Every Sandals Resort has an idyllic beach, amazing restaurants, lively bars, pools, spas, and even included scuba diving – so how do you pick the Best Sandals Resort?
Well, the good news is you really can’t go wrong if you’re going to any of the 16 Sandals Resorts. However, some resorts are just a little better than others, and small differences can make a big difference in your personal trip.
We have personally visited just about every Sandals Resort and stayed in most room types. With close to 100 nights of experience, we are going to help you pick the best Sandals Resort for your next vacation!
Here is our shortlist of highest-rated Sandals Resorts that consists of the Sandals properties that tick the most boxes and are just a cut above, in our opinion. These three resorts are the ones that we send our friends when they ask us which Sandals to visit. Each of these is guaranteed to be a magical vacation.
This Sandals Resort has it all! Beautiful beaches, secluded location, great restaurants, lively atmosphere, high-end room types, and stunning views of Pigeon Island Natl’ Park!
Perfect location right on Dickenson Bay Beach with calm turquoise waters, 6 pools, 11 great restaurants with warm & friendly staff!
Two resorts in one – With the best restaurants and entertainment in the Sandals Resort brand, plus an infinity pool overlooking a powder white sand beach!
Current Sandals Resorts Sale
Book now to take advantage of the current Sandals Resorts specials. These are some of the best rates for the year with some amazing freebies. You can combine it with current resort promotions. Resort special varies by resort and travel dates. Here are some of the current specials at Sandals Resorts:
- 1 Free night in select room categories
- Get up to $1,000 in booking credit
- Get a $400 resort credit to be used at the resort (spa, candlelight dinners, laundry, cabana, etc.)
- Get up to 65% off rack rates
- Plus, save an extra 7% off on top of all promotion
Click here to check rates for your preferred dates & Sandals Resort.
What is the newest Sandals Resort?
The All-New Sandals Dunn’s River opened in May 2023, making it the newest Sandals Resort.
Last year Sandals Royal Curacao opened in June of 2022, making this the second newest Sandals Resort.
Best Sandals Resorts Ranked
1. Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Sandals Grande St. Lucian is set on its own peninsula, and there is always something going on. The resort is located in Gros-Islet, St. Lucia, with its stunning views of mountains, ocean, and the far-flung shores of Martinique – a picturesque setting. We think Sandals Grande St Lucian is the best Sandals Resort because of the overall vibe and atmosphere at the resort. They have one of the best swim-up bars, and tons of other guests are there to have a good time and make new friends.
There is a nice beach, great views of Pigeon Island and St. Lucia, and tons of great restaurant options. All of this and more is what keeps Sandals Grande St. Lucian at the top of our best sandals resort list.
If you are stuck on which of the three Sandals Resorts in St. Lucia. to stay it is good to know about the “Stay at One, Play at Three.” which means you can stay at any of the Sandals in St. Lucia and visit any of the other properties. Guests have full exchange privileges meaning you can eat at the restaurants (a total of 27 restaurants in St. Lucia), play golf at Sandals La Toc, check out the other pools and bars, etc. It is a good way to check out the other properties, so you’ll know if you want to stay at a different property on your next trip.
If you like to get as close to the ocean as possible, stay in one of the overwater bungalows perched above the water. Make sure to watch our Youtube video from our stay in the overwater bungalows.
- 311 rooms on a 17-acre resort
- 12 restaurants & 6 bars
- 5 pools & 4 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Sandals Resorts Current Sales & An Additional 7% Off Current Specials
2. Sandals Grande Antigua
Sandals Grande Antigua is the best Sandals resort for a honeymoon and one of our favorites for many reasons, but mostly for the beach and pools. Sandals Antigua is in St John’s Antigua, right on Dickenson Bay, one of the best beaches in Antigua.
The resort Sandals Antigua is often referred to as the best sandals resort by repeat Sandals resort guests. The resort has not only an epic beach but great restaurants, pools, and staff just round out the resort. We love to spend the morning walking the beach, then hitting up a few of the six pools, followed by eating at least three different restaurants a day. There is so much to choose from at Sandals Antigua.
- 373 rooms on a 27-acre resort
- 11 restaurants & 7 bars
- 6 pools & 6 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Grande Antigua
3. Sandals Barbados & Sandals Royal Barbados Best Luxury
When you stay at Sandals Royal Barbados or Sandals Barbados, you can experience both Sandals properties. As both properties are literally combined, you will find yourself walking between both properties all the time. They both are awesome, and it doesn’t matter which Sandals Resort in Barbados you stay at. We love them both and consider them one property. If you like newer rooms with all the latest amenities and designs, choose Sandals Royal Barbados.
Exclusivity oozes from the pores of Royal Barbados, based in St Lawrence, Barbados. This resort will enchant you and keep you busy in equal measure. White sands framed by sparkling seas, subterranean caverns, and forests — this is a pretty special place to take a vacation.
The property grounds & restaurants are what puts Sandals Barbados at the top of the best Sandals Resorts list. The resort has a rooftop pool for you to enjoy (which was usually empty), but if you’re feeling a little more active (and competitive), make your way to the bowling alley. Yes, there is a bowling alley and an ice bar. No other Sandals Resort has this!
This place has a romantic ambiance and lively nightlife. Stay in one of the swim-up suites and dip in and out of the largest lagoon pool in Barbados.
Are you a foodie? This is one of the best Sandals resorts for those who enjoy gourmet cuisine. There are eleven restaurants to choose from, including an Indian eatery. This was our personal favorite restaurant onsite. We’ve been to India, and the garlic naan and butter chicken tasted straight out of India.
Prefer the motion of the ocean? Then you’re in luck, as you are right on top of Dover Beach, one of the best beaches in Barbados. End your day with a cool drink in one of the seven bars. Our favorite bar was the Merry Monkey. They have a great beer selection.
If you like to get off the resort for a day or two, we suggest renting a car and exploring the island. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Barbados.
Sandals Royal Barbados Facts
- 338 rooms on an 18-acre resort
- 9 restaurants & 6 bars
- 6 pools & 6 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Royal Barbados
Sandals Barbados Facts
- 280 rooms
- 11 restaurants & 8 bars
- 8 pools & 4 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Barbados
Related Article: Best Beaches Turks & Caicos Restaurants
4. Sandals Grenada
Grenada is known as “the island of spice,” and that it is. This exotic island paradise has it all. Gorgeous beaches, perfect turquoise waters, good diving, amazing views, and more. Most people think Grenada is harder to get to, but there are daily direct flights from Miami, NYC, Atlanta, and Toronto. So sooner than you know it, you’ll be in paradise.
Stay in a Skypool suite (our favorite room at Sandals Grenada) or a Rondoval suite with a private pool. There isn’t a bad room at the resort. It is small but not too small where it is missing out amenities. Sandals Grenada has it all.
If you are looking to be pampered on an island getaway, Sandals Grenada will be a great pick. Recline on the sands of the exclusive Pink Gin Beach and let your troubles drift away.
- 257 rooms on a 17-acre resort
- 12 restaurants & 6 bars
- 3 pools & 2 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Grande Grenada
5. Sandals South Coast – Whitehouse, Jamaica
Sandals South Coast is located in Whitehouse, Jamaica, and was previously called Sandals Whitehouse. If you adore the sea and surf, this is your place. Sleep in one of the overwater bungalows perched above the water and look out across the waves — all accommodation here overlooks the beach and sea. We stayed in an overwater bungalow here, and they are the best overwater bungalows in Jamaica.
You can sip a cocktail in the bar that also overlooks the water, and you can even get married in the overwater wedding chapel that sits over the waves! Did we mention that the resort has the biggest pool in Jamaica? The South Seas Village has the longest swim-up pool in the Western Hemisphere at 1,000 ft long.
It’s also super close to the famous Pelican Bar, a thatched roof bar in the middle of the ocean. It’s the coolest bar in the world! Sandals South Coast has catamaran trips out to the bar several times a week.
- 392 rooms on a 50-acre resort
- 9 restaurants & 7 bars
- 3 pools & 4 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals South Coast
6. Sandals Emerald Bay – Great Exuma Bahamas
There are two Sandals Bahamas properties, and the best Sandals in the Bahamas (according to us) is Sandals Emerald Bay, located in the Exumas. Sandals Emerald Bay is on a gorgeous mile-long beach with perfect powdery white sand and crazy blue water.
Sandals Emerald Bay is also one of the best Sandals resorts for golf enthusiasts. Enjoy the 18-hole golf championship course designed by none other than Greg Norman. If golfing isn’t your thing, you possibly have heard about the swimming pigs that live nearby. A tour to visit the swimming bigs in the Bahamas is a must! Don’t forget to bring these guys some snacks. When we went, I didn’t bring enough food for the swimming pigs.
If you prefer a more horizontal approach to your holidays, then relax on the mile-long white sands of Emerald Beach. After a lazy day, retire to your suite — there are bay houses and beachfront villas to choose from, and all are equally stunning. There are direct flights from Nassau, Miami, Atlanta, Ft. Lauderdale, Charlotte, and Toronto, making it one of the best Sandals resorts for a quick getaway.
- 249 rooms on a 500-acre resort
- 11 restaurants & 6 bars
- 3 pools & 3 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Emerald Bay
7. Sandals Royal Caribbean – Montego Bay, Jamaica
Sandals Royal Caribbean is often referred to as the best Sandals resort for guests because it is super easy to get to from the airport but beware, you will hear/see airplanes, but honestly, it won’t bother you. Peacocks meander around the landscaped grounds as you sit back and sip your cup of expertly poured Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee in the morning.
What about the secret surprise? Sandals Royal Caribbean has its very own private island. There’s an idyllic hidden beach, a swim-up bar, a Thai restaurant, and a deck leading out to the famous Sandals overwater bungalow rooms that form a heart. We stayed in them and loved everything about our stay. We never had to leave our room if we didn’t want to.
- 232 rooms on a 15-acre resort
- 9 restaurants & 5 bars
- 7 pools & 5 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Royal Caribbean
The world’s best honeymoons. Book now for an amazing 65% off at Sandals Resorts.
8. Sandals Negril – Negril, Jamaica
Sandals Negril is the perfect place for beach lovers, with a prime spot on the seven-mile-long sands. If you love long walks on the beach, Sandals Negril is for you. It’s located at the end of Seven Mile Beach, where you could spend the entire day walking the beach. Part of the reason we love Sandals Negril so much is that Seven Mile Beach is one of our favorite beaches in the world and where we got married! It is one of the smaller properties and doesn’t have a ton of restaurants and pools, but we don’t care. The beach more than makes up for it.
Guests have full exchange privileges with Beaches Negril, which you can easily walk to from Sandals Negril. Guests can eat at any 11 restaurants at Beaches, check out the other pools and bars, watch the entertainment, go down the slides at the waterpark, etc. It is a good way to check out Beaches Negril and see if you’d like to return on a family vacation with the kids next time.
In an exotic setting in Negril, Jamaica, this resort has a chilled-out ambiance and, without a doubt, it’s one of the best Sandals resorts in the Caribbean. It also has impressive eco-friendly credentials, winning a Green Global Award for its efforts. The building has been created to fit in with the glorious setting; it sits below the swaying palms rather than towering above.
- 226 rooms on a 12-acre resort
- 7 restaurants & 5 bars
- 3 pools & 3 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Negril
Related Article: Things to do in Jamaica
9. Sandals Royal Bahamian – Nassau, Bahamas
Sandals Bahamian was completely renovated, and it reopened in 2022. The resort now offers new beachfront swim-up butler and club-level suites,
Sandals Royal Bahamian has history, culture, and a hint of the exotic. You’ll find it all here at this resort in Nassau, Bahamas. We love spending the day on Sandals private Island, which is a half mile away and just a quick water taxi ride away. If you are planning a destination wedding in the Bahamas, this would be the perfect spot!
The resort is located on the best beach in Nassau, so if sun, sand, and surf are your things, this is one of the best Sandals resorts to visit. When you’re not lounging on the picture-perfect sands, you can swim in one of seven pools (some are cleverly hidden away) or relax in one of six whirlpools.
- 404 rooms on a 15-acre resort
- 10 restaurants & 8 bars
- 7 pools & 6 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Royal Bahamian
10. Sandals Ochi – Ocho Rios, Jamaica
If you are seeking energy and want to feel the pulse of Jamaica, this Sandals resort in Ocho Rios is a great place to stay. Every time we stay at Sandals Ochi, we meet a great group of people there to have a good time. The vibe is what keeps us coming back. It’s got a hip, on-trend vibe and sits on just over 100 acres of lush vegetation.
Accommodation-wise, you have a hard choice. Will it be the vibrant beach club that looks out over a half-mile stretch of white sands or the hideaway villas and estate perched on the hill? We always stay in the hideaway villas, but you should know you’ll have to take a shuttle down to the beach and another part of the property. Wherever you decide to rest your head, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to facilities.
There are an astounding one hundred and five swimming pools and twenty-two whirlpools! Add to this the sixteen restaurants waiting to dish up appetizing cuisine and eleven bars –including a speakeasy. If you like to get off the resort and explore, make sure to check out Dunn’s River Falls, which is close to the resort.
If that’s not enough, how about the chance to play golf as often as you like? Guests at Sandals Ochi are invited to play at the nearby Sandals Golf and Country Club, which is included and free.
- 519 rooms on a 100-acre resort
- 16 restaurants & 11 bars
- 105 pools & 6 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Ochi
11. Sandals Regency La Toc – Castries, St. Lucia
Sandals Regency La Toc is located in Castries, St Lucia. Sandals Regency La Toc is opulent and chic, complete with a top-of-the-range golf course and gourmet cuisine. Golf lovers will love spending the morning golfing on the 9-hole Sandals La Toc golf course.
There’s a beautiful beach with stunning coral, and the backdrop is just as pretty – green and lush. Stay in a villa facing out to the ocean or one located in a picturesque village. Swim in the three pools or laze in a whirlpool (there are four in total).
Don’t forget about the “Stay at One, Play at Three.” This basically means you can stay at any of the Sandals in St. Lucia and visit any of the other properties. Guests have full exchange privileges meaning that you can eat at the restaurants (a total of 27 restaurants in St. Lucia), play golf at Sandals La Toc, check out the other pools and bars, etc. It is a good way to check out the other properties, so you’ll know if you want to stay at a different property on your next trip.
- 323 rooms on a 220-acre resort
- 9 restaurants & 8 bars
- 3 pools & 4 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Regency La Toc
12. Sandals Montego Bay – Montego Bay, Jamaica
Sandals Montego Bay was the original Sandals resort in 1983. It’s had a bit of a makeover in recent times, and now you will find a great choice of accommodation, suites you can swim up to, romantic rooms, and suites with butler service included! All are very stylish and guaranteed to make your holiday special.
For those not up for a long ride from the airport to the resort, you’re in luck. The hotel is 5 minutes away. Also nearby is Sandals Royal Caribbean. Guests have exchange privileges, so they can spend the day over at that resort for lunch/dinner or whenever they choose to visit.
- 272 rooms on a 26-acre resort
- 12 restaurants & 6 bars
- 7 pools & 3 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Montego Bay
Related Article: Best Beaches in Jamaica
13. Sandals Halcyon – Castries, St. Lucia
Sandals Halcyon Beach is located in Castries in St Lucia. Enjoy the peace and quiet of this beautiful resort. There are lush tropical gardens and cute-as-a-button cottages sitting below swaying palms; no high-rises to spoil the stunning vistas here!
For those travelers who use a wheelchair or walker or are physically challenged, this is one of the best Sandals resorts for you. The entire Sandals Halcyon property has low-rise architecture and is easy to get around.
Sandals Halcyon is the second smallest Sandals resort, so if you are looking for a smaller resort but still want a ton of restaurant and bar options, head here. Make sure to take advantage of the “Stay at One, Play at Three” and visit the other two Sandals Resorts in St. Lucia for amenities and dining options.
- 169 rooms on a 22-acre resort
- 6 restaurants & 7 bars
- 3 pools & 3 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Halcyon Beach
14. Sandals Royal Plantation – Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Sitting adjacent to majestic mountains and tranquil waters in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Sandals Royal Plantation certainly makes the grade as one of the best Sandals resorts to visit. Seclusion is guaranteed, with two private cove beaches available for guests to lounge on.
Sandals Royal Plantation is the smallest Sandals resort, but it is a Butler resort.
There are also five restaurants to choose from, and the butler service makes this resort feel exceptionally special. There’s something for golfers too. Head over to Sandals Golf & Country Club 18 Hole par 71 courses. Remember golfing is included in your stay, as is free diving.
- 74 rooms on a 10-acre resort
- 5 restaurants & 2 bars
- 2 pools & 1 whirlpools
- Learn more about Sandals Royal Plantation
15. Sandals Royal Curacao – Opened in 2022
The second newest Sandals resort, Sandals Royal Curacao, opened in the summer of 2022. Make sure to read our Sandals Curacao to learn more about what we can expect at the resort. We can’t wait to visit and spend a week exploring the gorgeous beaches of Curacao.
- 260 rooms on a 25-acre resort
- 11 restaurants & 13 bars
- 3 pools & 1 whirlpool
- Learn more about Sandals Royal Curacao
Book right now as the Save Big Sale is going on! Click here to take advantage of the rates.
16. Sandals Dunn’s River – The Newest Sandals Resort
The brand new Sandals Dunn’s River opened in May 2023, making it the newest Sandals Resort. With 12 restaurants and 9 bars to choose from, we know we’ll never go hungry or thirsty!
We can’t wait to travel to Jamaica again and check out Sandals Dunn’s River.
- 350 rooms on a 44-acre resort
- 12 restaurants & 9 bars
- 3 pools & 2 whirlpools
Where are the Sandals Overwater bungalows?
If staying in an overwater bungalow in the Caribbean is on your bucket list, don’t worry. Sandals have three properties with overwater bungalows.
The first overwater bungalows were at Sandals Royal Caribbean, located on their own private island. Sandals have since added overwater bungalows to Sandals St. Grande St Lucian and Sandals South Coast. We personally have spent four nights in each of the overwater bungalows at St Lucia and South Coast.
Brand New Over-The-Water Villas include a private infinity pool, hammock over the water and so much MORE. Book now for 65% off and much MORE.
What is the best time of year to travel to the Caribbean?
All of the Sandals Resort locations are located in the Caribbean. Certain islands are more prone to be affected by hurricane season than others. You never know what the weather will do, so it’s hard to say exactly.
The safest bet would be to avoid traveling during hurricane season, which typically is May-October. If you travel during the low season, you’ll be treated with lower occupancy rates and attractive prices.
But with that being said, some of our best trips to Jamaica have been during September and October. We typically travel to the Caribbean January-March not only because the weather in the Caribbean is at its best but we are escaping the brutal winters back home.
Regarding the weather, the Caribbean is renowned for having a wonderful climate, with a temperature of around 75-85 degrees year-round. December to April is generally considered the ideal time to visit, as it’s lovely and warm — but not baking hot — dry and less humid. If you travel between May and November, the resorts will be quieter, but you do run the risk of showers.
Don’t forget your insurance! You never know when you’ll need it. We suggest getting travel insurance with Safety Wing. Which coverage includes medical, trip interruption, lost luggage, and more. Often rates are as low as $12 a week.
List of all Sandals Resorts
How many Sandals Resorts are there?
There are 16 different Sandals Resort properties, with two new Sandals Resorts in progress.
- Sandals Montego Bay – Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Sandals Royal Caribbean – Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Sandals Negril – Negril, Jamaica
- Sandals Ochi -Ocho Rios, Jamaica
- Sandals Royal Plantation – Ocho Rios, Jamaica
- Sandals South Coast – Whitehouse, Jamaica
- Sandals Grande St. Lucian – Gros-Islet, St Lucia
- Sandals Halcyon Beach – Castries, St Lucia
- Sandals Regency La Toc – Castries, St Lucia
- Sandals Grande Antigua – St. John’s, Antigua
- Sandals Emerald Bay – Great Exuma, Bahamas
- Sandals Royal Bahamian – Nassau, Bahamas
- Sandals Barbados – St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados
- Sandals Royal Barbados – St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados
- Sandals Grenada – St. George’s, Grenada
- Sandals Curacao – Willemstad, Curacao
- Sandals Dunn’s River – Ocho Rios, Jamaica JUST OPENED IN MAY 2023
- Sandals Royal Dunns’ River –RENOVATION IN PROGRESS
Sandals Resorts FAQ:
What was the first Sandals location?
Sandals Montego Bay, Jamaica, was the first-ever Sandals Resort in 1981.
Are Sandals Resorts adults only?
Yes, Sandals Resorts are 18+ only. If you are hoping to bring the kids, check out Beaches Resorts, which is part of the Sandals family of resorts.
What Countries are Sandals Resorts located in?
Sandals is a Jamaican company that initially just had properties in Jamaica, but in 1991 it opened up Sandals Antigua, its first property outside of Jamaica. They have been expanding ever since and are now in seven countries: Jamaica, Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, Saint Lucia, Grenada, and Curacao.
Book Your Sandals Resorts Vacation Now and Get up to a $1000 Instant Booking Bonus.
The Best Sandals Resorts are waiting for you!
Sixteen beautiful Sandals resorts await you – the only question is, which one will you choose? Each and every one offers unparalleled luxury and a fully-inclusive experience. Just don’t ask us how you will decide which one to visit – they are all amazing. Grab your flip-flops and your shades, and head for some serious fun in the sun. Bon Voyage.
Don’t Forget to Pin Me for Later!
Rosa Schneidder
Sunday 5th of February 2023
The Sandals in Curacao has one of the nicest properties, if not the nicest. The only main downside would be the lack of a proper "beach". It was fine for me but I could other people not liking it.
David Potter
Monday 5th of September 2022
The best of course depends on what you are looking for. If you are looking for a more relaxing vacation, then Halcyon Beach in St. Lucia is the absolute best. The combination of a relaxing beach and 3 very nice pools is great. The main pool is more of a mild party type, but there is the long pool and a smaller pool with a bar if you just want to read and relax. The staff is so friendly! Although the current restaurants are good, the site could use one more restaurant, perhaps a pub type. But that would not prevent us from coming back to this tropical paradise. Just walking around this resort is a treat with the finely manicured lawns and shrubs and the flowers are wonderful. We spent 2 weeks there and that was the best vacation that my wife and I have ever had.
Hannah Lukaszewicz
Monday 5th of September 2022
You are right, it totally depends on what you are looking for in your vacation. 2 weeks there, that must have been amazing!
Tracey Guma Ninsiima
Wednesday 13th of March 2019
Which Sandals would you recommend for a destination wedding with friends and family?
Hannah Lukaszewicz
Friday 15th of March 2019
We love Negril, we actually got married there. It's right on Seven Mile Beach so you could easily walk the beach and visit local beach bars.Plus flights to Jamaica are much cheaper than some of their other properties. Hope that helps.
Tony Barnett
Thursday 7th of February 2019
My wife and I prefer Sandals South Coast to all others mentioned. We have stayed at numerous properties but keep gravitating back to South Coast. Staff is exceptional in every aspect of hospitality. You can go wrong with South Coast. "TRY IT",I'm sure you will love it.
Amy
Wednesday 24th of July 2019
Which Sandals Resort would recommend for myself and my husband? We're polar opposites lol. I love to be a slug on vacation - pool, beach and spa is important to me. I have some mobility issues due to medical issues, but I'm not wheelchair bound, just can't do a ton of walking.
He's all about seeing local areas, particularly historical sites and hiking. If given the choice between pool and beach, he'll take the pool.
We both love great food, but he's a SUPER picky eater. We'd both be interested in exploring neighboring Sandals as well.
TIA!
Adam
Thursday 7th of February 2019
We enjoyed Sandals South Coast very much - it was great for relaxing. It's a very large and beautiful property and we wouldn't hesitate to return. However, someone looking for a more lively atmosphere this wouldn't be the place I send them to. I think everyone is looking for a different type of Sandals vacation and that's why we wrote this article to help people decide which resort would be best for them.