Sandals Royal Bahamian vs Montego Bay
Sandals Royal Bahamian in the Bahamas and Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica share many similarities, but there are also some points of difference. We have visited each one and like them both.
It’s pretty easy to get to both resorts, with plenty of direct flights to the Bahamas and Jamaica. Sandals Royal Bahamian is the closest Sandals to the US, and Sandals Montego Bay is the closest Jamaica Sandals to the airport. Both have a fun vibe, are located in lively areas, and have been recently renovated.
Both resorts also offer a similar wide range of complimentary activities including scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, Hobie Cat sailing, tennis, pickleball, beach volleyball, a full fitness center, and daily and nightly entertainment. However, Sandals Montego Bay also offers motorized watersports. There is a spa at each resort (services cost extra) and you can book area excursions for an additional fee.
Sandals Royal Bahamian vs Montego Bay reviews recommend Sandals Royal Bahamian over Sandals Montego Bay, but it comes down to personal preference.
This comparison of Sandals Royal Bahamian vs. Montego Bay will help you choose which is best for you.
Sandals Royal Bahamian
- Closest Sandals to the U.S., located in Nassau, Bahamas, just 30 minutes by air from Miami; 15 minutes from the airport
- Glamorous and romantic; recently renovated
- Features a peaceful private island with pool, swim-up bar, whirlpool, and restaurant
- Has 10 restaurants, 2 food trucks, 8 bars, 3 pools, and 6 whirlpools
- Multiple beach options include a lovely stretch of Cable Beach at the main resort plus serene beaches on the private island; the water is clear and calm
- Has full range of complimentary watersports and land activities; scuba diving and snorkeling is very good here
- Accommodations are in three areas, allowing you to choose a more quiet or lively atmosphere
- Top suites include beachfront swim-up butler suites, honeymoon villa suites with private pool sanctuaries, and penthouse oceanview butler suites
- Located near casinos and a waterpark, as well as all the activities and nightlife in Nassau and Paradise Island
- Tends to attract younger guests who come for shorter stays
- Has both a lively area and a more relaxed area
Sandals Montego Bay
- The original Sandals location; has been completely renovated
- Set in Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Conveniently located just 5 minutes from the airport, but this means you can hear plane noise during the day
- Has 12 restaurants, 6 bars including an overwater bar, 7 pools, and 3 whirlpools
- Beach is the largest stretch of private white sand on the island, with calm, clear water
- Offers a wide range of rooms and suites; some of the nicest options include beachfront swim-up butler suites, Crystal Lagoon swim-up butler suites, and beachfront walkout suites
- Has full range of complimentary watersports and land activities plus motorized options like waterskiing, wakeboarding, and tubing
- Located near the shops, activities, and nightlife in Montego Bay
- Has a lively vibe
- Guests here also have access via a free shuttle to everything at nearby Sandals Royal Caribbean, including 9 restaurants, 6 bars, and a private island
Key Differences Between Sandals Royal Bahamian vs Sandals Montego Bay
- Sandals Montego Bay offers more dining and drinking options since access to Sandals Royal Caribbean is included
- Sandals Royal Bahamian has a private island onsite
- Sandals Montego Bay has a longer stretch of private beach
- Sandals Royal Bahamian is closer to the US
- Sandals Montego Bay is closer to the airport (but has plane noise)
- Sandals Royal Bahamian has better scuba diving and snorkeling
- Sandals Montego Bay has motorized watersports
- Sandals Royal Bahamian is near casinos
- Sandals Montego Bay is cheaper than Sandals Royal Bahamian
Sandals Royal Bahamian vs Montego Bay Price
Sandals Royal Bahamian is significantly more expensive, with rooms currently starting at $358 per person per night. Rooms at Sandals Montego Bay currently start at $189 per person per night. However, prices at both resorts vary throughout the year, and you can always find deals and discounts on the Sandals website.
