Sandals Curacao
When Sandals Curacao opened its doors, I couldn’t wait to see how a Sandals Resort would feel in a Dutch-Caribbean setting. The result? A gorgeous gem that strikes a unique balance between European flair and Jamaican warmth, on the vibrant, breezy island of Curacao. This resort delivers elevated design, spacious quarters, and a service that feels both polished and relaxed.
From striking rose-terracotta architecture to newly installed overwater villas and rooftop bars, Sandals Royal Curacao stands out in the Sandals collection. If you’re after a blend of romance, style, and luxury with a fresh island backdrop, this might be the vacation you didn’t know you needed.
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Key Takeaways
- Location matters – Curacao offers easy access from Miami and select U.S. hubs, with fewer crowds than larger Caribbean destinations.
- Design-forward resort – Inspired by Dutch Caribbean architecture – earth tones, arches, and Mediterranean courtyards.
- Overwater and oceanfront villa additions blend directly into gentle lagoons and the Caribbean Sea.
- Twelve restaurants, seven bars, rooftop pool and bar, swim-up suites, spa, and included watersports make this a high-end play zone.
- Peaceful and upscale – Feels quieter than many Sandals, though still rich with amenities, ideal for couples seeking serenity without sacrificing options.
Resort Layout and Atmosphere
What struck me immediately was the elegance of this luxury resort in Curacao. From the moment you step into Sandals Royal Curacao, it’s clear that this isn’t a standard Caribbean resort – it’s a carefully curated design experience. You can immediately notice the architecture – rose‑terracotta walls, gracefully curved buildings, and Mediterranean-style arches that surround a central courtyard with fountains and spectacular flowers. This gives the resort a boutique feel, rather than a sprawling mega-property. You navigate the grounds easily, with all pools, restaurants, and lounge areas arranged either around this courtyard or along the water’s edge.
In terms of ambiance, Sandals Curacao strikes a delicate balance between serenity and style. It never feels crowded, despite being spacious enough to host multiple pools and a rooftop bar. The muted tones of the courtyard complement the aqua hues of the sea beyond, setting a tone that is relaxed, elegant, and distinctly European.
The transition from the spa to the beach feels effortless. You get to enjoy some scenic views no matter which direction you walk. From hidden garden corners to photo-worthy terraces that overlook the sea, every way feels thoughtfully placed.
Room Categories and Suites
I noticed that many guests book oceanfront club rooms or swim-up suites. All of them seemed excellent, but if you want to elevate your experience, then I recommend you look into these categories:
- Overwater Villas (my favorite!) – these are the resort’s centerpiece – they float above a lagoon and feature glass floors so you can enjoy the marine life that swims below your feet. Each villa includes private plunge pools, panoramic sea views, and full butler elite service. Some villas also have rooftop terraces – perfect for sunset cocktails or a morning coffee while you overlook the gardens and the sea.
- Skypool Rooms offer solar-heated plunge pools with infinity edges, complete with daybeds for you to lounge and views of either the pool deck or the ocean. These rooms feel ultra-private and are perfect for couples who just want to relax.
- Luxury Club Oceanfront Suites come with walk-out patios or balconies that overlook the calm lagoons. Here, as a guest, you will have exclusive lounge access, a minibar, concierge service, and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks. These suites feel refreshing and upscale without the cost of a villa.
- For those of you who want comfort and value, the Deluxe Suites offer modern décor, ocean or garden views, and perfect layouts. These mid-tier rooms include refillable minibar items, daily housekeeping, and round-the-clock room service. While not Butler-level, service remains frequent and polished.
Butler service is available in overwater and villa tiers. This means your luggage, meals, and preferences will be handled (you don’t even have to ask for it). Even in the entry-level categories, you will find housekeeping is frequent and personalized.
Dining and Bar Options
Sandals Curacao introduces culinary experiences I have not seen at any other Sandals resorts. For example:
- Sea Salt Ocean Grill, which serves locally caught fish and Caribbean produce simply grilled to highlight natural flavors. The menu might include mahi-mahi with mango salsa or coconut snapper
- On the roof, the Sky Restaurant and Bar blends Latin fusion flavors with live, melodic sunset performances. It is ideal for elegantly crafted small plates and cocktails, making it a favorite date-night destination
- Kimonos Sushi and Hibachi brings showmanship to your dinner as chefs chop and flame-cook to music. Here, you can enjoy fresh sushi and teppanyaki-style meals
- Elektra Coffee House serves European-style pastries and expertly roasted Curacao bean brew, perfect to kickstart your day or unwind mid-afternoon.
- The oceanfront Dutch seafood bistro offers a cozy setting for island-inspired dishes like conch fritters or pickled island shrimp.
Between these spots and others offering international fusion, there’s always something new. Swim-up bars, lounge bars, rooftop venues, and cocktail patios mean you’ll never wander far from a refreshing drink – or a scenic view..
Pools, Beach, and Activities
Pools at this Curacao couples’ resort blend with the lounge zones, walkways, and sunset terraces. They are seamlessly integrated with the resort’s architecture, blending casual relaxation and designer social experiences. The Rooftop Infinity Pool is a standout – an elevated glass‑edge pool that overlooks the sea.
The Lagoon Pool flows gently toward the beach. Swim-up bars serve drinks directly to lounge chairs or in-water tables, while umbrellas and loungers provide shade. Kayaks and paddleboards are always available, and staff frequently rotate snacks and chilled water.
Beyond the pools, snorkel amenities are complimentary. Breezy platforms extend from shore into coral-rich reef areas. Beach loungers with umbrellas, complimentary rentals, and shaded terraces help create a vibe where the pool and the ocean merge seamlessly.
Water and Land Sports
If rest and relaxation aren’t all you’re after, Sandals Curacao delivers activity too – in fact, I was amazed by how much you can do here. Water sports include kayaking, paddleboarding, Hobie Cat sailing, and guided scuba dives for certified swimmers. The protected lagoon nearby is perfect for surface snorkeling.
Onshore, you’ll find fitness classes, early morning stretch sessions, and a well-equipped gym. Tennis courts, shuffleboard, and beach volleyball offer active options, and the nightly entertainment team leads trivia, mini-tournaments, or pool deck challenges.
Other things to do include excursions like guided reef identification, catamaran sunset sails, and short island tours – the resort concierge desk can easily arrange that for you. The combination of accessible activities and spontaneous fun makes the resort feel energetic.
The Spa
The in‑resort Red Lane spa feels upgraded and serene. Treatments feature Caribbean-inspired rituals (think local oils and aromatherapy) as well as couples’ massages.
I was particularly impressed with the spa lounge – they really put some effort to make the place as tranquil as it can be.
Entertainment and Atmosphere
Curacao doesn’t aim for loud shows every night. That means at Sandals Curacao, you can enjoy some ambient luxury. Here is what you can expect:
- String quartet brunches, solo sax by sunset, DJ sets by the rooftop pool after dusk, and steel drums on the beach
- Cultural evenings with local cocktails and island performances
- There’s no swimming with pole dancers or show madness – just a classy evening
Off-Resort Fun
Here is what you can see and experience outside of Sandals Royal Curacao:
- The colonial architecture of Willemstad, a colorful UNESCO-listed capital
- Beaches nearby with snorkeling and occasional sea turtles
- Curacao Sea Aquarium and Dolphin Beach
- Local sailing charters or small-boat reef tours
- Island day trips if you want to explore the limestone cliffs, caves, coastal snorkeling, and historic plantations
Value and Price Tips
Just to give you an idea, here are the approximate prices – Sandals Curacao generally falls in the mid-to-upper pricing tier for Sandals Resorts.
Entry-level luxury Club or oceanfront suites typically range between $450-$550 per person per night during shoulder seasons. If you’re after an overwater villa or rooftop suite, budget closer to $850-$1,300 per person per night in low season.
If you want to get the early booking discounts and better suite choices, then I suggest you book around 6-9 months in advance. This way, as a couple, you can secure a club suite to access Anniversary Night promotions or referral credits. Then, you can strategically upgrade later to a villa or skypool room for special evenings.
If you want to secure the lowest nightly prices, then I recommend you book early. You will enjoy every minute you spend here. Sandals Curacao caters best to couples who value design, calm beach energy, and elevated dining. This is perfect for you if you are:
- Design-forward travelers who want to enjoy an all-inclusive brand
- Couples who enjoy fine dining with waterfront views
- Guests who prefer resort elegance
- Those who want island peace plus cultural excursions
FAQ
How quiet or lively is Sandals Curacao compared to other Sandals resorts?
Sandals Curaçao leans toward the elegant and peaceful side, striking a thoughtful balance between activity and calm. While there are rooftop DJs and themed evenings, nightlife is subdued—no late-night partying or oversized crowds. It’s ideal for couples who want sophisticated evenings, not chaotic resorts.
Is snorkeling easy from the resort?
Absolutely. There’s a reef directly offshore – snorkel gear is complimentary, and the water is warm, clear, and calm. For deeper or guided experiences, ask the dive desk or boat excursions.
Guest Pros and Cons (Based on Reviews and Feedback)
Before I wrap things up, I managed to gather as much info as I could from people who have already stayed here. After all, I wanted to ensure that the service was as impeccable as I experienced it.
From everything I found out, here are the pros and cons you need to know about:
Pros
- Design-forward environment – Most guests rave about the rose-terracotta architecture, airy Mediterranean courtyards, and seamless transitions from spa to beach. It feels boutique yet luxury‑grade.
- Quiet but stylish atmosphere – Couples frequently note that the ambiance is calm, with fewer crowds than other Sandals, but still well-staffed with attentive service.
- Culinary variety – Guests highlight unique restaurants such as Zuka, Strand, and Aolos as standout hands-down favorites. The food feels curated and refined.
- Inclusive premium activities – From paddleboarding and kayak tours to scuba and rooftop lounges, most excursions and gear are included – guests say they save money yet feel richly engaged.
Cons
- Smaller resort size – Some couples experience fewer social mingling opportunities due to the boutique layout. If you prefer large pool parties or resort-wide mixology tours, other Sandals properties may feel more active.
- Off-resort travel needed for cultural immersion – While beaches and resort grounds feel stunning, spontaneous cultural excursions require booking tours to Willemstad or nearby beaches – guests who don’t venture out sometimes miss a deeper Curacao experience.
Sandals Curacao is not your typical all-inclusive resort. Think calm mornings on coral reefs, candlelit dinners on rooftop decks, and more time to explore the historic towns. So if you’re after contemporary luxury by the sea, a backdrop of Dutch architecture, and the same attentive service Sandals is known for, this is your best pick.
