The only things truly 5 star were the dinners, the grounds, and most all of the staff. Breakfast and lunch were 3.5 to 4. Room: It took 3 interactions with the reception desk and 2 1/2 days to have maintenance come to address issues with our room. The light was out in the water closet and there was a leak from the room above (long enough for mold to form). A 5 star room with mold?!? The hotel was also not full. Included water sports: Nearly non-existent. The equipment was there but couldn't be signed out because they put up yellow and red flags. The worst the water conditions were were 12 inch waves mostly localized. No undertow or rips exist in the bay. Excursions: Our day trip to swim with the pigs should have included snorkeling. That part of the day was cancelled without prior notice to those going; nor was there a discount offered. Note: The water in the area they showed us snorkeling was to happen was quite calm. I could go on... All in... Sandals Emerald Bay did not deliver what it advertised!

Lovely resort with exceptional staff. The hotel manager actually visited each unit every night personalty to ask how things were going, even the Ritz Carlton or Sandals don't do that! Our garden view studio cottage was a complete well equipped, comfortable unit only steps from the beach set in a pretty cottage court style community. Fridge, microwave, sink, small love seat and dinette and deck out front. There was limited housekeeping to avoid personal contact which was appreciated. Towel exchange is offered whenever you wanted. There is an indoor games room with a pool table, ping pong table, poker table, books, table games, large screen tv and reclining sofas, if the weather isn't great or in the evenings. The hotel has a very good restaurant on site and offered a very good breakfast menu. Including bacon, sausage and eggs and more even though we were on a continental breakfast plan. Regular meals and bar service as well. portions are generous with take out offered so you can eat back at your cabin. We often split a single meal. Pizza is great as well. The beach is beautiful with shallow water in a calm bay and neighboring secluded beaches easily walk able along the shore line. Lots of water toys available for free use, paddle boats, paddle boards, kayaks masks and fins and numerous floats all free with your stay. My one and only negative comment about this resort was a lack of beach chairs and loungers. Maybe seating for 10 on the beach. You can bring your lightweight deck chairs down if you like. The pool is small but quite nice right on the beach beside the restaurant. The resort is about 3 km's from Georgetown and easily walk able although sidewalks are rare. A free shuttle can take you and pick you up as well. Shirley's restaurant is 10 minute walk down the sidewalk toward town for a good meal off site. Going the other direction about 10 or 15 minutes walk is an ice cream shop (Candy's) and just past it is Tori's cafe. The food in Exuma was always exceptional with generous portions! This is a laid back destination . There is not a lot of the usual touristic things on offer but incredible beaches, people , food and water activities. A couple of guests had rented there own power boats for there stay and headed out daily. Take the water taxi over to Stocking island ($20)to pet the stingrays and if your adventurous hike the trail over to the other side. There is a water crossing to navigate, at high tide it's about 6 feet deep but not far.

We have been to this resort 8 times in the last 6 years. It’s by far our favourite sandals get away with the greatest staff and management team. Its hard for us to ever try anything and possibly be let down when we know the service here is top notch ! Jack & Jessica Scolieri

When compared to other 5-star adults only, all-inclusive resorts, Sandals is on par with respect to the hotel itself: service, accommodations, food and amenities. Although there were more vegetarian options than others, but no turkey options for those that do not eat pork, i.e. turkey sausage and bacon. The only but major disappointment was that the beach was a mess. Sandals is not maintaining the pristine sands of Emerald Bay and it was littered with plastic. We did our best to clean up everyday, but you would need a crew and wheel barrels to make a difference. Also, I have no idea why they are still serving drinks with straws, even on the beach, which just exacerbates the issue. We went to this resort because of the beach and to swim with the pigs. While we went to the pig beach where the animals are supposed to be better taken care of (more ethical), there is no management in place. What I mean is, this is not a pig sanctuary where there are specific rules on how to engage with them. These are wild animals that need to be respected and protected. They are massive and someone could get hurt, especially small children. I can’t believe Exuma hasn’t done a better job of protecting their two greatest attractions - the beaches and the pigs.

From the moment we arrive at the airport we were taken care of. A luxurious suv picked us up immediately and drove us a mere 10 mins to this resort which took our breath away! We were greeted by the manager and staff waving at us as we pulled up to the front door. The entire stay we were always greeted with Hello, regardless of who the employee was. The friendliest place on earth. Everything exceeded our expectations. The grounds were immaculate and stunning. The room and view was stunning. The fridge was completely stocked as was the mini bar. The bathroom was over sized and had spa products waiting for us. The beach, oh the beach!!!! There is no other waters like it. Magnificent! Took our breath away!!!!! Plenty of loungers with shade and tables. The pools are capivating. Especially at night. We loved the fire pits throughout and how the pools are lit. This hotel is truly a 6 star. Even the washrooms outside of the rooms in the common areas are clean and spectacular. The food!!!!! Oh the food! I personally gained 10 pounds in a week because I indulged in everything. It was so fabulous. We have never eaten such amazing meals before. Each restaurant was an amazing experience. We celebrated our 25th anniversary and it was a trip of a lifetime. Truly memorable and magical. Thanks Sandals! We will be back xoxo

Our trip to Sandals Emerald Bay was everything we imagined. From the first minute to the last, we encountered friendly service, delicious food, comfortable accommodation and gorgeous views of the ocean. The resort is beautifully maintained and the pools and beach are gorgeous. We never had to wait for a spot at either. The restaurants were all great, especially The Bombay. I would return to this resort tomorrow if I could. It is such a restful and relaxing location.

Beautiful grounds and buildings still showing signs of hurricane recovery. Loved the beach walks and golf course...also for walking. The quiet pool with cabanas was appreciated. A resort for older adults as well as younger...very accessible.

A short ride from the airport, this is in a quiet location with handy golf course. We paid for Butler service in order to have the reduced golf rates as my husband wanted to play every day. The accommodation was among the nicest we've enjoyed after visiting over 28 five star all inclusive's. Having our breakfast brought to our balcony each morning by one of our two butlers was a treat. Garth or Jackson then saved a cabana by the Quiet Pool (there is another larger pool which is more active with swim up bar), left a cooler stashed with my preferred beverages and checked on me late morning, sometimes bringing snacks and more refreshments. The cabanas, offering good shade, were always nabbed first so that was one less thing to do or worry about. There aren't a lot of places for dinner like some all inclusive's but our favourite was the Barefoot on the Beach (go for the rum soaked cake for dessert) and the Parisienne where it was possible to nab one of the few tables set up outside if you time it right. Why eat indoors when you can eat under the stars in such beautiful weather? One night they offered a special Martini Bar near the Parisienne which was fun.The golf course was good (be prepared to lose a lot of balls) and there are really nice tennis courts. We'd definitely return.

This resort is absolutely beautiful and very clean!! The staff is so sweet and helpful! Very quiet resort, great for romance. Only issue was the sand flees. Make sure to bring after bite as deet will not work 100%.

Just spent seven nights from Jan 22-29 and I have to say this place is beautiful and spectacular in every way. The grounds were stunning and meticulously maintained. The staff were all so polite. I don't think there was ever an employee that walked past us that didn't make some sort of greeting. It always felt genuine. The food was delicious at every restaurant we tried. I appreciate the vegetarian options and gluten free. I actually prefer The A La cart style service at the restaurants vs buffet offered by other resorts. I find I over do it when the option to over do it is there. The room we stayed in might have been one of the recently updated ones. It was spacious, clean and furnished nicely. Loved the view of the ocean. One of the most amazing parts about this place is the beach! It is so beautiful. All I can say is wow! The water is so clear and the many shades of blue is breathtaking. The sand is raked every day. The sand flies are brutal in the early morning and sundown, but that would be expected, so wear protection. The swimming pool is really nice and huge. We never had a problem finding chairs, but if you want some of the "prime seating" you definitely have to be up early to mark the chairs. The golf course was stunning. I am not a golfer but went with my boyfriend just to admire the views of the last 9 holes. It's worth it just for that. If you're there you have to do the swimming with the pigs excursion. It's worth the money and there's so much more than swimming with pigs. I did the half day tour from 8:30-1:00 and it was just enough adventure. If you're thinking of staying here don't hesitate it's worth it.

This is one of the best Sandals we have ever been to. Service,Food,Location,Room and everything else was just what we where looking for. We where very impress with the staff service and their friendliness.We shall return.

Spent 1 week in early August, 2016. This was my second visit to Grand Isle Resort. Still a perfect slice of heaven. We stayed in a 2 bedroom villa which was clean, comfortable and nicely decorated. Beds were comfortable, sheets of good quality and nice fluffy towels. Housekeeping came daily and kept the villa clean and well cared for. Ate at the Palapa Grill often, menu was diverse and tasty although a little heavy on the salt. Ahhh the beach. This is the jewel in the crown of Grand Isle. Quiet, peaceful and a true vision. This is a very quiet destination. There is little night life and the place is very quiet by 10 pm. I would not recommend this to lively people looking to party it up. Looking forward to my third visit......

This is an excellent resort. The staff are very friendly and accommodating. The beach is magnificent. The best I've ever been so far! There's a little downside (but not really affecting my excellent overall rating) is the food. Although I know they have been trying to serve the best possible food choices, I believe it still can be improved. One more thing, make sure to spray mosquito repellent. They have a can of Off Mosquito Repellent in every room. There's a lot of mosquitos. Overall, we had a wonderful stay at the this hotel.

the grounds and facilities are great; golf course is maintained well but one does need a lot of balls to make it around; the big disappointment is the level of communication and service provided by staff-very inconsistent and below the level of the previous Sandals we have visited.

This is a beautiful and very well kept resort. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The food is very good with plenty of options of where to eat. The beaches are amazing, some of the best in the world. If you have a bucket list this spot should be on it!

This is our 3rd time to Emerald Bay, it is our favorite Sandals resort for sure. The staff, rooms, beach and pools are incredible. The food and service at the resturants was wonderful as always. The Red Lane Spa is the best one we have been too, we have both enjoyed the spa treatments and staf, especially Michelle who we have had the good fortune to have each trip, she is wonderful.

This place was amazing,staff was amazing.great golf course here!Great variety of food available.The rooms were spacious, very clean and updated.I would recommend a tour with Exuma Watersports it was amazing.Our agent Kim did a wonderful job!!!!!!!!

Lovely location, only a few minutes from the airport but not on a flight path. Terrific golf course. Just the right size so you don't feel overcrowded. Good food and friendly staff. Huge room, very nice but could use some cosmetic updating. Our best trip ever with Kim Hartlen's Sandals Group. She made everything extra special and trouble free!! Thank you Kim.

With a short drive from the airport, this beautiful resort has very warm friendly staff members. The white sandy beach is second to none & offers the long walks you may desire. The golf course, which is challenging, has many ocean views which are simply picturesque. We were able to walk out onto the beach from our room. It was a very spacious suite located by the quiet pool. The food was very good, but would recommend a couple more specailty restaurants similar to other Sandals resorts. We have visited 3 times & would not hesitate to return again.

Staff, service, rooms and amenities were fantastic. Food was wonderful, each restaurant had a unique atmosphere and experience to offer. Grounds were stunning. People were genuinely friendly and happy to help you. Golf course was beyond any we have previously played on. Would go back in a heartbeat!

We recently returned from a 2 week vacation at Sandals Emerald Bay, Great Exuma. A nice vacation, there were many excellent things about the resort but also there are some things that could definitely be improved upon. We have rated this resort a 4, but really would have given it a 3.5 if possible. This is our 6th trip to Sandals (all different We recently returned from a 2 week vacation at Sandals Emerald Bay, Great Exuma. A nice vacation, there were many excellent things about the resort but also there are some things that could definitely be improved upon. We have rated this resort a 4, but really would have given it a 3.5 if possible. This is our 6th trip to Sandals (all different resorts) and this one is just average, definitely not at the top of the list. First the good things: Arrival – the airport is very small, which is great – you are out of the airport within 20 minutes of landing where you are met just outside the doors by Sandals staff, and then taken by taxi to the resort – only about a 10 minute drive. The beach – it is fabulous, probably the nicest beach we have seen – with great sand and beautiful turquoise water. Also we saw some “angel fish” right near shore, and if you were near them, they would follow you along in the water – really cool. The golf course is very nice – the views from the back nine, right along the ocean are amazing – we played in the Thursday afternoon golf scramble and had lots of fun, but even if you don’t play at all, make sure you walk the back nine. Sunrise – do not miss the sunrise – what a sight, the sun comes up right over the water. Excursions – we did the Ocean Safari (swimming with the pigs) tour, it was one of the best excursions we have ever done – Justin and his crew of 1 were great, very knowledgeable and his boat was very nice. The swimming with the pigs was fun as well as seeing and feeding the iguanas on another island. He also took us to a few other small islands to show us different things and let us roam the beautiful little beaches on each of them. The reading road trip is always a highlight for us, where you can go to one of the schools and help out the children for an hour. This time the trip was to a primary school where we read to the grade primary to 3s and then they read to us. This trip is not really well known by the guests but definitely an enriching experience. Take school supplies with you if possible, you can find a list of items needed at “Pack for a Purpose” on the internet. Entertainment – we really enjoyed the nightly entertainment – the sax player is amazing, the Junkanoo party is lots of fun. Heston made the piano bar a great way for us to end the evenings – he is not only a good piano player but an amazing entertainer – with the right crowd the piano bar is lots of fun. The entertainment crew is great too, with many different games organized for people who want to participate in them. Leslie and Kristell were especially good on the entertainment crew. Massage – we had a couples massage and it was definitely worth it – very professional and well done. The grounds are well kept and nice, but not spectacular. Now for things that could be improved: Restaurants – We had looked at the restaurants menus before we left and decided to eat at Bahama bay the first night. However when we went into this restaurant the first night (Sunday) we discovered that it was buffet that night and in asking found out that it was buffet every Sunday night. We next decided to go there on Thurs evening and again found a buffet evening meal (which was not very good), in asking the staff about it they seemed surprised that it was a buffet as well. With reservations at other restaurants as well as the Junkanoo party and returning guest dinner, we didn’t get back to Bahama Bay in the evening until the following Thurs – to find another evening buffet even though their a la carte menu was displayed in the case outside the front door. We left this time to go to Barefoot where we had a nice meal. We checked over the restaurant schedules and found that no where did it say there were buffets in the evening at Bahama Bay. We do not go to Sandals for evening buffet meals and believe that a resort with the high reputation of Sandals should not have any evening buffets – but if they do make sure it is well “advertised”. The other meals were good to very good on the whole – we had very good meals at the French and Italian restaurants as well as Barefoot, but also had just average meals at them as well. Overall food was not as good as the other Sandals we had been to. Housekeeping – some days good and others not so good when we were there – our room needed a better cleaning from the last guests staying in the room, as there was an empty coffee cup and garbage under the bureau and bed. We had to call 4 different times to get towels, soap, or something. Each time they were promptly delivered, but really we should not be out of bath towels, washcloths, or soap and have to call for more – especially since housekeeping had been in for the day. Allergies -- some of the staff at the restaurants were very good about allergies (kiwi for us), and others didn’t seem to understand the seriousness of an anaphylactic allergy. We have since heard to make sure that you talk to Dwayne if you have allergies – unfortunately we didn’t know that when we arrived. Staff – The staff were friendly and we met some outstanding staff members at this resort, but also many who seemed to be just going through the motions and definitely could use more training. Overall we had a great vacation at a nice resort but it was not up to all of the standards of some of the other Sandals resorts we have visited. There were some standouts among the staff -- Leslie and Kristell in entertainment, Heston at the piano bar, Dia, Lashan, and Rose at the Bahama Bay restaurant, Brittany at the Barefoot restaurant, the personal trainer in the gym. definitely could use more training.

Our stay at Emerald Bay was amazing!!!! From the moment you first drive up to the resort and see the beautiful grounds, pools and ocean, it takes your breath away. Duvann and his grounds crew take great pride in the resort- it is spectacular. Our butlers Trevor and Alvin did everything they could to make our stay stress free and relaxed. They even had a few wonderful surprises!!! Our suite was spacious and had everything you could want. Our housekeeper Elean, did an excellent job keeping our room spotless. She takes personal pride in her work. The restaurants were amazing, especially the French and Italian. Breakfasts at the Bahama Bay were always delicious and we looked forward to the daily" theme buffet" as well. We enjoyed our afternoon treats at the Cafe. The beach and ocean were amazing!!! We really enjoyed the quiet pool where you could have quiet chats, read or have a nap. The staff made us feel like we were very special and did whatever they could to make our stay wonderful. The Soon Come Back evening was wonderful !!!! We loved our stay at Emerald Bay and look forward to going back again.

First of all we have to say that the staff at this resort are wonderful, so friendly and helpful, always smiling. The grounds to this resort are beautiful, and well kept. the ocean is the most wonderful deep azure blue. There are two pool areas one large one with music playing and a swim up bar, its the upbeat area, and another called the quiet pool where you can relax and reade and chill out, we enjoyed both. Our room was very clean and spacious, some of the furniture was a little worn and dated but fine. The food on the whole was very disappointing, we were there for seven days and we could only say we truly enjoyed two meals, (not counting breakfasts which were good especially the omlettes made to order) The menus sound tantalizing, but the food does not measure up. The tropical drinks are fun to try, and the wines were good also. We golfed twice and enjoyed the course, our first day playing there was very strong winds, and on the back nine at the ocean side it made it very difficult, but we did enjoy it. We rented our clubs. There are two main restaurants where you have to make a reservation and dress up, they are an Italian and a French Iff you are still sitting in the Italian restaurant at 9:00pm there is a piano player who does a sing along with the people in the bar, and it is through an opening, no doors,on the other side of the wall of the restaurant, they are all singing as loud as they can, and whooping after each song, and that is all you can hear while you are eating, they need to move the venue or install thick doors to muffle the sound. So if you want to hear the likes of Andrea Bocelli or Paverotti as delightful background music to your meal make sure you eat and finish before 9:00pm. which cuts short your evening some what. We had one good meal out of three at the Italian The French restaurant plays good french music while dining and has a nice ambiance, we had one good meal here out of two. The food at the seafood restaurant on the beach was ok not memorable, and if it was windy,which it was, you couldn't sit there because you were blasted with sand. You also got bitten by the sand fleas while sitting there

Had a fantastic time. Felt out of place the first day as we were treated like Royalty. Food was exceptional, gardens were beautiful. Rooms were well maintained and very clean. Beach was huge, clean, water was a nice blue/green color and warm.