With 17 Sandals Resorts to choose from across 8 islands, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is right for you. Every couple is different, and so are their interests and desires. Below you’ll find a list of Sandals Resorts that you should consider as a first time Sandals guest.
Best Overall for First Time Guests: Sandals Grande St. Lucian
If you want a quintessential Sandals experience, Sandals Grande St. Lucian is one of the best all-around choices for first-time guests. The resort sits on a peninsula with calm Caribbean waters on one side, the Atlantic ocean on the other side, and breathtaking mountain views.
This resort offers a little bit of everything, making it a great option for couples who want both relaxation and plenty to do during their stay. You can enjoy a wide variety of included on-resort activities, including one of the most extensive selections of water sports in the Sandals portfolio. One unique feature to this resort is water skiing, giving adventurous guests an exciting way to experience the Caribbean waters of Rodney Bay.
When hunger strikes, you’ll have no shortage of food options. There are 12 restaurants offering a mix of cuisines: Caribbean, Indian, and Japanese are just some of your choices. I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that my personal favorite Sandals restaurant can be found here as well– Soy. It’s always a solid choice for quality, fresh food!
One added bonus to staying at Sandals Grande St. Lucian, is your ability to visit the other two Sandals properties that are on the island of Saint Lucia. This is part of Sandals’ Stay and Play program, where you can stay at one and enjoy the amenities at the others. Getting between the properties is easy! A complimentary shuttle will be provided to take you to and from the other two resorts: Sandals Halcyon and Sandals Regency La Toc.
Best Modern Luxury Experience for First Time Guests: Sandals Saint Vincent
If it’s your first time staying at a Sandals Resort, you cannot go wrong with Sandals Saint Vincent. This resort is pure magic. Think lush grounds, a cove-like beach, and a stunning feature pool, all surrounded by the volcanic mountains of St. Vincent. It’s like you stepped onto the set of White Lotus (without the drama, of course!) You can even explore the beautiful grounds using one of the complimentary bicycles found throughout the property.
Sandals Saint Vincent is part of the Sandals 2.0 vision, offering a clean, modern beach vibe paired with elevated and innovative experiences throughout the resort. Some room accommodations feature unique touches such as in-room theater spaces and private workout studios, creating a more personalized luxury stay. This resort also offers a unique culinary experience at Buccan, where you can dine family-style with other guests to enjoy authentic Caribbean cuisine.
Best Adventure Experience for First Time Guests: Sandals Ochi
If adventure is the name of your game, Jamaica has a lot to offer. As one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant and tourism-driven islands, there is no shortage of experiences both on and off the resort. Sandals Ochi is situated in the heart of many of Jamaica’s most popular attractions, making it the perfect home base for adventurous couples.
The resort itself has two distinct sides — a lively beachfront side and a more elevated hillside section — each offering its own unique atmosphere and amenities. You can also enjoy a high level of entertainment, with energetic activities and nightlife throughout your stay. For those looking for a secret little adventure, you can request the daily password to enter the speakeasy bar, The Rabbit Hole. And trust me, you won’t be disappointed when you step inside!
For those looking to explore beyond the resort, you’ll be just minutes away from some of Jamaica’s most iconic excursions, including the famous Blue Hole, the world-renowned Dunn’s River Falls, bamboo rafting experiences, ATV tours, horseback riding, and the Mystic Mountain bobsled adventure. At Sandals Ochi, there is no shortage of activities on or off property!
Best for Foodie First Time Guests: Sandals Royal Curaçao
For couples who love food, elevated dining, and unique culinary experiences, Sandals Royal Curaçao is the perfect choice for your first Sandals vacation. This resort offers a diverse food scene with a wide variety of restaurants, global flavors, and beautifully designed dining spaces that feel modern and upscale. Foodies will enjoy trying new restaurants, craft cocktails, and immersive dining experiences.
One example of this is Vincent– a restaurant that pays homage to Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. Every plate served is a masterpiece and flavor canvas. The island of Curacao is rich in heritage drawing from Caribbean and Dutch cultures. This lends itself to easily influencing restaurant themes and menus.
Plus, there are three beachside food trucks. Nothing says “I’m a foodie” more than grabbing a snack at a food truck! Here you can find traditional Curaçao dishes, Spanish tapas, and Asian fusion.
Sandals Royal Curaçao even has an Island Inclusive Dining Program which allows guests staying in select room categories to venture off-property for dinner. Included is a $250 dine-out credit to use at a curated list of local restaurants and a private transfer to and from.
No matter which resort you choose as a first time Sandals guest, all of your resort amenities will be included in your stay! All of your food, drinks, water sports, land sports, airport transfers, WiFi, and entertainment are included in your package price. More inclusions, more luxury, less stress!
Ready to choose the best Sandals resort for first time guests? Contact All In Vacay today for a personalized quote and let’s start planning your perfect adults-only Caribbean vacation!