Sandals Royal Curacao

Sandals Royal Curacao has one of the most unique beaches of all the Sandals locations. Overlooking the stretch in front of the main pool is soft white sand that meets right up to the edge of the ocean with rock formations that give the water a mesmerizing blue glow. 

Wrapping around the North side of the coastline is a pristine white sand beach that is perfect for lounging and swimming. There are plenty of loungers and umbrellas, so I never struggled to find a place to sit. 

The resort is actually located off of the entrance to the port so the water is very calm and you can see some very nice yachts cruising by. The only downside to this is that you can’t get those endless ocean views in some spots because it’s effectively like a channel with another peninsula across from the beach – the plus side to this is that the beach is very private and tranquil. 

There’s a variety of water sports available if you want to move around on the open waters. I tried paddle boarding and kayaking right from the beach and was able to see some cool tropical fish. 

Here’s what to expect for a day on the beach at Sandals Royal Curacao: 

• The Beach: The fine white sand of Santa Barbara Beach at the resort is well maintained and private.
• The Water: The unique location with white sand and rock formations creates a mesmerizing color in the Caribbean waters that I could stare at for hours. 
• Activities: Unlimited water sports are included like snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and hobie cats.
• Beach Bars: The Beach Bar is located right on the point of the beach offering tropical cocktails and bites with fantastic views. Strand Restaurant is also located on the beach and has an open air setting with a thatch roof. 
• Lounging: There are plenty of loungers lining the beach so it’s not difficult to find a good spot to relax. 
• Beach Cabanas: You can get a private beach cabana for the day that comes with a dedicated butler to serve you drinks, food, and anything else you need.

There are 11 specialty restaurants and 13 bars throughout Sandals Royal Curacao offering tasty dishes and tropical cocktails from all over the world. Each restaurant has its own ambiance so you’re sure to find the perfect spot for any occasion. 

I recommend making dinner reservations for places like Vincent or Butch’s when you check in to ensure you get the dates you want. 

Expert Tip: For the most romantic experience with your partner, book a private candlelight dinner on the beach. It comes with a four course meal served on a formal table setting with flowers and a personal butler for only $199 per couple. It’s the perfect way to celebrate honeymoons, anniversaries, or special occasions.

Here’s a breakdown of all the restaurants at Sandals Royal Curacao:

1. Butch’s Island Chop House: Named after the founder of Sandals, Gordon Butch Stewart, Buth’s Chop House serves up high-quality steaks and fresh seafood. The setting was elegant and reservations are required, which makes it a perfect spot for special occasions. The prime rib and the surf & turf were cooked to absolute perfection! 
2. Strand: I loved Strand because it really embodies the “no shoes, no shirt, no problem” lifestyle.  Sitting right on the beach by the water’s edge, the open air setting is fantastic.  Both the lunch and dinner menus here offer a variety of seafood favorites like swordfish provencal. It’s easy to sit here and soak in the beach views. Reservations are not required here. 
3. Vincent: Inspired by modern European dining, Vincent (a tribute to Vincent van-Gogh) featured artful plating and innovative combinations. The multi-course tasting menu is the perfect way to experience a variety of tasty dishes. The pan seared duck foie gras was my favorite! Reservations are required here and I recommend making them right when you check in just to be sure. 
4. Gatsu Gatsu: Gatsu Gatsu impressed me with its Asian fusion sushi and fresh sushi rolls. It’s fun to sit at the sushi bar and watch the chefs create the roll right in front of you. I’d recommend trying their signature Gatsu Gatsu roll.  Also, the patio here has great views of the Caribbean. 
5. Zuka: Zuka offers Latin fusion flavors in a colorful setting. The spices used in the tajin spiced ahi tuna were so good! The restaurant is only open for dinner between 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM but reservations are not required. 
6. Aolos: Dining at Aolos feels distinctly Mediterranean, with fresh Greek salads and grilled meats. The open-air terrace provides amazing views of the ocean and sunset views are stunning here. The breakfast is also fantastic, it runs from 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM. 
7. Pietra: Pietra has a rustic Italian charm, serving wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas. It is quite large and is actually open all day.  The breakfast buffet starts at 7:30, while the late night menu is offered until 2:00 AM! The pizza crust was thin and crispy, exactly how I like it. Their tiramisu was the best I’ve had in a while.
8. Toteki: The Toteki food truck serves local Curaçao specialties in a laid-back beach setting. I liked stopping here for a quick casual lunch or snack. The fried fish sandwich is so good!  
9. La Palma: La Palma offers traditional Spanish tapas style plates. It’s a cozy little food truck located right off the beach so the vibe is very low key.  I loved grabbing some patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo for a snack while we soaked in the views. 
10. Kishi: Kishi specialized in pan-Asian cuisine like bao buns, bowls, and curries. The flavors were rich and zesty, and portions were generous. I especially enjoyed their shrimp stir-fry and general tso’s steak. Like the other food trucks, it’s open from 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM. 
11. Kanaal: Kanaal was perfect for morning coffee or a sweet treat. It is inspired by the cafes of Amsterdam with a variety of sweet treats and wine. The nice thing is that it opens at 6:30 AM so you can grab an early morning coffee and pastry. 

In addition to the restaurants, drinks and cocktails were available at several bars throughout the resort, each with its own signature concoctions. My favorite spots were the beach bar and the piano bar! 

Also note that you can get a $250 Dine Out Credit for restaurants around Curaçao if you book a butler suite for 7 nights or more. This allows you to go explore the island and experience authentic local cuisines! 

Sandals Royal Curacao has several pools located around the property and a couple of whirlpools. The main pool is one of the coolest pools I have ever seen.  It is a 2 level infinity pool that overlooks the glowing Caribbean waters. Right next to it is a smaller pool that is the quiet pool which is perfect for relaxing or reading a book. 

There are several suites here that also have their own private pools. The seaside bungalows come with an infinity pool that is just steps away from the ocean.  The Kurason Island butler suites surround a pool that is shaped like a heart, and each suite has direct swim up access. 

The patio surrounding the pool is large enough so I never had problems finding a place to sit. There are also private cabanas that are ideal for lounging all day with your partner.  Not to worry, the friendly staff is always making their rounds to deliver snacks or drinks so you don’t have to get up!

Here’s a quick breakdown of the pool options at Sandals Royal Curacao:

• Main Pool: The main pool is a two level infinity pool that is nestled up right next to the shoreline. It is one of the coolest pools I have seen. 
• Heart Shaped Pool: This pool is located on the south side of the resort. The pool is in the shape of a heart and is surrendered by the Kurason Island suites that have direct access. 
• Swim Up Suites: There are several suites that have their own private pool access like Rondoval Suites, Seaside Bungalows, and swim-up suites. 
• Swim-up Bar: The main pool has a swim-bar on the side where you can grab a drink without leaving the water. The quiet pool next to the main pool also has a bar. 
• Whirlpools:  There is a whirlpool and small natural pool kind of in the center of the beachfront. These can be great in the evenings or right after going for a swim in the ocean. 
• Private Cabanas: Private cabanas can be rented for the day so that you and your partner have a secluded spot. This can also come with private butler service if you choose!

The great thing about Sandals Royal Curacao is there’s so much to do that you can literally stay on the resort property the whole vacation.  That said, you can always go explore the natural beauty that Curacao has to offer so no two days are the same! 

Activities At The Resort

Don’t get me wrong, I love lounging on the beach or hanging out by the pools when staying at Sandals. That said, there’s something for everyone at Sandals Royal Curacao. From beach volleyball to scuba diving, the options are endless!

Note that there are also bikes on the property so you can use those rather than walking if you need to go to different sides of the resort. 

Here are all the activities you can do at Sandals Royal Curacao: 

• Unlimited Water Sports: Fun in the sun with kayaking, scuba diving, paddle boarding, snorkeling, hobie cats, and more. 
• Daily Scuba Diving: The certified diving program is a perfect way to explore some of the best dive sites in Curacao. You can go on up to 2 dives per day if you are certified. First time divers will need to get certified for a small fee. 
• Tennis: There are several tennis courts back by the entrance of the resort. You can also get complimentary tennis lessons!
• Fitness Center: The fitness center features nice free weights, cardio equipment, and machines. It’s open 24 hours so you can get a workout anytime. 
• Land Activities: Several other land based activities like pickleball, beach volleyball, ping pong, shuffleboard, bocce ball, billiards, and more. 
• Red Lane Spa: The Red Lane Spa at Sandals Royal Curacao is a subline retreat. They have a number of treatments in a very relaxing setting. Aside from couples massages, there are facials, manicures, pedicures, body wraps, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, and more.  It really is a full service spa!
• Live Entertainment: Every day there is live entertainment and music to enjoy.  There’s a stage right behind the main lobby that will have some sort of show every night. Generally the main pool will have some lively games during the day, and at night there will be a larger show with different themes. 

Off-Site Adventures

Exploring the area around Sandals Royal Curacao is a great way to experience the natural beauty and vibrant culture on the island. The nice thing is that all of the tours can be reserved at the Island Routes desk in the main lobby of the resort or ahead of time on the website or app. 

Here are my top five suggestions for off-site adventures around the resort:

• Catamaran Cruises:  I highly recommend doing one of the catamaran cruises so you can see the unique coastline of Curacao.  The sunset cruise is a must, but my personal favorite is the cruise out to Klein island. This uninhabited island has pristine white sand beaches and glowing turquoise waters. The tours will depart right from the resort and they cost about $120 per person. 
• Golf: Sandals Royal Curacao has the best golf course (the Old Quarry Golf Course) on the island right next to the resort. Note that green fees and cart rentals are not included with your booking. This 18 hole par 72 course has views that are spectacular!
• Willemstad City Tour: Just 25 minutes from the resort are the colorful streets of Willemstad. This UNESCO World Heritage city is filled with Dutch colonial architecture, markets (like Punda and Otrobanda), and the famous Queen Emma Bridge. This is a chance to see a more authentic view of Curacao’s history. Guided tours cost between $40 and $100 per person but includes the transfers and some drinks and snacks. 
• Swim With The Turtles: Take a scenic cruise along the north coast to Shete Boka National Park, which features rugged coastal views and the illuminated Hato sea caves. Cap it all off by swimming with the turtles at Playa Piskado. At the end of the tour you will get an authentic island meal served at the cliffside Playa Forti Restaurant. This boat excursion departs from the resort and costs around $130 per person. 
• Landhuis Chobolobo: The home of the genuine Curacao Liqueur, Landhuis Chobolobo, this 19th century distillery shows how the iconic Blue Curacao liqueur is made. Tours include tastings and fun facts about the product’s history. Seeing the big yellow mansion itself is worth the trip. Entry costs about $15–$20, and the gift shop makes for a fun stop.

There are 24 different room categories with unique layouts, making it easy to find something for everyone’s needs and budgets. In all, Sandals Royal Curacao has 351 rooms varying between Luxury Level, Club Level, and Butler Level. Entry rooms in the Luxury Level will start at around $330 per person, per night. 

We stayed in the Amante Oceanview Swim-up Butler Suite, which features private pool access and beautiful views of the Caribbean. The patio is enormous with a tranquility soaking tub on it.

What I love about Royal Curacao is it has so many unique suites to choose from. The seaside butler bungalows are right on the beach and feature your own glass edged infinity pool.  My other favorite is the rondoval suites that are like having a private sanctuary with your own pool. 

That said, all accommodations come with the 5-star luxury experience that Sandals Resorts is famous for, it really just comes down to your personal preferences. 

Luxury Level Rooms:  Sandals Luxury level is for the entry level rooms which are perfect for those who want  5-star accommodations but on a tighter budget. This category includes premium features like a private balcony, tranquility soaking tub, large king-size bed, walk-in showers, and a premium mini bar. One of the main differences is they will generally have views of the tropical gardens or pools. Sometimes you can even get a room with ocean views for cheap. If premium views or butler service are not super important to you, this is definitely the way to go!

Club Level Rooms: Club Level rooms include all the benefits of the Luxury Level Rooms but with some additional benefits. These rooms will frequently have better views. Most of the Club rooms feature large private balconies, swim-up access, or beachfront walkouts. You also get access to the VIP Club Sandals Lounge that has a concierge, premium drinks, and snacks.  Although they are typically more expensive than the Luxury Level rooms, it’s not by much. 

Butler Elite Level Suites: For those looking for the ultimate in luxury and tranquility, Butler suites are for you. These suites come with your own private butler service for anything you need. Not only that, but the suites themselves are absolutely top notch. As I mentioned above, my personal favorite are the Seaside Bungalows that feature your own infinity pool right next to the beach. Before you check in you will complete all of your butler preferences. Once you’re there you will get a smartphone to communicate directly with your butler between approximately 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM. 

Nobody includes more than Sandals, and Sandals Royal Curacao brings a whole new meaning to the term “all-inclusive”. When I look at all the restaurants, activities, bars, luxurious suites, and excursions, the price is more than worth it to us. 

Let’s unpack everything that’s included:

• Unlimited Food And Drinks: Get unlimited dining at 11 unique restaurants and endless premium drinks at 13 different bars. 
• Endless Water Sports: Water sports including snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, hobie cats, and more! 
• Scuba Diving Tours: Daily outings for certified divers to famous dive sites with coral reef, marine life, and shipwrecks.
• Land Sports:  Enjoy pickleball, tennis, basketball, beach volleyball, shuffleboard, bocce ball, ping pong, and pool tables.
• Daily Entertainment: Live entertainment every day and night from fire dancers and silent discos to Caribbean beach parties.  Make sure to look at the event schedule at the resort once you arrive because it changes every week.  There is also a stage right behind the lobby that has great shows nearly every night.
• 5-Star Service: All of the staff were so friendly and inviting.  Our butler Jojo was absolutely fantastic 🙂 You can count on the 5-star treatment that Sandals is known for whether it’s at the restaurants or out at the beach and pools. 
• Airport Transfers: Transfers between airport and resort are always included both ways.  
• Top Shelf Wine and Spirits: A premium offering of wine and spirits are included like Johnnie Walker, Robert Mondavi, Tanqueray, Appleton Estate Rum, and more. I like that they always try to include local spirits. Your room will come stocked with a premium bar as well. 
• White Sand Beach: This resort has a pristine white sand beach with nice and calm waters. 
• Fitness Center: A state of the art fitness center that is open 24 hours.
• No Tipping: Last but not least, they do not allow tipping! Not to be cheap, but I love this rule because after you book your trip, you are all set!  There are no other fees or surprises. 

Keep in mind that there are a lot of optional extras like the private candlelight dinners, couples massages, beach cabanas, and excursions that can be arranged after you arrive or in advance on the app.

Sandals Royal Curacao is nestled along the southwest coast of Curacao in the exclusive Santa Barbara Estate. The resort is just about 30 minutes by car from Curacao International Airport (CUR).

Note that airport transfers are always included no matter which room you book. Once you are exiting the airport, the Sandals Transfer stand will be just to the left.  They will get you all taken care of for your ride to the resort.  Just make sure to provide your flight information beforehand if you didn’t book your flights directly with Sandals. 

Since Curacao is one of the southernmost islands in the Caribbean, flight times from the United States are a little longer than some destinations like Jamaica. For example, flights out of Miami to Curacao International Airport are about 3 hours long. For me that’s still a very short flight compared to so many other exotic locations that take much much longer!  You should go, don’t think about it, do it!