Sandals Royal Curaçao: Everything You Need to Know About this Dutch Island Resort

By Jonathan | Updated on February 13, 2025

I visited Sandals Royal Curacao in 2024 for a conference recognizing its top travel advisors and found it to be one of my favorite Sandals resorts in the portfolio. Located on a white sand beach on the southern Caribbean coast of Curacao, this all-inclusive resort is one of the newest Sandals Resorts and has everything you could dream of in a getaway—and then some. From exceptional service to world-class amenities focused on romance, relaxation, and adventure, it's where people of all ages will enjoy themselves.

Here's why we think you should make Sandals Royal Curacao your next vacation destination.

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Key Features of Sandals Curaçao

Features Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows with private infinity pools and Kurason Island Poolside Bungalows offering direct access to a heart-shaped pool.
8 gourmet restaurants, 3 food trucks, and 13 bars, including swim-up options, serving unlimited premium beverages.
The Dos Awa main Infinity Pool provides amazing Caribbean Sea views.
Complimentary water sports, including scuba diving, along with land sports like beach volleyball and bocce ball.
Nightly performances, beach parties and live music.
Select upper-tiered butler accommodations come with MINI Coopers.

From the moment you arrive at Sandals Curaçao, the spatial lobby has an immediate wow factor. Here, you're greeted by a warm, welcoming staff who will make you feel like you've been a valued guest for years. Having been a Hilton prior to Sandals purchasing the hotel, you can tell they've done an incredible job Sandalizing the property. We also love that the ride from the airport to the resort is only 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

What strikes you immediately is the desert beauty, expansive views, and modern design that surrounds you. The architecture is modern yet infused with local culture, using clean lines and warm, earthy tones that give the entire place a laid-back but sophisticated vibe.

Collectively, all room categories include the following:

An All-Inclusive Experience: Global gourmet dining with premium liquor, non-motorized water, and land sports.
Dutch-Caribbean Vibes: Cultural experiences with locals speaking up to four languages!
Expansive Property: Over 3,000 acres of natural beauty and coastal charm.
Exclusive Inclusions: Off-property excursions through Island Routes.

Ready to experience the newest Sandals paradise? Book your stay at Sandals Curaçao now!

Accommodation Options at Sandals Curaçao

Sandals Royal Curaçao offers updated accommodations in 25 different room categories, from garden-view rooms to oceanfront suites with private pools. The rooms are spacious modern furnishings, ceiling fans, a coffee maker featuring Jamaica's Blue Mountain Coffee, contemporary decor, and free wifi throughout the resort.

One standout feature is the resort's Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows, which have a private pool and a team of professionally trained butlers who ensure your every need is met — from unpacking your bags to arranging private dinners by the water. These bungalows offer direct access to the beach, are centrally located in the middle of the resort near the Dos Awa 2-level Infinity Pool, and comes with a MINI Cooper to explore the island.

Who's ready for a beach picnic on a remote part of the island?

Another highlight are the Kurason Island Suites and Rondovals. The Rondoval Suites, in particular, are uniquely formed around a heart-shaped pool. They have large outdoor terraces, shared plunge pools, and a sense of serenity that feels like your own little oasis.

Curacao Sandals Room Features and Benefits:

Kurason Island Poolside Butler Bungalows: Lagoon-style suites with Butler Service and private pool access.
Awa Seaside Bungalows: Overwater bungalows with Butler Service offering direct beach access.
Butler Suites: Personalized service and private outdoor Patio Tranquility Soaking Tubs.
Club Level Suites: Enjoy a private check-in at the Club Sandals Lounge with access to room service. Our favorite is the Sunchi Club Level Beachfront Room because of its central location in the resort.
Luxury Level Suites: Offers everything in a Club Level room, minus room service and upgraded in-room bar.

Dining Experiences at Sandals Curaçao

If there's one thing that stands out about the Sandals Royal Curaçao resort, it's the food. You'll never go hungry here, as the resort has so many dining options catering to all tastes.

The highlight for me was Vincent, the resort's À la carte Mediterranean restaurant named after the famous Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh. With a chic, contemporary design, its menu is a fusion of Mediterranean and European flavors, and it is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

For a more laid-back meal, Strand, the beachfront seafood restaurant, is open for lunch and dinner and offers sweeping coastline views. The fish is always fresh, and the menu changes daily so that you can enjoy a wide range of fresh catches from the sea. If you love sushi, Gatsu Gatsu is a must-try and an excellent place for pre-dinner appetizers. It offers rolls in an eclectic atmosphere.

After dinner, my next stop was always to their coffee shop, Cafe Kanaal, and wine bar for a quick dessert before heading out to the main plaza for the evening entertainment.

Sandals Curacao Expansive Dining Program:

Global Dining: 11 world-class restaurants offering a mix of Caribbean, Dutch, and international cuisine.
Exclusive Dining Concepts: Farm-to-table dining, beachfront grills, and gourmet fine dining.
Unlimited Premium Liquor and Robert Mondavi Twin wines: Access to world-class beach bars and swim-up lounges.
$250 Dine Out Credit: An exclusive benefit for those in upper-tiered butler room categories.

Activities and Attractions at Sandals Curaçao

While relaxation is at the heart of the Sandals Royal Curaçao resort, there's no shortage of activities to entertain you. For couples who want a mix of adventure and relaxation, there's something for everyone too! Water sports enthusiasts will love the available options here. Sandals Royal Curacao has several non-motorized water sports available near the beach's northern end, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The resort's dive shop offers free scuba diving for certified divers, or you can take a lesson to get your PADI certification. Note. The dive team will ask you to do a brief checkout dive if you have not scuba-dived within the last six months.

For those who want to venture off-resort, Curaçao Sandals offers guided tours and excursions through our recommended supplier, Island Routes. Our favorite is the Curacao Jeep and Snorkel Experience, which takes you through the island's desert landscapes, where you'll cross over the plains of Joris Bay and head towards the rugged terrain of Koraal Tabak.

The resort has world-class spa services too if you're looking for some downtime. The Red Lane® Spa, located below the main lobby, is a tranquil space to enjoy massages, facials, and other treatments. Whether you choose the Tropical Paradise Couple's massage or our favorite, the lavender scalp massage, you'll leave feeling completely rejuvenated. Note: There are male masseuses at this resort.

In the evening, the resort comes to life around the main lobby. The karaoke nights, live music, and themed beach parties are perfect for those who enjoy fun and socializing. But if you prefer a quieter evening, the Tropical Lounge is the ideal place to enjoy cocktails, watch the sunset, or relax with your loved one.

Sandals Vacation Activities and Attractions:

Unlimited Water Sports: Snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Island Exploration: Exclusive tours showcasing Curaçao's natural beauty and culture.
Golf: Green fees are not included but can be booked at the resort.
Wellness & Spa: Relaxing Red Lane Spa treatments inspired by the island’s natural elements.
Excursions: Jeep safaris, cave exploration, and sunset cruises.

Insider Tips for Booking Sandals Royal Curaçao

Best times to visit for great weather and lower rates: There is little to no rain, year round in Curacao however, the best rates for visiting are during the shoulder seasons, typically April to early June or September to early November. During these months, you'll have warm, sunny weather with fewer crowds and even discounted rates.
Special offers and promotions: We're always on the lookout for rooms being featured on the weekly 777 promotion where 7 rooms are discounted an additional 7% for 7 days. Contact us for more info!
Room category recommendations: For our clients, it mostly comes down to budget. While there are very high-end options at Curacao Sandals, a luxury-level accommodation looks the same as a Club Level room minus the Club Sandals concierge service.

How Sandals Curaçao Compares to Other Sandals Resorts

Sandals Royal Curaçao offers a unique Caribbean island experience crossed over with European influence. It has a tranquil yet luxurious atmosphere that sets it apart from the more traditional Sandals locations across the Caribbean.

Why You Should Visit Sandals Royal Curaçao

There are many reasons why Sandals Curaçao stands out as one of my favorite vacation destinations. Perhaps the most compelling reason is that it offers many food options and a staff that genuinely cares about your vacation experience. Whether celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary or looking for a getaway to unwind, this resort should be a top consideration.

The service here is exceptional, and for that reason, it could be considered the best rated Sandals resort. From the moment you arrive, the staff goes above and beyond and will treat you like family. The all-inclusive aspect means you never have to worry about extra fees for activities, food, or drinks—it's all taken care of. The only tipping allowed is to the butlers or spa staff members.

Another huge draw is the island of Curaçao itself. With its Dutch-Caribbean charm and friendly locals who speak up to four languages, Curaçao Sandals stands out as one of the most unique resorts in their portfolio.

Whether you're an adventure seeker or want to lounge on the beach with a rum punch in hand, Sandals Royal Curaçao is one of the top rated and overall best Sandals resorts with something for everyone. It's a resort that invites you to disconnect from our busy lives, where you'll reconnect with what's most important - the people we love. If you're looking for an unforgettable experience in the Caribbean, Sandals Royal Curacao should be at the top of your list!

FAQs

What makes Sandals Curaçao different from other Sandals resorts?
- Sandals Royal Curaçao's Dutch Caribbean architecture, desert landscapes, and healthy coral reefs on a private beachfront location make it a unique destination unlike none other in the Sandals portfolio.

What activities are included at Sandals Curaçao?
- Sandals Royal Curaçao offers unlimited activities such as table tennis, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Best of all - it's all included!

Are there any special opening promotions for Sandals Curaçao?
- In addition to the free anniversary night for those celebrating that occasion, we also recommend looking at the weekly 777 promotion for additional discounts. For Sandals Select Reward members, utilize your reward points from previous stays and review the benefits of the Sandals credit card offered by Bank of America.

How far is Sandals Curaçao from the airport?
- Located about 8 miles (13 km) away, the resort offers complimentary airport transfers for all guests.

What is the best time to visit Sandals Curaçao?
- There is not a bad time to visit Sandals Curacao; however, the cheapest times to visit are during the shoulder seasons, typically April to early June and September to early November. During these months, you'll have great weather with less humidity and fewer crowds.

Is Sandals Royal Curaçao an all-inclusive resort?
- Yes, Sandals Royal Curaçao resort is an all-inclusive resort. Your stay includes everything from gourmet dining at eleven restaurants, unlimited premium drinks, water and land activities (like snorkeling, scuba diving, and tennis), to entertainment and gratuities—all included in the price.

What are the things to do at Sandals Royal Curaçao?
- At Sandals Royal Curaçao, there’s no shortage of activities. Here are our highlights:
1. Water Sports – Unlimited activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, paddle boarding, kayaking, and sailing.
2. Scuba Diving – All Sandals resorts utilize Newton dive boats which make it easy to enter and exit the water when diving the beautiful coral reefs. Sandals unlimited dives are included with daily one and two tank dives.
3. Land Activities – Everything is included, from beach volleyball, tennis, bocce ball, or fitness classes. There’s also a state-of-the-art fitness center.
4. Excursions through Island Routes – Explore Curaçao’s beaches, desert hiking trails, or take a boat ride to nearby Klein Curaçao island.
5. Golf – Access to the nearby Santa Barbara 18-hole golf course (greens fees are not included).
6. Red Lane® Spa – A must-stop for spa treatments. Our favorite is the Island Love couples massage!
7. Nightlife & Entertainment – Live music, nightly themed parties, and dance performances by the Playmakers.
8. Dining & Beach – Visit any or all of the nine restaurants and seven bars.

What are some of the popular excursions at Sandals Royal Curaçao?
- These are some of our most popular excursions that we recommend to our clients.
1. Klein Curaçao – A boat trip to the uninhabited island of Klein Curaçao, known for its clear waters, white sand beaches, and excellent snorkeling spots.
2. Curaçao Island Tour – A guided tour of Curaçao's historic sites and picturesque beaches. You’ll visit the capital, Willemstad, the famous Queen Emma Bridge, and explore the island’s landmarks.
3. Snorkeling Tour – Discover Curaçao’s underwater world with guided snorkeling tours that take you to the island’s most beautiful reefs, like the Mushroom Forest and the Blue Room. Best of all - this one is all included at Sandals!
4. Certifed Scuba Diving – For certified divers, Sandals offers guided dives to Curaçao’s coral reefs and local shipwrecks.
5. Curaçao Experiences – Visit the Aloe Vera Plantation or a local distillery that produces the island’s famous Blue Curacao liqueur.
6. Sunset Sailing – Set sail on a romantic catamaran cruise along the coast of Curaçao as the sun sets over the Caribbean Sea.
7. Private Yacht Charters – Rent a private yacht for a day of luxury sailing and snorkeling.

Does Sandals Royal Curaçao have a beach?
- Yes, but we wouldn't classify this as a beach resort as the main beach area is in a channel inlet next to the marina. There is plenty of beach space but if looking out towards the Caribbean Sea from your beach chair is important, this may not be the resort for you. The main pool here is one of three outdoor pools and has a beautiful ocean view from the infinity edge. For those interested, you'll also find two hot tubs on either end of the resort.

What airport do you fly into for Sandals Royal Curaçao?
- CUR is the airport code for Curaçao International Airport (Hato Airport).

How far is Sandals Royal Curaçao from the airport?
- The travel time is approximately 30-45 minutes from the Curaçao International Airport (Hato Airport).

Is Sandals Royal Curaçao couples-only?
- yes, this is a couples-only resort designed exclusively for couples seeking a romantic getaway, offering an intimate, all-inclusive experience for adults.

What resort did Sandals buy in Curaçao?
- Sandals purchased the former Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort in Curaçao from Hilton in 2020. After an extensive renovation, it was Sandalized with its newest Sandals 2.0 design philosophy and rebranded as Sandals Royal Curaçao.

What's the location of Sandals Royal Curaçao, and how do I reach the resort?
- Sandals Royal Curaçao is located on the southern coast of Curaçao, inside the Santa Barbara Plantation, Porta Blancu. Those traveling here will fly into the Curaçao International Airport (Hato Airport), which is about 30 minutes (8 miles/13 km) away from the resort. Note. Sandals provides complimentary roundtrip airport transfers for all guests, and direct flights are available to Sandals Curacao from New York, Miami, and Charlotte.