
When our clients ask us for a recommendation, we recommend focusing on the Western Caribbean as they have the most flights options. Going from Antigua to St. Lucia is best for stays between 5 - 7 nights in each location and when flying between these two countries you'll want to fly into the regional airports if one is available. For St. Lucia, you'll want to fly into SLU as it's closest to Sandals Grande St. Lucia, Sandals LaToc and Sandals Halcyon. When going into Grenada, it's OK to go into the international airport is it's next door to Sandals Grenada. Same with Barbados, but here's a travel tip... in Barbados, make sure to get the Fast Track Immigration service. This is a busy airport with many flights coming in from Europe and America so having this service will help you get on to your resort quickly. Good news is that in Barbados, the airport is just a quick 15 minute transfer to Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados which makes this an easy resort to island hop to.
Here is our comprehensive list and review of each resort.
Best Sandals Resorts for an Island Hop
Sandals Grande St. Lucia // Gros Islet, St. Lucia
Sandals LaToc // Castries, St. Lucia
Sandals Halcyon // Castries, St. Lucia
Sandals Grande Antigua // St. Johns, Antigua
Sandals Royal Barbados // St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados
Sandals Barbados // St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados
Sandals Grenada // Pink Gin Beach, Grenada
Now that we've talked about island hopping, let's touch on a split stay between two of our favorite resorts Sandals Grande St. Lucia & Stonefield Estates. Some may ask why this should be a consideration, so great question! Let's answer it... When traveling into the island of St. Lucia you'll be arriving into UVF on the southwestern side of the island. There are two ways to get to Sandals Grande St. Lucia, Sandals Halcyon and Sandals LaToc. The first option is using the complimentary transfer which takes about 75/90 min through some windy and narrow roads. The second option is the helicopter transfer which comes at an additional cost and takes only about 15 min. Since most of the arrivals tend to land between noon and 3pm, your first day is a real travel day so in order to maximize your time we like to split the first part at Stonefield Estates which is a boutique resort with 14 villas, each with a private pool overlooking the Petite Piton. The resort is only 15 min from UVF, is well priced and with most of the activities in St. Lucia taking place on the western side of the island, you can recover from your travels and enjoy everything St. Lucia has to offer before making your way to the northern end of the island for the rest of your stay at Sandals.
Does this sound interesting? Here is our travel blog titled "Planning the Perfect St. Lucia Getaway" that highlights our most recent trip between Sandals Grande St. Lucia & Stonefield Estates. If this is your itinerary, please reach out to use for more information!
Best Sandals Resort for a Young Couple
Sandals masterfully caters to couples of all ages and one of the things we love the most about Sandals is that with 16 resorts to choose from, each property has it's own unique feel to it. As a young couple, you may be looking for the resort that's cost effective or one that has the most adventure with a lively social vibe or maybe it's a combination of all the above? At Rivage Travel, we've been specializing in Sandals for over 15 years and are Sandals Chairman's Royal Club Elite travel experts, which means not only have we been to all of the Sandals resorts but we know each of them personally. Our goal is to help you be informed so you can use our professional experience to plan the perfect getaway.
So what is the best Sandals Resort for a young couple? Listed below are our top 5 recommendations based on...
Best Sandals Resort and Island for Adventure - Sandals Grande St. Lucia
For those looking for adventure and an island experience like no other Caribbean destination, St. Lucia is our all time favorite destination and Sandals Grande St. Lucia is our #1 pick for the best Sandals resort overall. For those considering St. Lucia as an option, here you'll find stunning natural beauty and pristine beaches - some even featuring black sand. However, what sets this island apart from all the others is its adventurous spirit. This is the place to go for adventure and exploration and as we take closer look at this amazing destination, we'll look at our top 4 reasons for why St. Lucia is our favorite island in the Caribbean.
1. Hiking
If you're seeking a close connection to nature, St. Lucia is the perfect destination for you. With scenic hiking trails that take you through lush rainforests, waterfalls, and over dramatic cliffs the views and memories you'll make will last a lifetime. Our favorite hike is the Tet Paul Nature Trail which take you through the countryside and provides panoramic views of the island. The trail is an easy two-hour hike that's perfect for beginners too. If you're a more experienced hiker looking for a challenge, our clients enjoy hiking the infamous Gros Piton. This challenging hike's peak is 2,619 feet above sea level and ends with breathtaking views of the island once you make it to the top. This hike does require a guide and we're happy to help make all of the arrangements! For your stay at Sandals Grande St. Lucia, you can hike next door at Pigeon Island for a small entry fee of 5$ and best of all you never have to get into a car to get there, it's a just a quick walk next door to the resort.
2. Zip-lining
Zip-lining in St. Lucia is one of the most popular ways to experience the island's natural beauty. In St. Lucia, you'll glide through the heart of the island's rainforest, past waterfalls, over rivers, and along the coast. It's an incredible way to get a unique perspective of the island's beauty.
3. Water Sports
St. Lucia has something for everyone and has endless options for exploring it both above or below the surface. If you're into kayaking, paddle boarding or sailing hobie's, Sandals Grande St. Lucia sits on the best beach in St. Lucia as it has the calmest waters of any beach on the island. Wanting to snorkel or scuba dive? This is the place to be as it's all included and in St. Lucia you'll be able to dive and snorkel on some of the healthiest reefs in the world.
4. Sulfur Springs & Mud Baths Tour
St. Lucia is home to the world's only drive-in volcano which last erupted in the 1700's and originated from a weak spot in the crust of a collapsed volcanic crater. Its considered to be a dormant volcano and provides travelers with a unique opportunity to take guided tours and hike the crater's edge. After completing your hike, take a dip in a volcanic mud bath where it will detoxify your body and help heal sun burns, eczema, arthritis, sore joints, and more. Travel Tip: Don't wear a white bathing suit! :)
With St. Lucia being a clear stand out for the best island for adventure, what is the best Sandals resort in St. Lucia? Listed below is our top 3 ranking. Please click on the links below where you'll find the most comprehensive review of these resorts anywhere on the internet and if you have questions, we'd love to chat!
What is the Best Sandals Resort in St. Lucia?
Sandals Grande St. Lucia * Best Sandals resort overall
Which Sandals Resort is closest to the United States?
Sandals Royal Bahamian located in the Bahamas is the closest Sandals Resort to the United States. Located in Nassau, it's just a short flight from Miami, Florida, making it an easily accessible those traveling from the US.
Sandals Royal Bahamian just completed a multi million dollar renovation and is an all-inclusive, five-star resort that offers luxurious accommodations. Sandals Royal Bahamian offers everything from garden view rooms to suites with butler service. Here you'll find 10 different dining options, each with its unique flair from international cuisine, seaside dining, and Bahamian-inspired menus. Exclusive to this resort you'll find a private island that is exclusively available to guests staying at the resort. The island offers beautiful beaches, beachside dining, and water sports activities.
Sandals Royal Bahamian Review:
The restaurants are great and there is something for everyone. We love the breakfast buffet and dinner at the Italian restaurant is not one to miss.
The staff are friendly and will go out of their way to put a smile on your face.
The rooms in all of the buildings are spacious, comfortable and well appointed.
There are a lot of guests using the Butler service and for this resort we believe it’s worth the extra money.
There are two large pools. One pool is the active pool with a lot of music and lots of activities. The other pool on the Balmoral side is quieter and best for relaxation.
The ocean can be quite cool during the winter months so we recommend visiting after the month of April.
The beach is not expansive but it is beautiful and very swimmable with clear water and white sand.
We love the off shore island and the Red Lane Spa that’s attached to it. This island has an abundance of private areas to relax and is not over crowded. The beach is beautiful and you'll find hammocks in the water where you can unwind and maybe even have a turtle visit you.
Nightly entertainment is not lacking at Sandals Royal Bahamian and you’ll want to enjoy a nightcap at the Balmoral bar or Cricketers Pub.
The Red Lane Spa is worth a visit and we recommend having your experience on the private island.
The diving is pretty good here and for an extra expense you can opt in for an exclusive shark diving experience.
The fire pits at night are a nice way to spend an evening and make new friends.
The view from the gym on the top floor is amazing.
Room service is quick and the menu is worth exploring.
Additional considerations and tips for visiting Sandals Royal Bahamian:
When at or near capacity the resort can be busy and finding loungers with shade is at a premium.
Not all restaurants are open every day so make sure to book dinner reservations upon arrival.
If you want to snorkel on the private island, you’ll need to bring your own snorkeling gear.
If you are looking for a modernized resort, close to the United States with great food and service, where you can do as much as you want, or, as little, this resort will not disappoint. Contact us today for more information and let us put our expertise to work by planning your personalized vacation to paradise!
Which Sandals Resort is the least expensive?
Being mindful of the travel budget is a very important piece of any getaway and while the cost of staying at a Sandals Resort can vary depending on the location, time of year, and room category. Typically, the least expensive Sandals Resort is Sandals Ochi Beach Resort which is located in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. So let's take a closer look at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort to see if it's right for you.
Sandals Ochi is an expansive resort set on 100 acres of tropical gardens, with two distinct resort experiences: the Great House and the Riviera Seaside Village. The Great House is set on a hilltop, and offers guests stunning views of the Caribbean sea while the Riviera Seaside Village is located on the beach, offering guests a more traditional beach resort experience. The resort offers a wide range of accommodations, including garden view rooms, ocean view rooms, and suites with private plunge pools. Sandals Ochi is one of the remaining resorts with the original Caribbean charm and for us, what sets Sandals Ochi Beach Resort apart is the incredible dining options.
The resort features 16 restaurants, each offering a unique culinary experience and there is something to suit everyone. From Italian cuisine to Caribbean-inspired dishes, the quality of the food is world-class. For those looking for action, Sandals Ochi beach Resort offers a range of activities, including water sports, land sports, and evening entertainment. You'll enjoy exploring the resort, taking part in paddle boarding and snorkeling and if you're into beach sports, there no shortage of volleyball or beachside activities. When the sun drops over the the Caribbean horizon, the evening entertainment comes to like and there will always something fun to do, whether it is watching a live music performance, taking part in a beach party or going to the Sandals very own Speak easy called the Rabbit Hole. One thing to note, is that the travel time to Sandal Ochi Beach Resort is 75 to 90 min by car. If you're looking to do a shorter tip in Jamaica, we recommend maximizing your time away by visiting one of the Sandals resorts closer to an airport, such as Sandals Montego Bay or Sandals Royal Caribbean.
The Jamaican's are friendly people and at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort you'll find the staff are warm, attentive, and will go out of their way to ensure your stay is enjoyable! So who's ready to travel? Please click the link below for the most current promotions or chat with us. Our professional travel planning services are complimentary and we'd love to help plan you time away!
Which Sandals Resorts have the Best Reviews?
What is the BEST Reviewed Sandals Resort for your vacation, honeymoon or destination wedding? Today, we're going to help answer that question by providing you with our personal ranking based on over 15 years of Sandals experience along with customer data from Trip Advisor.
For those new to the Sandals brand, you'll find 16 resorts located in the beautiful countries of Antigua, Jamaica, Grenada, St. Lucia, Barbados , the Bahamas and now Curacao. Sandals has set the standard for a luxury all-inclusive experience and at Rivage Travel we are recognized as Sandals Chairman's Royal Club Elite travel experts and have the expertise to create the perfect travel experience for your vacation, honeymoon or destination wedding. If you have any questions or would like assistance with your travels, our professional travel planning services are complimentary. Contact us below using our chat feature - we look forward to speaking with you!
Listed below are the best reviewed Sandals resorts and if you're looking for even more information, we've written the most comprehensive overview found anywhere on the internet about each Sandals resort.
Here is our link with more information about the 16 Best Sandals Resorts.
Ranking | 16 BEST Sandals Resorts Reviewed | Score (1 - 10) |
1 | Sandals Grande St. Lucia Spa & Resort // Gros Islet, St. Lucia | 9.4 |
2 | Sandals Grande Antigua // St. Johns, Antigua | 9.1 |
3 | Sandals LaSource Grenada // Georgetown, Grenada | 8.9 |
4 | Sandals South Coast // Whitehouse, Jamaica | 8.7 |
5 | Sandals Emerald Bay // Exuma, Bahamas | 8.5 |
6 | Sandals Royal Barbados // Oistins, Barbados | 8.4 |
7 | Sandals Barbados // Oistins, Barbados | 8.4 |
8 | Sandals Royal Bahamian // Nassau, Bahamas | 8.1 |
9 | Sandals Montego Bay // Montego Bay, Jamaica | 7.9 |
10 | Sandals Regency La Toc // St. Lucia | 7.7 |
11 | Sandals Negril // Negril, Jamaica | 7.6 |
12 | Sandals Royal Curaçao // Nieuwpoort, Curaçao | 7.6 |
13 | Sandals Royal Caribbean // Montego Bay, Jamaica | 7.5 |
14 | Sandals Ochi // Ocho Rios, Jamaica | 7.3 |
15 | Sandals Halcyon // St. Lucia | 7.2 |
16 | Sandals Royal Plantation // Ocho Rios, Jamaica | 7.2 |