Tamarind by Elegant Hotels

Rooms were not ready by check-in time of 3pm even though the hotel was practically a ghost town. We did get the opportunity to have lunch while we waited. We also received an upgraded room but it was dated. The restaurant staff was not as friendly and welcoming compared to...

Rooms were not ready by check-in time of 3pm even though the hotel was practically a ghost town. We did get the opportunity to have lunch while we waited. We also received an upgraded room but it was dated. The restaurant staff was not as friendly and welcoming compared to the other islands we visited, they were more concerned with talking, laughing and taking shots amongst themselves that attending to guests at meal times. The best meal of the day was breakfast. Lunch and dinner options as described on their website and at check-in was totally different from what was available. When we inquired about the options at meal times they said that was an error and the document we received at check-in needed to be corrected. I wish I knew that before I booked as that's the main I choose an all inclusive option. The beach was nice the drinks were strong and I won't be return to this hotel.

Stayed for a week at Tamarind and had a fantastic stay. Our room was upgraded on check in and we had a lovely view of the pool and ocean. Staff are very helpful and the welcome rum punch was a hit. The room itself was very spacious, big comfy bed,...

Stayed for a week at Tamarind and had a fantastic stay. Our room was upgraded on check in and we had a lovely view of the pool and ocean. Staff are very helpful and the welcome rum punch was a hit. The room itself was very spacious, big comfy bed, tea/coffee, dressing robes and all the essentials. Yes the rooms are a little dated but it was no issue for us. Our door lock stopped working one afternoon and the maintenance guy fixed it within 30mins. They are closing for a refurb at the end of the summer, but I hope it can retain some of its old character and charm. The ladies servicing the room did a great job and replenished everything we needed and even left the balcony alone as there were two fledgling birds taking shelter there. The location is out of this world. The views and beach are beautiful. The beach was pristine. There are 3 pools to choose from and plenty of beds. The hotel was very quiet the first few days we were there but we preferred it that way. There is a bus stop right outside that will take you up the west coast or down to Bridgetown for just a few dollars. Not a great deal of bars or food places in the immediate area if you are looking for a change but Holetown is a 10 min bus ride. The food at the hotel was great, although the lunch time/ bar snack menu was a bit repetitive. We ate at Positano twice and that was lovely. There are some water sport included in the package such as SUPs, kayaking, snorkelling (there’s a reef right off the shoreline), water skiing and more. The guys are on the beach every day and they are knowledgeable and really helpful. There’s a water taxi to Waves and Crystal Cove which we used once but we preferred Tamarind overall. Hotel staff and the reception team are friendly and polite. The bar drinks and cocktails are also really good and they showed the T20 World Cup cricket in the bar each game which my partner appreciated. I loved our stay here and look forward to seeing what they do with the hotel after the refurb.

We arrived after a long flight and were told the room was not ready having been booked months before after 2 hours it was ready, not what you would expect. A few days later the lock broke and we couldn’t get in the room, this was fixed and shortly after...

We arrived after a long flight and were told the room was not ready having been booked months before after 2 hours it was ready, not what you would expect. A few days later the lock broke and we couldn’t get in the room, this was fixed and shortly after the safe had the same problem and had to be replaced then the door lock broke again. The hole place was falling apart to top it all we had no hot water for 4 days I believe we should be compensated for this but nothing!

Very nice hotel. Fabulous. Very spacious. 3 pools & beautiful rooms facing Caribbean Sea Very helpful & friendly staff from management, reception, bar & dining. Absolutely wonderful experience to stay at the Tamarind Hotel. Highly recommended Shalom & Margrit

Currently staying at the Tamarind in the junior ocean view suit (316). The room is large, cleaned every day with fresh towels and has a great view. Yes the hotel is a bit tired in parts but this has not impacted on our stay. No issues getting beach towels or...

Currently staying at the Tamarind in the junior ocean view suit (316). The room is large, cleaned every day with fresh towels and has a great view. Yes the hotel is a bit tired in parts but this has not impacted on our stay. No issues getting beach towels or sun lounges. The food has been varied, we haven’t had a bad meal yet. Most of the staff have been friendly especially Ray at the bar! The free water sports are great. Sea visibility clear and snorkelling off the beach fantastic- wide variety of colourful fish.

Exceeded expectations, we knew this hotel was going to be a bit shabby in places. It was but also the charm and location over rode any of that for us. We chose it for the location and it was perfect. Bit dated but ocean front room with the most comfy...

Exceeded expectations, we knew this hotel was going to be a bit shabby in places. It was but also the charm and location over rode any of that for us. We chose it for the location and it was perfect. Bit dated but ocean front room with the most comfy bed and pillows ever!! always cleaned and fresh bath & beach towels. The food and drinks were great, even the sparkling wine which often isn't inclusive was lovely. Bar / Lunch food amazing. Great location for travelling about and in our opinion on one of the best beaches we saw. The hotel is much prettier than others that are more modern. Did al lovely horse ride with Steve's stables and lots of other bits. The water taxi is a great addition, do not lose that or the hotel charm. Had the best holiday & our first time to Barbados :)

What can I say, we were worried about all the negative reviews, who is leaving those? We had an amazing time, the food is absolutely gorgeous, whoever is complaining, what are you actually wanting? Every meal is plated beautifully, a massive thanks to the kitchen staff for all of your...

What can I say, we were worried about all the negative reviews, who is leaving those? We had an amazing time, the food is absolutely gorgeous, whoever is complaining, what are you actually wanting? Every meal is plated beautifully, a massive thanks to the kitchen staff for all of your hard work, the evening a la carte was always so delicious, the chefs have taken great care to cook and prepare the food to the highest standard. Our room was beautiful and the cleaning staff kept it immaculate , lovely fresh soft bath towels and beach towels every other day, such hard workers. There are a few grumpy people but that's life, our main impression was the staff were absolutely amazing, lovely warm people and they couldn't do enough for us. My husband loved the wstersports and all the staff there were amazing, he learned to sail well under their guidance, please listen to them as they're extremely knowledgeable. We did a couple of island tours recommended by the lovely reception staff and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves on them. Big thanks to Toni, Amberley, Shares, the lovely manager who was statuesque so I couldn't read his name badge, but he'd always immaculately dressed and is an absolute diamond of a man. Also the lovely young lady who helped us when our wine was problematic, you were exceptional. We had an amazing holiday and you all contribute to that, huge thanks. Xxx

To be honest, this is a pretty pointless review, as the Tamarind is due a major refurb over the next year. I was so ready to be disappointed after reading all the reviews and to be fair, when we arrived at the hotel, I was ready to turn around and...

To be honest, this is a pretty pointless review, as the Tamarind is due a major refurb over the next year. I was so ready to be disappointed after reading all the reviews and to be fair, when we arrived at the hotel, I was ready to turn around and go home. This stunning Hotel is exhausted, never mind tired . However … We had an ocean view suite, one bedroom , with a living room, 2 bathrooms and a double balcony, kept adequately clean, with fresh towels each day if necessary. Food was better than expected..a la carte was outstanding, definitely on a par, if not better than high end restaurants nearby.. Restaurant staff were bob on , very attentive The beach is beautiful and we had no problem whatsoever in getting a bed, loved to watch the watersports guys, they are fabulous with their customers and particularly the children, they actively encourage them to get involved and to enjoy themselves Visited Waves Fusion in the evening which was lovely and also dined at Colony Club, the food was outstanding. However, we felt very sorry for the staff, they have no clue what to expect from July onwards, Marriott Bonvoy, need to step up and make them aware . I get that they are a business and hold their cards very close to their chest, but people need to plan Staff on the whole were excellent, shout outs to Chris, Deon, Jayda. Ray. Joan and the formidable Ether Egg 🐣 Had to save first impressions until last .. reception .. 10/10 Always service with a smile . Particularly Shalia , nothing too much trouble .. her smile lights up the whole of Tamarind Would we return… yes, in a heartbeat!

We have just returned from a week's holiday at the Tamarind, which we thoroughly enjoyed. What a fantastic place with super friendly staff, who went out of their way to give us a great holiday. We had a wonderful room which opened straight onto the beach. This was spacious, clean...

We have just returned from a week's holiday at the Tamarind, which we thoroughly enjoyed. What a fantastic place with super friendly staff, who went out of their way to give us a great holiday. We had a wonderful room which opened straight onto the beach. This was spacious, clean and well-equipped. The meals were of a very high standard, with plenty of choice and great Caribbean tastes. The bar area is particularly attractive with a tasty all-day menu. The free water sports and water taxi to other hotels in the group are great - it was just a pity the sea decided to be rough for our last few days! It was easy to jump on a local bus to get around in any case. We are very keen to return to the lovely Tamarind once it's had its refurb - we just hope the character is retained - it's a special place. Thank you for a wonderful holiday!

We just got back from our holiday in Barbados the Tamarind hotel . When we got there we had to wait 2 hours for our room to be ready . The room was not good the the hair dryer was broken . Two days after we arrived our door broke...

We just got back from our holiday in Barbados the Tamarind hotel . When we got there we had to wait 2 hours for our room to be ready . The room was not good the the hair dryer was broken . Two days after we arrived our door broke twice this happened . Later in the holiday we had not hot water for 4 days had to boil a kettle to have a wash terrible. The staff were lovely and friendly and helpful .

I had read the reviews for the this hotel and was concerned as some were not favourable. However, our week was very enjoyable. We had a lovely room overlooking the main pool and able to enjoy beautiful sunsets. The staff were very accommodating, nothing was too much trouble. The breakfast...

I had read the reviews for the this hotel and was concerned as some were not favourable. However, our week was very enjoyable. We had a lovely room overlooking the main pool and able to enjoy beautiful sunsets. The staff were very accommodating, nothing was too much trouble. The breakfast was great with lots of choice and Ether making the omelettes was great fun! We always found something to eat, we are not fussy people. Entertainment at night was usually a lone singer and enjoyable. Loved it when the girls of the bar did their karaoke one Saturday afternoon. We would love to go back!

30 years ago we stayed at Tamarind (Cove) on our first trip to Barbados & the Caribbean. We have just returned from another very enjoyable holiday there. Our standard room was fine with a large balcony overlooking the gardens, pool, & sea. The weather was near perfect with only one...

30 years ago we stayed at Tamarind (Cove) on our first trip to Barbados & the Caribbean. We have just returned from another very enjoyable holiday there. Our standard room was fine with a large balcony overlooking the gardens, pool, & sea. The weather was near perfect with only one afternoon of showers. All the staff were great - reception, the porter who took our bags to & from the room, the housekeepers, the bar & waiting staff - special shout out to Ether the Queen of the breakfast egg station, she’s a star ! The food in the hotel was excellent, so much so we didn’t try the dine around programme at other Elegant hotels or Positano restaurant. We were happy to eat at Tamarind & listen to the (mostly) nightly entertainment & sample the different drinks available. We travelled economy with BA from Heathrow, both flights were on time & the meals & snacks were very good. Tamarind is closing in July for a year of renovations. MARRIOTT - please don’t modernise it too much & change it’s Caribbean character - Keep its Bajan charm !! (Room 336. Feb 23 to Mar 8)

This hotel is in a beautiful spot. Comments about the place being tired are correct but we had a nice large room and it wasn’t too bad. The thing that lets this hotel down the most is the food. Breakfasts were passable, the a la carte lunch menus were better...

This hotel is in a beautiful spot. Comments about the place being tired are correct but we had a nice large room and it wasn’t too bad. The thing that lets this hotel down the most is the food. Breakfasts were passable, the a la carte lunch menus were better but dinner was terrible. Every other evening is a buffet - and the quality is equivalent to a school canteen. I was so disappointed. There is no atmosphere in the evening for dinner - whether the offering is a la carte or buffet and no attempt by the staff to make dinner a memorable occasion. We ate out for the last four nights of the holiday. Whilst it’s advertised that you can dine at the other hotels, actually each other hotel only has a set number of tables allocated to the outside hotel guests. The concierge has no interest in booking a table at the other hotels for you. “Go at lunchtime, it’s easier, they never answer the phone for me to book you a table at dinner time”. Another guest told us that he had got a dinner reservation at one of the other hotels, paid for a taxi, only to be told on arrival that they did not have a booking and would not allocate them a table at one of the a la carte restaurants. They gave in in the end and sent them off to the buffet. For the money spent this is simply not good enough and as a Marriott Bonvoy member, I was shocked at the offering. It also seems pointless putting a review on here as the manager cuts and pastes the same response to every review. This hotel has the potential to be fantastic, but an overhaul of the food and service is necessary. The food is Holiday Inn equivalent, and that’s being generous.

An overall disappointing experience. We try to look for the positives in all our stays but for the price paid we felt that the hotel and the food offered were short of the mark. The Tamarind is in a beautiful setting with beach and sea always a delight. The food...

An overall disappointing experience. We try to look for the positives in all our stays but for the price paid we felt that the hotel and the food offered were short of the mark. The Tamarind is in a beautiful setting with beach and sea always a delight. The food is basically uninspiring and repetitive. Even the Italian offering at Positano falls short of the mark. One feels the restriction of tight budgeting with no treats ever appearing (eg a quality steak or lobster). Sadly it was hard to know we were in the Caribbean at mealtimes. It was either silence or an occasional soloist. Maybe the reality of the much needed refurbishment is looming like a ghost over the place.

The Tamarind is a wonderfully relaxed hotel. The initial view out to see across the gardens is stunning and inspirational. All of the staff are pleasant and helpful. Pamello on the concierge desk is extremely knowledgeable, charming and patient. Stefon and his team in the restaurant are brilliant and attentive...

The Tamarind is a wonderfully relaxed hotel. The initial view out to see across the gardens is stunning and inspirational. All of the staff are pleasant and helpful. Pamello on the concierge desk is extremely knowledgeable, charming and patient. Stefon and his team in the restaurant are brilliant and attentive at all times, the restaurant is managed extremely well, on occasion there may be a wait for a few minutes but this is simply due to many people arriving at the same time. Rather than let a lot of people sit down, you are placed and seated so that you may be served appropriately. Ether at the egg station does a marvellous job of keeping everyone fed with poached eggs and omelettes. The bedrooms are large, we were lucky enough to have an ocean view with sleeper chair which was a good investment as the view to wake up to and the sunset too is priceless. The sunbeds do all get reserved but my experience was that I asked the beach staff to fine us beds and they did, perfect. For anyone reading this that does fell the need to throw your towel on the beds for hours before you are actually going to sit on it, please don't. There are free water activities also with friendly staff, we made use of the water taxi a few times and went to Crystal Cove for lunch and to the Colony Club for a swim at their superior beach, no free lunch there however so came back to have lunch. There are a few rocky areas in the sea but plenty of areas free from rocks too. There are low key evenings of singers which added atmosphere, it didn't seem to be a wild party venue though with many guests not staying for the evening. The location is perfect for seeing the rest of the Island too. Thank you all at The Tamarind for a wonderful holiday, it is much appreciated, missing you all already.

I read the reviews before booking and many of the negative reviews are just unfounded. 1.) My biggest hesitation before we arrived was due to the review about the cleanliness of the buffet and the outside dining areas. Inside the buffet area everything is covered, either in heated covered stainless...

I read the reviews before booking and many of the negative reviews are just unfounded. 1.) My biggest hesitation before we arrived was due to the review about the cleanliness of the buffet and the outside dining areas. Inside the buffet area everything is covered, either in heated covered stainless steel service trays or for cold items they are covered by netting. There isn’t any part of the buffet that’s just exposed to the air, birds, or insects. There are small birds at the outside tables, doves not seagulls, they don’t outright come onto your table unless you put crumbs there to entice them. 2.) Negative reviews about staff friendliness aren’t really a problem. So many people were so welcoming and friendly. Nearly everyone there was great and, we only encountered one person with an attitude who clearly didn’t want to work there. The resort is being remodeled later this summer, and yes, it’s time. The hotel is very clean, the property is much more spectacular than the online photos had revealed. When I got there, I thought, “Wow, the pics on the websites don’t really depict what a pretty and unique looking property the Tamarind is with the open-air lobbies!!” Obviously, I haven’t seen all the guest rooms, but our room was clean and tidy. It would be hard to rate the food except to say that I liked it better than several other all-inclusive trips we’ve taken to other resorts in the Caribbean, I would think of it as better than most cruises I’ve been on. I used Open Table to make the reservations; However, you still must go to the front desk to have them confirm your reservation or they won’t have it at the restaurant. For dining at Positano’s, you must go to the front desk the morning of your dinner and they will provide you with a voucher. Positano’s was the best resort dinning we had which makes sense, because it’s also open to the public. It was great. I would recommend Tamarind as a beautiful property with a lot of activities and friendly staff who are very welcoming! If you never leave the resort and want only the most upscale setting, Tamarind may not be for you. But if you like a unique property nestled among tropical plants and landscapes and like to get off property and be adventurous, then you should enjoy it just fine!