Sandals Barbados: Our Ultimate All-Inclusive Guide
Sandals Barbados (Credits: Sandals 2024)
We don't make it out to the Sandals resorts in the islands further out that often, but we recently visited Sandals Barbados. I have to tell you, if you haven't experienced it, you may want to consider doing do soon!
Sandals Barbados on Maxwell Beach is a top all-inclusive resort offering luxury, personalized service, and endless amenities. We'll share below what makes it the perfect destination for your Caribbean escape.
Key Takeaways
Experience luxury like never before with stunning accommodations, personal butler service, and award-winning amenities at Sandals Barbados.
Indulge in a culinary adventure with unlimited fine dining across 11 restaurants, including a unique Indian dining experience.
Unlimited premium liquors at several bars across the resort.
Enjoy a vibrant mix of activities including water sports, land sports, and lively nightly entertainment, ensuring boredom is never an option.
Exchange privileges with the neighboring, Sandals Royal Barbados, including 9 additional restaurant choices.
Padi certified scuba diving and other water sports.
Complimentary airport transfers from Grantley Adams International Airport.
Gratuities are included.
Unmatched Luxury at Sandals Barbados
Found on the captivating Maxwell Beach, this resort offers an experience unlike any other in the Caribbean. Sandals Barbados is renowned for its accommodations and vibrant atmosphere, making it a premier destination for those seeking the pinnacle of luxury. One great thing is tipping is included in the cost! (Except for butlers, massages and drivers - check out this blog for more information).
We'll cover more below on each of the resort's features. If you'd like to check out the Sandals Barbados site directly, feel free to click below:
Location and Arrival
Sandals Barbados is perfectly positioned only about 15 minutes from from Grantley Adams International Airport. Other Sandals resorts are known for their 90 minute charter from the airport, which makes this a huge win, in our opinion. Another reason we love the Sandals brand is the complimentary airport transfers that are included. They'll pick you up in the Sandals charter right from the airport and whisk you away. We've always love how smooth the process is.
Upon arrival, you'll find that the resort’s range of luxurious amenities and services ensures an unforgettable stay. We were greeted by staff with cool towels and led through check-in. As you pass the beach area, main pool, swim up rooms and other features, you'll realize you've picked it right. While there is so much to do, you can easily walk anywhere on the resort.
Luxurious Accommodations
At Sandals Barbados, you'll find 14 different room categories designed to cater to every guest’s preference. From beachfront penthouses with wraparound balconies to the exclusive swim-up Butler Suites with direct access to the river pool, every room promises an extraordinary stay. There are also 3 levels of room accommodations. For more information on each tier, check out this blog:
Sandals Resorts Room Categories: Luxury, Club Level, and Butler
Crystal Lagoon Swim-Up One Bedroom Butler Suite with Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub
Sandals Barbados Swim Up Suite (Credits: Sandals 2024)
In my opinion, the swim-up Butler Suites are a highlight. These suites not only provide direct access to the Crystal Lagoon pool but also come with private patios, offering an intimate experience. I like to sip morning coffee on the private patio while taking in the serene pool views—there’s no better way to start your day. I've been in all types of Sandals rooms and the swim up rooms have become my favorite, making them work the extra cost.
Click here for more information on these rooms and availability
Beachfront Penthouse Club Level Suite with Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub
Sandals Barbados Beachfront Penthouse Club Level Suite (Credits: Sandals 2024)
If you're not bothered by the extra cost, the beachfront penthouses are ideal for those seeking the ultimate in luxury. With expansive balconies overlooking the ocean, these suites offer amazing views. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or a special celebration, these accommodations at Sandals Barbados will exceed your expectations.
Click here for more information on these rooms and availability
If you want to see more room categories at this resort, click below:
Sandals Barbados Room Categories and Availability
Personal Butler Service
One of the standout features of Sandals Barbados is the personal butler service available to guests staying in select accommodations. This service anticipates and meets your every need with precision and care. Your personal butler handles everything from dinner reservations to in-room dining, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay. You even get a small cell to contact them throughout the day!
Imagine returning to your suite after a day of exploring, only to find that your favorite drink is ready and waiting for you. That’s the kind of personalized attention you can expect with the butler service at Sandals Barbados. My personal favorite thing about the butlers is that they can reserve the best seats by the beach while I'm sleeping in! If you're staying in a swim up room, you get that perfect beach spot and your own private pool upon return.
Click here for a comprehensive list of things the butlers can do for you!
Award-Winning Resort
Sandals Barbados has earned its place among the world’s finest resorts, a fact underscored by its prestigious Six Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences. This award is a testament to the resort’s commitment to providing exceptional service, top-notch facilities, and unparalleled guest satisfaction.
Dining Experiences at Sandals Barbados
Butch’s Chophouse at Sandals Barbados (Credits: Sandals 2024)
Food lovers, rejoice! At Sandals Barbados, dining is an adventure in itself. With unlimited fine dining at 11 specialized restaurants, we found there were more than enough options to accommodate a full week. Whether you’re craving Caribbean flavors, Italian classics, or exotic Indian dishes, there’s something to tantalize every palate.
Unlimited Fine Dining
Imagine having access to 11 unique restaurants. While all Sandals resorts include unlimited dining, not all of them have this many options. You can enjoy as many meals as you like, exploring all the restaurants each day without any additional cost.
We’ll cover each below and will share links to their menus, but first, a quick note about the dress code for each of them:
Dress Code: Some restaurants require a higher standard for dress than others. Here are the requirements from the resort page.
Resort Casual Attire - Shorts or jeans, t-shirts or polo shirts. Swimwear must be covered. Shirts and footwear required.
Resort Evening Attire - Dress pants/trousers or jeans for men, long or short sleeve dress shirts (with or without collar). Dress shoes or sandals. No shorts, t-shirts, sleeveless shirts, sneakers, flip-flops or slippers. No hats or caps.
A Favorite - The Bombay Club
The Bombay Club at Sandals Barbados (Credits: Sandals 2024)
Our highlight of the dining experience at Sandals Barbados was the Indian restaurant, the first in the Sandals Resorts portfolio. This was the perfect pivot on our third night, as we wanted something different. The addition of an Indian restaurant really hit the spot!
Click Here for the Bombay Club Menu
For a full list of restaurants and menus at Sandals Barbados, click below:
Sandals Barbados Restaurants and Menus
Bars and Premium Liquors
A tropical vacation wouldn’t be complete without the unlimited drinks. At Sandals Barbados, unlimited premium liquors are available at numerous bars across the resort. With up to 11 bars offering a wide range of premium spirits and innovative cocktails, we were constantly trying new drinks. The swim-up pool bar was out favorite spot!
Swim Up Bar at Sandals Barbados (Credits: Sandals 2024)
Water Sports and Entertainment
The resort offers an array of activities and entertainment options to keep guests engaged and delighted throughout their stay. From water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding to land sports such as tennis and beach volleyball, you’ll find plenty of ways to stay active. Guests can also take advantage of guided snorkeling excursions or padi certified scuba diving with complimentary equipment.
My personal favorite has always been the Hobie Cat sailboats!
Hobie Cat Sailboats
Click here for a deep dive into all the water sports at Sandals Barbados
Land Sports and Fitness
For those who prefer to stay on land, Sandals Barbados offers a range of sports and fitness activities. Guests can enjoy tennis matches, lively beach volleyball games, and a state-of-the-art fitness center equipped with modern workout facilities.
Click here for a full list of land sports at Sandals Barbados
Nightly Entertainment
As the sun sets, Sandals Barbados transforms into an entertainment hub. Each night, guests can enjoy a variety of themed events and live performances that reflect the vibrant island culture. From beach parties featuring fire dancers to live bands playing tropical tunes, the nightly entertainment is designed to immerse guests in the local atmosphere.
Sometimes, shows on cruises or at resorts can be a bust. We were actually surprised at how much we enjoyed the shows at this resort. I loved the fire dancers!
Click here for more on nightly entertainment
Relaxation and Wellness
If you're looking for a wellness-inspired trip, Sandals Barbados has 2 main features that might stand out.
Red Lane Spa
Just like other Sandals resorts, Sandals Barbados boasts it's own Red Lane Spa. The Red Lane Spa employs skilled specialists who are dedicated to providing exceptional service. From soothing massages to revitalizing body scrubs, the spa experience at Sandals Barbados is designed to refresh your body and mind.
Personal Tip - We like to schedule a couples massage for the first full day to get relaxed. It's also good to work it in before any potential sunburns!
Click here for more information on spa experiences at Red Lane Spa
Tranquility Soaking Tub
Tranquility Soaking Tub at Sandals Barbados (Credits: Sandals 2024)
For those staying in specific rooms, the tranquility soaking tubs offer a perfect retreat after a day of activities. These spacious tubs are designed for two, providing a private and peaceful space to unwind.
We stayed in a room offering this during our first Sandals experience and I used it each day. Now it's hard not to book a room with them!
Click here for a list of rooms and availability at Sandals Barbados
Weddings
As with other Sandals resorts, this property has several great spots for weddings. Sandals runs some great packages for destination weddings at their resorts. I honestly see 3-4 weddings every time we stay on the resorts.
If you’re interested, reach out and we’ll help you with the details!
Click Here for Sandals Wedding and Honeymoon Packages
Exploring Barbados
Beyond the resort, Barbados itself offers a treasure trove of adventures. From historical tours and rum distillery visits to botanical gardens and local markets, there’s many ways to experience the island of Barbados. We
Beach Pathway
Local Adventures
Island Routes is the official Sandals partner for their sanctioned off-site excursions. You can visit the Island Routes desk at the resort (or call) to make a reservation. Additionally, you can book your adventure tours ahead of time using the Sandals app!
One option is to visit one of Barbados’ renowned rum distilleries and learn about the art of rum-making from experienced guides. The Lawrence Gap is another great option to explore. We opted for the Catamaran cruise and had a blast!
Click here for more information on Island Routes excursions
Lawrence Gap
A trip to Barbados wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the Lawrence Gap area. Known for its lively atmosphere, Lawrence Gap is the heartbeat of Barbados’ nightlife. Here, you can explore bustling bars and clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning.
During the day, Lawrence Gap transforms into a shopper’s paradise, with a range of boutique stores and local craft shops. Sampling some of the local food in Lawrence Gap was our off-site highlight of the trip.
Sandals Royal Barbados: A Sister Resort
Sandals Royal Barbados (Credits: Sandals 2024)
Sandals Royal Barbados is a great complement to your stay at Sandals Barbados. This sister resort offers additional features such as the first rooftop pool and restaurant in the Sandals chain. The close proximity of the two resorts allows guests to enjoy the best of both worlds.
By staying at Sandals Barbados, guests can enjoy full access to the amenities and services of Sandals Royal Barbados, thanks to the Exclusive Exchange Program. This includes additional dining options, entertainment facilities, and the longest river pool in Barbados, making your vacation experience even more diverse and exciting.
Click here for more information on Sandals Royal Barbados
Stay at 1, Play at 2
The ‘Stay at 1, Play at 2’ program is one of the highlights of staying at Sandals Barbados. This program grants guests full exchange privileges with Sandals Royal Barbados, allowing them to enjoy a wider range of amenities and dining options.
Whether you’re looking to try a new restaurant or enjoy a different pool, this program ensures that you have access to the best facilities both resorts have to offer.
Sustainable and Philanthropic Efforts
Sandals Barbados is not just about luxury and comfort; the resort is also deeply committed to sustainability and community development. Through its participation in the Earth Check environmental certification program, Sandals Barbados implements comprehensive waste management strategies, including composting and recycling, to minimize its environmental footprint.
The resort’s dedication to giving back is further exemplified by the work of the Sandals Foundation. This non-profit organization supports various education, community, and environmental projects across the Caribbean. Staying at Sandals Barbados allows guests to support these initiatives, making a positive impact on local communities.
Our Takeaway
This was one of the better Sandals trips we've been on. The resorts are newer, the island and beaches were some of the best in the world (in my opinion), you have great excursion options, like Lawrence Gap Barbados, you can easily fly into a close airport (BGI), and they have some great accommodations, even without the extra cost.
While I'd normally hold off on returning to Barbados in lieu of exploring other islands, I could see us splurging on a swim up room and visiting Sandals Royal Barbados on our next go.
Summary
In summary, Sandals Barbados offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation. From the white sands of Maxwell Beach to gourmet dining, we were wowed. It’s a place where memories are made, and dreams come true. So, pack your bags, book your stay, and get ready to experience the ultimate all-inclusive luxury at Sandals Barbados.
Click "Contact Us" to and we'll reach out to help you book your next stay.
Want to book yourself? Use our affiliate link to Sandals Barbados and knock it out today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of accommodations are available at Sandals Barbados?
You’ll love the variety at Sandals Barbados, with 14 incredible room options like beachfront penthouses, swim-up suites, and Crystal Lagoon Swim-up suites! Perfect for any vacation vibe!
How many dining options are available at Sandals Barbados?
You'll love the variety at Sandals Barbados, with 11 specialized restaurants offering unlimited fine dining! Dive into diverse international cuisines, including a unique Indian restaurant that's the first of its kind in Sandals Resorts!
What activities are available at Sandals Barbados?
You'll love the exciting activities at Sandals Barbados! From thrilling water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving to fun land sports like tennis and beach volleyball, there's something for everyone. Plus, nightly entertainment with live shows keeps the excitement going!
What are the unique features of Sandals Royal Barbados?
Get ready to be amazed by Sandals Royal Barbados, where you can dive into the first rooftop pool and restaurant in the Sandals chain and lounge in the longest river pool in Barbados! Plus, enjoy full exchange privileges with Sandals Barbados for a truly unforgettable vacation experience!
How does Sandals Barbados support sustainability and community development?
Sandals Barbados is making a fantastic impact by embracing sustainability through the Earth Check certification and effective waste management strategies! Plus, their support for community development through the Sandals Foundation enriches education and environmental projects across the Caribbean!
