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Sandals Royal Curacao Review

Sandals Royal Curaçao: Everything You Need to Know About this Dutch Island Resort

By Jonathan | Updated on January 27, 2025

I visited Sandals Royal Curacao in 2024 for a conference recognizing its top travel advisors and found it to be one of my favorite Sandals resorts in the portfolio. Located on a white sand beach on the southern Caribbean coast of Curacao, this all-inclusive resort is one of the newest Sandals Resorts and has everything you could dream of in a getaway—and then some. From exceptional service to world-class amenities focused on romance, relaxation, and adventure, it's where people of all ages will enjoy themselves.

 

Here's why we think you should make Sandals Royal Curacao your next vacation destination.

 

Let's go!

Key Features of Sandals Curaçao

From the moment you arrive at Sandals Curaçao, the spatial lobby has an immediate wow factor. Here, you're greeted by a warm, welcoming staff who will make you feel like you've been a valued guest for years. Having been a Hilton prior to Sandals purchasing the hotel, you can tell they've done an incredible job Sandalizing the property. We also love that the ride from the airport to the resort is only 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

 

What strikes you immediately is the desert beauty, expansive views, and modern design that surrounds you. The architecture is modern yet infused with local culture, using clean lines and warm, earthy tones that give the entire place a laid-back but sophisticated vibe.

Collectively, all room categories include the following:

  • An All-Inclusive Experience: Global gourmet dining with premium liquor, non-motorized water, and land sports.

  • Dutch-Caribbean Vibes: Cultural experiences with locals speaking up to four languages!

  • Expansive Property: Over 3,000 acres of natural beauty and coastal charm.

  • Exclusive Inclusions: Off-property excursions through Island Routes.

Ready to experience the newest Sandals paradise? Book your stay at Sandals Curaçao now!

Accommodation Options at Sandals Curaçao

Sandals Royal Curaçao offers updated accommodations in 25 different room categories, from garden-view rooms to oceanfront suites with private pools. The rooms are spacious modern furnishings, ceiling fans, a coffee maker featuring Jamaica's Blue Mountain Coffee, contemporary decor, and free wifi throughout the resort.

One standout feature is the resort's Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows, which have a private pool and a team of professionally trained butlers who ensure your every need is met — from unpacking your bags to arranging private dinners by the water. These bungalows offer direct access to the beach, are centrally located in the middle of the resort near the Dos Awa 2-level Infinity Pool, and comes with a MINI Cooper to explore the island.

 

Who's ready for a beach picnic on a remote part of the island?

Another highlight are the Kurason Island Suites and Rondovals. The Rondoval Suites, in particular, are uniquely formed around a heart-shaped pool. They have large outdoor terraces, shared plunge pools, and a sense of serenity that feels like your own little oasis.

Curacao Sandals Room Features and Benefits:

  • Kurason Island Poolside Butler Bungalows: Lagoon-style suites with Butler Service and private pool access.

  • Awa Seaside Bungalows: Overwater bungalows with Butler Service offering direct beach access.

  • Butler Suites: Personalized service and private outdoor Patio Tranquility Soaking Tubs.

  • Club Level Suites: Enjoy a private check-in at the Club Sandals Lounge with access to room service. Our favorite is the Sunchi Club Level Beachfront Room because of its central location in the resort.

  • Luxury Level Suites: Offers everything in a Club Level room, minus room service and upgraded in-room bar.

Dining Experiences at Sandals Curaçao

If there's one thing that stands out about the Sandals Royal Curaçao resort, it's the food. You'll never go hungry here, as the resort has so many dining options catering to all tastes.

 

The highlight for me was Vincent, the resort's À la carte Mediterranean restaurant named after the famous Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh. With a chic, contemporary design, its menu is a fusion of Mediterranean and European flavors, and it is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

 

For a more laid-back meal, Strand, the beachfront seafood restaurant, is open for lunch and dinner and offers sweeping coastline views. The fish is always fresh, and the menu changes daily so that you can enjoy a wide range of fresh catches from the sea. If you love sushi, Gatsu Gatsu is a must-try and an excellent place for pre-dinner appetizers. It offers rolls in an eclectic atmosphere.

After dinner, my next stop was always to their coffee shop, Cafe Kanaal, and wine bar for a quick dessert before heading out to the main plaza for the evening entertainment.

Sandals Curacao Expansive Dining Program:

  • Global Dining: 11 world-class restaurants offering a mix of Caribbean, Dutch, and international cuisine.

  • Exclusive Dining Concepts: Farm-to-table dining, beachfront grills, and gourmet fine dining.

  • Unlimited Premium Liquor and Robert Mondavi Twin wines: Access to world-class beach bars and swim-up lounges.

  • $250 Dine Out Credit: An exclusive benefit for those in upper-tiered butler room categories.

Activities and Attractions at Sandals Curaçao

While relaxation is at the heart of the Sandals Royal Curaçao resort, there's no shortage of activities to entertain you. For couples who want a mix of adventure and relaxation, there's something for everyone too! Water sports enthusiasts will love the available options here. Sandals Royal Curacao has several non-motorized water sports available near the beach's northern end, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The resort's dive shop offers free scuba diving for certified divers, or you can take a lesson to get your PADI certification. Note. The dive team will ask you to do a brief checkout dive if you have not scuba-dived within the last six months.

 

For those who want to venture off-resort, Curaçao Sandals offers guided tours and excursions through our recommended supplier, Island Routes. Our favorite is the Curacao Jeep and Snorkel Experience, which takes you through the island's desert landscapes, where you'll cross over the plains of Joris Bay and head towards the rugged terrain of Koraal Tabak.

 

The resort has world-class spa services too if you're looking for some downtime. The Red Lane® Spa, located below the main lobby, is a tranquil space to enjoy massages, facials, and other treatments. Whether you choose the Tropical Paradise Couple's massage or our favorite, the lavender scalp massage, you'll leave feeling completely rejuvenated. Note: There are male masseuses at this resort.

 

In the evening, the resort comes to life around the main lobby. The karaoke nights, live music, and themed beach parties are perfect for those who enjoy fun and socializing. But if you prefer a quieter evening, the Tropical Lounge is the ideal place to enjoy cocktails, watch the sunset, or relax with your loved one.

Sandals Vacation Activities and Attractions:

  • Unlimited Water Sports: Snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

  • Island Exploration: Exclusive tours showcasing Curaçao's natural beauty and culture.

  • Golf: Green fees are not included but can be booked at the resort.

  • Wellness & Spa: Relaxing Red Lane Spa treatments inspired by the island’s natural elements.

  • Excursions: Jeep safaris, cave exploration, and sunset cruises.