Curacao

Sandals Royal Curaçao – A Caribbean Escape That Was Simply Incredible!

Some holidays are lovely, and others leave you smiling long after you’ve returned home. My stay at Sandals Royal Curaçao was most definitely the latter! I visited last year, and I can honestly say I had an absolute ball. From the beautiful setting and wonderful food to the cocktails, activities and relaxed Caribbean atmosphere, it was a truly memorable experience.

If you’re looking for a luxury, adults-only, all-inclusive holiday with a little something different, Curaçao deserves a place on your wish list.

Getting there – the journey to the Caribbean

My trip began at London Heathrow, flying with KLM via Amsterdam in Economy Comfort/Premium seating. It was a convenient way to reach the island, with the excitement building as I headed towards the Caribbean.

Curaçao is part of the Dutch Caribbean, located in the southern Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of Venezuela. It has a fascinating mix of Dutch colonial architecture, colourful waterfront buildings, beautiful beaches and a distinctive Caribbean character. It feels a little different from some of the more familiar Caribbean islands, which is part of its appeal.

First impressions of Sandals Royal Curaçao

Set within the beautiful Santa Barbara Estate, Sandals Royal Curaçao occupies an impressive 44 oceanfront acres, overlooking the sparkling Spanish Water. The setting is stunning, with modern design, tropical surroundings and those gorgeous shades of blue that make you want to reach for your camera every few minutes.

The resort is exclusively for couples aged 18 and over, making it particularly appealing to couples looking for a romantic escape, a special celebration or simply some well-deserved time together.

One of the standout features is the spectacular two-level Dos Awa infinity pool, which appears to blend into the surrounding water and landscape. Whether you’re relaxing beside the pool, enjoying a drink or watching the changing colours of the sky, it’s a wonderful place to spend time.

What I particularly loved was that the resort felt luxurious without being stuffy. There was plenty to enjoy, but also lots of opportunities to relax and simply soak up the atmosphere.

My room – the Sunchi experience

I stayed in a room in the Sunchi category, and it was a lovely base for my stay. The resort’s Sunchi accommodation options include beachfront rooms and suites, with some categories offering Club Sandals benefits, walk-out patios or swim-up access.

The accommodation has a fresh, contemporary Caribbean style, with comfortable furnishings and thoughtful touches to help you settle straight into holiday mode.

When choosing a room here, I would always recommend looking carefully at the exact category, as the views, location and added benefits can vary. If waking up to the sea or stepping straight outside to a pool is important to you, there are some particularly tempting options.

Foodies, this one is for you!

One of my favourite parts of the holiday was exploring the restaurants. I made it my mission to try them all, and the choice was fantastic!

Sandals Royal Curaçao offers a varied dining scene, from Italian and Mediterranean favourites to sushi, seafood, steak and locally inspired Caribbean dishes. There are also casual options for those days when you don’t want to dress up for dinner.

A few highlights to look out for include:

- Butch’s Island Chop House– for steak and seafood in a more sophisticated setting.

- Vincent – European-inspired dining with a Caribbean influence.

- Gatsu Gatsu– a great option for Japanese cuisine and sushi.

- Aolos – Mediterranean flavours in a stylish setting.

- Strand – relaxed, open-air seafood dining by the beach.

-Kanaal – a Dutch-inspired café for coffee, pastries and sweet treats.

- Toteki– a chance to try traditional Curaçao flavours.

There are also food trucks serving a variety of casual bites, which add another fun dimension to the dining experience.

And then, of course, there were the cocktails! From leisurely drinks by the pool to sundowners as the day drew to a close, I certainly made the most of the all-inclusive offering. Having so much choice means you can make every day a little different.

For me, the dining was a real highlight. I love being able to try different restaurants on holiday rather than feeling that every evening needs to be the same.

A little adventure – kayaking on the water

Although it would have been easy to spend the entire holiday beside the pool with a cocktail in hand, I also got out on the water and went kayaking.

It was a lovely way to enjoy the surroundings from a different perspective and make the most of Curaçao’s beautiful coastal setting. I always think a holiday is even better when you mix a little adventure with some well-earned relaxation.

The resort also offers a range of activities, including snorkelling and scuba diving for certified divers, alongside land-based sports and other entertainment. The precise activities available can vary, but there is plenty to consider if you like to be active between those lazy pool days.

A trip to Mambo Beach

I also visited Mambo Beach, and it was well worth getting out to explore beyond the resort.

Mambo Beach is one of Curaçao’s best-known beach areas, with a lively atmosphere, beach clubs, restaurants, bars and shops. It offers a different feel from the peaceful luxury of the resort, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a little local life and perhaps browse, stop for a drink or spend some time by the sea.

I always encourage clients to experience a little of their destination when possible. Even when staying at a fabulous all-inclusive resort, getting out and about can add another dimension to a holiday.

And Curaçao has plenty to discover, from the colourful streets of Willemstad to its coves, coastline and distinctive island culture.

What makes Sandals Royal Curaçao special?

For me, it was the combination of everything. The setting is beautiful, the choice of food and drinks is excellent, there are activities if you want them, and the resort gives you the freedom to do as much or as little as you please.

A few useful facts:

- Adults-only: designed for couples aged 18 and over.

- Location: Santa Barbara Estate, Curaçao, overlooking Spanish Water.

- Accommodation: a wide selection of rooms and suites, including beachfront, swim-up and private-pool options in selected categories.

- Dining: a wide variety of restaurants, complemented by casual food-truck options.

- Drinks: multiple bars, including swim-up and overwater options.

- Activities: water sports, snorkelling, scuba diving for certified divers, fitness facilities and entertainment.

- All-inclusive: meals, drinks and many activities are included, along with airport transfers. Some room categories also include additional services and privileges.

It is worth checking the latest inclusions and room-category benefits when booking, as these can vary.

Would I recommend it?

Absolutely! I had such a fantastic time at Sandals Royal Curaçao, and it is a resort that has really stayed with me.

I would recommend it to couples who want a stylish Caribbean escape, enjoy good food and cocktails, and like having a choice between relaxing by the pool and getting out to explore. It is also a great option for anyone who enjoys the convenience of an all-inclusive holiday but wants a destination with its own personality and culture.

My advice? Don’t just stay by the pool all week. Try the restaurants, sample the cocktails, get out on the water and make time to visit Mambo Beach. There is so much to enjoy.

My verdict: beautiful surroundings, fabulous dining, plenty to do and a wonderful Caribbean atmosphere. I really did have a ball – and I would happily return!

If Sandals Royal Curaçao sounds like your kind of holiday, I’d love to help you explore the options and find the right room category for your stay.

Vicki Othen | Designer Travel