Overview of Sandals Grande St. Lucian

There are three Sandals Resorts in St. Lucia, known for being one of the best islands in the Caribbean for couples. At this destination, you can enjoy views of both the beach and the mountains, which create a breathtaking panorama.

Couples can choose between Sandals Regency La Toc (the largest and hilliest), Sandals Halcyon Beach (the smallest), and Sandals Grande St. Lucian.

Among these, Sandals Grande St. Lucian boasts the nicest beach and is the only one with overwater bungalows. This all-inclusive resort is set on a peninsula, surrounded by the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other.

Beachfront Sandals Grande St. Lucian offers nearly every land and sea amenity that couples desire. Moreover, it’s noteworthy as it was where Prince Harry spent two days in Saint Lucia.

A significant benefit of the Grande St. Lucian is the “Stay at 1, Play at 3” feature, allowing couples to visit the other two Sandals resorts on the island. Free shuttles travel to and from the other resorts every hour until midnight, facilitating easy exploration.

All resorts are approximately an hour and a half drive from the airport, where Sandals provides a private lounge for guests, complete with complimentary snacks and cool beverages.

Guest Rooms at Sandals Grande St. Lucian

Many of the rooms and suites at Sandals Grande St. Lucian offer a soothing and romantic view of the Caribbean Sea.

If an overwater bungalow seems too pricey, consider a mid-priced Caribbean Beachview Club Level room on the third floor. This room, nestled in the middle of activity, remains serene and quiet, allowing for a peaceful retreat. For those seeking direct water access, opt for a Swim Up Lover’s Lagoon unit or a Rondoval with a private pool. The Rondovals offer a unique studio apartment design with a bathtub spacious enough for two.

The Beachview Club Level room features a four-poster king-size canopy bed, a large flat-screen TV, and a balcony with stunning views. It also includes a love seat, coffee table, desk, and coffee maker for convenience.

Upon check-in, staff will escort you to your room, providing an overview of the property. Guided tours of the hotel are available daily at 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., helping guests become familiar with the resort.

The mini-bar is restocked daily with cold sodas, juices, and bottled water. In Club level rooms, beer and alcohol are also included; however, drinks are readily available throughout the all-inclusive property, which may lessen the desire for an upgrade.

The bathroom features dual sinks for convenience, a bathtub for relaxation, and ample counter space for toiletries. High-quality shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and aloe from the Red Lane Spa are provided to enhance your stay.

Your balcony might become your favorite part of the room, equipped with two chairs and a table, providing a birds-eye view of the Caribbean, the expansive pool, and lush gardens nearby. Occasionally, you may spot a quaint fishing village in the distance.

Dining at Sandals Grande St. Lucian

Fortunately, guests will not go hungry at Sandals. With 12 restaurants available, there is ample dining opportunity. However, the culinary experience can at times be considered mediocre.

Bayside serves as an open-air buffet for breakfast and lunch and features an à la carte menu at dinner. Daily lunch themes vary, offering everything from Asian cuisine to Mexican fare.

For a unique experience, head to Barefoot By The Sea, where tables are set directly in the sand, serving up nachos, burgers, and traditional Creole meals.

Gordon’s, positioned on the pier overlooking the water, is hailed as the best dining option at the resort. Guests are advised to wear resort-casual attire, and those not on the Concierge level must pay an additional fee to dine here. The menu focuses on fish and seafood, complemented by filet mignon and chicken, and the service and ambiance elevate the dining experience. With a bit of luck, you might see tropical fish as the staff shines lights into the water to attract them.

Toscanini’s offers an Italian bistro atmosphere with an antipasto bar and classic Italian dishes like lasagna, ravioli, and chicken parmesan.

At Kimono’s, guests are entertained as chefs display their knife skills and humor while cooking around a grill.

Each Monday, many restaurants close for the Beach Party, a vibrant buffet right on the sand accompanied by games and dancing.

Room service is offered but limited to guests in the Concierge level rooms.

Destination Weddings at Sandals Grande St. Lucian

Multiple locations for a destination wedding exist within Sandals Grande St. Lucian. The newest venue is a purpose-built chapel located at the end of a row of overwater bungalows, while more relaxed beach ceremonies can occur on the sand with a modest altar adorned by the stunning Caribbean Sea as a backdrop.

By opting for a Sandals wedding package, couples are provided with a dedicated wedding consultant. Those booking a stay of three nights or longer can enjoy a complimentary wedding package that includes a location, bouquet, boutonnière, a two-tier wedding cake, and additional amenities. For a fee, Sandals can also arrange more elaborate weddings with a variety of features and accommodations for larger groups.

Newlyweds are treated to breakfast in bed with mimosas, a romantic turndown service complete with flower petals on the first night of their honeymoon, and an intimate dinner featuring white-glove service at a specialty restaurant.

Activities at Sandals Grande St. Lucian

One of the main advantages of the Grande is the combination of numerous activities available along with intimate areas for couples seeking privacy.

The main pool located near the beach allows easy accessibility to both areas. Couples desiring a cabana (a shaded hut with two lounge chairs) should plan to reserve one early in the day. Alongside the pool is a hot tub and a swim-up bar.

The pool area features reggae and island music, with announcements of games and entertainment throughout the day. A smaller pool offers a quieter atmosphere, while four hot tubs provide additional relaxation options. Golf at the nearby Regency course is included, though caddy and greens fees may apply.

For those who prefer outdoor activities, a variety of beachside games like volleyball, table tennis, and various water sports are available, including water skiing, Hobie cats, water bikes, kayaks, snorkeling, and windsurfing. Couples interested in jet skiing can do so through private vendors not affiliated with Sandals.

Although treatments at Red Lane Spa are not covered under the all-inclusive pricing, a 50-minute couple’s massage might be worth exploring due to its intimate and serene atmosphere.

In the evenings, challenge your partner to a game of billiards or enjoy various events such as talent shows showcasing staff and guest performances, live music, and karaoke. Additionally, the Grande’s piano bar provides a lively atmosphere for guests to sing along after dinner.

Things to Do Nearby

Sandals Grande organizes off-site excursions for a fee, which feature an assortment of activities including adventure cruises around St. Lucia, tours of the Pitons, dolphin and whale watching, horseback riding, zip-lining through the rainforest, Jeep tours, and booze cruises.

For thrill-seekers, the zip-lining tour is a must. Located about an hour’s drive from the resort, your guide will provide insights into the local area and potentially offer a fresh coconut tasting.

Participants will receive necessary gear (helmets, harnesses, gloves, etc.) and will begin their adventure on a balcony for the first of 11 zip lines, offering breathtaking views of the rainforest.

A speedboat tour is another excellent option, including snorkeling between the Pitons, exploring the historical town of Soufriere, relaxing in mineral pools, and walking through the volcano.

Pigeon Island, a historical landmark covering 40 acres, is within walking distance. In the 18th century, it served as a British fort. As you hike up (after paying an entrance fee), you will encounter ruins from significant battles. This strenuous trek rewards visitors with stunning views of Rodney Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

The Vibe of Sandals Grande St. Lucian

This resort attracts a diverse crowd primarily aged between 20 and 40 years. Sandals is distinctively a couples-only resort, meaning children are not permitted.

What stands out about the resort is its ability to cater to every type of couple. If you’re eager to make new friends, you’ll certainly meet fellow guests who are also looking to connect. For those seeking a lively vacation, the nightlife is vibrant with numerous activities at bars and clubs. Conversely, should romance be your focus, you can enjoy intimate moments in private settings throughout your stay. Before dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the grounds to catch stunning sunsets and capture memorable photos.

What Could Be Better

While many aspects of the resort are impressive, there are areas that could see enhancement:

• Improved transportation between the airport and hotel. Although Sandals offers free shuttle service, the commute takes about an hour and a half due to limited roads. The steep and winding roads may result in a bumpy ride. For those willing to splurge, a helicopter ride to a closer airport is available, albeit at a premium cost.
• Increased casual dining options for dinner. Although most restaurants require resort-casual attire, having at least one restaurant for guests to visit in bathing suits would be a nice addition.
• Room service access for all. Expanding room service to all room levels would be beneficial, as it is currently limited to Concierge level accommodations.

Nonetheless, there’s a compelling reason why Sandals Resorts is a perennial favorite for honeymoon couples year after year. With locations beside breathtaking beaches, well-appointed rooms, and a myriad of onsite and offsite activities, love is truly in the air.