Laid-Back Luxury at Sandals Saint Vincent and The Grenadines

I recently returned from a stay at the brand-new Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and I can confidently say this one is different, in a good way. As a travel advisor who’s toured many all-inclusive properties, this one immediately stood out for its peaceful energy, natural beauty and laid-back luxury. It opened in 2024 and is the first large resort on the island, bringing something completely new to Saint Vincent and to the Sandals portfolio.

Getting there

Flying into Saint Vincent’s small, stress-free airport was a breeze. After a quick customs process, I was directed to the Sandals shuttle area and hopped in a shared van with a few other guests. The drive to the resort takes about an hour through winding mountain roads, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, plan ahead. But the views? Worth it. We passed through Kingstown and got a casual sightseeing tour from the driver, who pointed out local landmarks and shared bits of island history.

Butler guests can skip the mountain drive entirely by opting for a scenic boat transfer. Whichever you choose, you’ll end up in a place that feels completely off the radar (in the best way).

My take on the atmosphere

This resort has a very unique vibe from other Sandals properties. It’s calm, quiet and ideal for couples who want to slow down. I loved starting each morning with coffee and a book on the beach; it was so quiet I could hear the breeze through the palms. The beach is tucked into a cove, and while the water isn’t that turquoise shade you’ll find elsewhere in the Caribbean, it’s clear, calm and perfect for floating or wading in peace.

The pools, cabana life and DJ nights

I spent a lot of time at the infinity pool, which is the best spot for views and gorgeous sunsets. At the main pool in the heart of the resort, there’s a swim-up bar, great energy and just the right level of activity. I experienced a poolside cabana one afternoon, and it was one of my favorite moments of the trip: comfortable, shaded and a great home base for poolside cocktails and a nap between swims.

In the evenings, the Rum Bar came alive with music and dancing. One night featured a DJ and a tasting of the infamous Sunset Rum — which lives up to its reputation, by the way. The whole scene was lively without being too much. It’s more about connection and conversation here than a wild party atmosphere.

Dining at Sandals Saint Vincent

A plethora of dining options, including local cuisine.

I made it my mission to try as many of the property's 11 restaurants as I could during my stay. Here are a few that stood out:

• Sora: Hands-down my favorite. The Italian menu was spot on. The cacio e pepe was great, and ordering multiple mini-appetizers made it a fun meal.

• Isola: With fresh pizzas and salads, this was a go-to for a casual lunch. The fig and prosciutto pizza was memorable.

• Parisol: Outdoor, breezy and ideal for lunch. The grilled snapper and skinny margaritas made it feel like a beachy reset in the middle of the day.

• Butch’s Chophouse: This felt like a classic Sandals steakhouse. The truffle soup and tiramisu were worth going back for.

• Scrimshaw: A seafood-forward spot with great views. Their famous cheesecake lived up to the hype: creamy, light and just sweet enough.

I’ll also add that I was genuinely impressed with the cocktails. They were well-made and consistent, no watered-down drinks here.

Restaurants on property

Accommodations: Spacious and modern

Rooms are fresh, modern and well-appointed.

My room was one of the entry-level categories, and it still felt spacious and elevated. It featured a large walk-in closet, soaking tub, roomy bathroom and a generous balcony with a second soaking tub and a view I could have stared at all day. Every detail felt fresh and thoughtfully designed, and the room was easy to settle into for a longer stay.

If you're looking to go all-out, the Overwater Villas, Beachfront Butler Suites and Swim-Up Rooms are some of the most luxurious room types Sandals offers across all their resorts.

View from my balcony

Spa time and wellness

I took a little time for myself at the spa, where guests are welcome to enjoy the peaceful outdoor pool area and amenities even without booking a service. That said, I highly recommend the outdoor massages — the breeze, the setting, the quiet. It was exactly what I needed to unwind.

Activities on and off the water

There’s no shortage of things to do here, especially if you’re into water activities. The resort includes snorkeling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat tours and paddleboarding. You can also book excursions to explore more of the island. But to be honest, I was so content at the resort I didn’t feel the need to leave.

Bikes are available all over the property to get around.

Who it’s best for

Sandals Saint Vincent is perfect for couples looking to unplug and recharge in a more intimate setting. It’s a great fit for milestone trips like anniversaries or birthdays, or for anyone who prefers natural beauty and calm over crowds and chaos.

It’s not the right resort if you’re chasing a high-energy party scene, but for those who appreciate a quieter luxury experience with warm service, this place delivers.

Final takeaway

Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is one of the most unique properties in the brand’s lineup. It offers privacy, excellent service and a true escape-from-it-all feeling. As a travel advisor, I’d confidently recommend it to couples wanting something different, elevated and still all-inclusive.

If you're dreaming of a Caribbean vacation that's more laid-back luxury than spring break-style, this is the one to have on your radar.

Poolside cabanas and spa time should be booked in advance, and mornings on the beach are especially quiet and serene. Bring a book and soak it all in.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Saint Vincent and the Grenadines page.