Sandals Royal Curaçao is the island all-inclusive, couples-only option, and it works on a different logic from the hotels in Willemstad. Instead of putting you in the old town, it places you on the west side, in the Coral Estate area, where the coast is rugged and the sea is clear, and the idea is that you stay put. The stay is sold as all inclusive and for couples only, so meals, drinks and many activities are covered in the rate, and the guest list is adults in pairs, which makes for a calm, romantic atmosphere with none of the family bustle. It is the choice for honeymooners, anniversaries and couples who want a week of low-effort comfort with the sea on the doorstep. Because the resort is a long way from the Willemstad sights, expect to treat the old town as a day trip rather than a base, and plan how you will get around before you arrive.
Location and getting around
The resort sits on the island west side, so the airport and Willemstad are a drive away, and the beaches, snorkel spots and national park are closer than from the capital. Transfers from the airport are widely offered, and day tours will often collect from the resort. If you want to see the UNESCO old town, the Sea Aquarium and the Klein Curaçao catamaran, you will need a rental car or a taxi, and the trip to the southeast is longer than from the hotels in Pietermaai.
That is the trade-off
You give up walkable sightseeing in return for a self-contained resort stay.
Rooms and who it suits
Couples only is a firm rule, so the property does not suit families, friends traveling as a group or solo travelers. Expect resort-style rooms in a range of categories, and look carefully at the differences in view, location and swim-up access when you book, because the premium categories change the stay noticeably. The all-inclusive plan covers dining and drinks, but check which restaurants, activities and extras are included, since some experiences, spa treatments and excursions are usually charged separately.
Good to know
Rates are at the top of the island range and rise in the dry months from December to April and on holidays, so book early for peak weeks and look at shoulder-season dates for better value. Confirm the current policies on minimum age, dress codes, tipping and resort credits, and ask the resort about snorkeling gear and water sports. Pair a week here with two or three outings, such as the west-coast turtle swim and a morning at Christoffel Park, and you will see the island without leaving the comfort of the resort for long.
Why stay here
- ✓All-inclusive stay
- ✓Couples-only policy
- ✓West-coast location
- ✓Beach and sea access
- ✓Resort pools
- ✓Multiple restaurants and bars
- ✓Airport transfers available
- ✓Day-tour pickups
Good questions
Is Sandals Royal Curaçao for couples only?+
Yes, it is sold as a couples-only, all-inclusive resort, so it does not suit families or solo travelers.
Is it close to Willemstad?+
No. It is on the island west side, a drive from the old town, so plan a rental car or taxis for day trips.
What is included in the rate?+
The stay is all inclusive, covering meals and drinks. Check which activities, spa treatments and excursions are extra when you book.
