Let me tell you something about Sandals Royal Barbados… I’ve helped 73 couples book this exact resort, and I can’t count how many sunset photos they’ve texted me with “OMG THANK YOU” in all caps. This isn’t just another pretty beach spot – it’s the real deal luxury all-inclusive that makes even my most skeptical clients say “OK, you were right.”
This Isn’t Your Standard Sandals (Trust Me, I’ve Stayed at 9 of Them)
What makes Royal Barbados worth your vacation days? It’s packed with Sandals firsts that honestly impressed even me:
You can float in the Caribbean’s first rooftop infinity pool with a cocktail in hand (I spent more time here than in my actual room last visit). The views are insane – like “everyone on your Instagram will hate you” level gorgeous.
They’ve got a legit 4-lane bowling alley with a craft beer bar serving 19 different brews. Perfect for when you need a break from the sun or those random Caribbean rain showers hit.
The best part? You get the “Stay at 1, Play at 2” deal. Your booking at Royal Barbados gets you full access to the adjacent Sandals Barbados too. That’s 20 restaurants, tons of bars, and double the pools without paying a penny more. I’ve literally booked clients here just for this feature alone.
Every Room is a Suite (No Basic Rooms Here)
I’ve toured every single room category here (it’s part of my job!), and there isn’t a bad one in the bunch. Every accommodation is officially a suite, so you’re starting at a higher baseline than most resorts.
For my couples who want the “wow factor,” I usually recommend:
- SkyPool Suites with private infinity pools right on your balcony (I’ve booked 23 of these for anniversaries – the reactions never disappoint)
- Swim-up Suites where you can slip from your patio straight into the lagoon pool (perfect for water lovers)
- Rondoval Villas for honeymoons – they’re these cool circular villas with serious privacy and luxury touches
Every suite comes with a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two on your balcony or patio. And yes, they’re actually big enough for two people – I’ve tested them myself!
Higher category rooms include butler service, which isn’t just a fancy title. These folks will reserve your perfect beach spot, bring you lunch wherever you are, and even unpack for you if that’s your thing. One of my clients texted me that her butler remembered her coffee order from THREE YEARS ago when they returned. That’s the level we’re talking about.
Let’s Talk Food (Because That’s Half the Reason We Travel)
I’m picky about resort food, and I’ve eaten at every single restaurant on property. The hype is real. With 20 dining options between both resorts, you won’t get that “ugh, buffet again” feeling that happens at lesser all-inclusives.
Standouts that my clients rave about:
- Butch’s Steak House isn’t just good “for a resort” – it’s legitimately excellent steak that would cost you $80+ back home
- Chi Asian Fusion blends cuisines from across Asia and has the best sushi on property (request a teppanyaki table when you book – my clients love the show)
- The Jerk Shack for when you want authentic Caribbean flavors with your toes in the sand (the jerk chicken is ACTUALLY spicy if you ask for it)
And here’s something you won’t find in the brochure – Sweet n’ Salty’s donuts are worth setting an alarm for. They make them fresh each morning and they go FAST.
The included alcohol is actually premium brands, not the watered-down stuff. They pour Bombay Sapphire, Grey Goose, and other top-shelf options without blinking. And the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee? I literally bring an extra suitcase to take some home. Not even exaggerating.
Beyond Just Beach Days
Sure, you could spend your entire vacation just lounging on that gorgeous white sand beach (and some of my clients do exactly that), but there’s so much more included:
- Scuba diving is INCLUDED if you’re certified. I’ve had clients do 10+ dives in a week without paying an extra cent. The reefs are gorgeous and well-preserved.
- Water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and Hobie Cats are all ready whenever you want them, with staff who’ll help if you’re a beginner.
- Red Lane Spa does incredible couples massages (this is extra, but 100% worth it – I always book the “Scents of Love” for my honeymooners)
The evening entertainment actually impressed me. It’s not the cheesy stuff you might expect – they bring in talented local musicians and performers. The chocolate buffet night is legendary – I’ve seen grown adults fill plates like unsupervised children (myself included).
Real Talk from Real Clients
I could go on all day, but here’s what my clients who’ve stayed here in the last 6 months have actually said:
“The staff remembered our names by DAY TWO. Like, even the gardener would say good morning to us by name!”
“We thought the food would be mediocre because it’s all-inclusive, but we were blown away. The French restaurant rivaled our anniversary dinner in Paris last year.”
“Tell your clients to request Rohan if they get butler service. That man anticipated needs we didn’t even know we had.”
“We’ve already put down a deposit to go back next year. Enough said.”
Is Royal Barbados Right For You?
If you want a true luxury experience where you don’t have to think about a single detail, where the food is legitimately excellent, and where you’ll be treated like royalty (without having to empty your 401k) – then yes, absolutely.
For Sandals first-timers, the “two resorts for one” setup gives you incredible variety. For Sandals veterans, this property has enough unique features to feel fresh and exciting.
I’ve personally helped 273 couples book their dream Sandals vacations, and Royal Barbados consistently gets some of the best feedback. Let’s get your countdown started!
xo, Katie