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Sandals Resorts in Barbados | Which One to Book in 2025?

Writer's picture: Jonathan & AngelaJonathan & Angela

Updated: 10 hours ago


Sandals Royal Barbados Pool

Having visited these resorts many times over the years, Barbados feels like home from the moment you step onto its shores. Located in the Lesser Antilles region of the West Indies, Barbados is known for being the first producer of rum, beautiful white-sand beaches, and even surfing. This country offers so much to do, or not to do!


When looking for the best Barbados vacation experience, our top recommendations are Sandals Barbados, and Sandals Royal Barbados, but which one is right for you?


At Rivage Travel, we've specialized in Sandals for more than 15 years, have visited all of their seventeen resorts, and were recognized in 2024 as Sandals' Top Travel agency and one of their top seven travel advisors in the United States. As a Sandals Chairman's Royal Club Diamond Elite travel expert, today we will share our insider knowledge about Barbados and help you create the perfect travel experience.


Here's a quick look at what we will cover!


  • Introduction to Sandals Barbados Resorts: We'll find out why Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados are our top recommendations.

  • Why Choose Sandals Resorts in Barbados? Go into detail about Sandals' all-inclusive model and why these two properties are so special.

  • Comparison of Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados: We'll get into the key differences between these amazing resorts.

  • Accommodations at Sandals Barbados: Take a closer look at these beautifully designed rooms and suites, including swim-up rooms and ocean-view butler level accommodations.

  • All Club and Butler Level Suites at Sandals Royal Barbados: From beachfront SkyPool Suites, Swim-Up Suites, and Millionaire Suites, which offer Rolls Royce airport transfers. This resort takes luxury to the next level.

  • Dining at Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados: World-class dining options, including beachfront and rooftop restaurants.

  • Activities at Sandals Barbados: Water sports to a gourmet hot dog stand, we'll look at the fun activities offered at Sandals Barbados.

  • Things to Do at Sandals Royal Barbados: Found only here, rooftop infinity pools and the Lovers Lane bowling alley with craft beers around the world are all featured at this property.

  • Nearby Attractions: Getting off the resort is a must-do. We'll get into local highlights like Hunte’s Gardens, Harrison’s Cave, and Carlisle Bay, and give you tips for booking excursions.

  • Honeymoons and Weddings: Looking for the perfect location for a destination wedding or Retie the Knot ceremony? We'll get into what these two resorts offer.

  • Relaxing at the Red Lane® Spa: With two spas between both resorts, we'll give recommendations and tips for getting the most out of your Red Lane Spa experience.

  • Sandals Resorts Barbados FAQs: Get answers to common questions about the resorts, amenities, and activities.

Jump to Section

 

Why Choose Sandals Adults Only All-Inclusive Resorts in Barbados?

Sandals Resorts redefines the all-inclusive experience with the Sandals 2.0 modernization philosophy, and its two locations in Barbados are no exception.


From luxurious accommodations to gourmet food and unlimited premium liquors such as The Glenlivet (10 Year), Jack Daniels Whisky, Tito's Vodka and from time to time Grey Goose, every detail is carefully thought through to make sure you have an immersive and memorable stay.


So what makes the Sandals Resort Barbados special?


Well, let's get back to our previous point with Sandals 2.0. Sandals Royal Barbados, which opened in 2017 as an all Club and Butler-Level resort, was the first approach to this new design philosophy. The initiative refers to an upgraded concept within the Sandals Resorts brand, emphasizing next-level luxury, innovative amenities, and enhanced guest experiences. With modernized accommodations, expanded dining options, and unique resort features that set newer Sandals properties apart from earlier ones.


Features of Sandals 2.0 at Sandals Barbados:


  • Skypool Suites – Private infinity pools with panoramic ocean views.

  • Rooftop Pools & Bars – Sandals Royal Barbados opened with the first-ever rooftop infinity pool.

  • 4-Lane Bowling Alleys (Lovers Lane) – Unique only to Sandals Royal Barbados, this is a great place to have fun and practice your bowling skills!

  • Craft Beer Bars – Bowling is fun, right? What's even more fun is trying more than 15 craft beers from around the world. Currently, Sandals Royal Barbados is the only property with this exclusive amenity.

  • New Restaurant Concepts – More diverse specialty restaurants, such as American Tavern, Chi Asian, and Sweet n’ Salty.

  • Accommodations – Upgraded Swim-up Suites, Millionaire Suites, and Skypool Suites.

  • Innovative Wellness Features – Including Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tubs and expanded spa and fitness centers.

  • Tech & Connectivity – Free Wi-Fi, Flatscreen TV's and smart room controls.


Sandals 2.0 resorts, such as Sandals Royal Barbados, Sandals Saint Vincent, and Sandals Grenada, have implemented these innovations, making them the most modern and best rated Sandals resorts in the portfolio.


All-Inclusive Excellence

Everything is included at both Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados.


Here you'll enjoy:


  • Unlimited fine dining at multiple restaurants including our favorite, the Jerk Shack and Greenhouse - a farm to table eatery open for breakfast and lunch.

  • Premium liquors and Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks® wines.

  • A variety of land and water activities, from snorkeling to beach volleyball.

  • PADI-certified scuba diving with professional staff and equipment.

  • Complimentary transfers to and from the airport.


With no hidden fees, taxes, or gratuities, you can leave your wallet behind and focus on making memories.


Southern Facing Location

Both resorts are ideally situated to provide a tranquil escape while keeping you close to the best of Barbados. Whether a short stroll to Dover Beach or a quick drive to attractions like Harrison’s Cave and Carlisle Bay, you’re never far from adventure.


Barbadian Culture

Staying at Sandals means more than just a luxury experience—it’s an opportunity to experience the spirit of its people, and with its central location in the St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados has so much to offer. From sipping on rum punch with Mount Gay Rum to learning about the island’s history at St. Nicholas Abbey, every day offers a chance to connect with the local culture.


Speaking to its location, one of our favorite things to do here, is walk off the resort and visit the local shops, bars, and restaurants. This area of Dover Beach is also known as the dining and nightlife district for Barbados where you'll find some of the best beaches and food, just steps away from your resort.



 

Sandals Barbados Beach

Comparing Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados

Deciding between Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados? Honestly, you can't go wrong with either choice, but each resort offers unique features that complement different vacation styles.


Here’s how they stack up:


Sandals Barbados: Boutique Styled Resort


  • Laid-back luxury: Best for those of you seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.

  • Tropical accommodations: Featuring 280 rooms in 14 room categories, you'll find all room categories from Luxury, Club Level, and Butler Elite Services with sweeping ocean views.

  • Water sports and activities: Take a lesson or take part in table tennis, kayaking, snorkeling, Hobie sailing, and stand-up paddle boarding.

  • Intimate dining options: Sandals Barbados has 14 speciality dining options from around the world, offering both beachfront and open-air settings.


Sandals Royal Barbados: Modern Luxury


  • All-suite Club and Butler level accommodations: This is another Sandals first at Sandals Royal Barbados. Here you'll find Club-Level Swim-Up Suites and Beachfront One-Bedroom Butler Suites featuring their highest levels of personalization with a private check-in for all guests.

  • Exclusive amenities: Features like a rooftop infinity pool, Lovers Lane bowling alley, and the island’s first craft beer bar set this resort apart from Sandals Barbados, however, regardless of which resort you stay at, you'll have full access to both resort amenities.

  • Expanded dining options: With 21 restaurants, including a rooftop dining experience, there is a real uniqueness here that separates it from other Sandals resorts

  • Jet-setter perks: Upper tiered Millionaire Butler suites include VIP Rolls-Royce airport transfers and fast-track immigration service.


Sandals Barbados Map and Location

Sandals Barbados Map

Sandals Royal Barbados Map and Location

Sandals Royal Barbados Resort Map

Which One Is Right for You?

If you’re looking for a more casual, beachy vibe, Sandals Barbados may be the right fit. For those seeking an elevated experience with immediate access to exclusive amenities such as a rooftop pool, Sandals Royal Barbados delivers on every front. No matter which resort you choose, though, you'll get great service, incredible food, and memories that last a lifetime.

Best of all, you can visit each resort at your leisure as they're separated only by a common walkway.



 

Sandals Barbados Swim up Suite

Beachfront & Garden Accommodations at Sandals Barbados

At Sandals Barbados, comfort and style come together to create an inviting retreat. The resort offers 14 different room categories, all designed to cater to your every need and budget, with luxury level rooms all the way to butler elite.


Collectively, each suite is thoughtfully designed to provide privacy, and convenience, which will make you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.


Room Types and Amenities



Regardless of which room you choose, each accommodation includes amenities such as king-size beds, modern bathrooms with rainfall showers, and fully stocked mini-bars. Whether lounging indoors or stepping outside into the Caribbean breezes, every detail has been thoughtfully made and placed to enhance your vacation experience.


Sandals Barbados Skypool Suite

Club and Butler Level Suites at Sandals Royal Barbados

Sandals Royal Barbados sets the standard for luxury with its exclusive all-suite accommodations. There are no luxury level rooms here as each suite is offered only in club or butler level. Thoughtfully designed, each suite has been meticulously crafted to provide the ultimate in comfort, featuring spacious layouts, high-end furnishings, and attention to detail.


Whether you prefer a Swim-Up Suite's convenience or a beachfront SkyPool Suite or Rondoval with private pool, sophistication, this resort offers something extraordinary for every guest.


Let's get into more detail...


Suite Options


  • Swim-Up Suites: These suites redefine luxury and are some of the most beautiful in the Sandals portfolio. Our top recommendation is the Royal Seaside Swim-up Club Level Ultra Suite w/ Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub. These rooms feature master bedrooms that extend into a living area and open onto a shared swim-up river pool. They're close to the beach and perfect for couples seeking an intimate and private getaway.


  • SkyPool Suites: These rooms define elegance. Our top recommendation is the Beachfront One Bedroom Skypool Butler Suite w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub. Starting at $1,180.00 per person, per night, these rooms feature Butler Elite service, with a private infinity plunge pool on an upper level, overlooking the beach.


  • Millionaire Suites: At the top of the list are the Millionaire Suites such as the Millionaire One Bedroom Butler Suite w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub. These suites start at $662.00 per person, per night and offer expansive layouts, private plunge pools, butler service and Rolls Royce private transfers.


All rooms at Sandals Royal Barbados come with premium stocked bars, 24-hour room service (for butler level guests), and personalized butler service available in select suites. One note worth mentioning is that many of the rooms at Sandals Barbados are in the South Seas Village, which are the furthest from the beach. While it's only a five minute walk through the gardens, we prefer the Royal side which offers accommodations closest to the beach.



 

Sandals Barbados dining

Dining Experiences: Sandals Barbados

Dining at Sandals Barbados is more than a meal, it's a journey through cuisines from around the world. With eleven restaurants offering everything from Caribbean classics to international favorites, every guest can discover their perfect dish.


Our favorites are Butch's Chophouse and Bombay Club Indian restaurant for those Dal Tadka and butter chicken!


Restaurants and Cuisine Highlights


  • Caribbean Flavors at Spice: Get into some authentic island cuisine at an open-air restaurant where fresh seafood and tropical fruits take center stage.

  • Italian Classics at Portofinos: Here, handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas come together for a romantic evening surrounded by beautiful gardens and a small pool.

  • Asian Fusion at Soy: Sushi anyone? This is a great place to have a meal or maybe even a pre-dinner snack before heading off for a dining experience at Schooners beachside grill.


At Sandals Barbados, fresh ingredients, creative preparation, and impeccable service, come together to make sure every meal is a highlight of your stay. You'll never go hungry and dining around this resort really is a journey.


Second dinner anyone?


 

Dining at Sandals Royal Barbados

Moving onto Sandals Royal Barbados! This side of the resort features an experience that gives you multiple options to experience global dining in different settings. Combined with Sandals Barbados, there are up to 21 fine-dining restaurants to choose from with every meal being an opportunity to try a new expertly crafted cuisine, complemented by impeccable service and a warm Caribbean ambiance.


Sandals Rooftop Dining at La Parisienne

One of Sandals Royal Barbados's best features is its rooftop infinity pool and restaurant. Here, you can dine at La Parisienne with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. It's a perfect setting for romantic dinners or a leisurely lunch with a view. For those of you with dietary restrictions, they have some great options here too. Angela is a vegan and they easily accommodated her needs.


Craft Beer Bar

For beer enthusiasts, the Lovers Lane Bowling Alley features Sandals’ first-ever craft beer bar, offering 19 unique beers from around the world. Whether you prefer a light lager or a hoppy IPA, it's all here.



 

Sandals Royal Barbados activities

Activities at Sandals Barbados

At Sandals Barbados, the days are filled with opportunities to unwind or get active. Whether diving into the blue waters of the Caribbean or staying active with on-land sports, there’s something for everyone.


Water Sports and Adventures


  • Snorkeling: Daily snorkeling trips are available to all guests and depart from the main lobby. Check with the dive shop upon arrival to confirm times.

  • Stand-Up Paddle boarding: Take a morning stroll across the waters and take in the beautiful scenery of Dover Beach. Note: It can be a bit windy during the winter months so instead of paddle boarding, try Hobie Sailing!

  • PADI-Certified Scuba Diving: Get into your wetsuit and check out the underwater world with free scuba trips for certified divers, complete with professional guides and equipment. If you're not already certified, or want to add new certifications, at an additional cost, you can complete your lessons here. Note: The shuttle to Bridgetown is about 10/15 min, where you'll catch the dive and snorkel boat.


Fun on Land


  • Beach Volleyball: Get competitive and have fun with fellow guests on the resort’s sandy courts. This activity takes place each afternoon around 2 pm and the Playmakers will be out looking for participants.

  • Tennis courts are available to all guests with on-site pros to help improve your game.

  • Bowling Alley: Play a fun game with your partner or challenge your new friends at the resort’s on-site bowling alley.

  • Daily Entertainment: From poolside entertainers to live music performances, the resort offers something fun daily to keep the energy alive.


Things to Do at Sandals Royal Barbados

Sandals Royal Barbados is a true luxury resort that takes activities and entertainment to the next level, offering you many opportunities to make the most of your time. With everything from relaxation to excitement, there’s something for every mood and moment.


Amenities


  • Rooftop Infinity Pool: Soak up the sun or relax in the zero-entry infinity pool with stunning ocean views and a nearby rooftop bar.

  • Lovers Lane Bowling Alley: Enjoy a night of friendly competition at the resort’s four-lane bowling alley, paired with a craft beer.

  • Red Lane® Spa: Treat yourself to a massage, facial, or body treatment. Our favorite is the 60 min couples massage combined with the 30 minute lavender scalp massage.


On The Water:


  • Scuba Diving: Take advantage of Sandals’ comprehensive scuba program, which includes expert guidance and access to beautiful dive sites, including ship wrecks.

  • Glass-bottom boat Tours allow you to explore the underwater world without getting wet, which is perfect for those who want a closer look at Barbados’ marine life.


Evening Entertainment

The fun continues with live music, dance performances, and themed parties when the sun goes down. Whether you’re singing along at the piano bar or enjoying a show under the stars, the resort knows how to have fun.



 

Bridgetown Barbados Sandals

Nearby Attractions: Exploring Barbados from Sandals Resorts

Staying at Sandals Barbados or Sandals Royal Barbados gives you easy access to some of the most iconic attractions on the island. While the resorts offer plenty to entertain you, exploring Barbados is highly recommended. Travel Tip: The St. Lawrence Gap is located just a 5 min walk off the resort and is the dining and nightlife district for Barbados.


Must-Visit Attractions


  • Hunte’s Gardens: A short drive from the resort, this botanical haven is worth the visit. Here, you can walk through flower gardens, towering palms, and charming pathways. It's perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

  • Harrison’s Cave: Take a guided tram tour through this limestone cave, complete with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams. It’s quite the subterranean adventure.

  • Carlisle Bay: Just minutes from the resorts, Carlisle Bay offers clear waters, white sand beaches, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Swim alongside turtles and explore shallow shipwrecks.


Excursions to Consider


  • Snorkeling and Catamaran Cruises: Book a catamaran tour through our preferred travel partner, Island Routes for a relaxing day at sea, complete with stops for snorkeling and swimming.

  • Jeep Safari: Get off-road to explore Barbados' rugged interior, including hidden beaches and panoramic views of the coastline.

  • St. Nicholas Abbey and Heritage Railway: Visit one of the island’s historic treasures and enjoy a scenic train ride through rolling hills and sugarcane fields.



 

Sandals Spa

Honeymoons and Weddings at Sandals Barbados Resorts

Barbados is an idyllic destination for romance, and Sandals Resorts makes it easy to turn your dream wedding or honeymoon into reality. Whether you envision a beachfront sunset ceremony or a private celebration under the stars, these resorts offer all the amenities and support to make your special moments unforgettable.


Wedding Packages

Sandals Barbados Resorts provides customizable wedding packages catering to intimate and large celebrations. Packages include:


  • A personal wedding planner to handle all the details.

  • Gorgeous venues, including beachfront setups and garden gazebos.

  • Caribbean-inspired décor enhancements to create the perfect atmosphere.

  • Complimentary options for couples staying three nights or longer.


Honeymoon Bliss

For honeymooners, Sandals offers:


  • Romantic dinners for two at gourmet restaurants.

  • Private candlelight beach dinners at an additional cost of $199.00.

  • Couples massages at the Red Lane® Spa.

  • Free honeymoon package including:

    1) Bubbly Welcome: A bottle of chilled sparkling wine elegantly arranged in your room

    2) Romantic Gesture: A special turndown service that includes flower petals on your bed on the first evening of your honeymoon.

    3) Wake Up to Wedded Bliss: Delight in a delivery of fresh flowers and a decadent breakfast in bed one morning of your choice.


Relaxing and Wellness: The Red Lane® Spa

When it’s time to unwind, the Red Lane® Spa at Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados offers the ultimate sanctuary. Drawing inspiration from the Caribbean’s beauty, the spa’s treatments are designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.


Spa Offerings


  • Massages: Choose from deep tissue, hot stone, or couples massages. Our favorite is the lavender scalp massage add-on! Price: $65.00 per person.

  • Facials: Replenish your skin with hydrating or anti-aging facials.

  • Body Treatments: Indulge in scrubs and wraps using locally sourced ingredients like tropical fruits and coconut oil.

  • Outdoor Treatments: Enjoy a massage or facial while listening to the gentle sounds of the Caribbean Sea.


Tips for Spa Lovers


  • Book your treatment early, as appointments fill up quickly.

  • Try a couples massage and lavender scalp massage add-on.



 

FAQs: Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados

Planning a trip to Sandals Barbados or Sandals Royal Barbados Caribbean resorts? Here are answers to some of the most common questions:


Where are the resorts located?

  • Both resorts are in the St. Lawrence Gap area, providing easy access to local attractions like Carlisle Bay and Harrison’s Cave.


What are the Special Offers for my Sandals Resort Barbados vacation?

  • As your professional travel advisor, these are our top travel tips for saving the most on your vacation experience.

  • Sign up for the Sandals Select Rewards program (SSG) and you'll immediately begin earning reward points that will save you money on future stays.

  • If you're traveling within 30 days of your anniversary date, contact us so we can help you get a free night when staying in a club or butler level accommodation. With this promotion, you stay for 7 nights and pay for 6.

  • Utilize the weekly 777 promotion for exclusive offers and exclusive benefits where you can save an additional 7% on the current pricing, for 7 resorts for 7 days.

  • Reach out to us via our live chat below and we'll take care of everything above at no cost to you! We'll make sure you get the best prices available for every part of your stay and take the stress away from planning your vacation while sharing all of our destination tips to maximize your time away. We'll book vacation extras, including your roundtrip flights and keep you updated on the latest news.


What’s included in the all-inclusive package?

  • Unlimited dining at 21 restaurants.

  • Premium beverages, including top-shelf liquors and Unlimited Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks wines.

  • Land and water sports include snorkeling, paddle boarding, and PADI-certified scuba diving.

  • Airport transfers, taxes, and gratuities. Note: Only butlers and Spa therapists can accept tips,


Are there dining options for special diets?

  • Yes, the resorts accommodate dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.


Which resort is better for a honeymoon?

  • Both resorts would be a great place to celebrate a honeymoon, but Sandals Royal Barbados offers more luxurious suites, like the SkyPool and Millionaire Suites, which is popular among our honeymoon clients.


How far are the resorts from the airport?

  • Both resorts are approximately a 15-minute drive from Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) and include complimentary roundtrip airport transfers.


Can I visit attractions outside the resort?

  • Absolutely! The resorts are close to popular sites like Dover Beach, Bottom Bay, and St. Nicholas Abbey. Excursions can be arranged directly through the resort for hassle-free experiences.



 

About the Authors


Jonathan & Angela

Jonathan and Angela


Based out of Atlanta, GA Rivage Travel is a boutique travel consultant group dedicated to providing personalized travel experiences. Owned by husband and wife duo Jonathan and Angela, our love for travel brought us together during a trip to Sydney, Australia. Our work is based on over 15 years of professional experience, hundreds of hours of travel industry certifications and training. We've been honored by Sandals Resorts as a top US travel agent with their highest honor of a Sandals Chairman's Club Diamond Elite travel expert and look forward to using our experience to earn your business today and in the future.

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