Sandals Royal Barbados Review: Is It Worth It + Sandals Barbados vs Royal Barbados
If you are trying to decide between Sandals Barbados vs Sandals Royal Barbados, the good news is that you actually get access to both resorts during your stay. These two adults-only all-inclusive resorts sit directly next to each other in Barbados and function like one large resort with shared restaurants, pools, beaches, and activities.
After visiting ourselves, we think Sandals Royal Barbados is one of the best Sandals resorts for couples who want:
modern suites
rooftop pools and bars
strong dining options
a walkable layout
and a true luxury beach experience just 15 minutes from the airport.
Looking for a Sandals Barbados travel agent? Twinsburg Travel has been helping couples book Sandals Resorts for over 31 years, and we’ve personally visited Sandals Royal Barbados ourselves.
While the two resorts share amenities, they do have different vibes.
Sandals Royal Barbados feels more modern and upscale, with features like:
rooftop infinity pool / rooftop bar
bowling alley
butler and club suites suites
larger luxury feel.
Sandals Barbados feels slightly more relaxed and tropical, with a classic Caribbean atmosphere and easier beach access in some areas.
The biggest advantage is that guests at either resort can use both properties, giving you access to multiple pools, restaurants, bars, and entertainment options during your stay.
Sandals Royal Barbados is the more luxury-focused side of the Barbados resorts. This resort is known for its rooftop infinity pool and bar, newer suites, bowling alley, gourmet dining, and elevated atmosphere.
Couples looking for a honeymoon, anniversary trip, or luxury all-inclusive Caribbean vacation often prefer Sandals Royal Barbados because of its upscale feel and modern room categories.
Sandals Barbados offers a slightly more relaxed Caribbean atmosphere while still giving guests full access to Sandals Royal Barbados next door.
Many couples love Sandals Barbados because it feels lush, beachfront, and centrally connected to the shared restaurants, pools, and entertainment between both resorts.
One of the biggest advantages of staying at Sandals Barbados is that you still receive access to all the amenities at Sandals Royal Barbados, effectively giving you two resorts for the price of one.
Who Should Book Sandals Royal Barbados?
Sandals Royal Barbados is best for couples looking for a more modern and luxury-focused Sandals experience in Barbados. We especially recommend it for:
honeymoons
anniversary trips
destination weddings
couples wanting swim-up suites or butler service
travelers who enjoy food variety and nightlife
couples wanting access to two resorts in one location.
If you are looking for help comparing room categories, understanding the difference between Sandals Barbados vs Royal Barbados, or finding current promotions, working with a Sandals travel specialist can make the booking process much easier.
The dining at Sandals Royal Barbados and Sandals Barbados is impressive. Favorites include Butch’s Seafood, Butch’s Steakhouse, a healthy side dining option, and a fresh Smoothie Bar where you can watch your smoothie being made with your choice of fruits and vegetables.And the jerk chicken is honestly some of the best we have had in the Caribbean.
With the stay at one play, play at two, that gives you: 20 Restaurants
If you like staying active, this property offers so much more than just lounging by the pool. You will find pool basketball, pool volleyball, beach volleyball, cornhole, giant chess, shuffleboard, pickleball, bowling, and a sports bar with TVs. And yes, if you plan to bowl, do not forget your socks.
You will notice plenty of friendly cats around the property, and if you are up early enough, you may even see monkeys roaming through the grounds. It is such a unique experience. Just remember not to feed them.
Between the two resorts, there are five large pool areas, each offering a different atmosphere. This includes the stunning infinity pool at Sandals Royal Barbados that overlooks the beach and the turquoise Caribbean Sea. It is absolutely gorgeous and one of the best spots on property for photos.
There is also a roof top sky pool with a bar and jacuzzi, creating a more relaxed and upscale vibe. It is a great place to unwind with a cocktail while taking in the view day or night.
Throughout the day, you will find live entertainment poolside. During our visit, we saw steel drum musicians creating that classic island atmosphere and even a saxophonist playing
Why Work with Twinsburg Travel
If you are considering Sandals Royal Barbados or Sandals Barbados, working with a team that has been there makes a difference.
Karen and Jason Cavadas, owners of Twinsburg Travel, have been helping couples plan unforgettable Caribbean escapes for over 31 years. We are number one in Ohio and top 10 Sandals and Beaches agency. We have experienced these resorts ourselves and are happy to help you decide if this two resorts in one experience is the right fit for your vacation, anniversary, birthday, honeymoon or destination wedding.
See it before you book
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
We’ve been there. Let us take you there.
Twinsburg Travel
440-292-5979
Thanks,
Ashley
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Want personalized resort recommendations?
Is Sandals Royal Barbados worth it?
Yes. Sandals Royal Barbados is one of the most modern and upscale Sandals Resorts, known for its rooftop infinity pool, newer suites, strong dining, and access to both connected resorts.
What is the difference between Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados?
Sandals Royal Barbados feels more modern and luxury-focused, while Sandals Barbados has a more tropical and relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. Guests at either resort can use both properties.
Which is better: Sandals Barbados or Sandals Royal Barbados?
It depends on your style. Couples wanting modern luxury often prefer Sandals Royal Barbados, while Sandals Barbados feels more laid back and tropical.
Is Sandals Royal Barbados good for honeymoons?
Yes. It is one of the best Sandals Resorts for honeymoons thanks to its romantic atmosphere, luxury suites, rooftop pool, and beachfront location.
How far is Sandals Royal Barbados from the airport?
The resort is about 15 minutes from Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) in Barbados.
Does Sandals Royal Barbados have a rooftop pool?
Yes. The rooftop infinity pool and SKY Bar are some of the resort’s most popular features.
Do you get access to both Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados?
Yes. Guests staying at either resort receive full exchange privileges between both properties.
Does Sandals Royal Barbados have butler suites?
Yes. The resort offers butler suites, swim-up suites, and Club Level rooms.
Is the beach at Sandals Barbados nice?
Yes. Both resorts sit on Maxwell Beach, known for soft sand and beautiful turquoise water.
What restaurants are at Sandals Royal Barbados?
Guests have access to multiple restaurants including Butch’s Steakhouse, Chi Asian restaurant, cafés, and additional dining next door at Sandals Barbados.
Is Sandals Barbados adults only?
Yes. Both Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados are adults-only all-inclusive resorts for couples.
Should I book Sandals Barbados with a travel agent?
A Sandals Barbados travel agent can help compare room categories, promotions, honeymoon options, and available upgrades before booking.
