Almond Beach Resort

Not only is Almond Beach one of the bigger all-inclusive resorts in Barbados, it's also the farthest north from the airport. Newcomers will sense that as they pass through Speightstown (the island's northernmost town) and enter the resort's security checkpoint, sandwiched between golf greens and the ocean -- with zero direct neighbors. The resort feels larger than the 135 rooms, thanks to expansive grounds featuring water fountains, lily ponds, and even a sugar mill from its sugar plantation past -- a popular spot for wedding photos. Its history and Colonial-style design give the hotel a more charming atmosphere than the typical all-inclusive property. Guests are a range of couples, families, and groups, and there are facilities geared toward all. However, the resort plans on closing in July 2017 to undergo renovations and will reopen under Sandals brand. 

The resort is located on Heywoods Beach in a quiet residential area in northwest Barbados -- an excellent vantage point for beautiful sunsets. It's a 45-minute drive from Grantley Adams International Airport, and there's free parking at the hotel for guests with cars. Many guests, however, use the cheap local bus system, nicknamed "reggae bus", for a touch of culture. Guests can walk 10 minutes to nearby Speightstown, which is the last stop for bus routes that head along the shoreline. Head south to get to upscale Holetown, which has high-end shops, a grocery store, post office, and some of the islands best restaurants and bars. The route continues to the capital of Bridgetown for duty-free shops, and farther south for St. Lawrence Gap's tourist hub and the famous Oistin's Fish Fry. 

The 135 rooms are located in several sections either along the beach with balconies facing the sea, or set back facing the gardens or pools. The rooms have a traditional Colonial style of dark wood furnishings, two-poster beds, tile floors, and navy floral-motif bedspreads. They're pleasant but bedskirts, patterned couches, and old tube-style TVs in certain rooms feel dated. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, work desks, kettles, coffeemakers, and mini-fridges, as well as safes and ironing facilities. Some rooms also have a pullout sofa for children. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and a range of basic toiletries. Spacious One Bedroom rooms have separate living areas. Groups can also request interconnecting rooms, which are available in several room types.

The hotel's beautiful stretch of Caribbean shoreline --  with fine beige sand and calm turquoise water -- is a short walk from every part of the resort. Several sun loungers are scattered around every section, but there are no umbrellas. In the center of the beach is a large water-sports center that provides free paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkel gear. Guests who snorkel just offshore will likely see tropical fish and occasionally turtles. The water is suitable for swimming, but there are also six swimming pools on the property, including one for toddlers and one just for adults. Also included in the price are supervised kids' clubs for three different age groups and an outdoor playground. Private babysitting is available at an additional charge. Sports facilities include two tennis courts, a putting green, a fitness center, a squash court, and shuffle board. Other perks of the all-inclusive package include free island tours, swimming with turtles, and glass-bottom boat rides. Spa treatments are available for a fee, as are motorized water sports. A few retail shops are available in the courtyard and Wi-Fi is free throughout. 

As part of the rate, the resort offers unlimited meals and drinks at three restaurants and bars, as well as snacks throughout the day. The rate also includes limited dining at nearby sister resort, Sugar Cane Club Hotel & Spa, for a change of pace (make reservations with guest services). In the evenings, the resort instills a simple dress code that requires men to wear long pants.The all-day Reef restaurant is closet to the waterfront and has a charming open-air wood structure. During the day, the restaurant is casual with buffet service, while in the evening the atmosphere is more romantic with tiki torches and an a la carte menu. The more fun and casual restaurant called Enid’s is located in the center of the property and is easy to spot with its bright Bajan-style decor. The open-air restaurant serves a la carte fare for lunch and dinner, while the attached Bajan rum shop, Tommy’s Bar, has a billiards table, loud music, and late-night drinks. Horizon's is an elegant indoor and outdoor eatery that's open for dinner and has live music multiple times a week.