So you’re leaning towards visiting a Sandals Resort, but the only problem is that they have dozens of them and they all look amazing.

We’ve been where you are and we’re here to help.

It’s true that there isn’t a bad Sandals Resort, but different locations and amenities certainly make some resorts a better fit for you than others.

So if you’re asking, “What’s the best Sandals Resort for me?” we’ve got you covered in this guide.

Find The Best Sandals Resort For You

We’ve already written other in-depth guides to the best Sandals resorts for you based on your interests and travel style. We’ll touch on some of these below, but if you’d like to jump to one of these instead, here are the links:
Best Sandals Resort For Golfers

Best Sandals Resort For Foodies

Best Sandals Resort For Amazing Beaches

Best Sandals Resort For Weddings

Most Affordable Sandals Resorts

Best Sandals Resort For Scuba Diving & Snorkel

Best Sandals Resorts For Older Couples

Best Sandals Resorts For Young Couples

Best Sandals Resorts For Anniversaries

Best Sandals Resort For Honeymoons

How To Choose the Best Sandals Resort for You

The first thing to do when figuring out which Sandals resort is right for you is to fill out our survey. It includes a few questions that will help you narrow down your search and give you an idea of the best Sandals resorts based on your preferences.

Once you’ve completed our survey, you should ask yourself a few important questions:

• What do I like to do on vacation?
• What is my budget for my Sandals vacation?
• Which country do I want to visit?
• What kind of room do I want to stay in?
• Do I want a quiet, relaxed honeymoon, an exciting, social honeymoon, or a bit of both?

What Inclusions Do All Sandals Resorts Offer in the Cost of Stay?

Before we jump into our resort comparison, let’s go over the complimentary inclusions offered at Sandals resorts. All Sandals guests receive these amenities with the cost of stay:

• Unlimited dining at restaurants, bars, and food trucks
• Unlimited premium alcohol, wine, and local beer at all bars and restaurants
• Access to the pools, whirlpools, and beaches
• Unlimited watersports including PADI-certified scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, Hobie Cats, windsurfing, tubing, paddle boarding, knee boarding, and waterskiing (at specific resorts)
• Unlimited land activities including boccie ball, beach volleyball, pool volleyball, basketball, day and night tennis, table tennis, lawn chess, croquet, pool, and board games
• Access to the fitness center and aerobics classes
• Green fees at golf courses and multiple rounds
• Roundtrip airport transfers
• All taxes, gratuities, and fees
• Entertainment including themed nights, live shows, music, and parties
• An in-room bar stocked with wine, local beer, juices, and soft drinks
• WIFI

Club Level guests receive all of the above inclusions plus:

• Access to Club Sandals Concierge services
• An in-room bar that also includes liquor
• Private check-in at the Club Sandals Lounge
• Private resort orientation
• Room service from 7 am to 10 pm

Butler Elite guests receive all basic inclusions plus additional luxury services such as:

• The personalized service of a private butler
• 24/7 room service
• Private check-in in your suite or villa
• Many Sandals resorts offer complimentary airport transfers in a BMW or Rolls-Royce
• An in-room bar stocked with premium spirits and sparkling wine
• Invitation to a Butler Elite weekly cocktail party
• Egyptian cotton linens and down pillows

Now that you understand why guests love Sandals’ inclusions so much let’s take a look at the best Sandals resort for each of our categories.

The Best Sandals Resort for Overwater Bungalows: Sandals Royal Caribbean

The overwater accommodations at Sandals are truly some of the most spectacular in the Caribbean and even rival the ones found in Maldives or Bora Bora.

Sandals offer two types of overwater villas that can be found at 3 Sandals resorts: over-the-water bungalows and over-the-water villas. The villas are slightly more luxurious than the bungalows and include private swimming pools. These accommodations offer incredible views of the Caribbean Sea’s turquoise waters and are built with luxury in mind.

All Sandals overwater bungalows and villas have these features:

• They have glass floor panels, which allow you to “sea-through” the water and watch the incredible marine life.
• They have unobstructed sea views.
• They have spa-style bathrooms with soaking tubs and intricate tiling.
• They have expansive decks suspended over the water with ocean views and swim-up access.
• They are part of the Butler Elite level room category and come with the services of a private butler trained by the Guild of Professional Butlers.
• They have at least one serenity soaking tub, a 2-person bathtub that is located on the deck (with a privacy curtain), or in the bathroom.
• They have over-the-water hammocks that suspend you over the water.

In our opinion, the best Sandals resort for overwater bungalows is Sandals Royal Caribbean, located in Montego Bay, Jamaica, because there are 2 types of overwater bungalows that are gorgeous. This is also the only Sandals resort that offers overwater villas.

Overwater Bungalow and Villa Highlights at Sandals Royal Caribbean

• Each overwater villa has a private plunge pool with a whirlpool and outdoor shower.
• The overwater villas also have massive glass floor panels that are much larger than the ones found in the overwater bungalows. Lights in the blue water ensure that you can see marine life day or night.
• Guests can relax in 1 soaking tub on the deck and 1 in the bathroom in their overwater villa.
• Sandals Royal Caribbean provides a private water taxi service to shuttle guests from their villa to the main resort area.
• The overwater bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean are located near the resort’s private island and are designed with privacy in mind.

Other Highlights at Sandals Royal Caribbean

• The resort features an offshore, private island with a beach club, cabanas, private beaches, swim-up pool bars, Jacuzzis, and one of the best restaurants at the resort, Royal Thai.

• Guests can enjoy formal English traditions such as daily high tea.
• There are 9 restaurants and 5 bars, including swim-up bars.
• When you book a stay at Sandals Royal Caribbean, you receive “stay at 1, play at 2” exchange privileges which means you can use all of the facilities and eat at the restaurants located at nearby Sandals Montego Bay.
• There are 8 pools and 6 whirlpools.
• Butler Elite level guests receive complimentary airport transfers in a BMW.
• Sandals Royal Caribbean is located only 10-15 minutes from the airport via complimentary airport transfer.
• Sandals Royal Caribbean is known for its top-notch service and guests often commend staff members for their attention to detail, approachability and ability to personalized service (this is especially apparent at the Club Level and Butler Elite level).

Which Sandals Resorts Have Overwater Bungalows or Villas?

Sandals Royal Caribbean – This majestic resort offers two overwater accommodations located on a heart-shaped pier separate from the main resort area. The Over the Water Private Island Butler Villa with Infinity Pool is a massive overwater villa, featuring a private plunge pool, a multi-tier deck with seating areas, swings, catamaran nets and floating hammocks, a spacious master bedroom, and thatched roofs. Prices start from $2,308 per person per night.

Sandals Royal Caribbean also offers the Over the Water Private Island Butler Honeymoon Bungalow, which does not include a private infinity pool, but is incredibly romantic and offers other luxurious amenities. Prices start from $1,659 per person per night.

Sandals South Coast – These gorgeous overwater bungalows are located at the end of a pier and offer luxurious details, including hardwood floors, large ceiling fans, and custom-made king-size beds. Sandals South Coast has one type of overwater bungalow, the Over the Water Butler Honeymoon Bungalow, which has a soaking tub on the large deck and plenty of space inside. Prices start from $1,628 per person per night.

Sandals Grande St. Lucian – The Over the Water Honeymoon Butler Bungalow at this Sandals resort is similar to the bungalow at Sandals Royal Caribbean, but it’s located at the end of a stone jetty instead of a wooden pier. In our opinion, the view from the overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast is slightly better. Prices start from $1,826 per person per night.

The Best Sandals Resort for Dining: Sandals Montego Bay

One of the main reasons guests love Sandals resorts is the unlimited, gourmet dining options and complimentary premium liquor available at the restaurants and bars. Fresh ingredients (96 percent of the ingredients at the Sandals resorts in Jamaica are sourced from local farmers), world-class chefs, and great dining atmospheres are a few of the reasons why Sandals resorts are ranked highly for all-inclusive meals.

All Sandals resorts offer plenty of dining options guaranteed to satisfy the picky eaters and the adventurous diners, but we think Sandals Montego Bay, located in Montego Bay, Jamaica, is the overall best Sandals resort for dining experiences.

Dining Highlight at Sandals Montego Bay

• Sandals Montego Bay offers 12 restaurants with cuisine ranging from authentic, Italian dishes to à la carte sushi.
• The resort also has 6 bars, including Latitudes, an overwater bar with white glove service and incredible sunset views. It is a popular spot for both date night and socializing with new friends, so grab a drink and enjoy.

• Butch’s Steak and Seafood is one of the most popular Sandals restaurants and offers high-quality cuts of meat served according to your wishes. Dinner menu items include Cast Iron Garlic Shrimp, Chef’s Surf & Turf, Grilled Mahi Mahi, Chargrilled Lamb Chops, and Sesame & Black Pepper Crusted Tuna.

• Guests love Bayside Restaurant, which is a beachside brasserie that offers French cuisine in an open-air environment. Menu highlights include Souris D’Agneau Au Romarin (braised lamb shank in a Cabernet jus) and Filet De Saumon (pan-seared Atlantic salmon).

• Sandals Montego Bay also has the following restaurants:
  1. Oleander (Jamaican cuisine in an upscale, colonial-style setting)
  2. Cucina Romana (classic Italian fare served in a seaside setting)
  3. Tokyo Joe’s (Pan-Asian dishes served in a restaurant stilted over the water)
  4. Dino’s Pizzeria Italiana (Neapolitan-style pizza served next to the sand)
  5. Cafe de Paris (a quaint patisserie with crepes, pastries, and coffee)
  6. Stew Fish (Jamaican and Caribbean seafood served in a laidback restaurant directly on the beach)
  7. The Cricketers Pint (a traditional British pub with comfort food and a great after-hours scene)
  8. The Mariner (a seaside grill known for its social atmosphere and lovely views)
  9. Soy Sushi Bar (a modern, chic eatery with a simple and delicious menu)
  10. The Jerk Shack (a humble hut serving traditional Jerk-style dishes that is the hidden gem at Sandals Montego Bay – seriously, you have to try it)

Other Highlights at Sandals Montego Bay

• Sandals Montego Bay is the flagship resort of Sandals Resorts International and features extravagant amenities, dynamic entertainment, and a high level of service.
• This beautiful resort is known for its fun, social vibe, and excellent nightlife, including beach bonfires, pool parties, a piano bar, competitions of all sorts, and themed nights that guests really participate in.
• This resort is also home to Jamaica’s largest exclusive beach, which is a one-mile stretch of powdery, white sand that provides a more secluded feel for guests.
• There are 3 whirlpools and 7 pools. The Main Pool is a hub of social activity and is known for its entertainment. However, guests who prefer a more peaceful setting will like the aptly named Quiet Pool or the Piano Pool, which is a beautiful little oasis hidden by the Piano Bar.

• Guests can enjoy “stay at 1, play at 2” exchange privileges with Sandals Royal Caribbean, which means you actually get unlimited access to 21 restaurants in total and can use the facilities at both resorts.
• Butler-level guests receive complimentary BMW airport transfers.
• The resort also features an overwater chapel with floor-to-ceiling windows, glass floor panels, and room for 40 guests. Whether you get married at sunset, twilight, or during the day, the views are simply incredible. The resort also offers a seaside chapel nestled in the gardens that is more traditional and another beautiful place to say “I do”.

Honorable mentions go to Sandals Royal Plantation, Sandals Royal Bahamian, Sandals Grande Antigua, and Sandals Grenada.

The Best Sandals Resort for Beautiful Beaches: Sandals South Coast

This was a really difficult section to write because the beaches at Sandals resorts are all so gorgeous, but we ultimately picked Sandals South Coast, in Whitehouse, Jamaica.

This Sandals South Coast resort is situated on a 2-mile stretch of powdery, white sand along Jamaica’s southern coast that is soft and perfect for long walks on the beach. The water has a turquoise color and is clear, which is great news for couples snorkeling from the beach.

The resort itself is designed to embrace the beauty and flow of water. The South Seas Village features a winding lagoon-style pool, bungalows, and a chic bar stilted over the water. The resort itself is situated within a 500-acre nature preserve. In addition, almost every room is beachfront with an ocean view (even the least expensive room in the resort has a sea view).

Highlights of the Beach at Sandals South Coast

• Generally speaking, the wave action is quite low (the waves are much gentler than in other areas of Jamaica), which means it is safe for swimming and a good place for watersports. However, during hurricane season, which is between June and November, tropical storms can create high waves in the area. Make sure you book your trip accordingly to ensure you can fully enjoy both the beach and the water.
• There are a variety of watersports offered at Sandals South Coast, including kayaking, snorkeling, paddle boarding, waterskiing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, windsurfing, sailing, and, of course, PADI-certified scuba diving.
• The resort is located on a 2-mile beach with soft, white sand that is the perfect place to watch both sunrise and sunset.

Other Highlights at Sandals South Coast

• The South Seas Village has swim-up Rondovals directly next to the lagoon-style pool, which are some of the best swim-up accommodations at any Sandals resort.
• Sandals South Coast features 3 beachfront pools, including the French Pool which has breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and is inspired by the French Riviera.
• There are also 4 whirlpools.
• Guests can enjoy unlimited dining at 9 restaurants and 7 bars, including a swim-up bar and a beachfront bar with excellent, beachy cocktails.
• There is an overwater chapel, an overwater bar, and overwater bungalows with butler service.
• Sandals South Coast is home to Jamaica’s largest zero-entry pool.

Honorable mention goes to Sandals Negril, Sandals Grande Antigua, and Sandals Grande St. Lucian.

The Best Sandals Resort for a Quiet, Relaxed Atmosphere: Sandals Royal Plantation

Sandals Royal Plantation, located in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, is often chosen as the best Sandals resort for older couples, but this is misleading. In fact, Sandals Royal Plantation is a great choice for couples, regardless of age, who are looking for a quiet, more relaxed atmosphere.

Sandals Royal Plantation is smaller than other Sandals resorts with only 74 suites, which all have ocean views and Butler-level service. Although it doesn’t get as much attention or fanfare as some of the more showy Sandals resorts like Sandals Montego Bay or Sandals South Coast, it is a hidden gem.

“Intimate”, “down to earth”, “elegant” and “peaceful” are the best words to describe Sandals Royal Plantation.

Relaxed Atmosphere Highlights at Sandals Royal Plantation

• We’ve said it before, but there are only 74 suites and they’re all designed with privacy and personalized service in mind. If you don’t want to leave your room or patio for your entire stay, you don’t have to (it would be a shame though)!
• All of the suites have a private balcony or patio.
• Sandals Royal Plantation features 2 private cove beaches that are surrounded by shade trees and perfect for lazy afternoons.
• Sandals Royal Plantation is known for its personalized service with each suite assigned a personal butler and a team of butlers servicing the beach area. It’s the kind of place where you truly feel like you don’t have to raise a finger and don’t have a care in the world.
• The resort also features 2 quiet pools: the Sunset Bluff Pool and the Villa Pool. The Sunset Bluff Pool is located at the highest point of the resort and offers incredible ocean views as well as a swim-up bar. The Villa Pool is heated and situated near the main resort area.

Other Highlights at Sandals Royal Plantation

• There are 5 gourmet restaurants, 2 bars, and an in-room bar in every room stocked with premium liquors, sparkling and non-sparkling wine, local beer, juices, and soft drinks.
• All of the suites at Sandals Royal Plantation have 24-hour room service, Butler Elite service, 2-person whirlpool tubs, and ocean views.
• Guests can enjoy “stay at 1, play at 2” exchange privileges with Sandals Ochi, which means that you can access all of the facilities and restaurants at Sandals Royal Plantation’s sister resort. This also means if you want to experience a day or evening in a more lively environment, you can do so simply by hopping on the resort’s complimentary shuttle.
• Sandals Royal Plantation features Jamaica’s only champagne and caviar bar, for which guests can reserve a table for an additional fee.
• Guests receive complimentary green fees and multiple rounds at Upton Estate Golf and Country Club, which has an 18-hole course and incredible views of the sea and mountains from 700 feet above sea level. It is not considered a very challenging course, but it plays to 6,404 yards and fits the relaxed vibe of Sandals Royal Plantation.
• Sandals Royal Plantation is home to Villa Plantana, which is a beachfront 3-bedroom luxury villa in a prime location that comes with a full staff. It is possible to book Villa Plantana as a 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or 3-bedroom space. This exclusive villa also has a private driveway and is unlike anything else available at any other Sandals resort.

Honorable mention goes to Sandals Grenada, Sandals Emerald Bay, and Sandals Halcyon Beach.

The Best Sandals Resort for Scuba Diving: Sandals Royal Caribbean

When you book a stay at any Sandals resort, unlimited PADI-certified scuba diving is always included with opportunities for all skill levels.

While many Sandals resorts offer excellent scuba diving opportunities and training courses, the overall best choice for scuba divers is Sandals Royal Caribbean, located in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

The reason we picked this Sandals resort as the number one dive resort is due to the number of excellent dive sites and variety of marine life. Sandals Royal Caribbean is located near several incredible dive sites, including the Ocho Rios Marine Park, the famed “Wreck Trek”, which is a series of underwater shipwrecks, and the Montego Bay Marine Park.

Scuba Diving Highlights at Sandals Royal Caribbean

• The Montego Bay Marine Park, Jamaica’s first Marine Protected Area, spans 15 square kilometers and has over 12 dive sites showcasing rich biodiversity. You can see many types of marine life, including nurse sharks, eagle rays, hawksbill sea turtles, moray eels, a variety of soft and hard corals as well as sea sponges.
• The Coral Garden, where you can see gorgeous coral formations and many species of tropical fish, is the best site for beginner divers. However, the Airport Reef gives advanced divers an exciting challenge and the chance to dive with a sunken airplane that has become an artificial reef covered in corals and sea sponges. The visibility is usually excellent (around 100 feet), but the currents are quite strong.
• If you do not have your PADI certification, you can get it at the resort’s PADI 5-star dive center for an additional fee. In fact, the expert dive instructors at Sandals resorts have awarded over 100,000 PADI certifications and provide a comprehensive program that is recognized as one of the top 5 operations in the western hemisphere.
• Other courses offered at the dive center include Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver, Adventure Diver, Deep Diver, Rescue Diver Peak Performance Buoyancy, and Divemaster.

Highlights of Sandals Royal Caribbean

• There are 2 types of stunning overwater bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean: the Over the Water Private Island Butler Villa with Infinity Pool and the Over the Water Private Island Butler Honeymoon Bungalow. The villa is the most luxurious option and has an ocean-view infinity pool, an expansive deck complete with a soaking tub, an outdoor swing, and glass floor panels for viewing marine life.
• The resort also features a private island with a beach club and a delicious Thai Restaurant called Royal Thai. It is one of the most popular restaurants at the resort so make sure to book a table immediately when you arrive. Guests can access the island via a complimentary 2-minute boat ride.
• Guests who stay at Sandals Royal Caribbean can enjoy “stay at one, play at two” exchange privileges with Sandals Montego Bay. There is also a complimentary shuttle between the two resorts for your convenience.
• Sandals Royal Caribbean has 9 restaurants and 5 bars with premium liquor.
• There are also 8 pools and 6 whirlpools.

Honorable mention goes to Sandals Royal Bahamian and Sandals Regency La Toc.

The Best Sandals Resort for an Exciting, Social Atmosphere: Sandals Ochi

While Sandals Montego Bay is often touted as the best Sandals resort for nightlife and social activities, we think Sandals Ochi, located in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, takes the prize. Sandals Montego Bay is known for its vibrant atmosphere, but it can also be crowded and some guests complain that the noise at night makes it difficult to sleep.

For this reason, we picked Sandals Ochi as the best and most lively resort for honeymooners seeking nightlife or an exciting atmosphere. Even the most outgoing social butterflies and nightlife enthusiasts will want a little peace and quiet during their honeymoon.

Sandals Ochi has all of the themed nights, beach bonfires, live shows, foam parties, and pool parties that you can find at Sandal Montego Bay, but the vibe is slightly more relaxed and conducive to romance.

Exciting, Social Highlights at Sandals Ochi

• There are 11 bars and 16 restaurants at this resort, which is more than is available at most Sandals resorts. Specifically, Sandals Ochi is known for its dining options, ranging from Caribbean cuisine on the beach to upscale French bistros.
• This resort has an exciting beach pool club that is a hotspot for socializing and mingling during the daytime and in the evenings. The multi-tier complex includes a massive beachfront pool, a Jacuzzi, a private beach, and a swim-up bar that’s known for its well-crafted drinks and festive atmosphere.
• Sandals Ochi is also home to Jamaica’s first speakeasy, The Rabbit Hole, which has a hidden entrance and a 1920s vibe. Popular drinks include Old Fashioneds and Martinis, but the bartenders can also mix a drink according to your tastes.
• The Caribbean Piano Bar is good for a laidback drink during the evenings and after hours. As its name implies, the Sundowner Bar is an excellent choice for drinks at sunset.
• The resort also offers a variety of themed events that are well attended, including Caribbean Night, All White Parties, and Beach Parties.

Other Highlights at Sandals Ochi

• The resort has two distinct “paradises”: a sprawling seaside area with a beach club and a lush “garden of Eden”.
• Sandals Ochi offers an 18-hole championship golf course at the Upton Estate Golf & Country Club and guests receive complimentary green fees.
• The resort features an easily accessible beach with soft, powdery sand and aquamarine water that is great for walking, sunbathing, or swimming in the ocean. Guests can also enjoy a private, candlelit dinner directly on the sand.
• Guests can visit Latitudes, an overwater bar with incredible views of the turquoise waters. During the daytime, you can sample a variety of cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks on the bar’s expansive, wooden deck, and in the evenings the venue transforms into a romantic dining destination complete with candles and soft music.
• There is also an overwater chapel with an open-air design and breathtaking, 180-degree views of the ocean. Sandals Ochi offers several boutique wedding packages that start from $2,500, but if you stay more than three nights at any Sandals resort, you get a free wedding. For more information about what is included and the price of additional add-ons, check out the Sandals free tropical wedding guide.

• Sandals Ochi is the largest Sandals resort in terms of guest capacity with over 500 rooms and suites. It is also located on over 160 acres of landscaped and wild gardens, featuring tropical flowers, lawns, and shrubbery.

Honorable mention goes to Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Grande St Lucian.

The Best Sandals Resort for Golf: Sandals Emerald Bay

For couples who love golf, Sandals offers a variety of resorts with fantastic courses for both beginners and experienced golfers. However, if we had to pick only one resort, we’d recommend Sandals Emerald Bay, located on the sandy shores of Great Exuma, Bahamas.

Complimentary green fees and multiple rounds are always included in the Sandals cost of stay. Roundtrip transfers between the resort and the golf course are also included and guests can participate in weekly group clinics to improve their game.

Golf Highlights of Sandals Emerald Bay

• The resort features an 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course designed by Greg Norman that has fantastic sea views and is one of the most scenic in the Caribbean.
• The front 9 holes are situated across rolling sand dunes and wind between lush mangroves, while the back 9 holes play across a stunning, rocky coastline that juts into the water.
• Although the course is considered challenging and offers many hazards, such as water, difficult terrain, and bunkers, it also has multiple tee options, which allows beginners to take advantage of this great opportunity.
• The course plays to 7,001 yards, requiring players to make strategic choices at each hole.
• The course is only 10-15 minutes from Sandals Emerald Bay via a complimentary shuttle.
• Guests can take private classes and group clinics at the Golf Academy at Sandals Emerald Bay. Prices for private classes are as follows: 30 minutes for $100, 60 minutes for $180, and 90 minutes for $260.

Other Highlights of Sandals Emerald Bay

• Many of the accommodations are particularly private and secluded with amazing ocean views, including the Prime Minister Honeymoon One Bedroom Beachfront Walkout Butler Villa Suite, the Beach House One Bedroom Butler Suite and the Beachfront Oversized Walkout Butler Villa Suite.
• The mile-long beach with pure, white sand and crystal clear waters is one of the resort’s most spectacular features and one of the main reasons to book a stay here. The water is super swimmable with minimal wave action which makes it ideal for other watersports, including snorkeling and paddle boarding.

• There are 11 gourmet restaurants and 6 bars, including swim-up bars.
• The resort offers 3 pools, including a river pool and an infinity pool with views of the Caribbean, and 7 whirlpools. The river pool gracefully winds through the resort’s gardens, past guestrooms, and relaxation areas. It is a great place to simply float on an innertube and enjoy a quiet afternoon. The beachfront infinity pool has plenty of sun loungers and cabanas as well as a swim-up bar.
• Guests can enjoy activities such as pickleball, tennis, kayaking, SUP paddle boarding, snorkeling, and PADI-certified scuba diving.
• Great Exuma is a beautiful island to explore with many options for fun excursions and activities, including swimming with the pigs, exploring over 360 cays in the Exuma island chain, feeding rock iguanas and swimming with nurse sharks, enjoying a picnic on the beach or having a romantic candlelit dinner.

Honorable mention goes to Sandals Regency La Toc, Sandals Halcyon Beach, and Sandals Ochi.

The Best Sandals Resort for Swim-up Suites: Sandals Royal Barbados

This was another incredibly difficult category to choose a “best” for, and, if we’re completely honest, a tie between Sandals Royal Barbados and Sandals South Coast seems only fair. However, if we absolutely had to choose the best Sandals resort for swim-up suites, it would be Sandals Royal Barbados, located in St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados.

So, why did we ultimately pick Sandals Royal Barbados? The swim-up suites at this resort are located around a stunning lagoon pool with sparkling water and impressive landscaping. The swim-up suites at Sandals Royal Barbados are more modern than the suites at Sandals South Coast and guests can pick from 6 different swim-up suite options.

Swim-Up Suites Highlights at Sandals Royal Barbados

• The swim-up suites are located at a 17,000-square-foot lagoon pool that is surrounded by a lush, tropical garden and offers in-water sun loungers, floating hammocks, and cabanas.
• The atmosphere at Sandals Royal Barbados is relaxing and tranquil, which is conducive to lounging around the pools.
• Sandals Royal Barbados offers 6 types of swim-up suites in the Butler Elite and Club Level room categories:
  1. The Royal Seaside Crystal Lagoon Swim-up One Bedroom Butler Suite w/ Patio and Tranquility Soaking Tub (prices start from $722 per person per night)
  2. The Royal Seaside Crystal Lagoon Swim-up One Bedroom Butler Suite w/ Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub (prices start from $708 per person per night)
  3. The Millionaire Crystal Lagoon Swim-up Butler One Bedroom Suite w/ Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub (prices start from $607 per person per night)
  4. The South Seas Hideaway Crystal Lagoon Swim-up Butler Suite with Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub (prices start from $482 per person per night)
  5. The Royal Seaside Swim-up Club Level Ultra Suite w/ Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub (prices start from $471 per person per night)
  6. The South Seas Swim-up Club Level Ultra Suite w/ Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub (prices start from $434 per person per night)
• The Royal Seaside Crystal Lagoon Swim-up One Bedroom Butler Suite w/ Patio and Tranquility Soaking Tub is the premier swim-up suite at the resort and offers 2 soaking tubs (one on the patio and one in the master bedroom). The interior of the suite is spacious and has a romantic seating area by the bar as well as a seating area by the flatscreen TV. Guests also have access to floating hammocks and zero-entry access to the huge pool.

Other Highlights of Sandals Royal Barbados

• There are 11 restaurants and 7 bars at Sandals Royal Barbados. The resort is also home to “The Merry Monkey”, the first craft beer bar at any Sandals resort.
• While the swim-up suites are gorgeous, Sandals Royal Barbados also offers SkyPool Suites and Millionaire Suites. The SkyPool Suites are beachfront and include private infinity pools with spectacular sea views. The Millionaire Suites stand out from other rooms because they provide swim-up pool access, spacious living areas, and access to an exclusive pool with a swim-up bar.

• The resort has a 4-lane bowling alley.
• Butler Elite guests can enjoy roundtrip airport transfers via Rolls-Royce, while Club Level and Sandals Club guests receive standard roundtrip airport transfers.
• Sandals Royal Barbados features a beachfront, glass-edge pool that gives the illusion of water spilling over the side. The resort also features a rooftop pool with an infinity edge as well as a relaxing seating area, cabanas, and a bar.
• There are 6 pools and 3 whirlpools.
• Guests can enjoy “stay at 1, play at 2” exchange privileges with Sandals Barbados, which means you can enjoy all of the amenities, restaurants, pools, and bars at both resorts.
• Sandals Royal Barbados is an all-suites resort, which means that the overall level of service is higher and all of the suites are either Butler Elite or Club Level.
• Live music, nightly shows, and other entertainment options at Sandals Royal Barbados are excellent, but the party never gets too out of control.

Honorable mention goes to Sandals South Coast, Sandals Grenada, Sandals Royal Caribbean, and Sandals Negril.

The Best Sandals Resort for Most Affordable: Sandals Ochi

Keep in mind that Sandals offers luxury accommodations, so “cheap” isn’t the word we’d use to describe them, and remember that the prices vary depending on the time of year. That being said, we rank Sandals Ochi as the most affordable Sandals resort.

There is a range of room categories that cater to couples on a budget while allowing you to use all of the resort’s all-inclusive services and facilities. All-inclusive room rates start at $217 per person per night.

Another reason we ranked Sandals Ochi as the best affordable Sandals resort is because there are many amenities included in the cost of stay. Specifically, there are 16 restaurants so you will never get bored with what you’re eating. The resort has a gorgeous beach club, a picture-perfect beach, an 18-hole golf course (with free green fees), and all of the usual Sandals inclusions.

You may have noticed that we also featured Sandals Ochi as the best Sandals resort for nightlife and a social atmosphere, so keep that in mind when you’re deciding if it’s a good fit.

Affordability Highlights at Sandals Ochi

• The Riviera Bamboo Grove Premium, a Sandals Luxury level room located near the beach club, is an excellent affordable option with prices starting from $217 per person per night. Although this room type is in a building located a slight walk up a hill, most guests don’t mind, considering the price and its secluded location in a quiet garden.
• Another affordable option is the Riviera Honeymoon Beachfront Penthouse, which is a Club Level suite with incredible ocean views and a price starting from $365 per person per night. This is an especially good price for a Club Level room, which means you get an in-room bar with liquor, wine, beer, sodas, and juices, access to Club Sandals Concierge, room service from 7 am to 10 pm, and other Club Level inclusions.

To learn more about general highlights at this Sandals resort, check out the previous entry about the best Sandals resort for an exciting, social atmosphere.

How Can I Save Money on a Sandals Resort?

Travel during the low season: the best way to save money on a Sandals resort is to book a stay during the low season. While the low season varies from island to island, it is usually during rainy season months or times when most visitors cannot take time off for a vacation.

For example, the low season in Jamaica is generally from mid-April to early December. Comparatively, the low season in the Bahamas is approximately July or August to November.

Travel during shoulder season: another good choice for saving money, while also having a better chance of good weather, is to book a stay during the shoulder season. This is the time between the high season and the low season. Usually, it is about a month, and the specific month also depends on which island you’d like to visit.

For example, the shoulder season in the Bahamas is from late April to June or July.

Book early: Sandals offers lots of discounts for guests who book well in advance. If you are capable of planning this far ahead, it is best to book a full year in advance to get the best price.

Sign up for Sandals’ email list: this is the best way to say up to date about the latest promotions and discounts.

Honorable mention goes to Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals South Coast.

The Best Sandals Resort for Sunny Weather: Sandals Grenada

We can never guarantee good weather on a trip, but fortunately for us, the Caribbean doesn’t experience the intense winters of the East Coast or Midwest. However, it is still difficult to pick a Sandals resort with the best weather because conditions vary from year to year and aren’t always predictable.

Yet, if we had to choose one Sandals resort with overall excellent weather, we would choose Sandals Grenada. Located on the world-famous Pink Gin Beach, in St. George’s, Grenada, this Sandals resort is an exotic hideaway that’s not on everyone’s radar, but it should be.

Weather Highlight at Sandals Grenada

• Its location in the far south of the Caribbean means the weather at Sandals Grenada is usually warm and sunny.
• The temperature in Grenada is usually between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Grenada has a tropical climate, which means it experiences a rainy season between June and December and a dry season between January and May. During the dry season, you can expect lower humidity, very little rainfall, and lots of sunshine.
• Keep in mind that the high season with the most crowds and higher prices is between December and April so, if possible, the best time to visit is at the end of April and in May.

Other Highlights at Sandals Grenada

• The resort has a more modern, innovative aesthetic when compared to other Sandals resorts. It includes features such as suspended sky pools and lounge spaces constructed in the middle of pool areas.

• The resort also offers suites and villas with stunning private infinity plunge pools.
• Sandals Grenada has 10 restaurants and 6 bars and is often ranked as one of the best Sandals resorts for foodies. Popular restaurants include Le Jardinier French Bistro, Butch’s Chophouse, and Spices Caribbean Cuisine.
• There are 5 pools and 2 whirlpools, including a river pool that meanders through the resort and a hillside infinity pool with breathtaking views. There is also the Lover’s Lagoon Pool, which is a quiet, secluded spot that’s great for enjoying a drink while having a swim.
• Pink Gin Beach is a pristine beach with calm, crystal waters, and white sand. It is the perfect place for snorkeling, swimming, and other watersports.

What Is the Best Time To Travel to the Caribbean?

The “best” time to travel to the Caribbean depends on which Sandals resort you want to visit and what matters to you. Would you rather pay more and almost certainly have sunny weather? Are you seeking affordability above all else? Are the dates you can take off from work already set? Here’s our recommendation:

• December through April has the best weather in the Caribbean and is also the busiest time of the year to visit because so many people want to take advantage of the sunny skies. These are also the winter months in North America when couples rush to escape the cold. During the winter months, the weather is usually drier, sunny, and warm (sometimes super warm). This is also the best time of year for couples who scuba dive to visit because the visibility is better and the sea is usually calm.
• If you want to save money and don’t want too much rain, visit between mid-April and June or September and early November. These weeks/months are in the shoulder season, the time between high season and low season when the weather is usually good, but the prices are lower and there are few crowds.
• June to September is the cheapest time to visit the Caribbean, but it is also Hurricane season and the weather will likely not be in your favor. However, there will be few guests at your resort and you can enjoy the pools if the sea is too rough.

Honorable mention goes to Sandals Barbados, Sandals Royal Bahamian, and Sandals Montego Bay.