Sandals Resorts Florida: Ultimate Guide
Florida is one of the most popular destinations for travelers in the USA looking for sun soaked beaches that are easy to get to. Unfortunately, Sandals Resorts does not have an official location in Florida or Key West. The good news is that there’s a Sandals right in the Bahamas, which is only a short 45 minute flight from Miami.
For those that want an idyllic tropical escape, Sandals has multiple adults-only all-inclusive resorts around the Caribbean islands that are not only located near Florida, but will also exceed your expectations in terms of 5-star luxury.
Is There A Sandals Resort In Florida?
While there is no Sandals Resort in Florida, there is one located just southeast of Miami in Nassau (Sandals Royal Bahamian). Flights from Miami International Airport (MIA) to Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) only take about 45 minutes, making it the closest Sandals Resort to Florida.
I prefer the Bahamas because the beaches are higher quality but with a less crowded, more authentic Caribbean vibe. Downtown Nassau still retains its British colonial architecture with colorful buildings, old forts, and museums that you don’t get anywhere in Florida.
The Bahamas are actually made up of over 3,000 islands and cays, most of which are uninhabited. You have the opportunity to see absolutely pristine white sand beaches with crystal clear water. I’ll never forget my boat tour to the Exuma Cays where I hung out with the swimming pigs and got to swim with nurse sharks at Compass Cay. One of my favorite things to do in the Caribbean!
Sandals Royal Bahamian is the answer for those who want the exclusive Sandals experience, that’s quick to get to from the US, at an affordable price. Overall, Sandals Resorts has selectively chosen premium beaches guaranteed to offer privacy rather than joining the ranks of the oversaturated Florida resort market.
Which Countries Have Sandal Resorts?
Sandals Resorts was started in Jamaica over 40 years ago which is why they have 7 locations on that island alone. Since they strictly focus on the Caribbean, the company was able to get the absolute best spots around the different islands long before the competition. That’s why you’re all but assured of glowing blue waters, private beaches, and tropical goodness.
Sandals has 17 locations across 8 different countries:
- Bahamas – 1 Location
- Antigua – 1 Location
- Curacao – 1 Location
- St. Vincent – 1 Location
- Grenada – 1 Location
- Barbados – 2 Locations
- St. Lucia – 3 Locations
- Jamaica – 7 Locations
Notice how places like Florida or Mexico are not on that list. It’s because Sandals main value proposition is selecting exotic Caribbean destinations that are more intimate rather than mega-resort packed tourist hubs. I get it, Florida is a convenient location, but sometimes branching out is exactly what the doctor ordered if it means getting the perfect vacation.
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 dreamy beaches and unmatched inclusions that Florida lovers yearn for, but want a more private adults-only option, look no further than Nassau. Sandals Royal Bahamian is a 5-star resort located directly on Cable Beach with its own private offshore island (Barefoot Cay), the likes of which don’t exist anywhere in Florida.
This exclusive all-inclusive resort features newly renovated accommodations with a refined European design. Here you can find huge suites with views of the glowing Caribbean waters, one-of-a-kind swim up rooms, and private butler villas.
Featuring 12 distinct specialty restaurants, 8 bars, unlimited water activities, and 7 pools, there’s almost too much to do! My wife and I love snorkeling so it’s a perfect spot to enjoy world-class reefs, sea turtles, and tropical fish only about 30 meters out.
It’s super close to Florida. Flights are only about 45 minutes from Miami and the resort is just 15 minutes from the Nassau airport so you can be on the beach in no time! There’s lots of direct flight options that are only about $200 for a round trip.
2. Sandals Royal Caribbean
MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA
Another top location that’s close to the US is Montego Bay, Jamaica. Flights from Miami to Montego Bay are only about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The resort is also only 10 minutes from the airport. Similar to Nassau, the flights are plenty and they tend to be pretty cheap.
Like I mentioned above, Sandals has 7 locations in Jamaica, and 2 in Montego Bay. My favorite is Sandals Royal Caribbean, which offers a unique blend of British charm and Jamaican vibes.
It is a more luxurious property with its own offshore island and overwater bungalow villas. The Island has an immaculate beach for lounging and the new Parisol Beach Club. If you book one of the Butler Elite Level suites, you also get a private BMW transfer from the airport.
The good news is when you stay at the Royal Caribbean you also get full access to the neighboring Sandals Montego Bay. You can technically walk between them, but I recommend getting the free transfer that only takes about 5 minutes. That means there are 21 restaurants, 11 bars, and 14 pools to choose from!
3. Sandals Regency La Toc
CASTRIES, SAINT LUCIA
St. Lucia is one of the most unique Caribbean islands. There’s nothing quite like staring up at the Piton Mountains as they tower over the glowing waters.
Sandals has three locations on the island, all of which offer a slightly different ambiance. I personally prefer the Grande St. Lucian in Gros-Islet on the northern tip of the island. It is situated on a private peninsula with unmatched 360 degree views of the tropical landscapes.
You do indeed get access to the other two Sandals locations in St. Lucia though (Regency La Toc and Halcyon Beach). That is in addition to the free greens fees at Cap Estate Country Club. Transfers are included to all of those spots.
Enjoy unlimited food, drinks, water sports, scuba diving, free golf, and airport transfers (to name a few). That’s why I love the Sandals in St. Lucia because they provide amazing value.
What Makes Sandals Resorts Attractive
Sandals are specifically designed for couples in love. They are the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts for romantic getaways like honeymoons, anniversaries, or birthdays. Although there are fantastic options in Florida, I think you will be hard pressed to go somewhere else after getting the full Sandals luxury experience. Here are some of my favorite inclusions.
- Unlimited Food & Drinks: Premium dining and drinks are included. Each resort has several unique restaurant and bar options to choose from. As someone who has been to a lot of all-inclusive resorts, I’ll say the food at Sandals tops the list.
- Watersport Activities: Free water activities like scuba diving, kayaking, snorkeling, paddle boarding, water trikes, motorized water sports (skiing, tubing, wakeboarding), and glass bottom boat rides are all included.
- Airport Transfers: Free transfers to and from the airport are included no matter which room level you choose. Some locations will even provide a private boat transfer (St. Vincent) or pick you up in a Rolls Royce (Royal Bahamian and Royal Barbados) when you book at Butler Elite Level room.
- No Tipping Policy: Sandals has a no tipping policy. There are no taxes, fees, or gratuities after you book. This helps to make the vacation completely stress free.
- Exclusivity & Romance: Choose from a variety of romantic activities like a couples massage, candlelight dinner on the beach, or sunset catamaran cruise. The intimate aura of Sandals makes it perfect for special occasions, unlike most of the expansive resorts in Florida that now prioritize quantity over quality.
- 5-Star Luxury: The accommodations at Sandals are unique, featuring Overwater Bunglows, Swim-Up Suites, Rondoval Suites, and more. I have even had the employees know me on a first name basis, which seems like it would be impossible! That said there are room options for all budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any Sandals Resorts in Florida?
There is not currently a Sandals Resort in Florida, however there is a Sandals in the Bahamas (Sandals Royal Bahamian), which is right next to Florida. Many people prefer the Bahamas over Florida these days because it offers better beaches and has a fraction of the tourist traffic. In total, Sandals has 17 locations around the Caribbean islands.
Does Florida have all-inclusive resorts?
Yes, Florida has several all-inclusive resorts particularly in the south and Key West. This is the main resort zone where you can find luxury adult-only options like Little Palm Island Resort & Spa or Bungalows Key Largo. However, they do not include water activities like scuba diving, airport transfers, or tipping even though they are all-inclusive resorts.
Which Sandals Resort is closest to Florida?
The closest Sandals Resort to Florida is the Royal Bahamian, which is located in Nassau and is only a short 45 minute flight from Miami. You get a free transfer from the airport which is only a ten minute ride to the resort. You can be on the beach in about an hour between the flight and transfer time!
Does Sandals have any resorts in the United States?
Sandals does not technically have any locations in the United States. Instead, they focus solely on the Caribbean islands where they have locations across 8 different countries. These islands are independent countries so US citizens will need a passport that is generally valid for 6 months or more after your visit. However, you do not need a visa for short tourist trips.
BEST SANDALS RESORTS
Our favorite all-inclusive resort brand.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Sandals Grenada
Sandals Royal Barbados
Sandals Grande Antigua
