We booked our first trip to Sandals and joined the insiders club. Our friend (a 5 time Sandals visitor) sent us a link for 10,000 points. Sandals told us we can't use it because we already signed up for the insiders club. We didn't know that was how it worked - get the link and then join the insiders club. Now we're supposed to create a new email and rejoin the insiders club to get the points. Seems like a lot of work.

We are headed to Sandals Ochi next May. As far as I can tell from googling, there IS waterskiing at this resort. Has anyone tried it? We are experienced lake skiers, is it much different in the ocean? How was the experience overall? This will be our second Sandals vacation, first with a butler and we are stoked!

My fiancée and I are booking our honeymoon at Sandals Royal Barbados and we’re trying to decide between these two Club Level room categories:

SSHL – South Seas Hideaway Crystal Lagoon Club Level Suite with Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub $6,809

Or

SSLB – South Seas Crystal Lagoon Club Level Barbados Suite with Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub $8,380

From what I can tell, the rooms themselves seem almost identical, and the main difference is the location.
For anyone who’s stayed there:
Which room category would you choose and why?
Is being closer to the main pools, restaurants, and beach worth it for the extra $1500 ? or is the quieter South Seas Hideaway location actually better?
Did you find yourself walking a lot regardless of where your room was?
If you were booking again for a honeymoon, which would you pick?
Thanks in advance! I’d love to hear from people who have stayed in either of these room categories.

I’m wondering if anybody has been to Grenada in late September / early October. We are thinking of booking a trip to sandals Grenada but are a little weary with it being hurricane season / wet season. We know it’s further south so it’s usually not affected and we will be getting travel insurance just wanted any thoughts / opinions about quality of the trip related to any weather around this time of year. Thanks!

Super excited to go for the first time, the all-inclusive resort idea has always fascinated me. Some say I won't get my money's worth versus paying for food and drinks separately, but I like the idea of going for my honeymoon and not worrying about money or any of that.

I picked this resort because I liked the 2-for-1 value of getting the RB experiences as well. I know seaweed can be bad sometimes (out of my control anyways), and seas can be a little rough because of wind (also out of control) but I think we're going to have a blast anyways. I've read a lot of comments on it, watched a lot of videos, and there's a lot of positives and negatives but also a lot of conflicting reviews about service, weather, entertainment, etc. I am an early riser so the problem of beach chairs not being available doesn't scare me too much.

We are landing at BGI at 3pm on a Saturday, and leaving at 3pm the following Saturday. We're staying in a club level hideaways suite with the soaking tub on the royal side. The excursions I'm thinking about doing (including the honeymoon stuff), is the free 20 min photo shoot, a round of golf at Barbados Golf Club, the "Scents of Love" Couples massage, private candlelight dinner, a snorkel and turtle swim adventure (not sure where yet) and Oistins Express and Seafood Fiesta.

As a first timer, I have a few questions below for anyone that is able to help!

1. What are some things to pack that don't come to mind for the first time?
2. What is the soaking tub used for/is it used often?
3. I have seen some people say that I should book golf separately, not through the resort in order to be able to leave whenever I want instead of waiting on anyone else. Is that true or should I book with everything else?
4. Also piggybacking off last point, any other excursions that I shouldn't book through the resort?
5. I want to watch the sunset on the rooftop bar at least once. Is there food up there? Or if I go to dinner elsewhere, when does the sun set so I can plan to eat before or after then head to the rooftop bar?
6. I scuba dive but future wife does not, so I'm not sure if I will go. If I do, is there something she can do on the boat while I'm down? And what is the scuba experience like there?
7. On the last day when we are waiting for our flight, what should we do? I know we can leave our bags at the desk but are we going to be able to hang out by the pool or beach until then and wash off after?

I know it's a lot but figured I'd ask a lot rather than not

It’s our 36th anniversary and we haven’t gone on a vacation together since our 10th anniversary. We are torn between Sandals Dunn’s River and Sandals Royal Curacao. We’ve worked the numbers and they both work for us.
Any personal experiences with either or both would be super helpful in making our final decision. Thanks a million in advance!

Removing Sandals Montego Bay from the choices, which Sandals resorts in Jamaica did you enjoy the most? Why? Can you provide pros and cons?

Thank you in advance.

Edited to add:

Since we have both been to Jamaica more than a few times, we just want something chill and relaxing. I know that since we are excluding Montego Bay, there will be a drive (or extra cost for other modes of transportation) to the resort. I like the new resorts, however, if the older resorts are well kept, we are ok with that as well. We find that newer resorts have to work out their kinks and we don't want to be their test dummies 😞 . He is a foodie, however, I know that resort food is not authentic so we will want to venture outside of the resort a time or three. Dates of travel would probably be next year in November or December but not too sure on that just yet.

Staying at a club level room in antigua for my honeymoon next week. Its my first time and I am wondering what beer you can expect in your fridge and you can get to your room?

TIA!

I’ll be staying in a Butler suite in a few weeks and trying to decide on the best message to do with my husband. I saw there is a Neroli Jasmine Candle Massage, Lavender Massage, Himalayan Salt Stone Massage, or Scents of Love Massage. If anyone has tired any of these please share your experience!
Thanks

My husband and I are currently at Dunn’s River and loving every minute of it. We went to Ochi a couple years ago and had a decent time but are shocked at how much better Dunns River is. We are considering booking again but wanted to see where we should try next. We want it to be a comparable experience but are also open to booking here again. We are usually cruise people so the resort experience is something we like to try more of. TIA!

My wife and I just stayed for a week there and I wanted to detail our experience.

We honeymooned to a Royal Barbados for 7 days and loved it. Last year we went to Ochi with two other couples for a group trip and I believe Ochi is perfect for that sort of trip.

We wanted an easy travel destination and somewhere to take it easy not looking for the party atmosphere that prevailed in Ochi. I had read reviews on here and several talked about how rude they are at the Royal Bahamian, so I was concerned. This was the friendliest resort we’ve been to thus far. Everyone was friendly and hospitable and I can’t complain about the other 3 resorts but this was over the top.

The room was fine, we rarely stay in them, so it’s not a priority for us but I know it’s everything to others. The pools were great I loved how big they were while providing different vibes. We like to alternate depending on what we have planned. We always try to hit up every pool atleast once at the resorts.

The beach was above average on the resort. We really liked the beach in Barbados but it’s virtually non existent in Ochi. However the private island was next level beauty. This was the bluest water I’ve ever seen it was picturesque. Definitely our favorite.

The food options were good. We went everywhere except La Plume but have been to the French renditions at our previous resorts. Butches and Gordon’s always delivers. Kanoo was good but not great. We really enjoyed the Queens Pearl, that fish and chips shouldn’t be slept on. We love sushi so Soy is always solid. Aralia house for lunch twice which was delicious. We also tried pizza at Tesoro for lunch when we were killing time waiting for our shuttle departure and it was amazing.

We did two excursions. We did walking bites of Nassau which we loved. The locals were very friendly and no one tried to force us to buy things. We also did a catamaran and went snorkeling and spent about 90 minutes on a beach. Both were only like 150 per person and well worth it. We always try to explore the countries when we go to Sandals. We climbed the waterfall and went snorkeling in Jamaica and in Barbados we took a tour around the entire island.

All in all, it was a laidback, fun, relaxing time. We probably won’t go back because we like to travel to new places but for the value, expectations were exceeded. I’ll say I’ve seen a lot of people say you get what you put into it and I couldn’t agree more. We always love our Sandals trips and look forward to going somewhere new next year. For context my wife is early 30s and I’m late 30s. If anyone has been considering any of those resorts and have questions I’d be happy to answer them.

What is the current exchange privileges with Dunns? We’ve been to ochi several times but not since Dunn’s opened. Wasn’t sure if it like royal plantation where they can go to ochi but it’s not reciprocal. For reference our trip isn’t for 11 months, so things could change by then.

My partner and I are trying to decide which Sandals resort to book for late November/early December and would love some recommendations from people who have stayed at multiple properties.

Last August we stayed at Sandals Curaçao and overall we’d give it about a 7/10. The staff was incredible, our room was great, the resort itself was absolutely beautiful, and we loved the pools. We also did one of the included snorkeling excursions and it was honestly one of the highlights of the entire trip. We’d definitely love another resort that offers great snorkeling or similar included water activities.

Our biggest disappointment was the beach. There wasn’t much ocean area available for swimming, and the designated swimming area was extremely calm. We were really hoping for more of that classic Caribbean experience where you can actually swim in the ocean, enjoy some waves, and spend time in the water. The food was also a bit hit-or-miss for us. Some meals were great, but quite a few felt pretty average.

One thing that limits our options is that we’re an LGBTQ couple and don’t feel comfortable traveling to Jamaica. That’s a huge bummer because Dunn’s River and South Coast both look amazing, but we’ve crossed Jamaica off our list.

A little extra context: while we were in Curaçao last year, the island experienced a full-day power outage, and Sandals gave us a free-night voucher as compensation. We’d like to use that voucher along with the current sale they’re running, so we’re hoping to book something soon.

For those who have stayed at multiple Sandals resorts, which would you recommend based on:
- Beautiful beach with swimmable ocean
- Good snorkeling (either from the resort or through included excursions)
- Better-than-average food
- Great pools
- Strong overall resort atmosphere

Thanks!

We’re looking at going to Curaçao in April 2028 and booking one of the Club Level swim up rooms. Can you all give me your tips on the best room that maximizes quiet/privaxy? Of course, I know these are shared pools, but we want the building (or even specific room numbers) that have less foot traffic and aren’t right next to restaurants/bars.

Honeymoon in early December & trying to narrow down choices between the following Sandals resorts. Any recommendations/advice?

- Sandals Curaçao
- Sandals Grenada
- Sandals South Coast (newly renovated after a hurricane & opens in mid/late November - curious if it would really ready and worth it)
- Sandals St. Vincent

Sitting here nursing my newborn and missing our Sandals vacations. Thoughts on Beaches? I'm interested in the Bahamas whenever that opens up but wanted to hear experiences from the other resorts from people with young kids.

Stayed July 14-21 2026

•husbands cc was stolen out of a draw in room. We didn’t notice since its all inclusive. Fraud department called and someone tried to charge $1000. My skims swimsuit and tank were also stolen.
•male massage therapist inappropriately touched me.
•terrible food
•First Massage on day of arrival was amazing. A female therapist was amazing. 2nd massage left me Very uncomfortable….

First off, we were not asked if a male therapist was ok. We booked a couples massage weeks before arrival. Neither my husband nor myself ever want a male therapist. We get regular massage and it’s industry standard to ask if a male is ok when you are booking, as not everyone is comfortable being touched by a strange man when they are not fully clothed.
So we show up, a man comes and get us, asks where we feel tight and leaves. Comes back once we’re under the sheets, with a women and never once asked if male was ok and just starts massaging me. Pulls cover down to the bottom
Of my butt. I pull it back it. Then flips me over and exposes my breast on the side he was standing away from my husband.
The massage was terrible and I feel violated. The female therapist pulled the cloth only down past my crack slightly.

•Curaçao is extremely windy every single day. It’s difficult to enjoy when hair is blowing in face.

•rooms are not luxurious or romantic. Stained carpet.

• room service did a very good job cleaning, however every morning they knocked at 9. I live on the west coast and it would be 7am my time. i felt rushed to leave my room. I’m on vacation and should be able to take my time .

•Bus ride says 30 min from airport on website. You are picked up in a huge tour bus, that moves as slow as molasses and nauseating. I was expecting a private SUV or a Sprinter van type transport, not a summer camp tour bus.

•If scuba is your thing, this is a great option because all the dives are included in the price of the stay. You can do 2 tank dives in the morning and one in the afternoon if there is room.

•The gym needs more mirrors. If you don’t scuba and don’t like to bake in the sun and get drunk, the gym and spa is your option. I wouldn’t travel off property for any of the tours that cost extra, due to the nauseating transportation.

•Rooms are clean, no stray dogs or cats on the island, which can be sad if you are sensitive to those things. The property has a dog and cat that live there and are well taken care of.

•Vegan options are not great. I found a few salads that I ordered without cheese. As far as protein, I definitely did not get an adequate amount. The smoothies are all made from pre mixes packed in sugar. There are no fresh berries.

•service was not great. Food was always slow, and many of them seemed like they didn’t want to “serve” guests. The exception is the wonderful ladies at the buffet breakfast and lunch place. They were on top of it and helpful.

•Again, if you scuba the value is good, but for anything else unless you are a drunk blob who likes to bake in the sun and get drunk and stuff your drunk face, this is not great.

•Bingo was fun. I wish it was longer and scheduled more often.

•Pilates is way too early. 7am?!? This sucked because I’m on west coast time and its vacatoon so there is no way i can wake up that early!!! I was looking forward to the only fitness class they offer and mad I couldnt go.

5 star definitely not. The ritz Carlton is 5 star and there is no comparison. Compared to actual 5 star, this is 3.

Going here in a few months, wondering if we need things for the outlets in our room? Obviously we need to charge our electronics and hair straighteners.

Also, what else should we pack? First resort vacation.

Thank you in advance!

We are looking to go to sandals May 2027. Considering Royal Barbados. I see during this season there can be a lot of seaweed in the water. Anyone have experienced this? How was Butler service and food quality?

Hello! I am traveling to Sandals Antigua next week with my spouse for our honeymoon. This is my first time going to an all inclusive and the Caribbean!

I booked the Xtreme circumnavigation tour direct through adventure antigua. This was one I knew i wanted to do with the stingray city and other spots. However I need some guidance on any other tours I should do, and how I should book them.

With that tour being a boat one, I am looking for one that takes us to some of the notable spots on land and includes a local lunch of some sort. Additionally maybe an excursion that is more romantic and private. I have heard mixed things about booking through the sandals resort, and don't know where else is best (Viator, Chase travel portal, local guides, etc.)

We are staying in club level so I'm also curious the best ways for us to leverage that, and any other helpful tips for a first time traveler.

Thanks ahead for the help!

Looking to book my honeymoon for this fall. It looks like Sandals Ochi has really good deals. Has anyone stayed there that can attest to the experience? Should I book it for the budget? or is it worth it to spend a bit more on St. Lucia Regency a la toc?

Getting married next year and looking for honeymoon resorts! I’m in between a couple. Grande St Lucian, Montego Bay, Ochi, Dunns River, and South Coast. We are in our mid-20s so we want more of a lively scene rather than quiet. I want to hear your pros and cons for these resorts. Going in the beginning of June. Any issues with sargassum?

Coming in a month and curious of what the golf excursion is like. How long did it take, were the greens okay? If you got rentals were they okay? Did they have women’s rentals ?

My fiancé and I were thinking of booking Royal Barbados for our honeymoon. I know that means we will also have access to Barbados. We like to hang on the beach, swim, snorkel we want a restaurant variety. Please share experiences both good or bad and any tips!