There’s something truly special about packing your bags and heading to a destination where your biggest decision is whether to hit the pool or the beach. Recently, my husband and I did just that, enjoying a wonderful getaway at Sandals in Barbados. The experience was unique because it’s essentially two resorts in one: the classic Sandals Barbados and the newer, adjacent Sandals Royal Barbados. We stayed on the Barbados side, but having access to both properties meant double the fun, food, and relaxation.
First Impressions and a Room to Remember
Our room was nothing short of a sanctuary. We had a stunning view overlooking both a sparkling pool and the turquoise ocean beyond. Inside, a grand king-sized canopy bed set a romantic tone. The bathroom was spacious, but the real showstopper was our outdoor terrace. It featured a private soaking tub, perfect for unwinding with a cool drink after a day in the sun. It felt incredibly luxurious and private.
Pools, Pools, and More Pools
One of the standout features of the combined resorts is the sheer number of pools. Each side has its own main pool, plus several smaller, more intimate ones scattered throughout the grounds. We loved that the water was heated, so you could slip right in without that initial chill. Floating lazily on the provided rafts became a daily ritual.
The vibe at each pool was different, which we appreciated. On the Royal side, one of the main pools had a lively atmosphere, with a DJ spinning music, creating a fun, party-like vibe. If we wanted something more peaceful, we could easily find a quiet pool to read and relax. Some of the rooms on the Royal side even had their own semi-private pools, offering another layer of exclusivity.
Dining Adventures: From Donuts to Hibachi
With dozens of restaurants across both resorts, we were spoiled for choice at every meal. The variety was impressive, ranging from casual to upscale. We enjoyed everything from a classic steakhouse to an entertaining Japanese hibachi grill. One of my favorite morning treats was visiting the donut shop on the Royal side for a fresh, warm pastry. In the afternoon, the crepe and ice cream shop on the Barbados side was our go-to for a sweet snack.
While the food was consistently good and we never went hungry, it wasn’t quite at Michelin-star level. Service at some restaurants can also be slow, with long waits to be seated or served. Despite this, we found the meals tasty and the options plentiful.
Here’s a video of the resort:
Beach Days and Ocean Waves
The resort’s beach is visually stunning. The sand is incredibly fine and soft, like walking on talcum powder. The water is a brilliant aqua blue, exactly what you dream of in the Caribbean. However, the ocean here was quite rough during our stay. While beautiful to look at, the strong waves made it difficult for me to swim comfortably. There were jetties in place to break up the waves, creating a small, calmer area where you could take a dip —a nice alternative.
For a truly exceptional swimming experience, we took a short cab ride to the famous Carlyle Bay. The water there was like a completely different world—perfectly flat, calm, and as warm as a bathtub. It was an absolute paradise for swimming.
Adventures Beyond the Resort
We decided to book an excursion through the resort that took us back to Carlyle Bay, this time by boat. The tour was fantastic. We snorkeled over shipwrecks, saw countless colorful fish, and even had an amazing encounter with sea turtles.
On another day, we ventured out on our own to a spot called The Boatyard. For a reasonable fee, we got beach access, a voucher for food, and another hour-long snorkeling tour. I finally got the long swim I was craving, paddling for about half a mile in the calm, clear water. It was an incredible feeling.
The Verdict: A Trip Worth Taking
Like any trip, our stay had a few minor hiccups. We had an issue where our room wasn’t cleaned for two days, but once we brought it to their attention, the housekeeping staff was terrific for the rest of our stay. The slower service at some restaurants was also a slight drawback.
However, these minor cons were more than outweighed by the pros. The beautiful accommodations, the incredible variety of pools and restaurants, and the sheer beauty of Barbados made for an amazing vacation. Having two resorts to explore gave us so much to do and see.
Would I recommend Sandals Barbados? Absolutely. It’s a fantastic destination for couples looking for a mix of relaxation, fun, and a touch of luxury. We left feeling refreshed and happy, with a camera full of memories.
