Sandals Saint Lucia: Choosing between the Grande St. Lucian, Regency La Toc and Halcyon Beach

With Saint Lucia being one of the most romantic spots in the Caribbean, it makes perfect sense that Sandals would have not one, not two, but three properties on the island. The all-inclusive, adult-only resort chain is popular with honeymooners and couples celebrating special occasions, thanks to its reputation for setting the stage for romance. With special perks like butler service, massages under the shade of a cabana on the beach and chilled champagne waiting in your room after a day of sightseeing, it’s the perfect place to relax and reconnect with your partner.

While choosing to stay at Sandals is easy, picking which of the three resorts you’ll stay at is a bit tougher—in fact, many guests end up splitting their time between two of them as it’s hard to decide! Fortunately you don’t have to stress about it too much, thanks to the Play at 3 Program which offers free transportation between the properties, giving guests full access to all of the restaurants, pristine beaches and spas. Here’s an overview of the best features of the Grande St. Lucian, Regency La Toc and Halcyon Beach, to help decide which resort is best for your dream vacation.

Best Rooms

The Grande St. Lucian wins this category, thanks to the addition of their overwater bungalows—a first in Saint Lucia. The luxurious villas are perched over the sea, complete with a see-through glass floor perfect for watching the underwater life from the comfort of your king size bed. An indoor/outdoor rainfall shower, butler’s kitchen, private deck with loungers and a hammock are just some of the other perks, along with a striking tranquility bath overlooking the water.

READ MORE: A luxury stay in the overwater bungalows at Sandals Grande St. Lucian

The overwater bungalows tend to book up fast, so the next best thing are the Millionaire Suites at Regency La Toc. Perched on a lush bluff overlooking the shimmering sea, the retractable glass walls offer 180 degree views, and lead to a sundeck with a private infinity pool—including a whirlpool and waterfall, natch. A private butler means you’ll never need to leave the comfort of your lounger, but if you do head back inside you’ll have 1000 square feet of space to explore including a living room, fully-stocked bar, modern bathroom and king size bed.

Best Location

Thanks to the complimentary resort transfers the actual location of each property doesn’t need to be a deciding factor, but if you’re planning to explore the island there are a few differences. The Regency La Toc and Halcyon Beach are close together, and only a five minute drive from the capital of Castries where most of the cruise ships dock. The Grande St. Lucian is on Pigeon Island Beach, which is popular with locals and just steps away from Pigeon Point National Park which is great for hikers and history buffs. It’s also near bustling Rodney Bay, which is the best spot in Saint Lucia for shopping and nightlife.

Best Activities

Each Sandals resort offers complimentary activities for guests, including snorkelling trips, SUP, kayaking and even scuba diving. However, the Regency La Toc wins the activity category thanks to its nine hole golf course which features narrow fairways framed by cedars, bamboo and tranquil ocean views. Green fees are included, while caddies and cart rentals are extra.

Best Beach

The golden beaches at all three resorts are beautiful, with plenty of cushy loungers and cabanas available for guests. Each stretch of sand is well-maintained and peaceful, though it’s worth noting the beach at the Grande St. Lucian is a bit busier, being sandwiched between two other spots popular with locals. However, it gets tops marks for its setup of swings, floaties and hammocks suspended over the water, which are great for both relaxing and photo-ops. It also has the calmest water, and being nestled in Rodney Bay means easy access for boat activities.

Best Ambiance and Pools

Regardless of what you’re in the mood for, there’s a Sandals resort that will fit your needs. Halcyon Beach typically appeals to an older crowd (traditionally attracting British guests) and is considered to be the quietest property perfect for R&R.

If you’re looking to party, Regency La Toc is the best bet thanks to its multiple pools complete with swim up bars, DJ sets and games like pool volleyball. Be sure to stop by the Sunset Bluff Pool perched on the top of the hill, which features grotto-like decor complete with waterfalls and grants gorgeous views of the sparkling azure water below.

The Grande St. Lucian offers the most variety, as it has a hopping main pool area with daily entertainment, and also boasts a number of small, quiet pool areas including one that winds through the property where guests can swim right up to their rooms.

Best Scenery

This category is no contest: Regency La Toc has scenery in spades. While Halcyon Beach and the Grande St. Lucian are both beautiful properties sprawling across expansive blonde beaches, it’s hard to beat Regency La Toc’s perch on bluffs bursting with fragrant foliage. Villas hug the cliffside over the dazzling Caribbean Sea, and its vantage points are a photographer’s dream.

When the day is done, watch the spellbinding sunset as its kaleidoscope of colours dip toward the horizon—a scene that just might be the highlight of an unforgettable escape to Sandals in Saint Lucia.

Globe Guide stayed at Sandals as a guest of Sandals Resorts. As always, hosts have no editorial influence on articles.

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