Are Sandals Resorts All-Inclusive?
Is Sandals really all-inclusive?
The short answer: yes.
The longer, cocktail-in-hand, toes-in-the-sand answer? Absolutely, with a level of Caribbean luxury that redefines what “all-inclusive” should mean.
At Sandals Resorts, the all-inclusive promise isn’t just marketing fluff. It’s real. You’ll get everything from gourmet meals at up to 16 restaurants per resort, to premium drinks, airport transfers, and even unlimited scuba diving (yes, really!)—all bundled into one price. No hidden fees. No surprise bills. No reaching for your wallet unless you’re booking a spa treatment or going wild in the gift shop.
So what exactly does “all-inclusive” mean when it’s done the Sandals way? Let’s break it down.
What’s Included at Sandals Resort?
Gourmet Dining at Luxury-Level All-Inclusive Standards
Forget over-cooked chicken and the same-old buffet. At Sandals, you’ll find:
Lobster tail at oceanfront grills and steakhouse – during lobster season, and at select resorts
French bistro classics like duck confit and escargot
Sushi bars with daily-fresh rolls
Jamaican jerk shacks serving smoky, authentic spice
Pizza ovens just like those in Italy
Try some Sushi at Sandals Resorts
Many of these restaurants are à la carte and reservation-free, designed by international chefs. This is not your average “resort food”—this is a culinary vacation.
Want to wake up to breakfast in bed? Club and Butler-level rooms offer 24-hour room service (yes, included). Some of our honeymooners at Sandals Grenada say the floating breakfast is the real star of their trip.
Unlimited Premium Liquor
Every bar—swim-up or sky-high—pours premium spirits, not mystery rum. You’ll enjoy:
Signature cocktails made with top-shelf brands
Red Stripe or imported beers, depending on your vibe
Fully stocked in-room bars (refilled daily)
Exclusive Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks® varietals Included
And yes, that includes the Dirty Banana. (Don’t ask—just order one and thank me later.)
Enjoy a Cocktail on the Beach
Water Sports, Scuba, and Daily Fun Included
This is where Sandals really outshines other Caribbean all-inclusive resorts:
Scuba diving (with certification) up to twice daily
Water sports like Snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, Hobie Cats
Land sports like beach volleyball, tennis, and even fitness classes
Live nightly entertainment, beach parties, and fire pits
Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Dunn’s River are perfect for active couples wanting a mix of fun and relaxation.
If you’re comparing Sandals to other all-inclusive resorts, this is one of the biggest differences: Sandals includes scuba diving. Most others charge extra.
Water sports, Snorkel and Scuba are. included at Sandals!
Beyond the Basics: The Unexpected All-Inclusive Perks at Sandals
While the food, drinks, and stunning beaches get all the glory, Sandals Resorts offers a whole world of included extras that make every moment feel effortless. It’s not just about relaxing, it’s about having more ways to play, connect, and explore without ever reaching for your wallet. These aren’t upsells. These are part of the experience.
Here’s what else you can enjoy with no hidden charges:
Access to state-of-the-art fitness centers with cardio, weights, and yoga space
Land sports like tennis, beach volleyball, basketball, and even lawn chess
Free high-speed Wi-Fi in rooms, poolsides, and even on the beach
Live nightly entertainment including fire dancers, steel drum bands, and beach parties
A full calendar of daily activities like pool games, dance lessons, and trivia
Multiple swimming pools and whirlpools, many with swim-up bars
Exchange privileges at nearby Sandals Resorts (in select destinations), giving you even more dining, beaches, and nightlife to enjoy
Want to spend your afternoon playing tennis, swimming up to your next daiquiri, or watching a reggae show under the stars? You can. And it’s all included.
What’s Not Included?
Now, let’s clear the sand: while most things are included, a few extras cost more, but they’re optional:
Red Lane Spa treatments (worth it!)
Private candlelight dinners on the beach
Island excursions and adventure tours
Butler Elite service and private airport transfers
For a super over-the-top experience, consider upgrading to Sandals Royal Caribbean for your own private butler or Sandals South Coast for an overwater bungalow.
Tipping? Transfers? Covered.
You don’t need to awkwardly tip bartenders or room attendants. Gratuities and taxes are included in your Sandals vacation package (except for butler or spa staff). And transfers to and from the airport are included too. (But I always tip the transfer driver, since they are not part of Sandals’ staff.) Anyway, it’s one less thing to budget, and one more reason to unwind.
So . . . Is Sandals Worth It?
YES! In more words: It’s a luxury couples-only vacation experience with zero stress, five-star inclusions, and endless romance—from honeymoons to vow renewals.
And if you’re still wondering, “Is Sandals all-inclusive really that different?” Just ask yourself this: how many other resorts include gourmet dining, premium liquor, scuba diving, water sports, tips, AND airport transfers., all in the same price?
Let the Travel Rooster (me) Help You Book It Right!
You’ve got the vision, I can help you handle the rest. At Relaxing Sunset Travel, we match couples with the perfect Sandals resort, whether it’s beachfront in Saint Vincent, clifftop in Saint Lucia, or steps from the soft sands of Negril.
Contact me now for a free, personalized quote—delivered in under 24 hours. Already decided? Book your escape and let the countdown to paradise begin.
Want to explore more? Check out our full Sandals ideas collection for resort reviews, romantic itineraries, and pro travel tips.
TLDR: FAQs About Sandals Resorts
Sandals Resorts: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is everything truly included at Sandals Resorts?
A: Yes—really. When you book a Sandals vacation, you’re getting a genuine all-inclusive experience with no surprise fees. That means gourmet dining, unlimited premium cocktails, Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks® wines, daily and nightly entertainment, watersports like snorkeling and paddleboarding, scuba diving for certified guests, and even roundtrip airport transfers—all bundled into one price. You can explore all Sandals Resorts knowing the essentials are already taken care of.
Q: Do I have to tip at Sandals Resorts?
A: Not unless you want to, because gratuities are already included! The Sandals staff are trained not to accept tips in most situations. The only exceptions are spa therapists, private drivers for excursions, and personal butlers in Butler Elite suites. For most guests, you can leave your wallet in the room safe and just enjoy the service.
Q: Which Sandals Resorts are best for honeymoons?
A: If you’re dreaming of a honeymoon that blends romance, adventure, and total luxury, a few resorts stand out.
Sandals Grenada: Features private plunge pools, oceanview suites, and a sexy, modern vibe.
Sandals Royal Barbados: Great for couples who love rooftop bars, infinity pools, and soaking tubs for two.
Sandals Dunn’s River: Jamaica’s newest gem with modern design, innovative dining, and easy access to adventure.
Q: How does Sandals compare to other all-inclusive resorts?
A: Sandals sets the bar higher than most Caribbean all-inclusives. Here’s why:
Scuba diving is fully included for certified divers—gear, boat, and all.
Airport transfers are complimentary at every destination.
Top-shelf liquor, craft cocktails, and exclusive wines come standard.
You get multiple gourmet restaurants per resort (some with international chefs).
There’s no tipping policy, so you’re never made to feel like a walking wallet.
And you won’t find surprise resort fees tacked on later.
It’s luxury that actually includes the good stuff.
Contact me if you would like more, personalized information. Have a relaxing sunset!
—The Travel Rooster
No responses yet