Sandals Resorts Mexico: Ultimate Guide
People search for Sandals Resorts by name because of the unbeatable luxury all-inclusive experience you get from them. Unfortunately Sandals does not have a location in Mexico, but they do have locations exclusively around the Caribbean Islands to meet your needs.
I actually lived in the Mexican Riviera Maya for 6 months, and I’ve also been to all 17 Sandals locations. While places like Cancun and Playa Del Carmen have a lot to offer, there’s a reason why Sandals has chosen to stay out of Mexico. In my experience, it’s overcrowded, filled with mega resorts, and attracts more of a party crowd (no judgement if that’s what you’re looking for 😊).
Fear not though! I have some Sandals Resort picks that are not only located near Mexico, but will also knock your socks off for your next romantic getaway without breaking the bank.
Is There A Sandals Resort In Mexico?
While there are no Sandals Resorts in Mexico, there are several popular locations around the Caribbean islands that are fantastic alternatives, like the Bahamas, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Barbados, and more.
The Riviera Maya in Mexico is very “Americanized” for better or worse. People are attracted to Mexican resort options because they want something close to the USA, affordable, and safe. Sandals Resorts offers all of that and then some, but in more intimate and authentic destinations.
Every Sandals Resort is carefully curated to meet their 5-star standards. That means they are specifically located in premium beaches that are guaranteed to offer privacy and elite service rather than joining the ranks of the overcrowded Mexico resort market.
I’ll never forget the look on a couple’s face sitting next to me at the beach in Cancun when a fully armed military officer drove in front of us on the beach with a four wheeler. They looked at me worriedly and asked, “is that normal?” The answer is, yes. It’s normal to see that activity on the beach and the streets of Cancun. Not to strike fear into you, but that’s the reality of vacationing pretty much anywhere in Mexico. You don’t have to worry about that at any Sandals.
Which Countries Have Sandal Resorts?
Sandals was founded in Jamaica over 40 years ago. Since they have been around so long, and solely focus on the Caribbean, it means they have cherry-picked the absolute best locations around the different islands long before the competition started coming in. It guarantees you’re getting pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and tropical paradise.
Sandals currently has 17 official resorts in 8 different countries:
- Jamaica (7 Locations)
- St. Lucia (3 Locations)
- Barbados (2 Locations)
- Bahamas (1 Location)
- Grenada (1 Location)
- Antigua (1 Location)
- Curacao (1 Location)
- St. Vincent (1 Location)
Sandals has no plans to add resort locations in Mexico because their core value proposition is choosing exotic Caribbean destinations that are more intimate rather than tourist centers that are saturated with mega-resorts. I get it, Cancun is a popular location, but sometimes branching out if it means getting the perfect vacation is exactly what the doctor ordered.
RELATED: FULL LIST OF ALL SANDALS LOCATIONS
Top Sandals Resort Alternatives To Mexico
1. Sandals Royal Bahamian
NASSAU, BAHAMAS
If you’re searching for the white sand beaches and turquoise waters of Cancun, but want a more luxurious adults-only option, Nassau Bahamas should be at the top of your list. Sandals Royal Bahamian is a 5-star resort located on the famous Cable Beach, the likes of which you would be hard pressed to find anywhere in Mexico.
This exclusive all-inclusive resort features a sophisticated European design with newly renovated accommodations. It even has a private offshore island with uninhabited white sand beaches for you and your partner to lounge away the day on. With 10 different specialty restaurants, 8 bars (including swim-up bars), and 7 pools, you’re sure to have an incredible time.
The best part is that the flight is only about 50 minutes from Miami while the resort is a mere 15 minutes from the Nassau airport. There are usually a lot of direct flights for cheap. You can be on the beach in no time!
2. Sandals Dunn's River
OCHO RIOS, JAMAICA
For a more affordable option over Mexico with fantastic beaches and culture, Jamaica is must see. Sandals has 7 different locations in Jamaica, but my personal favorite is Dunn’s River in Ocho Rios. The resort just opened in May 2023 after a massive $230 million renovation.
Right when you enter the lobby you’re greeted with water falls and a gorgeous open air design. Each restaurant is brand new, designed to be sophisticated in an authentic way. Every room has been updated while several new premium suites like swim-up suites and Rondoval Villas have been added.
The resort truly infuses the Jamaican spirit at each corner. Its enormous pool is supplied with mineral water that flows down from the mountains above. Glowing Caribbean waters and a pristine white sand beach stretch as far as the eye can see.
Last but not least, you also get full access to the neighboring Sandals Ochi. That’s in addition to free golf greens fees at the Upton Estate Country Club. So much winning!
3. Sandals Regency La Toc
CASTRIES, SAINT LUCIA
St. Lucia is perhaps the most unique island in the Caribbean as far as natural beauty goes. There’s nothing like the turquoise waters, lush rainforest, and towering Piton Mountains.
My top all-inclusive resort on the island is Sandals Regency La Toc on the northern coast of the island in Castries. It is situated in a 220 acre estate that boasts its own private cove beach. Sunset views from the patio at Armando’s restaurant up on the bluff are incredible.
You can get rooms here that accommodate all budgets. Definitely ones that are the most affordable in St. Lucia. On the other end of the spectrum, you can also get Millionaire Butler Villas with private pools.
Importantly, you get full access to the other two Sandals locations in St. Lucia (Grande St. Lucian and Halcyon Beach) when you stay at one. That’s in addition to free golf at the Cap Estate Country club.
What Makes Sandals Resorts Attractive
Sandals Resorts are specifically designed for couples in love. If you’re searching for an adults-only all-inclusive escape, nobody does it like them. Once you experience the full Sandals treatment, it’s hard to go back. Here a just a few of the highlights:
- Unlimited Food & Drinks: Premium food and drinks are included. The dining options are high quality with locally sourced, fresh ingredients. Different themed restaurants for every craving. The wine and spirits are top-shelf options Robert Mondavi Wines and Appleton Estate Rum.
- Water Activities: Free scuba diving, snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, motorized watersports (skiing, tubing, wakeboarding), sailing, water trikes.
- No Gratuities: Sandals has a no tipping policy. This means there are no tips, surprise fees, or taxes. Everything is designed for a stress-free vacation, so after you book your vacation, you can practically leave your wallet at home.
- Free Airport Transfers: Round trip airport transfers are included no matter which room level you book. Butler Suites can even get Rolls Royce or private boat transfer at some locations.
- 5-Star Luxury: Sandals is the original luxury-included resort brand. Accommodations like Rondoval Suites, Swim-Up Suites, Overwater Bungalows, are unlike anything available in Mexico. The service level is higher than every other all-inclusive I have been to (especially for Club and Butler Level suites), and I’ve been to a lot! Employees are always going above and beyond to make sure your hard-earned vacation is unforgettable.
- Romance & Exclusivity: Tons of activities to elevate your romantic vacation, whether it’s a candlelight dinner on the beach, couples massage, or a sunset catamaran cruise. The intimate nature of Sandals makes it ideal for romantic occasions like honeymoons, anniversaries, or birthdays – unlike most of the mega resorts in Mexico that prioritize quantity over quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Sandals Resort in Mexico?
There is not currently a Sandals Resort in Mexico, however there are 17 Sandals locations across 8 different Caribbean Islands. Sandals as a brand focuses on more exclusive locations, whereas places like Cancun or Playa Del Carmen are tourist hubs that cater to mega resorts and more of a party atmosphere. People often choose Sandals in destinations like Jamaica, St. Lucia, or the Bahamas over Mexico since they are close to the US, safe, and affordable.
Which Sandals Resort is closest to the United States?
The closest Sandals to the United States is Sandals Royal Bahamian, located in Nassau Bahamas. Flights out of Miami are only about 50 minutes and the resort itself is 15 minutes from the Nassau Airport (NAS). The Bahamas are technically a separate country, so you still need a valid passport, but you do not need a visa for short tourist stays. It’s the most convenient for travelers with a shorter travel window.
What is the best all-inclusive resort in Cancun Mexico?
Top all inclusive in Cancun include Hyatt Ziva, Le Blanc Spa Resort, or Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres. Note that brands like Hyatt and Secrets do not have transfers, as many activities, or include tipping so you will end up coming out of pocket for additional expenses. If you’re looking for a more romantic option, these are also not solely focused on couples so you can get corporate events, family outings, or friend groups in the mix.
BEST SANDALS RESORTS
Our favorite all-inclusive resort brand.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Sandals Grenada
Sandals Royal Barbados
Sandals Grande Antigua
