%20copy2_edited.png)
Sandals vs Beaches: Differences & Decision Guide for 2025
- Jonathan & Angela
- Apr 29
- 11 min read
Updated: May 15
So you’re planning the ultimate Caribbean vacation. One hitch: you have to choose between two awesome resorts! Not a bad problem to have, but also not an easy decision, as choosing Sandals Resorts or Beaches Resorts can feel overwhelming.
We’ve been to every one, and I’ll tell you that they’re ALL amazing.
The good news is that these resorts offer two distinct experiences. So, by the end of this guide, you will know which resort you, your significant other, and/or family should book for your Caribbean vacation.
But first, here’s the difference in one paragraph.
Sandals Resorts are all-inclusive retreats designed exclusively for adults and couples looking for romance, relaxation, and reconnection. Beaches Resorts, on the other hand, offer the same elevated luxury, but are built with families in mind, complete with kids’ clubs, water parks, and family-friendly accommodations.
So, why should you listen to us? And what do we know about Sandals and Beaches?
To start, my name is Jonathan, and alongside my wife Angela, we’re proud to be Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club Diamond Elite advisors, a title awarded to only a handful of the top Sandals and Beaches specialists worldwide. With over 15 years of hands-on experience, we know these resorts better than just about anyone, and today we’re excited to walk you through everything you need to know about Beaches vs Sandals, without the salesy fluff you’ll find elsewhere.
Here’s what you’re going to learn in this article:
The real differences between Sandals and Beaches (beyond just adults vs families)
Who each resort is best suited for based on the kind of trip you’re dreaming about
Behind-the-scenes insider advice you won't find on a booking site
How to confidently choose the perfect resort for your next vacation or special occasion
Let's go!
Table of Contents: Jump to Section
Beaches vs Sandals: What’s the Real Difference?
Let’s start with the basics:
Quick Overview: Are Beaches and Sandals the Same Company?
Yes, they are! Both Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts are proudly owned by the same parent company, Sandals Resorts International. That means you can expect a consistent level of service, incredible dining experiences, friendly staff, and the same all-inclusive luxury no matter which brand you choose.
From the quality of the beaches to the gourmet restaurants to the warm Caribbean hospitality, there’s a strong family resemblance between the two , but the experience itself feels entirely different depending on which side you pick.
Sandals Resorts: Designed Exclusively for Couples
At Sandals, it’s all about romance. These resorts are strictly for couples, no singles, and no kids. It’s designed intentionally for people who want to reconnect, celebrate, or simply enjoy each other without distractions.
If you’re planning a honeymoon, an anniversary trip, or even just a grown-up getaway, Sandals offers an adults-only atmosphere that no other luxury all-inclusive can match.
Picture yourself:
Relaxing in an overwater bungalow with see-through glass floors and a butler bringing you Champagne and an afternoon snack on a floating heart shaped trey.
Slipping into a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two on your private balcony as the sun sets.
Dining under the stars at a private candlelit table just steps from the beach.
Saying "I do" in one of their iconic overwater wedding chapels.
The environment at Sandals is intentionally romantic, with no water slides or screaming kids to interrupt your sunset cocktail hour. It’s peaceful, it’s luxurious, and it’s tailored just for two.
Beaches Resorts: The Family-Friendly Caribbean Dream
While Sandals is for couples, Beaches Resorts are where families come to make lifelong memories together. They take everything amazing about the Sandals experience—the food, the beaches, the service —and layer in kid-friendly magic.
At Beaches, you’ll find:
Award-winning kids’ camps with certified nannies and counselors
Sesame Street characters roaming the resort for photos and fun
Massive water parks, complete with lazy rivers, surf simulators, and slides
Multi-bedroom suites and villas that can sleep up to 12 guests, ideal for family reunions or multi-generational trips
Honestly, when I walk through Beaches Turks & Caicos, it feels like Disney World got dropped onto one of the most beautiful beaches in the world , but with five-star dining and no need to rent a car.
If you're looking for a place where everyone, from toddlers to teenagers to grandparents, can have the time of their lives, Beaches is hands-down the way to go.
Sandals or Beaches: Which One is Nicer?
Now, let’s tackle one of the biggest questions we get: Which brand is nicer, Sandals or Beaches?
Let's break it down across the key areas that matter most.
Room and Suite Options
At Sandals Resorts, the accommodations are designed with romance in mind. Every room, from the entry-level suites to the top-tier Overwater Villas and bungalows, is created to maximize luxury, intimacy, and those “just the two of us” moments. Think:
Personalised butler service that anticipates your every need
Private patios with soaking tubs
Swim-up suites with lagoon pools steps from your bed
Oceanview penthouses perfect for sipping wine at sunset
The design at Sandals truly prioritizes couples, and it shows in the small details.
At Beaches Resorts, the focus shifts to families and larger groups. Here, you’ll find:
Family suites with bunk beds for the kids and private spaces for parents
Multibedroom villas that can accommodate up to 12 guests, perfect for big family vacations or multigenerational reunions
Private butler villas that deliver top-tier luxury, even with the whole family along for the ride
If you're a couple traveling as a couple, you’ll love Sandals’ intimacy. If you're bringing the whole crew, Beaches' space and flexibility are unbeatable.
Dining and Drinks
Food is a big part of the all-inclusive experience, and having eaten (many, many times) across every property, I can confidently tell you:
The culinary experience is world-class at both Sandals and Beaches, but the vibe is different.
At Sandals:
Dining is romantic and upscale, perfect for lingering over a glass of wine or sharing a decadent dessert
You’ll find options like Butch’s Chophouse for steaks, Soy for sushi, La Parisienne for French fine dining
Private candlelit dinners on the beach are a signature experience
At Beaches:
Dining is designed around families, larger tables, casual vibes, and lots of kid-friendly options
Restaurants like The Jerk Shack, Bobby Dee’s diner, and expansive buffets make it easy for even the pickiest eaters to find something they love
There are upscale restaurants and even adult-only specialty dining options, but overall, the energy is a little more lively and family-focused
Sandals feels like a date night every night, and Beaches feels like a celebratory family feast.
Pools, Beaches, and Waterparks
Here's where the contrast gets even more fun.
At Beaches:
You’re stepping into a kid’s paradise, think massive waterparks, lazy rivers, splash pads, and even surf simulators.
Beaches Turks & Caicos, in particular, has one of the largest resort waterparks in the entire Caribbean.
At Sandals:
The pools are peaceful, romantic, and adult-oriented
Expect swim-up bars, secluded hot tubs, oceanfront infinity pools, and some of the most breathtaking beaches you’ve ever seen
Without the distraction of kids or large families, the atmosphere is all about fun, relaxation, reconnection, and adult R&R.
Having experienced both sides dozens of times, I can tell you: Sandals' pools and beaches invite you to exhale, while Beaches' pools and parks invite you to dive in and play.
Sandals is Best for…
If you’re dreaming of a romantic, adults-only escape, Sandals is hands down where you want to be. It’s truly built for couples who want to unplug from the world and reconnect with each other.
Sandals is perfect if you’re:
Planning a honeymoon, anniversary, babymoon, or just a much-needed romantic getaway
Looking for luxury, without the energy of kids and families around
Excited to relax by the pool with a cocktail in hand, explore the ocean scuba diving, or tee off on a world-class golf course, all included
Dreaming of that “wow” factor, like private candlelit beach dinners, overwater villas, or soaking tubs under the stars
Angela and I always say: If romance and pampering are your top priorities, Sandals is where you’ll find your slice of paradise.
Beaches is Best for…
On the other hand, if you’re traveling with kids, teens, or a big family group, you’ll be much happier at Beaches.
Beaches shines if you’re:
Bringing the whole family, whether it's your kids, grandkids, siblings, or even a multigenerational celebration
Planning a destination wedding where children are attending
Wanting a vacation that mixes luxury with activities for all ages, from Sesame Street parades to teen lounges to gourmet dining, adults will love
Needing larger accommodations like multi-bedroom suites or private villas
Beaches is built for memories across generations, the kind of trip your kids will be talking about 10 years later.
As a dad of 3, when the kids are happy, everyone is happy.
Can You Bounce From Beaches to Sandals If They're Close?
This is one of those “it depends” questions we get all the time, especially from families or couples staying at Beaches Negril who are curious about checking out the more romantic vibe at Sandals Negril.
Here’s the honest truth from someone who’s been there, done that:
Beaches Negril and Sandals Negril
Yes, you can most definitely visit Sandals Negril if you’re staying at Beaches Negril.
Here’s what you need to know:
You’ll need to arrange your own transportation. There’s no standard shuttle service running between Beaches and Sandals, even though they’re located relatively close to each other.
Most guests either hire a local taxi (expect to pay around $20 round-trip) or, if traveling with young kids, book in-room babysitting services at Beaches (around $25 per hour with a two-hour minimum) or check them into the kids' club, which is open until 9 pm, daily.
During the day, take a leisurely walk, which is just a quick 25- to 30-minute walk between resorts.
While the resorts are close, walking between them after dark is not recommended, as there are shallow beach areas along the way. The surrounding areas aren’t as well-lit or patrolled as the resort grounds, either. For peace of mind, we always advise our clients to use a taxi for any off-resort trips, especially in the evening.
From a planning perspective, if you want to experience both Beaches and Sandals during the same trip, we encourage you to visit Sandals and Beaches, but you’ll need a little extra coordination to make it smooth and safe.
Sandals Ochi vs Beaches Ocho Rios
Both Sandals Ochi and Beaches Ocho Rios are located near the town of Ocho Rios, Jamaica , but they deliver very different experiences.
At Sandals Ochi
It’s adult-focused, active, and luxurious.
Expect a lively social scene, with over 100 pools, a private beach club, and nightlife that includes an underground speakeasy (one of my favorite hidden gems).
It's perfect for couples who want romance by day and a little fun after dark.
Meanwhile, at Beaches Ocho Rios:
It’s family-first all the way.
You’ll find a huge water park (arguably one of the best setups for kids and teens), Sesame Street characters, and a ton of activities designed specifically for families.
It’s ideal for parents who want to kick back while their kids are happily entertained morning to night.
Even though they share the same beautiful part of Jamaica, the energy and atmosphere between Sandals Ochi and Beaches Ocho Rios couldn’t be more different. Choosing the right one comes down to who you’re traveling with and what kind of vibe you want.
Transportation Between Properties
Here’s something that catches a lot of travelers off guard:
Even if Sandals and Beaches are geographically close, there’s no automatic shuttle running between them. You’ll usually need to arrange your own taxi or private transfer if you want to visit the other resort.
Distance: In Ocho Rios, for example, it’s about a 20-minute drive between Sandals Ochi and Beaches Ocho Rios.
Cost: Plan for around $20–$30 one-way for a taxi, depending on the time of day and how many people you’re moving.
Planning Tip: If you’re coordinating a visit between resorts (especially for weddings or family meetups), book your transfers in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
At the end of the day, while it’s definitely possible to visit both during your trip, just know you’ll need to plan ahead a little bit , it’s not a casual walk down the beach.
Why Are Beaches Resorts More Expensive Than Sandals?
Here’s why Beaches pricing often runs higher
More people per trip: At Sandals, you’re typically booking for two adults. At Beaches, it’s often a family of 4–8, so more people means more meals, more activities, more accommodations.
Family-focused amenities cost more: Beaches isn’t just a hotel with a kids’ menu. They invest heavily in certified kids camps, Sesame Street programming, water parks, and teen activities, all of which require more staff, training, facilities, and resources.
Limited supply, high demand: There are only three Beaches Resorts compared to 18 Sandals Resorts. That scarcity, especially during school holidays, pushes demand (and prices) way up.
Bottom line? If you’re traveling as a couple, Sandals can be an amazing value.
If you’re traveling as a family, Beaches is absolutely worth every penny , but it's smart to book early and work with a specialist (like us!) who can help you find the best promotions.
Can You Plan a Wedding at Beaches?
Absolutely, and let me tell you, Beaches Resorts create some of the most beautiful, family-inclusive weddings anywhere in the Caribbean.
If you're planning a wedding where kids, teens, or multiple generations will be attending, Beaches is hands-down the right choice.
They take all the beauty and luxury you expect from a Sandals wedding - think white-sand beaches, oceanfront gazebos, stunning florals- and add the flexibility to include your entire family in the celebration.
Highlights of a Beaches wedding:
Kid-friendly ceremony options
Private family receptions with gourmet dining
Sesame Street character appearances for younger guests (if you want a playful touch!)
On the other hand, if you’re dreaming of a completely adults-only, romantic destination wedding, Sandals Resorts is your better fit.
At Sandals, it’s all about the two of you, surrounded by stunning backdrops like overwater chapels, cliffside terraces, and private beachfront locations, with no little ones running around.
If your guest list includes children under 18, Beaches is the place to be.
If it's just adults celebrating, Sandals offers a more intimate, elevated wedding experience.
How to Pick the Perfect Resort for Your Vacation
Choosing the best Sandals resort isn’t just about picking a pretty beach; it’s about matching the resort’s energy with your personal travel style.
Here’s how we walk our clients through the decision:
Start With Your Group Type
Couples? ➔ Sandals (You’ll love the peace, romance, and all-adults atmosphere.)
Families, groups, or multi-generational travelers? ➔ Beaches (Room for everyone, activities for every age.)
Decide on Vacation Goals
Looking for pure romance? ➔ Choose Sandals. Imagine soaking tubs, sunset dinners, and no schedule but your own.
Planning family fun with kids’ activities built in? ➔ Choose Beaches. From water parks to nightly entertainment, every generation stays entertained.
Hosting a Destination Wedding? ➔If kids are coming, go with Beaches. If it’s adults-only, Sandals will give you that private, romantic edge.
Work With a Travel Expert
This is where working with an experienced Sandals & Beaches specialist, like Angela and I makes all the difference.
We've been to every single resort, we know the subtle differences you can’t see online, and we’ll match you to the perfect fit based on your dream trip.
Plus, we have personal relationships with the management teams at these resorts. If anything unexpected pops up during your trip (flight changes, room upgrades, special requests), we can step in and fix it faster than most agencies even know there’s a problem.
Still not sure which Sandals or Beaches resort is perfect for you?
Talk to travel experts who've been to every single one!
We’ll help you plan a trip you’ll never forget, and make it easy, stress-free, and perfectly personalized just for you.
About the Authors
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.
Comments