The Nicest Sandals Resort in 2026
While every Sandals result is nice, since they are all designed to be luxurious and romantic escapes, in our opinion the nicest Sandals resort in 2025 is a tie between Sandals St. Vincent and Sandals Dunn’s River.
These are the two newest Sandals resorts and they are examples of the “Sandals 2.0” approach that really elevates the entire experience, from resort design to amazing accommodations to outstanding dining, drinking, and amenities.
Let’s take a closer look at those resorts, as well as some runner-ups, so you can decide which is the nicest Sandals resort for you.
Sandals Dunn’s River
Location: Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Opened: 2023
Thoughtfully designed to showcase Jamaica’s natural beauty, this next-generation resort delivers a sleek, contemporary feel without losing the tropical charm. Sandals Dunn’s River features incredible new accommodations like the Coyaba Sky Rondovals, which include rooftop terraces, private pools, and access to a swim-up pool, as well as a new level of delicious dining, from vibrant Latin cuisine at Zuka to inventive Asian fusion at Hanami.
We especially loved the new Blum coffee café and the fun vibe and craft cocktails at the Rum Club. There are beautiful water features, fun pools, and a luxurious spa inspired by the iconic Dunn’s River Falls, which is close by for easy excursions. Golf is also included here.
Why it’s one of our picks for the nicest Sandals resort: Sandals Dunn’s River blends Jamaican soul with cutting-edge design and the utmost luxury. It’s sophisticated without being stuffy, and the food is easily the best across all Sandals resorts.
Sandals St. Vincent
Location: St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Opened: March 2024
For couples looking to escape the crowds and experience a more serene, unspoiled Caribbean, Sandals St. Vincent is perfect. This is the most peaceful and authentically Caribbean Sandals yet.
This newest Sandals resort is set along a breathtaking beach, with green mountains rising behind. It features brand-new suite designs including the first 2-story overwater bungalows at Sandals and beachfront butler villas with private pools.
The vibe is relaxed, the staff is genuine and welcoming, and the food is incredible. We especially enjoyed the local cuisine at Buccan. We also loved the pools, which include an amazing two-level infinity pool on the beach.
Why it’s one of our picks for the nicest Sandals resort: It’s a resort that feels like a real getaway, offering luxury, nature, and total tranquility. Combine the stunning setting with the fabulous service, and you have a winner.
Runners-Up for Nicest Sandals Resort in 2025
Sandals Royal Curacao
Opened in 2022, Sandals Royal Curacao brings a fresh European-Caribbean fusion to the brand. It’s elegant and innovative, with exclusive features you won’t find anywhere else, including a Dutch wine and cheese café, innovative room types like the Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows and Kurason Island Bungalows, and a Mini Cooper included for guests in select suites, perfect for exploring the island.
It also features a bi-level beachfront infinity pool with glass walls (one of the most Instagrammable pools in the Caribbean), Dutch bikes for exploring the resort, complimentary golf, and excellent snorkeling and diving. We highly recommend heading off the resort to check out the charming capital city of Willemstad.
Why it’s a runner-up for nicest Sandals resort: Offers a polished, contemporary Caribbean experience with European flair
Sandals Grenada
Even with newer resorts in the lineup, Sandals Grenada remains one of our favorites. Known for its stunning beach and lush landscaping, this is where the luxurious Skypool suite was born.
Grenada is an incredible island that offers some wonderful excursion opportunities. The beach has soft white sand and clear, calm water, and there is great snorkeling and scuba diving. The dining scene on resort is diverse and top quality, and the service is attentive.
Why it’s a runner-up for nicest Sandals resort: Sandals Grenada is consistently excellent and offers something for everyone, whether you want to relax in or explore the gorgeous setting.
Sandals Royal Plantation
This intimate, all-suite boutique resort in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, is the most refined and traditional of the Sandals properties. Think afternoon tea, peacocks on the lawn, and personal service at every turn; Sandals Royal Plantation offers an exclusive feel with quiet luxury and old-world charm.
Two private cove beaches offer calm, turquoise waters and drink service. There are just a few restaurants and bars onsite, but guests here also have access to Sandals Ochi, which is the largest Sandals resort. Golf is also included. Best of all, every suite has an ocean view and comes with 24-hour inroom dining and personal butler service.
Why it’s a runner-up for nicest Sandals resort: For couples who prefer intimacy, elegance, and top-tier service over the flash of newer resorts, this is pure romance.
Sandals Royal Bahamian
This fully renovated resort in Nassau, Bahamas combines an upscale Caribbean vibe with easy access from the U.S. A private offshore island, swanky suites, and a sophisticated dining scene make Sandals Royal Bahamian a perfect quick luxury escape. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also outstanding here.
The island is a special amenity, with two beaches, a restaurant, and a pool with swim-up bar. At the main resort, you’ll find new beachfront butler swim-up suites and a glamorous atmosphere just minutes from the nightlife, casinos, and luxury shopping in Nassau.
Why it’s a runner-up for nicest Sandals resort: It’s refined, romantic, and convenient, and the only Sandals near a casino.
Sandals Royal Barbados
This resort features a vibrant, chic atmosphere, cutting-edge amenities, and a beautiful beach. It is set right next to Sandals Barbados, giving guests at either location the experience of two resorts in one with 21 dining options and 14 bars.
There are multiple standout features at Sandals Royal Barbados, including the first-ever rooftop pool and bar at a Sandals resort, healthy dining options Greenhouse and Heart & Sol, a bowling alley, and a gourmet donut shop. Accommodations are sophisticated, including Skypool suites, Rondoval suites, and swim-up rooms.
Why it’s a runner-up for nicest Sandals resort: It’s indulgent, trendy, and full of energy, perfect for couples who want equal parts relaxation and fun.
