Sun, sand and tropical bliss await honeymooners — and other couples seeking romance — at this sparkling Caribbean all-inclusive resort.
by Michael J. Solender
When the romantic energy shifts from the “I do” celebration to the joy-filled honeymoon, many sun-seeking Charlotte couples set their sights on the Caribbean.
At Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, nestled in the breezy Lesser Antilles, couples find romantic seclusion where beachside lounging, spa pampering, exquisite dining and island adventures make newlyweds feel as if they’re still slow dancing at their reception.
Saint Vincent, the largest in a loosely connected necklace of 32 Caribbean islands that form the Grenadines, is home to Sandals’ newest all-inclusive retreat. The resort hugs a crescent-shaped beach along the island’s southwestern shore, bisected by the meandering Vermont River. Guests are treated to breathtaking views of volcanic mountains and a subtle reminder of the active La Soufrière volcano, which last erupted in 2021.
Disney Studios chose Saint Vincent as the backdrop for its blockbuster Pirates of the Caribbean films, drawn by the island’s lush rainforests, cerulean seas and topaz-hued skies.
Opened in March 2024, the resort strikes a balance between intimacy — with its 301 suites spread across more than 50 acres — and opportunities to connect with fellow travelers.
Billed as “Sandals 2.0,” the adults-only luxury property features activities and dining experiences designed to foster a sense of community. One highlight is Buccan, a traditional “Vincy” family-style dining experience. But for couples craving uninterrupted “just us” time, there’s plenty of space for that, too.
At Sandals, romance is always the specialty. Here’s what newlyweds can look forward to.
Sandals Red Lane Spa; Vincy overwater two-story villas
ACCOMMODATIONS
With 15 room categories, honeymooners can choose the amenities and features that suit them best. All accommodations include airport transfers.
Prepare to be pampered — even the most modest Bamboo Palm rooms offer soaking tubs, pool and garden views from a private balcony with a cozy daybed lounger, and a spacious 580-square-foot layout. Guests also enjoy a fully stocked complimentary mini-bar (juice, beer, wine, sodas) and a walk-in rain shower.
Room options progress from swim-up suites, where patios open directly into a large pool, to private pool suites, villa suites, private villas and the ultimate indulgence — over-the-water villas.
The Vincy Overwater Two-Story Villas are a dream for couples, perched on a private stretch of Sandals Cove. These luxurious retreats feature private swim and sun decks, a telescope for stargazing, his-and-her vanities, a double rain shower, a soaking tub, and a premium stocked bar with liquor, beer and wine. Guests can also enjoy in-room dining, all within 1,250 square feet of contemporary Caribbean elegance.
THE BUTLER DOES IT
The over-the-water villas (along with select premium rooms) come with Sandals’ Butler Elite service.
Sandals butlers are available throughout the day to ensure couples experience the best of the resort. Breakfast in bed? Check. Afternoon cocktails? Absolutely. A private beach cabana with a stocked cooler? Done. A romantic candlelit dinner on the patio, complete with chocolate-dipped strawberries, roses and scented candles? The butler can arrange it all.
Premium Butler Elite rooms also receive special marine transfers — think a comfy cabin cruiser — to and from the airport. There’s even an on-site photography and video team available to document couples’ entire vacations, all coordinated by the butler.
Poolside at Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Scrimshaw
DINING
Sandals kitchens work overtime to satisfy hungry — and thirsty — guests. With a dozen restaurants offering culinary choices ranging from Caribbean and Italian to Japanese and just-caught seafood, there’s something for everyone. Favorites include:
Gatsu Gatsu (“devouring food with gusto”) – This Japanese Izakaya-style eatery delivers a wide range of sushi, hand rolls, Robata-grilled chicken, beef and fish, as well as tempura and ramen. A creative cocktail list features standouts like a ginger-infused sidecar and sake-based martinis.
Buccan – This Vincy-themed restaurant brings local ingredients and flavorful herbs and spices to the open fire, serving up flavorful curries, stews, seafood and grilled vegetables that embody the island’s culture.
Scrimshaw – Treasures from the surrounding waters take center stage here, with Caribbean lobster, local red snapper and wild-caught shrimp among the everyday delicacies.
Jerk Shack – Ya mon, this casual eatery serves authentic Jamaican-inspired jerk chicken, fish and pork, roasted sweet potatoes, and Jamaican stew peas. Pair with a cold local Hairoun beer for the full experience.
Nine bars and lounges offer premium libations. Two specialty coffee venues — Blum and Crema — stand out with Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee, fresh-baked sweet treats and ice cream.
At Three Jewels Rum Bar, guests can savor a range of Caribbean rums, including the local (and famously potent) Sunset Rum, an 84+-proof spirit meant to be sipped with caution.
ACTIVITIES & NIGHTLIFE
Water sports range from scuba diving, snorkeling, wakeboarding and water skiing to kayaking and paddleboarding. Land-based activities include beach volleyball, croquet, bocce ball, pickleball, shuffleboard and staff-led garden tours.
For adventure seekers, excursions can be arranged to visit the nearby Pirates of the Caribbean film set, embark on a La Soufrière volcano sunset cruise, go whale and dolphin watching, explore Dark View Falls and the Historical West Coast, or island-hop to Mustique and Bequia. Hiking, cycling and botanical-garden tours are also available.
At Sandals Red Lane Spa, couples can indulge in treatments like the Night Blooming Jasmine Massage and the Himalayan Salt Stone Massage, along with a full range of facials and specialty services designed to make couples glow.
The nights come alive with live music, both al fresco and in various dining venues, featuring everything from soft rock to steel bands — and even the occasional guest-driven karaoke session.
GETTING THERE: American Airlines offers direct, nonstop flights from Charlotte to Saint Vincent weekly, as well as more frequent connections through Miami.
Photographs courtesy Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Destination Weddings: Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Jenna Samuel, the resort’s manager of love and romance (yes, really), shares that over 65 destination weddings have taken place here since the offering began in May 2024.
“Couples choose the resort for the ease of the wedding process and the beauty of our island,” Samuel says. “It feels like walking through a tropical paradise — a miniature Jurassic Park — with mountains, white sand beaches and everything you dream of capturing in your wedding photos.”
“The documentation process is very easy,” she adds. “We have an online system where you simply send your documents to our pre-travel team 30 to 60 days in advance. Our team will start the online process and connect you with a planner to handle the paperwork and customize your wedding details. Then, our resort team takes care of the execution, ensuring your big day is flawless.”
Photographs courtesy Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Let’s go!
Two additional honeymoon destinations in close reach for Charlotte newlyweds.
Lilly Valley Inn – Pearisburg, Virginia
Just a 2.5-hour drive from Charlotte, Lilly Valley Inn offers honeymooners a serene escape in southwest Virginia’s rolling Appalachian hills. Voted Virginia’s No. 1 B&B in 2024 by Virginia Living Magazine, the inn blends European elegance with quiet luxury.
This intimate retreat — featuring seven rooms and an on-site cottage — offers breathtaking views and a peaceful ambience. The Vista Room, overlooking the New River Valley, is perfect for romance. Wake to a soft sunrise and enjoy coffee on the veranda, where crisp mountain air sets the tone for a relaxing day.
Savor gourmet breakfasts, explore nearby wineries and scenic trails, or enjoy cycling, fishing, rafting or kayaking along the New River Water Trail. For a unique experience, couples can take cooking classes led by the inn’s French-trained chef.
The Boca Raton – Beach Club – Boca Raton, Florida
Newlyweds can set their own honeymoon pace at the newly reimagined The Boca Raton, South Florida’s historic private club and resort where romance meets luxury. Part of a lodging collection that includes The Cloister, Yacht Club, Tower and Bungalows, this exclusive retreat offers private yachting, golf, pickleball, a secluded beach and Caribbean dining — all with a relaxed Pink City vibe.
Wellness lovers will appreciate the Beach Club’s intentional experiences, including the Ritual Series, which starts with oceanside wellness classes led by expert instructors and ends with a sunset fire ritual. Couples can also enjoy complimentary short excursions along the Intracoastal to Lake Boca Raton aboard Sorbetto, a stylish floating Fiat 500 offshore car.
Spa Palmera takes couples on a sensory journey, from invigorating hydrotherapy and a sugar scrub to an intimate candlelit massage. The experience continues with a poolside Spanish tapas lunch, sparkling wine and relaxation by the cascading waterfall.
Nonstop flights from Charlotte to Fort Lauderdale or Miami are about 2.5 hours.
