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Sandals Resorts vs Beaches Resorts

Today we will discuss Sandals Resorts vs Beaches Resorts. Are you planning a luxurious tropical getaway but can’t decide between Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts? Both chains are renowned for their all-inclusive packages, pristine beaches, and top-notch amenities.

However, there are some key differences between the two that may sway your decision. Today, we’ll compare and contrast Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts to help you make an informed decision on which resort chain is best for you.

Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic retreat or a family seeking a fun-filled vacation, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of Sandals Resorts vs Beaches Resorts.

Sandals Resorts vs. Beaches Resorts

Let’s compare Sandals Resorts vs Beaches Resorts and learn the similarities and key differences. 

The History of Sandals and Beaches Resorts

In 1980, a man named Gordon “Butch” Stewart purchased an old hotel in Montego Bay, Jamaica. He didn’t have any hotel experience. But he was an entrepreneur who wasn’t afraid of learning new things.

Mr. Stewart invested millions of dollars into his new property. The very first Sandals resort opened the following year. That resort was the start of Sandals Resorts International, which is the parent company of all these resorts.

This family-owned company has continued to grow since that time, so much so that they chose to begin opening Beaches Resorts in 1997.

The Difference Between Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts

Sandals Resorts have always been adults-only resorts. Every guest is required to be at least 18 years old to stay at these properties.

Although Sandals used to be considered “couples only,” they are now simply “couples oriented,” meaning you’ll find lots of honeymooners and couples, but anyone can visit over the age of 18. Once adults became used to the luxurious accommodations, dining options, and inclusive packages at Sandals, they wanted options when they started traveling with their kids.

This reasoning was a big part of why Sandals Resorts International chose to open Beaches Resorts. Beaches Resorts are family-friendly. Kids of all ages will find plenty of activities to keep them busy. And parents will love that they are still getting an all-inclusive resort for all their vacation needs. Sandals Resorts are usually slightly more expensive due to the additional luxury experience that comes with being adults-only.

Beaches Resorts offer the best prices for family packages. However, being all-inclusive, you are going to get the best value at any of the Sandals or Beaches Resorts you visit.

Despite these differences, Sandals and Beaches Resorts have a few things in common. They both offer Caribbean adventures. They are both the perfect place to enjoy any of your Caribbean vacations. And they are all located on some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. So, if you want to stay on a stunning beach for your next vacation, a Sandals Resort or Beaches Resort will be exactly what you need!

Destination Weddings at Sandals and Beaches Resorts

Since so many people choose to have a destination wedding at Sandals Resorts, I thought I would cover this topic early. Did you know that you can have a destination wedding at Beaches Resorts too?? You can!!

Sandals Resorts are perfect for adults-only weddings. Beaches Resorts are excellent options when you want the whole family to attend the festivities.

Sandals Resorts Locations

There are currently 17 Sandals Resorts. You can check out my blog post with all of the Sandals Resort locations or read below. Those Sandals locations are as follows:

• Sandals Grande Antigua – St. John’s Antigua
• Sandals Barbados – St. Lawrence Gap Barbados
• Sandals Royal Barbados – St. Lawrence Gap Barbados
• Sandals Royal Curaçao – Santa Bárbara Curaçao
• Sandals Dunn’s River – Ocho Rios Jamaica
• Sandals Emerald Bay – Great Exuma Bahamas
• Sandals Ochi – Ocho Rios Jamaica
• Sandals Grande St. Lucian – Gros-Islet Saint Lucia
• Sandals Halcyon Beach – Castries Saint Lucia
• Sandals Regency La Toc – Castries Saint Lucia
• Sandals Grenada – St. George’s Grenada
• Sandals Montego Bay in Montego Bay Jamaica
• Sandals Negril – Negril Jamaica
• Sandals Royal Caribbean – Montego Bay Jamaica
• Sandals Royal Bahamian – Nassau Bahamas
• Sandals Royal Plantation – Ocho Rios Jamaica
• Sandals South Coast – Whitehouse Jamaica

Beaches Resorts Locations

There are currently only 3 Beaches Resorts. However, those three resorts allow families of all sizes to really enjoy their time away from home. These Beaches Resorts include:

• Beaches Negril – Negril Jamaica
• Beaches Ocho Rios – Ocho Rios Jamaica
• Beaches Turks & Caicos – Providenciales Turks & Caicos

There is also a new Beaches Resort opening in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This new resort is supposed to open by the end of 2023. I will keep you updated on the progress!

Accommodations at Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts

This all-inclusive company has created luxury resorts since the very beginning. Therefore, you should expect nothing but luxurious rooms at both Sandals and Beaches Resorts.

Your inclusive vacation at either of these resorts can include one of the butler suites. I highly recommend booking one of the suites with butler service for your stay. This way, your butler can make reservations and take care of many of your daily needs.

This will allow you to focus on having fun and relaxing. All the rooms at these resorts offer flat-screen TVs, spacious rooms, outside spaces, and room service. At Sandals Resorts, you may want to consider one of the swim-up suites for privacy. These swim-up rooms will definitely take your romantic getaway to the next level.

Which Sandals Resorts have overwater bungalows?

Certain Sandals Resorts offer water bungalows too. These are excellent options if you don’t want to venture too far from your room for a swim in the Caribbean Sea. I have a blog post on just that; check out Which Sandals Resorts have overwater bungalows?

Of course, if you don’t plan on spending much time in your room, you can always find a basic room at a lower price.  You can learn more about Sandals room types here: Sandals Resort Room Categories – Luxury vs. Club vs. Butler

Dining Options at Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts

Some of the restaurant options are the same at Sandals and Beaches Resorts. You will find options like Jerk Shack, Soy Sushi Restaurant, British Pub, and Dinos Pizzeria Italiana at almost every resort. On my Sandals Resort Locations and Beaches Resort locations posts, I discuss restaurants at both. 

Beaches Resorts offer casual menus plus casual dining options. This is perfect for families with younger kids and picky eaters. However, Sandals Resorts have numerous gourmet restaurants too. These restaurants will ensure your anniversary celebration, honeymoon, or other special occasion is as perfect as it can be.

Amenities at Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts

Beaches and Sandals Resorts offer plenty of amenities as part of your all-inclusive experience. The best part is there are quite a few quality inclusions, so you won’t feel like you are paying a lot and receiving nothing in return. In addition to your inclusive dining experience, you will get the following:

• Free airport transfers
• Free premium alcoholic beverages and other drinks
• Access to swimming pools, swim-up bars, and hot tubs
• Day and Night Entertainment
• Free land sports
• Access to championship golf courses at select resorts
• Access to the fitness center
• Access to a private island at some of the best Sandals Resorts

You can check out 10 things that are NOT included at Sandals to learn what is not included, but, spoiler alert, it’s not much!

Water Sports at Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts

Water sports are also included in your stay at Sandals and Beaches Resorts. You will find all the popular options, like Hobie cats, scuba diving, water skiing, and paddleboarding. All of these activities will be available down at the white-sand beaches on the Caribbean Sea.

At Beaches Resorts, there are other water activities to increase the fun during your family vacation. All the Beaches Resorts have the Pirates Island Waterpark. This water park offers water slides, a lazy river, a swimming pool, and a splash pad complete with water cannons.

If you want to visit the largest of the Pirates Island Water Parks, you must go to Beaches Turks & Caicos. You will find a surf simulator there. It will be perfect for practicing your surfing skills.

Kids’ Activities at Beaches Resorts

Okay, so Beaches Resorts are the only place you will find kids’ activities. Going on a family vacation doesn’t mean you need to spend every waking minute with your kids, and Beaches Resorts makes it easy for you to escape for an hour or two for adult time or a trip to the Red Lane Spa for spa treatments.

During that time, your kids can attend the kid’s camps. Younger kids will be thrilled with the Sesame Street Kids Camp. They can meet their favorite characters while participating in numerous fun activities. Teens will love the Xbox play lounge, game room filled with arcade games at Trench Town, and Club Liquid. Certified nannies can provide childcare during your Beaches vacation too.

This may be the perfect option if you want a night out with your spouse. The kids can go to bed on time. And you can still dance the night away.

Excursion Options at Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts

Excursions at either of these resorts are not part of your all-inclusive package. However, heading out on one can really enhance your beach resort vacation! Imagine heading out on a jeep safari, ziplining adventure, or scuba diving excursion. As a travel agent, I can help find the excursions you love to do and add them to your itinerary.

Sandals Resorts vs Beaches Resorts

I hope this post about Sandals Resorts vs Beaches Resorts answers all of your questions! If not, please leave questions in the comments or contact me! 

For the best deals, make sure to consider booking in advance. You’ll also want to have travel insurance – which is reasonably priced through Sandals! Check out more when you find out if your dates are available. 

I am a Sandals Travel Agent and would love to help you plan the perfect honeymoon or vacation! You can contact me if you’d like more information. 

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