Situated on the sandy shores of Dickenson Bay in St. John’s, Antigua, Sandals Grande Antigua is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort with unparalleled ocean views. The resort itself is divided into two areas: the seaside Caribbean Beachfront Village and the hilltop Mediterranean Oceanview Village.

The Caribbean section is quieter with its sprawling tropical gardens, ocean-view suites, and villas with expansive verandas. In comparison, the Mediterranean section is the newest part of the resort and feels more contemporary and chic.

Older couples looking for serenity and the chance to relax without interruption generally prefer to stay in the Caribbean Beachfront Village, while those in their 20s and newlyweds often prefer the social atmosphere and entertainment at the Mediterranean Oceanview Village.

Activities at Sandals Grande Antigua

There are many amazing activities at Sandals Grande Antigua, including water sports, such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, and PADI-certified scuba diving.

If you don’t have your PADI certification or want to receive an advanced certification, you can take classes with dive professionals at the resort’s PADI center for an additional fee.

The diving in Antigua is truly exceptional, and guests can expect to see sunken shipwrecks, a variety of soft and hard corals, sea turtles, parrot fish, Spanish mackerel, barracuda, and vibrant sea fans. Whether you are a master or novice diver, you can find the perfect site for your dive.

Guests also have access to complimentary land activities, including bocci ball, beach volleyball, day and night tennis, board games, table tennis, and pool.

In addition, the resort offers six whirlpools and six pools that are perfect for relaxing and swimming. If you want to break a sweat, you can use the state-of-the-art fitness center or take a fitness class at no additional charge. The gym provides free weights, weight machines, and cardio machines.

Sandals Grande Antigua also offers a variety of “add-on” activities and services to level up your trip. For example, massages and body treatments at Red Lane Spa, private candlelit dinners on the beach, renting a private cabana with butler service for the day, and excursions around the island.

The sunset catamaran cruise, the zipline adventure, and the kayaking tour are some of guests’ favorite experiences.

Nightlife at Sandals Grande Antigua

The nightlife at Sandals Grande Antigua can mostly be found in the Mediterranean Oceanview Village, but the main pool area is also a hotspot for entertainment both day and night.

The resort offers nightly shows with exciting entertainment, including fire dancers, live music, and other performers. Every night has a different theme, such as Latin Fiesta, Island Romance, and Caribbean Rhythms.

There are also other nighty activities, including Karaoke Night, Talent Show, Game Night, Beach Parties, Pool Parties, Charity Casino Night, and even a chocolate buffet.

Couples looking for after-hours fun can head to the Drunken Dunk for DJed events and dancing. The Piano Bar is also a popular spot.

Rooms and Suites at Sandals Grande Antigua

There are three room categories at Sandals Grande Antigua: Butler Elite, Club Level, and Sandals Deluxe. Each room category comes with different amenities, services, and views.

Butler Elite

If you want to stay in the best room in the resort, look no further than the Butler Elite level room category. These suites come with the services of a private butler trained by the Guild of Professional English Butlers.

You can access your butler 24/7 via personal cell phone so you don’t have to worry about feeling like someone is in your space.

In order to ensure your butler can give you the best service possible, don’t forget to fill out the butler preference questionnaire, which is available on the Sandals website. Some questions include “How do you prefer to take your breakfast?” and “Do you have any food allergies?”

Your butler can do so much more than serve you food and drinks. In fact, he or she can truly prove invaluable during your trip. Here are a few examples of services they can provide.

• Book the best table at a restaurant of your choice – this is especially important if you are traveling during high season!
• Reserve sun loungers before everyone else wakes up and pack a cooler with your favorite beverages.

Butler Elite rooms are the premiere rooms at the resort and offer special features. For example, many rooms have relaxing soaking tubs, the best views in the house, private pools, swim-up facilities, and massive living spaces. In addition, all Butler Elite accommodations come with the following luxury amenities:

• An in-room bar stocked with premium liquor, sparkling and non-sparkling wine, local beers, juice, and soft drinks
• An invitation to the weekly Butler Elite cocktail party and access to all Club Sandals events
• 24-hour in-room dining with expedited ordering (this is only available to Butler Elite guests) – you can also order from any restaurant in the resort
• Egyptian cotton linens
• His and her bathrobes

Mediterranean One Bedroom Butler Villa With Private Pool Sanctuary

This rondoval is known as the “best” room at Sandals Grande Antigua, and with good reason.

Located in the Mediterranean Oceanview Village and just a short walk to the beach, it comes with ocean views, a private pool and whirlpool, a spacious living room with mahogany furniture, and a master bedroom.

Price: from $950 per person per night

Caribbean Honeymoon Butler Rondoval With Private Pool Sanctuary

Although this rondoval is similar to the first one, it is located in the Caribbean Beachfront Village and is slightly smaller.

While this rondoval does not come with a living room or outdoor whirlpool, it has a beautiful private swimming pool and a spa-like soaking tub in the master bedroom.

Price: from $709 per person per night

Caribbean Beachfront Butler Rondoval

Situated directly on the beach in the Caribbean Beachfront Village, these cozy huts feel like the ultimate island stay.

You can have dinner in the outdoor dining area while watching the sunset or relax on a shaded daybed on the beach. The interior features hardwood accents and warm tones.

Price: from $643 per person per night

Caribbean Honeymoon Beachfront Butler Suite

These honeymoon suites are the perfect choice for couples looking for an open-concept, combined master bedroom and living area.

The whole place feels incredibly spacious, and the ocean views from the many windows are incredible.

Although these suites are located on the first and second floors of the Poinsettia Building, the second-floor rooms have better views.

Price: $612 per person per night

Mediterranean Oceanview Penthouse One Bedroom Butler Suite

Offering breathtaking views of Dickenson Bay, this suite has a living room with a large balcony, a master bedroom with blonde wood furniture, and a bathroom with a Roman whirlpool tub. It’s an excellent choice for couples who want space.

Price: $512 per person per night

Mediterranean Honeymoon Romeo and Juliet Oceanview Penthouse One Bedroom Butler Suite

This suite is slightly smaller than the one mentioned in the previous entry, but there’s still plenty of room to relax.

It comes with impressive views of the ocean, the Mediterranean Oceanview Village pool and surrounding tropical gardens.

Price: $477 per person per night

Caribbean Honeymoon Seaside Butler Suite

Located in the Caribbean Beachfront Village, this suite is set back from the sand, but it still has gorgeous views of the gardens, and some rooms include partial ocean views.

The room itself comes with a welcoming balcony or veranda, a whirlpool tub, and a living area.

Price: $469 per person per night

Club Level

These rooms and suites are ideal mid-range options. Although they don’t include the services of a private butler, they are still luxurious and very comfortable.

If you don’t want to break the bank with a Butler Elite room, Club Level is an excellent choice.

Club Level rooms include the following amenities and services:

• An in-room bar stocked with liquor (non-premium), local beer, wines, juices, and soft drinks
• In-room dining from 7am to 10pm from a limited menu
• Access to Club Sandals Concierge, where you can book spa service, excursions, and restaurant reservations
• 24-hour access to the Club Sandals Lounge, where you can relax, watch TV, play board games, and enjoy refreshments

Mediterranean Oceanview Grande Luxe Club Level Suite

Located in the Mediterranean Oceanview Village, this suite offers panoramic views of the main pool area, the tropical gardens, and the ocean from the balcony.

It has a sitting area, a loveseat, and a whirlpool tub as well as a walk-in shower.

Price: from $331 per person per night

Caribbean Honeymoon Beachfront Grande Luxe Walkout Club Level Room

This is our favorite Club Level room due to its grand interior and views of the Caribbean Village swimming pool and ocean from the veranda.

Decorated with white and blue accents, this room feels light and airy – ideal for an effortless, romantic getaway.

Price: from $330 per person per night

Caribbean Honeymoon Beachfront Grande Luxe Club Level Room

Located near the Northern side of Dickenson Bay, this room is situated on the second floor of the Frangipani Building and overlooks a peaceful swimming pool.

If you are looking for seclusion and quiet, this room is an excellent choice.

Price: from $304 per person per night

Mediterranean Honeymoon Oceanview Club Level Suite

This suite is similar to the first entry on the Club Level list, but the sitting area is smaller and doesn’t have an indoor dining area.

Price: from $304 per person per night

Caribbean Walkout Club Level Veranda Suite

This walkout suite is an excellent option for couples who want to feel surrounded by nature.

From the patio, you can enjoy the fragrant aroma of tropical flowers even though you are just steps from the beach.

Price: from $291 per person per night

Mediterranean Walkout Club Level Suite

Located on the ground floor of the Olive and Cyprus Buildings, these suites offer views of manicured gardens and sprawling lawns. There is also a patio, an indoor sitting area, and a whirlpool tub.

Price: from $289 per person per night

Caribbean Club Level Veranda Suite

Sticking to the blue-tone theme found throughout the walkout suites in the Caribbean Beachfront Village, this suite is filled with calming turquoise and sky blues.

All of these suites offer garden views and have beautiful verandas.

Price: from $285 per person per night

Sunset Bluff Luxury Poolside Walkout Club Level Room

For couples seeking easy pool access, this room is a dream come true. The room also comes with a sofa, a desk, and contemporary patio furniture.

Price: from $279 per person per night

Sunset Bluff Honeymoon Luxury Club Level Room

Overlooking one of the resort’s pools and the lush gardens, this room has an almost identical layout to the room on the entry above. However, it does not have direct pool access.

Price: from $274 per person per night

Mediterranean Club Level Suite

These are usually the most affordable Club Level rooms and are located on the first, second, or third floor of the Cypress or Almond Buildings.

For couples who want to be in the middle of the action, this is a great room choice.

Price: from $233 per person per night

Sandals Luxury

Although Sandals Luxury rooms are considered “entry-level” rooms, the ones at this resort are really nice and still feel luxurious despite the lower price tag.

However, keep in mind that these rooms don’t come with room service, and it can be more difficult to get reservations at popular restaurants during high season.

All Sandals Luxury rooms come with the following amenities:

• A four-poster, king-size bed
• An in-room bar stocked with Robert Mondavi wine, local beer, juice, and soft drinks
• A flat-screen TV, a coffee and tea maker, air conditioning, a hairdryer, an in-room safe, a make-up mirror, daily housekeeping, and a Red Lane Spa toiletries kit

Caribbean Honeymoon Grande Luxe Poolside Walkout Room

Situated next to a pool surrounded by blooming tropical flowers, these rooms come with a patio that’s perfect for relaxing in the evenings.

These rooms tend to be quieter, and they’re within easy walking distance of the tennis courts.

Price: from $268 per person per night

Caribbean Honeymoon Grande Luxe Poolside Room

Featuring a petite balcony, these rooms are located on the first and second floors of the Oleander or Flamboyant Buildings.

While the views are not the best in the resort, the location is peaceful, and the pool is one of the quieter ones.

Price: from $262 per person per night

Caribbean Honeymoon Premium

These cozy cottages are adorable and look like something you might find nestled in a traditional English garden.

French windows in the bedroom and a delightful patio with a seating area only add to the Old World romance.

Price: from $257 per person per night

Caribbean Deluxe

These rooms are almost identical to the ones in the previous entry, but they have a different location and offer views of the gardens (instead of both the pool and gardens).

Price: from $251 per person per night

Restaurants at Sandals Grande Antigua

There is a total of 11 restaurants at Sandals Grande Antigua, and guests can enjoy unlimited dining and beverages.

In addition, guests can order premium liquor at all Sandals Grande Antigua’s restaurants and bars.

Marios

This tasteful Italian restaurant will transport you to the Lombardian countryside and is a great place to enjoy a romantic dinner.

Menu items include Tagliata di Manzo alla Griglia (grilled ribeye steak with cherry tomatoes and a balsamic reduction), Lasagna Tipica (a layered lasagna with beef ragu), and a variety of antipastos.

Drunken Duck

This traditional British pub is generally popular with the younger crowd and is the place to be after hours.

Bayside Restaurant

Located steps from the beach, this brasserie offers unbeatable views of Dickenson Bay Beach.

Menu items include Filet de Sole Meuniere (pan-seared sole fillet), Braised Lamb Shanks, and Crevettes Provençales (tiger prawns prepared in a white wine sauce).

Barefoot by the Sea

If you’re craving fresh seafood with an ocean view and a laid-back aesthetic, Barefoot by the Sea is the best choice.

Menu items include Blackened Salmon Fillet, Chorizo & Reef Shrimp Kebab, and a variety of grilled fish cooked to your specification.

Bella Napoli

If you’re craving homemade pizza with a variety of delicious toppings, you will love having lunch at this pizzeria.

Cafe De Paris

This Parisian-style patisserie offers crêpes, coffee, and a variety of pastries within easy walking distance of the pools.

Courtyard Bistro

If you’re looking for easy eats like burgers, fries, sandwiches, and salads, this al fresco restaurant is the best lunch place.

The promenade setting is romantic, and you can hear the waves break on the nearby sand.

Eleanor’s

This beachfront eatery is an ideal choice for couples looking for a laidback yet elegant dinner in a peaceful atmosphere.

The menu consists of traditional West Indian dishes, such as Pulled Jerk Pork & Coconut Shrimp, Pan-seared Crab, and Jamaican Style Steamed Snapper Fillet.

Soy Sushi Bar

Featuring a selection of delectable rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, this is the spot for sushi lovers or couples seeking a pre-dinner drink in a contemporary setting.

Ok Corral

This Southwestern restaurant offers Tex-Mex classics in a beautiful seaside setting.

Menu items include Slow Cooked Pork Baby Back Ribs, Chicken Fajitas, and Salmon Tostada.

Kimono’s

One of the resort’s most popular restaurants, Kimono’s is an exciting Japanese Teppanyaki-style grill where the food is prepared directly at your table.

Make sure you book a reservation as soon as you arrive at the resort to ensure you get a table.

FAQS

What Is Included in the Cost of Stay?

Sandals resorts are famous for the quantity and quality of inclusions that come with the cost of stay.

Don’t forget to check your room category (Butler Elite, Club Level, or Sandals Luxury) for additional inclusions, but the following amenities and services are included in your cost of stay:

• Roundtrip airport transfers
• Unlimited gourmet dining at all of the restaurants and bars at the resort
• Unlimited premium liquor at the bars and restaurants
• A stocked in-room bar
• Unlimited Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks Wines (six varieties)
• PADI-certified scuba diving and equipment (if you don’t have your PADI certification, you can obtain one for an additional fee at the resort)
• Snorkeling gear, kayaking, Hobbie Cats, paddle boarding, beach volleyball, pool volleyball, tennis, table tennis, bocci ball, board games, and pool
• Access to all live shows, themed nights, pool parties, beach parties, talent nights, billiard competitions, and karaoke nights
• Access to the fitness center and aerobics classes
• WIFI, tips, taxes, and gratuities (however, you should tip your private butler between $25 and $60 per day)
• A free Sandals destination wedding when you stay for at least three nights

What Is NOT Included in the Cost of Stay?

Before you arrive at the resort or during your stay, you can book additional “add-ons” to make your vacation more fun.

The following amenities, services, and “add-ons” are not included in the cost of stay:

• Laundry services
• Purchases at the gift shop
• Private candlelit dinners
• Private cabana rentals with private butler service
• Excursions and tours
• Photography packages
• Spa treatments
• Special wines on the Manager’s Wine List

Are there Wedding Packages Available at Sandals Grande Antigua?

Sandals offers a variety of customizable destination wedding packages guaranteed to meet the needs of you and your fiancé.

Wedding packages at Sandals Grande Antigua start from around $2,200 and come with many optional add-ons.

However, keep in mind that couples who stay for three or more nights receive a complimentary Sandals destination wedding and can customize their free wedding with enhancements or have it as is.

Sandals Grande Antigua has a lovely garden chapel, but if you are looking for the best Sandals overwater chapels, check out Sandals Ochi, Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals South Coast, or Sandals Grande St. Lucian.

How Far Is Sandals Grande Antigua From the Airport?

Sandals Grande Antigua is located 20 minutes from V.C. Bird International Airport.

Once you arrive at the airport, proceed to the Sandals lounge or desk. From here, you will take a complimentary transfer from the airport to the resort.

Is Sandals Grande Antigua Safe?

The safety and comfort of guests is the top priority of Sandals Grande Antigua, and the staff goes above and beyond to ensure guests safely enjoy their holiday.

Complimentary airport transfers take away an added step and ensure that guests arrive at the resort without difficulty.

The resort itself is also a safe place, but it is always best to implement smart travel practices. Don’t carry large amounts of cash, keep your valuables hidden, don’t engage with overly friendly strangers outside the resort, and follow your gut.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Sandals Grande Antigua?

The best time to visit Sandals Grande Antigua is November or May, the “shoulder season” months.

These are the months between high season and low season when prices are less expensive, the beaches aren’t crowded, and the weather is still good. However, you might experience an afternoon of rain, but it’s worth it for the financial savings.

The busiest time of year to visit Sandals Grande Antigua is in December, particularly around the holidays. We highly recommend picking another date if you can to save money and have a less crowded vacation.

Is Sandals Grande Antigua Adults-Only?

Yes, Sandals Grande Antigua is an adults-only resort.

Does Sandals Grande Antigua Have Overwater Bungalows?

No, Sandals Grande Antigua does not have overwater bungalows.

However, Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals South Coast, and Sandals Royal Caribbean offer beautiful overwater bungalows. Read more here.

Do You Need a Passport To Go to Sandals Grande Antigua?

Yes, US citizens need a passport with at least 6 months validity to go to Sandals Grande Antigua.

How Much Does It Cost to Stay at Sandals Grande Antigua?

Depending on the room category and dates, the least expensive all-inclusive room starts from $233 per person per night, and the most expensive villa starts from $794 per person per night.