Best Sandals Resort: All 17 Resorts Ranked (2026)
We get one question more than any other: what is the best Sandals resort? After thousands of airline miles, a few regrettable sunburns, and possibly too much rum punch, here is our full ranking of all 17 Sandals resorts.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian takes the top spot for 2026. But the honest answer is that the right resort depends on your budget, your dates and travel schedule, and what you actually want out of your vacation. Every one of these is all-inclusive and adults-only, so there is no bad choice here. There are only better and worse fits for you!
As a Diamond Elite Certified Sandals Specialist (CSS) , we are a recognized authority on Sandals Resorts. Our rankings come from first-hand stays at every resort, weighed against price and value, location and accessibility, service quality, and real-time feedback from our clients — because while every trip is personal, we want our insider knowledge to guide yours.
Whether you’re going a romantic honeymoon or just need a Caribbean escape, each Sandals Resort has its own charm to deliver your idea of a dream vacation. We’ll go over all 17 Sandals locations in the Caribbean spanning from Jamaica to Barbados so you can find the perfect fit for your needs at the best price!
Every Sandals Resort Ranked
| Resort | Best for | Score |
|---|---|---|
|
1. Grande St. Lucian Saint Lucia · $$ |
Overall pick | 9.8 |
|
2. Saint Vincent St. Vincent · $$$ |
Newest overall | 9.7 |
|
3. Dunn's River Jamaica · $$ |
Newest in Jamaica | 9.6 |
|
4. Grenada Grenada · $$ |
Design, diving | 9.5 |
|
5. South Coast Jamaica · $$ |
Seclusion | 9.4 |
|
6. Royal Curaçao Curaçao · $$$ |
Off the beaten path | 9.2 |
|
7. Grande Antigua Antigua · $$ |
Best beach | 9.1 |
|
8. Caribbean Cay Jamaica · $$$ |
Private island | 9.0 |
|
9. Negril Jamaica · $ |
Seven Mile Beach | 8.9 |
|
10. Royal Plantation Jamaica · $$ |
All-butler boutique | 8.8 |
|
11. Regency La Toc Saint Lucia · $$ |
Value in St. Lucia | 8.7 |
|
12. Royal Bahamian Bahamas · $$ |
Shortest flight | 8.6 |
|
13. Montego Bay Jamaica · $$$ |
Shortest transfer | 8.5 |
|
14. Royal Barbados Barbados · $$$ |
Modern luxury | 8.4 |
|
15. Halcyon Beach Saint Lucia · $ |
Small and calm | 8.3 |
|
16. Ochi Beach Jamaica · $ |
Lowest price | 8.2 |
|
17. Barbados Barbados · $$ |
Quieter Barbados | 8.0 |
This site is by Golden Valley Vacations, a Chairman’s Royal Club Diamond Elite Sandals partner – the top 1% of all advisors. We earn a commission if you book through the links on this page. Your cost is exactly the same, and our reviews and rankings are 100% independent.
How We Rank
Value against price. Not the cheapest, but what you actually receive for the nightly rate compared to the resort’s peers. A $511 property has to earn the gap over a $209 one.
Location and access. Flight availability to the island, transfer time from the airport, and how much of your week disappears in a van. A ninety-minute transfer costs you three hours round trip.
Service and condition. Cleanliness, food execution, and how recently the rooms were renovated. Sandals refreshes on a cycle, and there is a real difference between a property two years post-renovation and one eight years post.
Client feedback. Golden Valley Vacations has booked more than 3,000 Sandals stays. Complaints and compliments from clients traveling right now correct for the fact that any single visit is a snapshot.
We do not use marketing materials, press releases, or sponsored placement. Full criteria are in our review guidelines.
Jamaica Update: Better Than Ever 🇯🇲
Sandals is spending $200 million rebuilding three Jamaica resorts after Hurricane Melissa. All three are booking now for stays after they reopen.
- Sandals South Coast: November 18, 2026
- Sandals Montego Bay: December 18, 2026
- Sandals Caribbean Cay (formerly Sandals Royal Caribbean): December 18, 2026
These are not repairs. All three come back with new pools, new restaurants, and new room categories under the Sandals 2.0 design you see at Sandals Saint Vincent and Sandals Dunn’s River. Jamaica goes from four open Sandals resorts to seven, and 2027 is the first full year all three operate.
If you are considering Jamaica, this is the best time to book these essentially brand new resorts!
Read our full breakdown: reopening dates, what is new at each resort, and the best time to go.
Best Sandals Resort for 2026
1. Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Overwater Bungalows
Consistently rated one of the world’s most romantic resorts, we were stunned not only by St. Lucia itself, but also by the natural beauty of the resort. This was our third time here and it always seems to pull you back! It’s definitely our favorite Sandals in St. Lucia.
Positioned on a secluded peninsula, Sandals Grande St. Lucian offers an island experience unlike anything found in the Caribbean. From the moment you enter the lobby you’re greeted with a panoramic view of the ocean and lush mountains waiting for you!
With the famous Rodney Bay on one side and awe-inspiring volcanic twin Piton mountains on the other, the resort is a true tropical oasis. You can walk up to Pigeon Island to see the old fort ruins and amazing views in just a few minutes.
The Grande is in the midst of ongoing renovations during summer/fall 2026. Several buildings and part of the main pool may be under construction. Contact us if you are traveling soon for the latest details.
Why we love Sandals Grande St. Lucian
- A mile of sand with no rocks. Genuinely rare in Saint Lucia, and the snorkeling straight off the beach is the best I have found at any Sandals.
- The island’s only overwater bungalows. Plus Rondoval Villas and Swim-up Suites, with Pigeon Island and its fort ruins a short walk up the beach. Check out our video tour!
- Three resorts for the price of one. Stay at One, Play at Three opens up La Toc and Halcyon Beach for 27 restaurants across the island, and greens fees at Cap Estate Golf and Country Club are included.
- Local fun. If you are here on a Friday, go to the street party in Gros-Islet. It is a genuine local event, not a resort excursion, and it was the single best night of the trip.
Key things to consider
- Long airport transfers. The transfer from Hewanorra (UVF) took us just over an hour each way on windy mountain roads. George F. L. Charles (SLU) is twenty minutes away but has limited direct service.
- Lively scene. This is the most social of the Saint Lucia resorts. If you want quiet, Halcyon or Regency La Toc is the better call.
I highly recommend the boat transfer from the airport. Why sit in a van when you can sip drinks on the deck and watch the beautiful shoreline drift by? And it’s about the same amount of time as the windy road. And if you really want to go big, a quick helicopter transfer is available too!
2. Sandals Saint Vincent
Overwater Bungalows
The newest of all the Sandals Resorts, Saint Vincent is packed with cutting edge designs and modern luxury. The Sandals 2.0 initiatives are evident from the moment you enter the resort.
Tucked into the coast of the Lesser Antilles, it boasts a private cove beach, rich rainforests, and serene river landscapes. The untouched surroundings make it an ideal location for nature lovers to explore the local Dark View Falls or climb to the peak of La Soufrière.
The unique aspect about St. Vincent is that is also has black sand beaches because of its volcanic history. I loved getting out to see the black sand beach at Mt. Wynne that was only about 15 minutes away.
Overall, for those that want the latest and greatest, Sandals St. Vincent is the place to be.
Why we love Sandals Saint Vincent
- Two-story overwater bungalow villas. Unlike anything else Sandals has built. See the walkthrough.
- Arrive by boat. Book a Butler Suite and your airport transfer comes across the water. There is an overwater wedding chapel too.
- Black sand against turquoise. Saint Vincent is volcanic, and you can visit some of the natural black sand beaches – the white sand at the resort is imported from nearby islands.
Key things to consider
- Among the most expensive. Rooms start at $426 per person a night.
- Getting there is not easy. Direct US service to SVD is limited, so most itineraries involve a connection and a long travel day.
The Beachfront Butler villas are one my favorite rooms at all Sandals resorts. You can lounge in your private pool and gaze out at the beautiful water.
3. Sandals Dunn’s River
Golf Included
Nestled in Ocho Rios, Sandals Dunn’s River runs along the north coast of Jamaica which offers some of the most stunning views of the turquoise Caribbean sea.
For the golf enthusiasts, Sandals Dunn’s River has free access to their 18 hole private golf course. The Golf Club includes a pro shop, restaurant, putting greens, and everything you need for a perfect day of golf.
We were lucky enough to visit this location after they completed the renovations in May, 2023. With a full top to bottom update, the property feels like a brand new resort. Because of the renovation of the property, and the pristine beach, Dunn’s River is our favorite Sandals in Jamaica now.
From the lush greenery to the winding rivers, Sandals Dunn’s River is a true Jamaican gem.
Why we love Sandals Dunn’s River
- Beachfront SkyPools. A private infinity pool looking straight down the sand.
- Coyaba Sky Rondovals. These go further, with a private hot tub, swim-up pool, and a rooftop terrace built for dinner under the stars.
- Dunn’s River Falls. The world famous Dunn’s River Falls And Park is only a 5 minute drive from the resort.
Key things to consider
- Ninety minutes each way. 56 miles from Sangster, which is three hours of your trip in a van.
- The closer airport barely helps. Ian Fleming is thirty minutes out but has limited flight options, so most people make the long drive anyway.
- Only two entry-level room categories. If you are trying to stay at Sandals Luxury level rather than Club or Butler, your choices here are narrow and they go early.
Dunn’s River Falls is a great time – lock hands with your fellow travelers for the 960 ft climb up the waterfalls! Late afternoon is the best time to go to avoid the cruise ship rush in the morning.
4. Sandals Grenada
SkyPool Suites
Nestled in the heart of Pink Gin Beach, Sandals Grenada offers an exclusive romantic retreat. This resort features some of the most innovative and luxurious designs of all the Sandals. It truly fuses modern luxury with Grenada’s exotic tropical beauty.
The beach is powdery white sand with water the color of Listerine. I walked several beaches in Grenada and did not find one I liked better. And Grenada earns the Spice Island name: cinnamon and nutmeg carry on the air, and I was putting nutmeg in my coffee for a month after I got home.
Why we love Sandals Grenada
- Suspended infinity pools. The SkyPool Butler Suites hang their private pools off the side of the building, and floating in one at eye level with the horizon is legitimately strange and wonderful.
- Diving you cannot get at another Sandals. The Bianca C wreck and the Molinere underwater sculpture park are both here, and the sculptures sit about three meters down so a snorkel and mask are enough.
- Fifteen minutes from plane to pool. The airport is one mile away, the shortest transfer of any Sandals.
Key things to consider
- The island is quiet. Far less going on off-property than in Jamaica or Saint Lucia.
- No sister resort, no golf. You are paying a premium for a single property on an island where the resort is most of the plan.
Go off the beaten path to Levera National Park, which is a 450 acre park perfect for hiking or relaxing on the picturesque beach to enjoy the sheer beauty.
5. Sandals South Coast
Nature Lovers
Closed until November 18, 2026 for a complete rebuild. Booking now for stays after that date. Read our full guide on what is changing here.
Settled along a two-mile beach in Jamaica, Sandals South Coast stands out for its European-inspired architecture. Designed to celebrate the water’s edge, the resort is a haven for those seeking a tranquil seaside escape.
Unlike some of the other resorts on the list, this one is located within a massive 500 acre nature preserve so it is truly secluded. It makes for great excursions to locations like the beautiful 7 tiered YS Falls.
For me, it’s the embodiment of an oceanfront luxury, set in a natural paradise.
Why we love Sandals South Coast
- Overwater bungalows. Picture your private beach house, directly over the water with the famous Sandals elite butler service.
- An overwater chapel. Which makes it one of the better destination wedding properties.
- Floyd’s Pelican Bar. A shack built on a sandbar in the middle of the sea, reachable only by boat, and one of the strangest and best bars anywhere.
Key things to consider
- Seclusion cuts both ways. An hour from Montego Bay inside a nature preserve, so very little to do off resort. If you like walking down the beach and finding a bar, this is the wrong resort.
- Closed until November 2026. The property was excellent prior to the renovation, and what Sandals has shared looks amazing – but of course no one has been there yet 🙂
- Sea urchins in the shallows. Bring water shoes. It is a small thing that catches people out on an otherwise excellent beach.
Floyd’s Pelican Bar! How can you not like sipping rum punch in a bar in the middle of the sea? 🍹
The 7 tiered YS Falls is also a must do.
6. Sandals Royal Curaçao
Island Dining Credit
Situated on the coast of the small yet vibrant island of Curaçao, Sandals Royal Curacao embodies a unique fusion of natural beauty and cultural richness. Of all the Sandals resorts, this is probably the least “touristy”.
This resort, distinct from other Sandals properties, is set within the picturesque Leeward Antilles where desert landscapes meet the clear blue sea. On the north end of the island you will find rugged rock formations, and on the south side are sparkling waters with white sand beaches.
For me this resort is very unique because you get to see fascinating dutch history and architecture. The colorful colonial buildings in Willemstad are definitely a must see. It’s very safe and walkable there for fun sightseeing.
Why we love Sandals Royal Curaçao
- A two-level pool. One infinity edge spilling into the next. I have stayed at all 17 Sandals resorts and I have never seen a pool like this, at a Sandals or anywhere else.
- Explore the island. Book a Butler Suite and you get $250 in credit for restaurants around the island plus a convertible MINI Cooper to go find them. That is unique to this resort.
- Golf on 44 oceanfront acres. The Old Quarry Golf and Beach Club sits next door, an 18-hole championship course where you can also hold a ceremony on the oceanside putting green.
Key things to consider
- The beach. Smaller than you get at most Sandals resorts, and the water sits behind a floating pier rather than opening onto the sea. If a big beach is why you book all-inclusive, this is not your resort.
- Three pools. The fewest of any large Sandals, and the spa is smaller than what you get at the flagship properties.
Willemstad’s painted colonial rows are safe, walkable, and genuinely worth a day. Klein Curaçao, a 10km boat ride out, had the best snorkeling of our trip.
7. Sandals Grande Antigua
Top Beach
Did you know Antigua is the only Caribbean island that has a beach for every day of the year! That’s correct, over 365 beaches lining the shores of this gem. The glowing waters here are amongst the coolest colors I have seen.
Nestled on the famous Dickenson Bay, Sandals Grande Antigua boasts a unique blend of tropical oasis and beachfront luxury. It consistently stands as a top romantic destination in the world.
Why we love Sandals Grande Antigua
- Dickenson Bay. The best beach on the entire island.
- Two villages, two different vacations. The Caribbean village is beachfront and casual; the Mediterranean village sits back on the bluff with penthouse views and private plunge pools.
- The beachfront Rondovals. My favorite room category here, and worth the jump. More on Rondoval suites.
Key things to consider
- Two villages with a hill between them. 373 rooms means real walking, and the halves feel distinctly different, so picking the wrong one matters.
- Dress codes are more important. Several restaurants require them in the evening, which catches people off guard.
- No sister resort and no golf. What you see is what you get for the week.
Take the full circumnavigation sail. It hits Stingray City, Prickly Pear Island, and Rendezvous Bay in one day and shows you the island properly.
8. Sandals Caribbean Cay
Overwater Bungalows
Formerly Sandals Royal Caribbean. Closed until December 18, 2026 for a complete rebuild. Booking now for stays after that date. Read our full guide on what is changing here.
Sandals Caribbean Cay offers a unique blend of British formality and Jamaican charm. The resort’s private island provides an exotic escape with the most luxurious accommodations of all the Sandals resorts in Jamaica.
Located in Montego Bay, guests revel in the intimate feel of a colonial estate nestled on the Caribbean shores. The best part is it’s only 10 minutes from the Montego Bay airport so you get more fun in the sun!
Why we love Sandals Caribbean Cay
- The new beach club. A version of Parisol Beach Club debuts out on Sandals Cay with its own swim-up pool bar, a new Jerk Shack, and shaded palapas.
- Overwater bungalows with glass floors. Private infinity pools too, and top-tier suites include private BMW transfers.
- 10 min to Sandals Montego Bay. A quick ride makes Stay at One, Play at Two a real value. Both resorts are being completely remodeled, so you get access to 21 spiffy restaurants and 15 glistening pools combined.
Key things to consider
- Closed until December 2026. I loved the resort prior to the renovation, and what Sandals has shared looks amazing – but of course no one has been there yet 🙂
- The surroundings are developed. Montego Bay is the busiest part of Jamaica. Sandals Cay delivers the remote feel, but you have to take a boat to reach it.
The Luminous Lagoon at night is so cool! You swim and the water lights up around you.
9. Sandals Negril
Great Value
Located on Jamaica’s famed Seven Mile Beach, Sandals Negril is located one of the best points, close to the water. This is, in my opinion, the best beach in Jamaica. Its prime location gives unparalleled access to the island’s pristine shorelines and crystal-clear waters.
Sandals Negril stands out for its laid-back atmosphere. We love that it has a casual yet chic vibe that encourages relaxation and romance. It’s definitely a more authentic Jamaican vibe as you away from the busy Montego Bay area.
Why we love Sandals Negril
- The most laid-back Sandals in Jamaica. If your plan is to do very little, this is the one.
- One of the least expensive. Only Sandals Ochi comes in lower.
Key things to consider
- Seven Mile Beach is public and developed. All beaches in Jamaica are public up to the high tide mark, and this area is a hot spot for vendors. If this is an issue for you, just sit a little further back from the water.
- Eight restaurants. For a long stay, this could be an issue. There are no sister resorts near by, but there are plenty of great local spots if you want to explore.
If you like a good party, the world famous Rick’s Cafe is a lot of fun and is only about 15 minutes from the resort. This place gets packed around sunset. If you like things slower, skip it or go early.
10. Sandals Royal Plantation
All Butler Suites
Sandals Royal Plantation has a different feel altogether than the other Sandals resorts. You will immediately notice that it is structured as a more intimate boutique resort.
Nestled on a coral bluff, Sandals Royal Plantation is unique for its all-butler setup. With only 74 ocean-view suites, each one exudes a mix of casual island elegance and authentic Jamaican charm.
The resort’s location in Ocho Rios offers not only stunning sea vistas but also proximity to local attractions.
Why we love Sandals Royal Plantation
- The most private sand at any Sandals. Two small coves tucked below the property.
- A second resort when you want. Stay at One, Play at Two connects you to Sandals Ochi ten minutes away, and Upton Estate golf is also included.
Key things to consider
- Deliberately small. Five restaurants, two pools, 74 rooms, which means you will be at Ochi for variety, and Ochi is a very different experience from the quiet vibe at Royal Plantation.
- Great for a few nights, long for a week. This works beautifully for a four-night trip and poorly for a ten-day one.
Dunn’s River Falls is great time – lock hands with your fellow travelers for the 960 ft climb up the waterfalls! Late afternoon is the best time to go to avoid the cruise ship rush in the morning.
11. Sandals Regency La Toc
Great Value
Positioned on Saint Lucia’s striking La Toc Estate, Sandals Regency La Toc shines as a true emblem of luxury in a tropical paradise. St. Lucia is perhaps our favorite Caribbean island for its unmatched natural beauty.
Overall, the Regency La Toc also tends to be the least expensive Sandals in St. Lucia (or in general) so you can find some great deals here!
Why we love Sandals Regency La Toc
- The Rondoval Village finished in 2025. This is the reason to book here now rather than two years ago, and the Rondoval Butler Sky Villas added rooftop terraces.
- Millionaire Villas on the bluff. The Oceanview Bluff category sits at the top of the property with private pools and butler service.
- Lowest entry price in Saint Lucia. Stay at One, Play at Three gets you Grande St. Lucian and Halcyon Beach, so you are buying 27 restaurants and 11 pools.
Key things to consider
- Spread across 220 acres. Steep hills and real distance between the beach, the bluff, and the restaurants.
- A smaller beach. Good, but noticeably smaller than Grande St. Lucian’s mile of sand, and you will feel it if the beach is your priority.
I highly recommend the boat transfer from the airport. Why sit in a van when you can sip drinks on the deck and watch the beautiful shoreline drift by?
12. Sandals Royal Bahamian
Shortest Flight
This was the Balmoral Club, opened in 1946 and a favorite of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, and Sandals kept the bones of it.
Since it has its own private island escape, it is like you are getting two vacations in one! The island is a short boat cruise away. Here you can relax on the beach or take advantage of some of the best snorkeling in the Bahamas.
Why we love Sandals Royal Bahamian
- Its own offshore island. Barefoot Cay is a short boat ride out, with one beach for snorkeling and sunbathing and another for watersports. The snorkeling off it was the best I found in the Bahamas.
- Excellent restaurants. La Plume serves French in an elaborately designed room and is one of the best meals I have had at any Sandals.
- 55 minutes from Miami. The shortest flight to any Sandals, with Rolls Royce VIP transfers on arrival and free MINI Cooper rentals to get into historic Nassau on your own.
Key things to consider
- Nassau is a busy cruise port. The surroundings are more developed and more crowded than any other Sandals location.
- Livelier than most. Which is a plus or a minus depending on what you came for.
- The beaches are small. Pretty, but modest next to what Jamaica or Antigua give you for less money.
Sandals Emerald Bay in Exuma is closed but you can take a boat the equally beautiful Eleuthera. Swim with pigs and chill on unbelievable pink sand beaches!
13. Sandals Montego Bay
Quick Transfer
Closed until December 18, 2026 for a complete rebuild. Booking now for stays after that date. Read our full guide on what is changing here.
The original. This is where Sandals started more than forty years ago, and it sits on the longest private stretch of white sand I have walked at any Jamaica resort.
Why we love Sandals Montego Bay
- A completely redesigned main pool. The centerpiece of the rebuild, reorganizing how the whole property flows, with the lobby now opening straight through to the water.
- Buccan comes to Jamaica. Island ingredients cooked over open flame and served family-style, in its first waterfront setting on the island.
- Ten minutes from the airport. As good as transfers get in the Caribbean, and Stay at One, Play at Two connects you to Sandals Caribbean Cay next door for 21 restaurants and 15 pools.
Key things to consider
- Closed until December 2026. I loved the resort prior to the renovation, and what Sandals has shared looks amazing – but of course no one has been there yet and the new pricing makes this one of the most expensive.
- You may hear the planes. They descend low over the water on approach. It did not bother us, but if you are noise-sensitive, this is the property where it matters.
The new beachfront swim-up Butler suites look absolutely amazing – I can’t wait to go when it opens in December!
14. Sandals Royal Barbados
All Suite
If you want an all out luxury experience, Sandals Royal Barbados is your place. Nestled in the stunning St. Lawrence Gap area on the south coast of the island, this all-suite oasis stands out with its elevated amenities and distinctive innovations.
Since it was just built in 2017, and is consistently updated, this location has all of the modern amenities that make it a notch above other Barbados resorts.
An added bonus is the “Stay At One Play At Two” program that allows full access to the Sandals Barbados resort right next to the Royal Barbados. This opens up a full 21 restaurants and 11 pools in total that you can easily walk to. The Royal Barbados has more of a lively vibe while the neighboring Sandals Barbados is more low key.
Why we love Sandals Royal Barbados
- All-suite, with Rolls Royce transfers. Book a premium category and the airport run comes in a Rolls Royce.
- The pools. A rooftop pool with an unobstructed sea view, which I have not seen anywhere else, plus a glass-edge infinity pool set right against the sand and private pools in the SkyPool suites.
- A bowling alley. Which is exactly as silly and as fun as it sounds after two drinks.
Key things to consider
- Public beach. All beaches are public and the resort is in a developed area, so you will see vendors on the beach.
- The waves and seaweed. The beach here is beautiful, but due to its location on the island it can get choppy if the wind is right. During the summer, it is also prone to the dreaded sargassum that is plaguing the Caribbean.
Be sure to stroll along the boardwalk at Bridgetown and check out the famous Harrison’s Cave. Hunte’s Gardens is also a must see!
15. Sandals Halcyon Beach
Golf Included
The third Sandals Resort located on the stunning island of St. Lucia, Sandals Halcyon Beach stands out with its tranquil setting. Its lush gardens create an intimate feel, distinct from the larger resorts.
The smallest and calmest Sandals in Saint Lucia, and the one people underestimate. 169 rooms in low-rise buildings across lush gardens, with a French-Caribbean look of white shutters and exposed stone.
Why we love Sandals Halcyon Beach
- Kelly’s Dockside Grill. Sits out over the water and served the best seafood I ate across the three Saint Lucia properties.
- The Crystal Lagoon. Runs most of the length of the resort, and it is the longest pool I have swum at any Sandals.
- Small resort, two more to visit. Cap Estate greens fees are included, and Stay at One, Play at Three opens up La Toc and Grande St. Lucian.
Key things to consider
- Could feel too small for a week. Six restaurants and 169 rooms, so you’ll definitely want to book a few excursions and visit the other Sandals on the island.
- Limited top tier rooms. Halcyon does not have overwater bungalows or the new Rondoval villas.
- The butler categories sell out first. With only 169 rooms there is very little inventory at the top tiers, so book early if that is what you want.
Take the catamaran to the Pitons with a snorkel stop at Marigot Bay and a creole lunch.
16. Sandals Ochi
Great Value
Sandals Ochi combines lush greenery with the serenity of the Caribbean. Standing out with a massive 100 acre Garden Of Eden that has secluded getaways and private villas.
On the other hand, once you hit the beach, you will find one of the most vibrant beach clubs in Jamaica – The Ochi Beach Club. That is what makes this resort. It has the perfect yin and yang for privacy and excitement.
Why we love Sandals Ochi
- Sixteen restaurants. More restaurants than any other Sandals. Neptune’s, Mediterranean served right on the sand, is our pick.
- Great entertainment. The Ochi Beach Club surprised me! Good times.
- Golf and a second resort included. Upton Estate greens fees are covered, and Sandals Dunn’s River is a few minutes away under the exchange program.
Key things to consider
- It is big and it feels big. The busiest Sandals, and the split between the hillside garden and the beach club means shuttling rather than walking.
- The longest transfer. 62 miles from Sangster.
- The resort shuttle runs one way. Dunn’s River guests get a complimentary transfer here. Ochi guests do not get one going back.
If you want something more quiet and private, the Butler Village is a great balance to the excitement around the Beach Club.
17. Sandals Barbados
Award-Winning Spa
The quieter half of the Barbados pair, and noticeably more laid back than Royal Barbados next door.
Why we love Sandals Barbados
- Dover Beach. Silk-white sand with white cliffs behind it.
- Two resorts on an easy walk. Stay at One, Play at Two makes the pair function as one, giving you 21 restaurants and 11 pools. Of those eleven, the rooftop infinity pool is the one I kept going back to.
- The better spa of the two. The Red Lane Spa here is the award-winner. Full comparison of the two resorts.
Key things to consider
- Price the upgrade before you book. At $325 you are $86 below Royal Barbados. If the walk over is going to be part of your daily routine anyway, spending the difference is worth considering.
- Public beach. All beaches are public and the resort is in a developed area, so you will see vendors on the beach.
- The waves and seaweed. The beach here is beautiful, but due to its location on the island it can get choppy if the wind is right. During the summer, it is also prone to the dreaded sargassum that is plaguing the Caribbean.
Renovation work is scheduled. The beachfront rooms and main pool are due for work through summer 2026, so confirm what is open for your dates before booking.
How to Save on Your Sandals Vacation
Here are the best tips we have found so you can get your dream vacation at Sandals without overspending.
- Sandals 7-7-7. An extra 7% off select rooms, updated weekly.
- Military and first responder. A standing 10% off for service members, police, fire, and EMS.
- Free anniversary night. 7 nights or more within 30 days of your anniversary, in a Club or Butler room.
- Last-minute gaps. Flexible dates can turn occupancy gaps into free nights.
- Off-peak. September and October are the cheapest months of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the Jamaica resorts reopening?
Sandals South Coast reopens November 18, 2026. Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Caribbean Cay both reopen December 18, 2026. All three are booking now for stays after those dates. Sandals Ochi, Dunn's River, Royal Plantation, and Negril reopened in December 2025 and are fully operational. Full detail on what is changing at each resort.
Why did Sandals Royal Caribbean change its name?
It is now Sandals Caribbean Cay. The rename came with the $200 million rebuild and reflects the private offshore island becoming the centerpiece of the property. Same resort, same island, new name and a substantially new product.
What is the newest Sandals resort?
Sandals Saint Vincent, opened March 2024, is the newest ground-up build. After the December 2026 reopenings, the three rebuilt Jamaica resorts will be the newest Sandals product anywhere. More on resort ages here.
What is the cheapest Sandals resort?
Sandals Ochi Beach at around $209 per person per night, followed by Sandals Negril at $224 and Sandals Halcyon Beach at $289. Full price ranking.
Which Sandals resorts have overwater bungalows?
Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals South Coast, Sandals Caribbean Cay, and Sandals Saint Vincent. Full comparison.
Are Sandals resorts safe?
Yes. Every property has 24-hour monitored surveillance, gated access, and on-site security, and no island Sandals operates on carries a State Department "do not travel" advisory. I have never felt unsafe at or around any Sandals resort. Standard travel precautions still apply off property.
When is the cheapest time to book?
September and October carry the lowest rates. December through March is the busiest and most expensive. Full seasonal breakdown.
How do I pick the right one?
Start with how far you are willing to fly and what your beach priority is. Those two answers eliminate most of the list. Then use the ranking table above, or take our Resort Match Quiz.
Erik Ritland is a Diamond Elite Certified Sandals Specialist, the top 1% of advisors. He has visited every Sandals resort in the Caribbean and traveled to 33 countries, including nearly a year living in Mexico’s Riviera Maya. That firsthand experience, along with more than 3,000 Sandals vacations planned, shapes every ranking and recommendation.
BEST SANDALS RESORTS
Our favorite all-inclusive resort brand.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Sandals Saint Vincent
Sandals Dunn’s River
Sandals Grenada
