When you’re planning a vacation to the Bahamas, you may have two resort comparisons in mind: Sandals Royal Bahamian vs. Emerald Bay. Each resort has its own personality traits that make it attractive to tourists.
But which Sandals resort is the best to go to? Which is more entertaining – and which one is more affordable? There are some slight differences you will want to know. Let’s get started!
Location and Accessibility
The two locations are separated by around 140 miles on two different islands. One is on the New Providence Island, in Nassau, famous for its British colonial architecture. The other is on the Great Exuma, in George Town.
The Royal Bahamian is very close to a number of tourist locations, such as the Queen’s Staircase, the Straw Market, and the beautiful waters of the Blue Lagoon Island. The Lynden Pindling International Airport is also five miles away from the resort.
Emerald Bay is slightly in a more pristine and quaint location. The resort is close to the Tolle Town Tombs, dating back through centuries of history. It is also near the Pig Beach on Big Major Cay, where a wild pig colony lives.
Sandals Resort Character and Style
The Royal Bahamian has a distinct European sophisticated flavor to it, making it look like an English town of old. There are many locations that add to this vibe, such as the Balmoral Club, which was a past hangout spot for dukes and duchesses.
Many structures were built around 1940 and preserved to this day. The Billiards Room and the Piano Bar have historic pictures of royal couples dotting the elegant wall. It is a good place to stay inside with a glass of wine and a book.
However, at Emerald Bay, things are a bit more laid back. It fuses the Bahamian style with contemporary décor, and at the same time, it gallantly merges with its natural surroundings. It is the perfect space for you to nurture your love.
Amenities and Services
Regardless of the resort you choose, you will not be disappointed when it comes to the amenities. There are multiple pools on the resort grounds, all of which are free of charge on both resorts.
There are also spa centers at both the Sandals Emerald Bay and the Sandals Royal Bahamian. Fitness centers are found on both grounds and they include state-of-the-art equipment.
That being said, many guests recommend the Emerald Bay resort as being more inclusive in terms of spa treatments. On the other hand, Royal Bahamian is more modern, due to recent renovations.
You can enjoy pools with a view, the private beaches, the business facilities, and all the other amenities on the ground. Both of the resorts make sure that you have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Rooms and Guest Suites
Both Sandals resorts give it their all in terms of accommodation. Royal Bahamian allows you to book a room in either the East Bay or the West Bay building, each with its own views.
You may get guest rooms with a view of the garden, the pool, or the ocean. Some deluxe rooms will also give you direct access to the pool or an outdoor hot tub.
If you go for the Island Village, you may even book your own romantic villa on a remote island. These villas come with butler service, so you will hardly need to lift one finger.
At Emerald Bay, you won’t get shipped off to a private island, but it’s romantic nonetheless. The Grand Isle and the Prime Minister suites are mostly oriented toward honeymooners.
There are multiple other standard and not-so-standard rooms where you may experience romanticism at its finest. If you want extra comfort, the Butler Suites will have English-trained butlers to cater to every need you might have.
Sandals Resorts Restaurants
When it comes to gourmet dining, both resorts are excellent choices. The Royal Bahamian offers access to 10 specialty restaurants, each with its own style and cuisine.
You have everything from restaurants serving French cuisine to those that are serving Caribbean dishes. You also have a swim-up bar to go enjoy a drink or snack, as well as eight other bars where you may get premium drinks.
The same kind of hospitality and cultural gourmet palate applies to Emerald Bay, although there are 11 restaurants instead of 10. You have options for sophisticated gastronomy, afternoon tea, ocean dining – even a chic English-style pub.
Both the Sandals Emerald Bay and the Sandals Royal Bahamian have food trucks where you can buy authentic Bahamian food. These trucks are good options for those who want to enjoy a meal without staying at a restaurant table.
Resort Activities – Fun and Entertainment
Both resorts provide lots of activities where you may enjoy a good time. The Royal Bahamian has two secluded beaches that you can go to for a tan or to play some beach games.
You can try kayaking or going by sailboat to the Sandals remote island, or you may enjoy some high-energy water sports. The Sandals Royal Bahamian resort will provide all the equipment you need for that.
At Royal Bahamian, you also receive complimentary scuba diving lessons, allowing you to see the wrecks, walls, and reefs that the Bahamas area is known for. Qualified divers also get two free dives.
Emerald Bay also offers PADI certified scuba diving, and access to a 7,001-yard golf course. If you are a fan of golf, then this is certainly the resort for you.
You also get local adventure tours, and access to entertainment events such as live bands, karaoke, talent nights, and night cabaret. The Piano Bar and the Drunken Duck English Pub are particularly popular at Sandals Emerald Bay.
Emerald Bay is mainly known for its indoor activities and relaxation centers, whereas the Royal Bahamian is slightly more outdoorsy. If you want to lounge inside or at the pool more, then Emerald Bay is a great option.
On the other hand, if you feel like enjoying more off-site activities such as fishing, horse riding, bike tours, or local culture tours, then Royal Bahamian may be the better choice for you.
Comparing the Fees
Both Sandals resorts vary when it comes to fees, depending on the season. Peak season at either of the two Sandals resorts is somewhere between December and April, so you may expect the resort rates to reflect that.
Sandals Royal Bahamian Rates
Rates change frequently at the Sandals Royal Bahamian, and price-wise, winter is the best time to visit. A 7-day stay booked in early April for two guests will start at around $5,565. This applies to the Standard East Bay Zen Garden Room.
If you decide to go for a more luxurious vacation and paddle up to the West Bay Swim-up Oversized Club Level Junior Suite, then the price can go as high as $9,402. Plus, the more people are added to the package, the pricier it will be in the end.
Sandals Emerald Bay Rates
At Sandals Emerald Bay, a room booked in April will start at around $6,100, which is slightly lower than the minimum for the other resort. This applies to stays at the Beach House Grande Luxe Walkout Club Level Room.
Things become pricier once you book the Beachfront Honeymoon Walkout Butler Villa Suite, as this one can cost up to $8,712. With that in mind, it is still less expensive than the most expensive suite at Royal Bahamian.
FAQ
In order to enjoy a good vacation, you must be prepared for everything. Here are some frequent questions about the Sandals resorts, along with their answers.
Is Sandals Emerald Bay Closing?
No official news has been given yet that the Sandals Emerald Bay will close. There are only some speculations that the resort will temporarily close for future checks and improvements.
Which Sandals Resort Is Biggest?
The Sandals Royal Bahamian has 408 rooms, making it bigger than its counterpart which only has 245. Out of ALL Sandals resorts, Sandals Ochi Beach Resort holds the title of the biggest.
Which Is the Newest Resort?
Sandals Emerald bay opened in 2003, whereas the Royal Bahamian relaunched in January 2022. This makes the latter resort the newest as well. There is another resort that opened up on Maxwell coast, named Sandals Barbados.
Does Sandals Emerald Bay Have a Spa?
Yes, the resort does have a spa. According to previous guests, it is one of the best spa centers between the two resorts.
Where Is the Most Popular Sandals?
The most popular Sandals between the two is the Royal Bahamian. However, the most popular overall is the Montego Bay, found in the Jamaican tourist center.
How Many Pools Does Sandals Emerald Bay Have?
This resort has three freshwater pools overlooking the cobalt blue ocean, as well as a serpentine swimming pool. There are also some quiet pools where you may lounge.
Sandals Royal Bahamian vs. Emerald Bay: Who’s the Winner?
Each resort has its own benefits. Royal Bahamian, like the name suggests, is better for those looking for a royal experience. Emerald Bay is better for those seeking tranquility. The choice is up to you and your needs.
