Sandals Royal Barbados Review

A Top Honeymoon Resort In Barbados

Reviewed by Nicole Rosania | Updated on July 24, 2024

5-star hotel
9.9
Exceptional
Our Rating
Sandals Royal Barbados

Sandals Royal Barbados is a captivating resort located on the stunning Maxwell Beach within the renowned St. Lawrence Gap in Barbados. This ultra-luxury all-inclusive destination is a haven for honeymooners, offering exclusively club or butler level suites for every guest.

For couples seeking an extraordinary honeymoon experience, the Beachfront Skypool Suites and Crystal Lagoon Swim-Up Suites are the resort’s ultimate accommodations.

Recognized as the “Caribbean’s Leading Resort” for two consecutive years by the World Travel Awards, Sandals Royal Barbados seamlessly combines the indulgence of all-inclusive amenities with the luxury and romance of a honeymoon getaway.

The resort boasts a contemporary and innovative ambiance, featuring remarkable dining options, pools, and bars. The pristine private beach invites couples to unwind and relax, while the swim-up suites and the Eastern Caribbean’s largest infinity pool offer diverse water experiences.

Dining at the resort takes advantage of the warm tropical breeze and offers breathtaking views at the outdoor restaurants and bars, adding to the overall enchanting atmosphere.

Recommended Accommodations

Here are our recommended rooms for each of Sandals room categories.

Beachfront One Bedroom Butler Suite w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub

The Beachfront Butler Suites are perfect for honeymooners seeking a luxurious getaway. Located on the second floor of the Stargazer building, these suites feature a living space, complete with an indoor dining stable, plush sofa, HD smart TV, and fully stocked bar. On the exterior, guests can enjoy an expansive balcony that includes a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two with a privacy curtain. The suite also includes a king-size bed, freestanding bathtub and separate shower in the en-suite bathroom.

Guests staying in this category can also enjoy personal butler service, 24-hour in-room dining, and VIP check-in. Airport transfers are offered in a Rolls Royce.



South Seas Swim-up Club Level Ultra Suite w/ Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub

The Spectacular South Seas Swim-Up Club Level suites all boast a large private patio with a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two, along with direct access into the Crystal Lagoon pool. The interior of the suites features elegant furnishings, a king-size bed, HD Smart TV, and an en-suite, spa-style bathroom.

At the Club Level, honeymooners can also enjoy in-room dining, airport transfers, and a concierge service.




Restaurants at Sandals Royal Barbados

Sandals Royal Barbados offers honeymooners 10 unique restaurants with international chefs to choose from. Additionally, there are 11 more dining options at the nearby Sandals Barbados resort.

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.

Chi Asian Fusion

Sample flavors from Korea, Japan, and Vietnam as you nourish your chi, or life force. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required. Dinner is served daily from 5:30 – 9:30 pm.

American Tavern

A blend of the world’s cuisines in one Melting Pot. Enjoy delicious, regional comfort foods from around the world. Dress code is Resort Casual, reservations are not required, and all 3 meals are offered here daily. Breakfast is served from 7:30 – 10:30 am, lunch is served from 12:30 – 2:30 pm, and dinner is served from 6 – 9:30 pm.

La Parisienne

Indulge in fine, French cuisine in a chic atmosphere with impeccable service. Dine indoors or outdoors, where honeymooners can enjoy thie food overlooking the Caribbean Sea and main resort pool. Dress code is Resort Evening Attire and reservations are not required. Breakfast is served here from 7:30 – 11 am and dinner is offered from 5:30 – 9:30 pm.

Neptunes

The chefs of Neptunes have made it their mission to provide the most authentic reflection of Mediterranean heritage through its menu offerings and beautiful setting. Lunch is served daily from 11 – 4 pm, and dinner is offered here from 6 – 9 pm. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.

Jerk Shack

It wouldn’t be a honeymoon in the Caribbean without some jerk cooking! Lunch is served here daily from 11 am – 6 pm. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.

Sweet n’ Salty’s

Enjoy the best donuts in the Caribbean at Sandals’ first ever gourmet cake + coffee shop. There is no dress code to visit here, reservations are not required, and the hours of operation are 7 am – 5 pm.

Heart & Sol

The perfect healthy breakfast and lunch option for your honeymoon. Enjoy locally-sourced, farm-to-table soups, salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and juices. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required. Open for breakfast from 7 – 11 am and lunch from 12 – 4:30 pm.

Greenhouse

This farm-to-table eatery offers elegant cuisine prepared with ingredients from local, small-scale Barbadian farmers. Dress code is Resort Casual, reservations are required, and the hours are 8 – 11 am and 6 – 9:30 pm.

Lovers Lanes

Enjoy rounds of bowling and delicious late night snacks while sampling unique beers from 9 different countries. Dress code is Resort Casual, reservations are not required, and snacks are offered from 5 pm – 2 am daily.


Activities at Sandals Royal 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 Royal Barbados.

Additional water sports that honeymooners can enjoy include soaking in Sandal’s first rooftop, glass infinity pool, 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 Royal Barbados

Sandals Royal Barbados offers honeymooners dozens of local excursions to choose from to explore the island country of Barbados. Here are our top Advisor-picked recommendations:

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.

Lover's Rock Sunset Cruise Barbados

Board a luxury catamaran cruise in the capital city of Bridgetown and sail into the famed Carlisle Bay for a snorkeling adventure. Swim among tropical fish, sea turtles, and shipwreck. Enjoy a buffet dinner in a serene cove before sailing off into the sunset, with unforgettable views on the horizon.

Sandals Royal 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 Royal 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 Royal 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 10 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. Don’t forget to check out the special rooftop infinity pool!

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 La Parisienne.



Day 6: 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. Greenhouse 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 Royal Barbados Map

Find a detailed map of Sandals Royal Barbados below. For an interactive map, click here and navigate to "MAP" in the menu.