I’ve personally stayed at Sandals Royal Curacao twice now, and let me tell you—this isn’t your average turquoise-water Caribbean getaway. Located on 44 stunning oceanfront acres, this place is DIFFERENT in all the best ways. After booking 63 couples here since it opened, I can confidently say it’s perfect for travelers who want that amazing Sandals luxury but are tired of the same old tropical vacation.
Desert Meets Ocean (Yes, You Read That Right)
The first thing that hit me when I arrived? This doesn’t look like the Caribbean I’m used to. Curacao has this fascinating desert-meets-ocean vibe that feels more like parts of Mexico than Jamaica or Saint Lucia.
The resort sits on the gorgeous Santa Barbara Estate with terra cotta roofs and Spanish-influenced architecture that made me feel like I’d stepped into a completely different world. You’ve got cacti and desert plants right next to that iconic turquoise Caribbean water. My clients’ Instagram photos from here literally stop people in their feeds—it’s that distinctive.
What really sets this location apart is the SPACE. With 44 acres, you never feel crowded, even when the resort is at capacity. I wandered the property for an hour on my first visit and kept discovering new perfect spots for reading or just taking in the views.
And here’s the game-changer: Willemstad (the capital city) is just a short drive away, and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with those iconic colorful Dutch buildings you’ve probably seen on Pinterest. This isn’t some generic tourist town—it’s a legitimate cultural experience that transformed my “beach vacation” into something much more meaningful.
The Rooms That Made My Jaw Drop
I’ve toured all 25 room categories here (yes, my job is tough), and there are some serious standouts that my clients absolutely RAVE about:
The Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows with Private Pool are honestly some of the most breathtaking accommodations I’ve ever stayed in—and I’ve been in 200+ luxury hotel rooms across the Caribbean. These bungalows sit right along the Spanish Water with private infinity pools that create this perfect optical illusion of swimming right into the ocean. I’ve booked 17 honeymoon couples here, and every single one sent me emotional thank-you texts.
For my water babies, the Subi and Sunchi Swim-up Suites let you step directly from your patio into a crystal-clear pool. Perfect for couples who want easy access to water without trekking to the main pool. I’ve actually taken conference calls from one of these swim-up patios with my feet in the water (don’t tell my boss).
Almost every room category includes those signature Tranquility Soaking Tubs on the balcony or patio. They’re actually big enough for two adults (I always check), and there’s nothing more romantic than soaking under the stars with a glass of champagne after dinner.
Now here’s the COOLEST part—certain high-category rooms come with a complimentary convertible MINI Cooper during your stay. This is completely unique to Sandals Curacao and something I haven’t seen at any other all-inclusive. My husband and I took ours to explore hidden beaches and local restaurants. Having that freedom to discover the island on your own terms is absolutely priceless.
Food That Goes Way Beyond “All-Inclusive”
Let’s talk about the food, because in my opinion, it can make or break a vacation. I’ve eaten at every single restaurant here (multiple times—again, tough job), and the culinary scene is impressive.
Their steakhouse serves cuts that would cost you $70+ back home, perfectly prepared and paired with incredible wines. I still dream about the filet mignon I had there.
The Pan-Asian restaurant does sushi and curries that rival dedicated restaurants in major cities. Pro tip: request a teppanyaki table when you book—it’s entertainment and dinner in one, and my clients always thank me for the suggestion.
There’s a gorgeous Mediterranean waterfront restaurant where I had the best seafood paella of my life (and I’ve been to Spain three times). The ocean breeze and sunset views make the food taste even better.
What I really appreciate is how they incorporate authentic Curacao specialties throughout the menus. The island has this unique blend of African, Dutch, and indigenous influences that creates a cuisine you won’t find anywhere else in the Caribbean.
Of course, all premium liquors are included without limits. They pour brands like Grey Goose and Hendrick’s without blinking. One of my clients is a whiskey collector, and he was genuinely impressed by the selection.
But here’s something UNIQUE to Sandals Royal Curacao: select bookings include a $250 Island Inclusive dining credit that lets you eat at local restaurants outside the resort. This is HUGE and something I haven’t seen at any other all-inclusive. We used ours to try authentic Curacao cuisine in Willemstad, and it was one of the highlights of our trip.
Beyond the Beach: Adventures That Create Stories
Sure, the two-tier infinity pool is absolutely gorgeous (you’ve probably seen it on their website), and the white sand beach is perfect for lounging. But what makes Curacao special is everything BEYOND the resort.
All the water activities you’d expect are included: scuba diving (if certified), snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and Hobie Cats. But Curacao’s position outside the hurricane belt means the coral reefs are incredibly well-preserved with minimal storm damage. I’ve been diving all over the Caribbean, and the visibility here is consistently 100+ feet. It’s like swimming in an aquarium.
For land activities, they’ve got everything from volleyball to pickleball, plus a state-of-the-art fitness center that’s actually good enough for a serious workout (not just two treadmills in a closet like some resorts).
But the real magic happens when you explore the island. With those MINI Coopers in select room categories, you can discover:
- Willemstad with its colorful Dutch buildings and the Queen Emma floating bridge that opens for ships (I spent three hours just wandering and taking photos)
- Hato Caves with incredible limestone formations (great for when you need a break from the sun)
- Shete Boka National Park where waves crash dramatically against limestone bluffs (my Instagram reel from here got more engagement than anything else I’ve ever posted)
- The actual Curacao liqueur distillery where they make the blue stuff that goes in your tropical drinks (fascinating tour and generous samples)
I’ve sent 63 couples to this resort, and without fail, the ones who explored the island had the most memorable experiences.
Who Should Book Sandals Royal Curacao?
After 7 years as a travel advisor helping 1,600+ clients book their dream trips, I can tell you exactly who will LOVE this resort:
- Couples who want luxury amenities but are bored with typical Caribbean vacations
- Cultural explorers who want to experience a destination, not just a resort
- Architecture and design enthusiasts (both the resort and Willemstad are visual feasts)
- Couples celebrating major milestones who want extraordinary accommodations like those butler bungalows
- Adventure seekers who appreciate that perfect balance of luxury home base with exciting exploration options
- Experienced travelers who’ve “been there, done that” with other Caribbean islands
The Practical Stuff You Need to Know
Getting here is easier than you might think. There are nonstop flights from Charlotte, Miami, New York, and Toronto, with flight times between 3-5.5 hours depending on your departure city.
Rates start around $334 per person per night for entry-level rooms. Those dreamy Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows with Private Pool run about $1,750 per person per night. BUT—and this is where my expertise comes in handy—Sandals frequently runs promotions with up to 55% off and instant credits up to $1,000. I know exactly when to book to maximize these savings for my clients.
Don’t forget about that exclusive $250 Island Inclusive dining credit with select bookings. It’s a feature unique to this resort and adds incredible value when you want to experience local restaurants.
Weather here is consistently gorgeous year-round (average 80°F/27°C) with minimal rainfall. Being outside the hurricane belt means your vacation plans are safer from weather disruptions, even during traditional hurricane season.
The Bottom Line
Sandals Royal Curacao isn’t just another resort—it’s a completely fresh take on what a Caribbean luxury vacation can be. It perfectly balances that Sandals excellence we know and love with authentic cultural experiences that create lasting memories.
If you’re tired of the same old tropical vacation and want something that combines luxury with genuine exploration, this is your spot. After sending dozens of couples here, I can confidently say it delivers something truly special that you won’t find at other Caribbean all-inclusives.
Let’s get your countdown started! Your future self will thank you.
xo, Katie