Sandals Barbados Review
Reviewed by Nicole Rosania | Updated on July 24, 2024
Sandals Barbados offers a heavenly honeymoon experience where the beauty of Maxwell Beach merges with lush gardens. Located in the renowned St. Lawrence Gap, this all-inclusive resort places couples at the heart of Barbados’ most enchanting and vibrant area.
The luxurious accommodations harmoniously blend with the tropical scenery, allowing couples to immerse themselves in the Caribbean view from the Beachfront Suites and indulge in the delightful innovation of the Crystal Lagoon Swim-Ups, turning romantic dreams into reality.
Sandals Barbados has received prestigious recognition from the World Travel Awards as the “Caribbean’s Leading Resort” and “Barbados’ Best Resort Spa.” To truly understand its unparalleled charm, you must experience it for yourself on this once-in-a-lifetime romantic journey.
The resort ambiance is a perfect fusion of mosaic tiled columns and contemporary furnishings, creating a refined and laid-back atmosphere. The three distinct villages—Crystal Lagoon Village, Beachfront Village, and Caribbean Village—provide unique settings within the resort, each with its own charm.
Abundant outdoor seating allows you to relish in the irresistible allure of your tropical surroundings, while open-air restaurants and bars invite you to revel in the beauty of Barbados, both day and night.
Recommended Accommodations
Here are our recommended rooms for each of Sandals room categories.
Beachfront Penthouse One Bedroom Butler Suite w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub
The brand-new Beachfront Penthouse Butler Suites at Sandals Barbados include an expansive balcony providing top-floor ocean views and a private Tranquility Soaking Tub for two. The interior features a cozy living area with HD smart TV, along with a four-poster, king-size bed and additional HD Smart TV in the primary bedroom. Attached is an en-suite bathroom complete with a dual-control walk-in shower, claw foot bathtub, and double sink.
At the Butler level, honeymooners can enjoy personal butler service, 24-hour in-room dining, and VIP check-in.
Crystal Lagoon Swim-Up Club Level Luxury Room with Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub
Enjoy your dream Barbados honeymoon in one of Sandals’ premier Crystal Lagoon Swim-Up Club Level suites. Located on the ground floor of the Crystal Lagoon Village, these luxurious Club Level suites include a large private patio with a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two and swim-up access to the Crystal Lagoon pool. The spacious interior features a four-poster, king-size bed, HD Smart TV, and fully stocked bar. The en-suite, spa-style bathroom has a double vanity and walk-in rain shower.
Guests at this level can enjoy Club Sandals concierge services, including a private check-in, all day in-room dining, and access to the Club Sandals Lounge.
Crystal Lagoon Luxury Honeymoon Room with Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub
At the Luxury level, we recommend the Crystal Lagoon Honeymoon Room. Located on the second and third floors of the Crystal Lagoon Village, these luxurious rooms feature a private balcony with a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two and the best views of the Crystal Lagoon pool below and tropical gardens.
The spacious interior features a four-poster, king-size bed, HD Smart TV, and en-suite bathroom with a double sink and walk-in rain shower. The room also includes a refrigerator stocked with local wines, beer, juices, soda, and bottled water.
Restaurants at Sandals Barbados
Sandals Barbados offers honeymooners 11 unique restaurants with international chefs to choose from, along with access to an additional 10 at the nearby Sandals Royal Barbados.
Bombay Club
Offers flavorful Indian cuisine in an open-air setting. Enjoy the tropical ambiance while savoring dishes like Butter Chicken and Veggie Samosas. Bombay offers dinner daily from 5:30 – 10 pm. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Butch’s Chophouse
Butch’s Steak & Seafood serves only the highest quality grain-fed Midwestern beef with the finest fish and exquisite side dishes meant to share. Dress code here is Resort Evening Attire and reservations are required. Dinner is served daily from 5:30 – 9:30 pm.
Cafe de Paris
The go-to spot for lattes in the morning and sweet treats in the afternoon. This cafe has long hours — it’s open from 7 am – 10 pm. Dress code here is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Dino’s Pizzeria
The go-to option for pizza lovers craving a casual lunch. Dress code here is Resort Casual and reservations are not required. Open from 11 am – 6 pm daily.
Merry Monkey English Pub
Sample Newcastle Brown ale and authentic British gastro pub fare while surrounded by cozy decor. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required. Open daily for dinner from 5 – 10 pm and for late night bites from 10 pm – 2 am.
Kimonos
Traditional Japanese hibachi restaurant. Enjoy exotic cuisine as chefs juggle cooking utensils and cook on a flat surface iron grill. Open for dinner daily from 5:30 – 9 pm. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are required.
Portofino’s
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, open-air atmosphere. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required. Open daily from 7:30 – 11 am and for dinner from 5:30 – 9:30 pm.
Schooners
Try authentic Caribbean flavors at this beach club setting. During dinner hours (6 – 9:30 pm), tiki torches and stars light the night. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required. Breakfast is served daily from 7:30 – 11 am.
Soy Sushi
An Asian dinner option with an elegant twist. This sushi house offers exotic sushi creations made-to-order. Guests can enjoy a nightcap or pre-dinner cocktail near the fire pits. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required. Open for dinner from 6 – 10 pm.
Spices Caribbean Cuisine
Offers delicious breakfast options, a rotating daily lunch buffet, and Pan-Caribbean dinner options. Guests can watch sailboats pass by and the sunset over at this lively seaside eatery. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required. Hours: 7 – 10:30 am for breakfast, 12:30 – 2:30 pm for lunch, and 6 – 9:30 pm for dinner.
The Mariner
This seaside bar & grill is the perfect option for lunch on your honeymoon. They serve everything from wraps to famous Caribbean jerk chicken. Dress code here is Resort Casual and reservations are not required. Open daily from 11 am – 6 pm.
Activities at Sandals Barbados
Did you know that Sandals offers one of the most comprehensive scuba diving programs in the world? And it’s all included? If you’re looking for an adventurous activity that you’ll remember forever on your honeymoon, explore scuba diving at Sandals Barbados.
Additional water sports that honeymooners can enjoy include kayaking, windsurfing, snorkeling, and paddle boarding. Aside from offering top-of-the-line equipment, Sandals also offers professional instruction for guests. Other on-site land activities include beach volleyball, lawn chess, croquet, pool tables, bocce ball, and more! This Sandals resort also includes Lovers Lanes — Sandals’ first 4-lane bowling alley. The craft beer bar here offers 19 different types of beers.
The Best Island Route Tours at Sandals Barbados
Catamaran and Snorkeling Cruise At Carlisle Bay
Visiting Carlisle Bay during your Barbados honeymoon is a MUST! Board a luxurious catamaran from the historic capital city, Bridgetown, and sail along the gorgeous coastline to a tranquil bay. Snorkel among tropical marine life, a shipwreck, and if you’re lucky — sea turtles! Then, sail across the picturesque west coast to enjoy an island-inspired lunch before returning back to land.
Barbados Historical Rum Tour
You can’t leave Barbados without sampling its famous local rum. Did you know that Barbados is the birthplace of rum? It was first mentioned here in 1650. Learn about the history of rum through this guided tour, which begins at a 17th century plantation house and includes a ride on a vintage steam engine railway. Tour a distillery, sample rum, and enjoy a delicious local lunch. This tour concludes at the famous Mount Rum distillery for a final tasting.
Electric Bike Bajan Sightseeing Experience
Immerse yourself in the island country’s local culture as you cruise through the heart of it on an electric bike. See gothic style churches, panoramic views from the Barbadian east coast, Hackleton’s Cliff, and cycle through an active sugar cane farm. This tour is only 2.5 hours in length.Sandals Barbados Packing Guide
For your honeymoon in Barbados, the most important thing you’ll need to pack is a passport! Not only is Barbados a Caribbean island, it is an independent country.
Additionally, pack essentials for several hours in the sun, plenty of sunscreen that is SPF 25 or higher. We also recommend 2-3 swimsuits, since you’ll be at the beach or resort pools almost every day. Include some type of cover-up also, such as an oversized t-shirt and hat. Water shoes would be a great addition to your Barbados packing list so you can comfortably explore the sea caves and natural island terrain. For your excursions into the countryside, you will also want a pair of sneakers and athleisure clothing. Lightweight fabrics you can layer will also be key for long days in the sun. Think: linen shorts and 3-4 cotton tank tops or t-shirts.
Once the sun sets, be prepared with a little more formal attire, including closed-toes or heeled shoes. Also be sure to pack 3-4 dinner outfits that would fit the resort evening attire dress code at some of Sandals Barbados restaurants, such as collared shirts and slacks for men and sundresses for women. Don’t forget a few sets of PJs, and essential medications and toiletries, although many of the Sandals bathrooms will provide the basics for honeymooners to help themselves to!
7 Day Itinerary at Sandals Barbados
Day 1: Settle in & have your first taste of Caribbean rum
The only international airport in Barbados is the Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI). For your stay at the Sandals Barbados, you’ll want to fly into this airport. Depending on which type of suite you booked, your airport transfer may be complimentary. If not, Sandals would still be happy to set it up for you!
Enjoy a cocktail upon arrival at one of the several bars located throughout the property, and settle into your suite before dining at one of Sandal’s 11 on-site restaurants this evening.
Day 2: Book a massage, explore the property, and relax by the pool
Feeling sore from the travel day? Head to Red Lane Spa to book an afternoon massage or spa service. Spend the morning relaxing by one of the property’s pools and strolling on the nearby beach.
Want to dine in one of the fine dining restaurants this evening or the next? Don’t forget to grab a reservation!
Day 3: Enjoy some watersports on the beach
Craving a little adventure after a day of R&R? Head down to the beach to enjoy complimentary Sandals watersports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Soak up the sun on the beach under an umbrella, and be sure to order a pina colada (or two!).
Day 4: Explore the best of Barbados
Explore the surrounding area today on your first island excursion! Snorkel in the iconic Carlisle Bay or soak in the panoramic views from the east side on an e-bike excursion.
Day 5: Soak up the sun at Sandals
After a full-day excursion yesterday, you’re probably craving some more relaxation. The resort offers several land activities, including bowling! After your morning coffee and breakfast buffet, maybe explore the beach area a bit more or relax by the pool.
Perhaps tonight you dine at one of the included restaurants that don’t require reservations, such as the Bombay Club.
Day -10: Explore some more
If you opted for one of the off-the-beaten path excursions earlier on during your honeymoon, now is the time to explore some more at a more relaxed pace. Consider a sunset catamaran cruise. On the contrary, if you already enjoyed a snorkel cruise, head into the countryside and sample some rum! Barbados is famous for its Mount Gay rum — book a distillery tour and tasting.
Pro-tip: Before you leave for the excursion, swing into one of the nicer restaurants to secure an evening restaurant for your last special night. Kimonos would be our recommendation if you haven’t dined there yet!
Day 7: Travel day
Enjoy one last breakfast buffet or morning room service (complete with coffee by the pool), before enjoying a final walk around the property. Travel from Sandals to the airport for your flight home to close out your dream honeymoon.
Sandals Barbados Map
Find a detailed map of Sandals Barbados below. For an interactive map, click here and navigate to "MAP" in the menu.
