What is the best Sandals resort in 2025? After personally visiting each of the 17 Sandals resorts in the portfolio, for us and many of our clients, Sandals Grande St.Lucian stands out among them all. Offering the calmest beach, overwater bungalows, and access to two other resorts nearby, it’s one of the most unique Sandals properties.
But your perfect choice depends on your style.
Some of our clients want a quieter resort, some prefer nightlife, and others want the personalized services of a butler – and some want all the above! So, choosing the right Sandals resort is matching the right resort to your personal interests and needs.
Want Social And Budget-Friendly? There’s a resort for that. Craving seclusion and overwater romance? We’ll point you to the one that delivers. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a returning Sandals Select Rewards member, making the wrong choice can lead to a trip that doesn’t quite hit the mark.
We’re here to make sure that never happens!
Jonathan and Angela Patton
Award-winning Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club Diamond Elite travel experts and founders of Rivage Travel and Best Caribbean Resorts.
Hi! We’re Jonathan & Angela. We’ve been to every Sandals resort, and we not only have been recognized by Sandals as their Top US agency for 2024, but we’ve helped over 2,000 couples, just like you plan epic Sandals honeymoons, anniversaries, and destination weddings with zero guesswork and no planning fees, ever…
If you’re looking to plan the perfect Caribbean getaway, we’ll save you hours of research, help you avoid common booking mistakes, and help you get the most out of your Sandals vacation.
Want a full breakdown of the top Sandals resorts ranked from our personal experiences combined with the analysis of over 179,000 guest reviews across the major travel platforms of Google and TripAdvisor?
Keep reading. We’ll show you exactly where to go, when to book, and why each one may (or may not) be the right fit.
Don’t have time to read the full guide?
Here’s our shortlist of the best Sandals resorts based on firsthand visits, real client feedback, and what’s trending in 2025.
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a romantic getaway, a romantic reset, or just need a break that actually feels like a break, we’ve got you.
As travel experts who’ve personally stayed at every Sandals property, often multiple times, we hear from our clients daily about what they loved (and didn’t).
Here’s what matters most to us when choosing the best Sandals resort:
Our ranking and comparison chart below was created using client feedback from over 2,000 client bookings and our personal travels. We deep searched and analyzed data from more than 179,000 guest reviews and ratings across four of the top travel sites (Google, Trip Advisor, Kayak, Expedia).
Before getting into the reviews, let’s start with our custom travel quiz, which will, in less than 30 seconds, give you a starting point for the best Sandals resort based on your interests.
The quiz also takes into account access to nearby Sandals resorts, so you can see which locations offer the convenience of multiple resorts and amenities within close proximity.
Take our quick quiz to discover which Sandals Resort best matches your preferences. Find your perfect all-inclusive getaway in just a few clicks!
Rank | Resort | Trip Advisor | Expedia | Kayak | Average |
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Hi! If you’ve just completed our travel match quiz, we now have a starting point for what your top Sandals resort may look like.
Let’s now take a closer look at all 17 Sandals resorts ranked for 2025. Our reviews and rankings are based on our personal stays, real client feedback, and what matters most to different types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for romance, energy, scuba diving, seclusion, adventure, or world-class dining, there’s a Sandals for you.
Below, you’ll find detailed insights into what each resort offers: the vibe, the rooms, who it’s best for, what makes it unique, and what you need to know before you book. Let’s go!
Rating: 9.8 / 10 | Location: St. Lucia
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$315 pp | 41 miles | 12 | 5 | Yes | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
For us, Sandals Grande St. Lucian is the best overall resort, thanks to its calm waters, beautiful beach with soft white sand, and stunning mountain views. Here you receive full access to the 2 sister properties, Sandals Halcyon Beach & Sandals LaToc.
Why Sandals Grande St. Lucian Is Ranked #1 For Us:
Sandals Grande St. Lucian has that postcard-perfect setting: powdery white sand beaches, clear water, and dramatic mountain views across the bay, all backdropped with sailboats and yachts docked in its waters. The resort is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and is led by one of our favorite General Managers, Della John who has one the best teams around, so we know with confidence that Sandals Grande St. Lucia will deliver a world-class experience!
Best For : Honeymooners, first-timers, and beach lovers
What to Expect:
We’ve stayed here many times over the years. The mix of scenery, beach quality, and resort access is unbeatable. It’s our top recommendation for anyone who wants the full Sandals experience in one place.
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Yes! There is a complimentary shuttle service that goes between all three resorts in St. Lucia.
We believe so. Seeing St. Lucia from the air is an experience that we would recommend to all of our clients. It does require four passengers to go up, but 95% of the time those requirements are met.
For many of our clients, it is. You’ll be on the best beach with panoramic views of Rodney Bay while staying at one of the most well-serviced resorts in the Caribbean.
Worried about the transfer from the airport?
Sandals Grande St. Lucian is worth the scenic ride, but we often arrange helicopter transfers for clients who want to skip the mountain roads entirely. It’s faster, and who doesn’t want to see the iconic Pitons from the air.
If a helicopter is not for you, many of our clients also book the water ferry with Fun2Sea. It takes the same amount of time to travel by car, but you get to see this amazing island by water.
Contact us for more information, and let’s chat!
Location: Saint Vincent, Grenadines
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$379 pp | 14 miles | 11 | 4 | No | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.8 / 10 – A standout newcomer, this is our best Sandals resort for a honeymoon due to its exceptional dining, privacy, and boutique luxury. This intimate boutique resort is also quickly becoming a favorite among seasoned Sandals travelers and newcomers to the Sandals experience.
Why Sandals Saint Vincent Is Ranked #2 For Us:
Tucked between rainforest cliffs and a secluded bay, Sandals St. Vincent offers one of the most peaceful, high-end experiences in the Sandals portfolio. As an intimate boutique resort, it’s newer, refined, and still under the radar, which means fewer crowds, no stress, and no compromises.
Best For: Culinary travelers, couples who value peace and privacy, and Sandals guests looking for the best of what Sandals has to offer. If you’re a sunrise and sunset lover, they’re both equally impressive here due to the perfect East / West location of the resort.
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Sandals Saint Vincent is one of the more expensive properties in the Sandals portfolio, but for good reason. This resort embodies the best of what Sandals has to offer. From the food quality to accommodations, it’s the future of luxury all-inclusives providing a world-class guest experience.
Yes, and there are now multi-room butler suites for those looking to share a room together.
Yes, the water at Sandals St. Vincent is calm, clear, and very swimmable.
Rivage Travel / Best Caribbean Resorts Client review: “It felt like a Caribbean version of Wisteria Lane, charming, quiet, and so beautifully designed. The food blew us away, especially at Buccan!”
Need a wellness-focused option or want to avoid crowds? This is your spot. Sandals St. Vincent is the kind of resort where you can get lost in a book, then wander into a world-class dinner. If you’re a non-drinker or just want a trip focused on reconnection, not nightlife, you’ll love it here.
Location: Grenada, on the exclusive Pink Gin Beach
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$323 pp | 1 mile | 10 | 5 | No | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.8 / 10 – Modern, romantic, and home to the epic SkyPool Suites with a private plunge pool, ideal for couples wanting a wow factor.
Why Sandals Grenada Is Ranked #3 For Us:
Grenada balances modern luxury with a fun, relaxed energy. From the dramatic infinity-edge SkyPool Suites to the cascading, stunning pools and quiet beach coves, this resort was designed to impress from the moment you arrive. And it’s just five minutes from the airport.
Best For: Couples who want luxury, a private beach, and efficiency all in one place
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Yes, you can however we recommend taking one of the included snorkel tours.
Yes, Butch’s Chophouse & Soy Sushi are always highlights for us and our guests.
Yes, they are on multiple levels in a six-story building offering guests amazing sunsets and ocean views.
Rivage Travel / Best Caribbean Resorts Client Review: “We booked a SkyPool Suite and didn’t leave it for two days. The privacy, the view, and that plunge pool, it was the best splurge we’ve ever made.”
Worried you’ll miss out on the party scene? You won’t. Grenada offers a social atmosphere with live music at night, but also plenty of quiet corners and pools for relaxation. You get both, without needing to compromise.
Location: Whitehouse, Jamaica
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$189 pp | 40 miles | 9 | 4 | No | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.6 / 10 – One of the most romantic and peaceful Sandals resorts, South Coast Sandals features over the water bungalows, a stunning overwater chapel, and the longest private white sand beach in Jamaica.
Why Sandals South Coast Is Ranked #4 For Us:
Set on a 500-acre nature preserve, South Coast is the resort for couples who want to feel like they have the Caribbean all to themselves. With luxurious over the water bungalows, an overwater chapel, Jamaica’s largest swimming pool, and three beachfront villages all updated to Sandals 2.0 modernization philosophy, this is Sandals at its most romantic, offering stunning pools and exclusive amenities.
Best For: Seclusion, vow renewals, honeymooners seeking true privacy
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Absolutely, you’ll see some of the most amazing sunsets at Sandals South Coast. We recommend catching one at the Latitudes overwater bar!
Yes. For those getting married at Sandals South Coast, you’ll be matched with an on-site wedding coordinator who will take care of everything related to your big day in paradise.
Rivage Travel / Best Caribbean Resorts review: “This is where we send couples who just want to be together. No pressure to socialize, no party crowds, just long days, soft sand, and serious connection.”
Location: Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$273 pp | 56 miles | 12 | 5 | Yes | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.6 / 10 – Sandals Dunn’s River is Sandals Jamaica’s newest and most modern resort, featuring river-inspired pools, sleek architecture, and world-class dining.
Why Sandals Dunns River Is Ranked #5 For Us:
This is the future of Sandals and our #2 best Sandals resort in Jamaica. Having been completely rebuilt in 2023, Sandals Dunn’s River is modern, bold, and overflowing with waterfall-inspired design. The guest experience is unmatched, and with access to Ocho Rios from a daily flight from Miami to the Ian Fleming airport, it’s easier to get here than ever before.
Best For: Return guests, modern luxury seekers, and food lovers
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Yes, while you’ll find cascading waterfalls throughout the resort, the real highlight is just 20 minutes away from Sandals Dunns River.
Yes, many of the rooms face the ocean. The best views are from the fifth floor.
In Jamaica, yes, rebuilt in 2023, it features the best of Sandals 2.0 modernization philosophy.
Rivage Travel / Best Caribbean Resorts Client Review: “We felt like we were the first people to ever stay in our room”
While our top five deliver exceptional experiences, each Sandals resort offers something unique.
Here’s how the rest rank in 2025, based on travel styles, their value, and client feedback.
Location: Santa Barbara, Curaçao
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$333 pp | 16 miles | 8 | 3 | No | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.5 / 10 – Unique Euro-Caribbean flair with outstanding snorkeling, scuba diving, stylish architecture, and new dining concepts on one of the safest countries in the Caribbean.Among all Sandals locations, Sandals Curaçao stands out for its distinctive blend of Dutch and Caribbean influences, offering guests a Euro-Caribbean experience not found at other resorts.
Why Sandals Royal Curacao Is Ranked #6 For Us:
This is Sandals’ Caribbean-meets-Europe escape. Dutch architecture, turquoise lagoons, and fantastic snorkeling draw couples who want a different island feel.
Best For: Underwater explorers, culture lovers, and Sandals veterans
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Sandals Curacao is not just good, but great! While it may not be a true beach resort, the resort really shines on the pool and food scene.
Curaçao feels totally different from any other Sandals island. It’s a great pick for well-traveled couples.
Location: Montego Bay, Jamaica
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$227 pp | 5 miles | 8 | 7 | No | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.5 / 10 – Intimate and elegant with a unique private offshore island and heart-shaped overwater bungalows.
Why Sandals Royal Caribbean Is Ranked #7 For Us:
Royal Caribbean feels like a private island hideaway, but it’s just minutes from the Montego Bay airport. This resort blends colonial British charm with tropical indulgence, complete with its own offshore island for exclusive day escapes and luxurious over the water bungalow accommodations featuring glass floors, private pools, and butler service.
Best For: Couples wanting romance, water villas, and intimacy
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Yes, free shuttle included and runs on a schedule posted in the main lobby.
It’s small and personal. The private island adds so much variety without overwhelming the vibe. Perfect for honeymooners and anniversary celebrations for those looking for something more relaxed and laid back.
Location: Negril, Jamaica
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$203 pp | 45 miles | 9 | 3 | No | No |
Our Personal Note:
9.4/10 – Set on Jamaica’s famous Seven Mile Beach, this resort is the capital of casual with a laid-back, beachfront setting, perfect for sunset lovers. The resort features one of the most beautiful white sand beaches with calm waters, which are great for relaxing in.
Why Sandals Negril Is Ranked #8 For Us:
This is one of Jamaica’s most authentic beachfront escapes. Sandals Negril sits directly on the famed Seven Mile Beach, widely considered one of the best beaches in Jamaica, where the sand stretches for days and the sunsets feel custom-made for couples. It’s something we think everyone should experience at least once, well.. Many times!
Best For: Beachwalkers, sunset lovers, and laid-back romantics
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Yes, Seven Mile Beach is very popular with locals and tourists.
Yes, and they’re priced well when compared to other Sandals resorts.
Yes, Sandals Negril is a slower-paced resort with great food and a staff who will cater to all travel styles and needs.
If you want a true Caribbean beach experience, Negril is hard to beat. And it’s one of the few where you can walk right out of your room and into the sand.
Location: Montego Bay, Jamaica
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$273 pp | 3 miles | 12 | 7 | No | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.4/10 – This is the original Sandals resort, and as its flagship, it delivers high energy, great beach access, and quick airport transfers. Perfect for social couples and short getaways, though you will see and hear airplanes from time to time.
Why Sandals Montego Bay Is Ranked #9 For Us:
The original Sandals resort is still going strong and is better than ever. If you want to land, unpack, and start sipping cocktails all within 15 minutes of exiting the airport, this is your resort. The resort features a private beach, multiple dining options, and access to shared amenities, plus guests can enjoy stunning pools with ocean views and swim-up bars. This is a top recommendation for those wanting a short trip or fun-loving couples who want high energy.
Best For: Social couples, quick weekend getaways, and first-timers
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Some find it part of the charm.
No, all guests visiting Sandals Royal Caribbean will need to utilize the complimentary shuttle. We recommend checking the main lobby for the schedule.
Rivage Travel / Best Caribbean Resorts Client Review: “Sandals Montego Bay has one of the best social scenes. If that’s your style, you’ll love it here.”
Location: Castries, St. Lucia
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$231 pp | 35 miles | 6 | 3 | Yes | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.3/10 – The most tranquil and garden-filled Sandals resort of them all, this intimate boutique resort is perfect for couples who want peace, privacy, and zero pressure to socialize. Smaller and more low-key, with lush tropical gardens and a romantic, unplugged atmosphere.
Why Sandals Halcyon Beach Is Ranked #10 For Us:
St. Lucia’s most tranquil resort, Halcyon, is nicknamed the “Garden of Eden” for good reason. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, this is the quietest of the island’s three Sandals, ideal for couples who want romance without the crowds.
Best For: Older couples, introverts, and spa lovers
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Yes, free shuttle.
Yes, small but peaceful.
Some do, especially in newer categories.
It’s small, it’s peaceful, and it doesn’t try to impress you with flash; it’s more about serenity and being with the one you love.
Location: Castries, St. Lucia
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$267 pp | 34 miles | 9 | 3 | Yes | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.3 / 10 – Dramatic cliffside views, classic elegance, and a hillside layout that feels grand and romantic, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and featuring stunning pools.
Why Sandals Regency LaToc Is Ranked #11 For Us:
Set on a hillside with dramatic ocean views, La Toc is visually stunning, with lush tropical gardens and stunning pools that add to its Caribbean charm. It comes with a lot of stairs, so this resort is for active travelers who want big scenery, French flair, and a combination of romance and fun.
Best For: Adventurous couples, golfers, and guests with no mobility issuesWhat to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Not recommended.
Only for Butler guests.
No, it’s a hillside resort.
La Toc is for the couple that wants to hike to breakfast, literally. The views are your reward.
Location: St. John’s, Antigua
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$288 pp | 7 miles | 11 | 6 | No | No |
Our Personal Note:
9.3 / 10 – Set on Antigua’s best beach, Dickenson Bay, this resort features a stunning white sand beach and a truly beautiful beach setting, making it a longtime honeymoon favorite with two distinct vibes: Caribbean village charm and Mediterranean-style luxury.
Why Sandals Grande Antigua is Ranked #12 For Us:
Antigua’s flagship resort sits right on Dickenson Bay, widely considered one of the best beaches in Antigua. It’s romantic and popular with honeymooners, but it can feel a bit more traditional than newer properties.
Best For: Honeymooners, beach enthusiasts, and Caribbean purists
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Yes, style and room type vary.
Yes, a short walk.
Mostly calm, great for swimming.
It’s not the flashiest Sandals, but it has a loyal fanbase for a reason. That beach is next level, and the 7th-floor views from the Mediterranean Village are breathtaking.
Location: Nassau, Bahamas
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$221 pp | 6 miles | 10 | 7 | No | No |
Our Personal Note:
9.3 / 10 – Elegant and convenient, Sandals Royal Bahamian Nassau features a private offshore island and refreshed design. Ideal for short luxury escapes from the East Coast.
Why Sandals Royal Bahamian Is Ranked #13 For Us:
A stately, upscale resort with European touches, its own offshore island, and stunning pools. Great for East Coast travelers wanting a luxury escape without a long flight.
Best For: Couples wanting a short-haul flight with upscale ambiance
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Yes, on the offshore island.
Yes, great visibility.
Most rotate, check weekly schedule.
The offshore island is a total game changer, you’ll feel like you’re on your own private Caribbean escape.
Location: St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$323 pp | 6 miles | 6 | 11 | No | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.1/10 – Sleek, modern, and full of extras, rooftop pools, stunning pools with swim-up bars, a bowling alley, and access to 17+ dining options with neighboring Sandals Barbados.
Why Sandals Royal Barbados Is Ranked #14 For Us:
This is the resort for trendsetters. Sandals Royal Barbados brings together modern design, rooftop lounges, and endless dining options with an active, but not overwhelming, social scene. Enjoy the resort’s stunning pools and convenient swim-up bars, perfect for relaxation and socializing. It shares a footprint with Sandals Barbados next door, meaning you get access to everything… times two.
Best For: Social couples, honeymooners who want an experience with upscale touches
As one of the top all inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, Sandals Royal Barbados offers a luxurious and memorable getaway.
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Yes, 17+ restaurants included.
Partially, some face walkways.
Rivage Travel / Best Caribbean Resorts Client Review: “We’re not big partiers, but we love a little energy, and Royal Barbados had the perfect balance of it.”
Wondering if Sandals is still fun for introverts or non-drinkers? Absolutely. While Royal Barbados has plenty of nightlife, it’s not the most active resort so you’ll find quiet pools, candlelight dinners, and spa sanctuaries.
You don’t have to drink to enjoy the all-inclusive perks; there’s plenty more to indulge in.
Location: St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$323 | 6 miles | 6 | 2 | No | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.1/10 – Classic and quieter than its neighbor, Sandals Barbados stands out as an affordable sandals resort and is considered one of the most affordable sandals resorts in the Sandals portfolio. With full exchange privileges at Sandals Royal Barbados, it is a top choice among affordable sandals resorts for value-conscious couples who want access to modern amenities without the higher price tag.
Why Sandals Barbados Is Ranked #15 For Us:
Classic and understated, this resort feels more traditional, but shares privileges with the ultra-modern Royal Barbados next door. You’ll double your options without doubling your spend.
Best For: Budget-conscious couples who still want variety
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Yes, they’re connected.
Yes, same beachfront.
Yes, calm and great for floating.
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$273 pp | 62 miles | 5 | 2 | Yes | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
9.0 / 10 – This intimate boutique resort is an institution for Sandals. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and having retained the original Caribbean charm, you will not find the Sandals 2.0 modernization philosophy being implemented here, but you will find one of the best staffed resorts with a manager who will know and call you by name after your first day.
Why Sandals Royal Plantation Is Ranked #16 For Us:
There really isn’t anything not to love about Sandals Royal Plantation. Historically speaking, it is one of the top-rated resorts. For our clientele specifically, this one is not as popular, but you’ll find a loving following of this one, and we recommend it for those looking for something quiet and relaxing.
Best For: Those not looking for the newest that Sandals has to offer, but those wanting a brilliant experience with great service.
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Only with password, ask your butler.
Yes, the hillside is much calmer.
Yes, tons of space and activities.
Sandals Royal Plantation specializes in providing guests with personalized service in a secluded tropical paradise.
Cost Per Night | Distance from Airport | Number of Restaurants: | Number of Pools: | Golf: | Private Beach: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$183 | 62 miles | 16 | 105 | Yes | Yes |
Our Personal Note:
8.9 / 10 – Sandals Ochi is the most budget-friendly and activity-packed Sandals. With 100+ pools, 16 restaurants, and nightlife, it’s great for social travelers and groups, but its split-level layout and inconsistent service can feel overwhelming for first-timers. Sandals Ochi is considered one of the most affordable Sandals resorts, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable Sandals resort experience without sacrificing luxury.
Why Sandals Ochi Is Ranked #17 For Us:
The largest Sandals resort with 105 pools, an active social scene, and a layout that separates quiet butler hillside from active beachfront. Affordable but lively is what Sandals Ochi gives its guests, and it stands out among affordable Sandals resorts for its value and amenities.
Best For: Extroverted couples, friend groups, and budget travelers
What to Expect:
What We Love:
Key Considerations:
Only with password, ask your butler.
Yes, the hillside is much calmer.
Yes, tons of space and activities.
If you’re on a budget and want it all, food, energy, pools, Ochi is the best bang for your buck.
OK, if after this.. You’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. We hear it all the time, “They all look the same online! And there are SO many room options to consider,” But here’s what we tell our clients: You don’t need the “best resort.” You need the best resort for you. We’re here to help you find your perfect Sandals resort among the 17 Sandals locations throughout the Caribbean, whether you’re seeking the best beaches, unique amenities, or a specific vibe.
Here’s how we work with our clients to start narrowing down your perfect fit:
If you’re flying from the U.S., Montego Bay, St. Lucia, Nassau, and Barbados are the easiest countries to reach. In St. Lucia, Sandals La Toc, Sandals Halcyon Beach, and Sandals Grande St. Lucian require longer transfers, but we often book helicopter rides to cut travel time in half.
Prefer long, walkable beaches? Look at Negril or Antigua. Love the pool scene? Sandals Grenada, Sandals Royal Barbados, Sandals Dunn’s River, and Sandals Grande St. Lucian would be the best Sandals resort as they all have phenomenal swim-up and SkyPool options.
Want to mingle and dance? Choose Sandals Ochi, Sandals Montego Bay, or Sandals Royal Barbados. Craving peace and privacy? Sandals St. Vincent,Sandals South Coast, or Sandals Halcyon are better fits.
Sometimes a Club Level suite adds huge value for a small price bump. And Butler Elite? Worth it if you want upgraded
airport transfers.
No matter how much research you do, the truth is: most of us still guess.
Guess on the resort. Guess on the room. Guess on the upgrades. We take the guesswork out.
At Rivage Travel and Best Caribbean Resorts, we’re recognized by Sandals as one of their top 7 travel advisors in the United States.
We’ve stayed at every resort, we know the leadership teams by name, and we’ve planned thousands of customized Caribbean getaways.
Here’s what we offer:
Club Level gives you concierge check-in, access to the Club Sandals Lounge, preferred room locations, and room service during select hours.
Butler Elite takes it a step further: full butler service, 24/7 room service, beach/pool setup, priority dinner reservations, and private airport transfers at select resorts.
Yes. When you factor in what’s included, unlimited dining, premium liquor, scuba diving, water sports, airport transfers, and no tipping required, it often delivers more value than cheaper resorts that charge for everything. Even if you don’t drink, you’re still getting gourmet meals, white-glove service, and one of the most beautiful beachfront stays in the Caribbean.
Sometimes. If your booking isn’t paid in full, we can often reprice your reservation when a new 777 deal comes out. It’s one of the many ways we save our clients money, and why it pays to have an advisor like us monitoring your trip even after you book.
Yes, but with caveats… Some have picture-perfect views all year-round, but others, like Sandals Royal Barbados and Sandals Barbados, can be affected by the sargassum seaweed blooms during the summer months. If calm water matters, go for Sandals Grande St. Lucian or Negril.
It can be chaotic if you’re not prepared. That’s why we recommend Club Mobay, it fast-tracks you through immigration and customs so you can skip the line and get a drink in the Sandals lounge while others are still waiting.
You get private concierge check-in, stocked liquor in-room, room service (at many resorts), robes, and priority reservations. It’s the smart “middle tier” between entry-level and butler.
Yes! Every guest has full access to every restaurant. Butlers can just get you prime tables faster. We’ll help you decide if the added convenience is worth it for your style.
If you book through us, we’ll handle changes and price drops for you. We monitor 777 deals and promos, even after you’ve booked.
That depends on how you vacation. Club Level is great for a little extra comfort. Butler? Worth every penny for honeymoons or trips where you want to feel absolutely taken care of.
Occasionally, but it’s rare. Most upgrades happen pre-arrival. We often have better luck requesting perks before you ever check in.
Not at all. They’re trained to adapt to your style. Want everything scheduled? They’ll do it. Want privacy? They’ll give it. Just let them know your vibe from day one.
Officially, tipping isn’t allowed except for butlers, spa staff, and private drivers.
The recommended tip for butler service starts at $20.00 per butler per day, with some going to $30.00, plus. You can tip daily, but we recommend giving this to them towards the end of your stay.
Yes, especially in privacy and proximity. “Oceanview” might mean you see the water from your balcony if you lean out. Beachfront means you’re on it. We’ll show you exactly where your room is before you book.
Rondovals and swim-up suites tend to be more secluded. If you’re after peace and quiet, we avoid ground-floor pool-facing rooms and aim for corners or garden views.
For most couples? Yes. Whether it’s sunset champagne or just a relaxing wind-down after dinner, the oversized tubs make a romantic stay even more special.
Varies widely by resort. At Sandals South Coast or Sandals Negril, many rooms are beachfront. At Sandals La Toc or Sandals Dunn’s River, you may be on a hillside or in a garden area. We help you choose based on walking needs and proximity.
At most resorts, only the most popular restaurants (like Butch’s or the French venues) require reservations. Your butler or Club concierge can book them for you, or we’ll advise you when and how to get a table. Additionally, you can also now book one dinner reservation inside the Sandals app, 14 days prior to arrival.
Nope. Some restaurants ask for resort evening attire, but that just means collared shirts and closed-toe shoes for guys. It’s laid-back luxury, not stuffy.
Sandals are excellent with dietary requests. Just let us know beforehand, and we’ll flag your file. Chefs at resorts like Sandals St. Vincent, Sandals Royal Barbados, and Sandals Grenada are especially great with gluten-free, vegan, keto, etc.
Very well, especially at newer resorts like Sandals St. Vincent, Sandals Grenada, and Sandals Royal Barbados. While you will now find options for everyone on the menu, chefs are trained to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and keto diets. Just let us know in advance if you need anything special.
Yes, especially after your first stay. Points can be used toward room discounts, early check-in, and surprise perks. It’s a real loyalty program, and it builds faster than most.
Never. Sandals is couples-only, adults-only (18+). If you’re planning a trip with young kids or friends, we’ll assist you with a Beaches Resorts.
We make it simple. We’ll learn about your goals, suggest the right resort and room, and even monitor for 777 sales, without charging a fee. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a romantic getaway, a romantic reset, or just need a break that actually feels like a break, we’ve got you.