Finding information online can be a bit daunting. After a 4 day stay, we gathered what we learned and the most asked questions about Sandals Emerald Bay, and put them into one post, so you can know before you go.
Resort Vibe
Initial Impression: Incredible Views, Active Couples Retreat.
Sandals Emerald Bay on the Island of Great Exuma, Bahamas does not disappoint if you are an active or laid back couple looking for a quick, easy, and beautiful get away with your special someone. This resort unfolds like a grand estate. The 500-acre resort is set along a one-mile stretch of white-sand beach and offers a selection of 245, luxury accommodations ranging from beachfront Butler villas to charming garden view rooms.
Unique to the property is a stunning 18-hole Greg Norman-designed championship golf course, as well as a 17-acre Marina at Emerald Bay with 150 slips.
The resort has eleven world-class restaurants, six bars serving unlimited premium brand beverages, three pools including an infinity entrance pool, and an award-winning, full service spa.
FAQs with Sandals Emerald Bay Resort
How many room categories are at the Sandals Emerald Bay Resort?
There are 18 room categories in total ranging from Royal Estate Beachfront two story one bedroom butler villa suites with pool to Beach House Luxury Club Level Rooms. CLICK HERE to view all room categories at Sandals Emerald Bay.
Is the Sandals Emerald Bay Resort an adult only resort?
Yes, the Sandals Emerald Bay is a couples only all inclusive resort.
Is this a "party" resort, or is it more romantic for couples?
The Sandals Emerald Bay Resort is very relaxing and focused on couples. There is a quite pool area as well if you want to avoid the daily DJ and other pool activities.
Are there games at the resort?
The Drunken Duck, a British style pub has pool, darts, and ping pong.
There are also traditional games around the resort like a giant lawn chess set, horseshoes, croquet, bocce ball, and board games.
What kind of day and night entertainment is there at Sandals Emerald Bay?
Every evening offers a new experience. From The Piano Bar and live shows to a talent show and Caribbean theme nights.
What kind of Activities are included with my stay at the Sandals Emerald Bay Resort?
PADI Certified Scuba Diving, water sports like kayaks, snorkeling, windsurfing, sailboats, and paddle boards, Golf on the scenic 18-hole ocean-side golf course, tennis, pickle ball, and so much more.
Is there really no tipping at any Sandals Resorts?
Sandals serving staff, bar tenders, bell hops, are not allowed to accept tips. If you have a Butler room, the Butlers can be tipped based on personal preference.
What kind of restaurants are at the Sandals Emerald Bay Resort?
The culinary experience is fun, romantic, sophisticated, and authentic. There ae 11 restaurants on resort at Emerald Bay that all meat The Gold Standard for All Inclusive Dining. HERE is a full list of the restaurants and the type of food served at each one.
Is there a dress code to eat at any of the restaurants?
The Italian and French Restaurant have a Resort Evening Attire dress code. The Evening Attire dress code is dress pants or jeans for men, long or short sleeve dress shirts (with or without collar). Dress shoes or sandals. No shorts, t-shirts, sleeveless shirts, sneakers, flip flops or slippers. No hats.
The more casual resorts, have a Resort Casual dress code. The Resort Casual dress code is shorts or jeans, t-shirts or polo shirts. Swimwear must be covered. Shirts and footwear required.
If I can't tip the staff, is there a way I can let management know praise about a staff member?
We highly recommending downloading the Sandals APP. On the APP they have what is called "The Loop". This is the best way to provide positive feedback.
If I have a complaint, what is the best way to share the issue?
Again through "The Loop" on the Sandals APP. The Loop is specifically designed so guests can have a direct connection with resort staff. Sandals' works hard to make sure all of their guest have an incredible, top experience.
Does Sandals Emerald Bay have Hobie Cats, Paddle boards, or Kayaks. Is there an additional fee to use these? To what extent does weather or water current restrict access?
Yes! Hobie Cats, paddle boards, and kayaks are available to use as water conditions permit. These are all free to use at Sandals and are all in excellent condition. Water conditions can restrict access, make sure to ask the resort staff for additional instruction.
Does Sandals Emerald Bay have Scuba Diving?
Yes! There are a lot of great places to dive around Emerald Bay. There is a dive shop next to the beach on resort and then another dive shop at the marina. The dive boat location is a short 5 minute shuttle ride from the resort. The dock is located just outside the resort on the other side of the golf course.
This is subject to change, but typically there are two dives each morning. You can sign up for just one dive or you can do both dives. Everything is based off availability, so if this is something you want to do, as soon as you are on resort, head to the dive shop to sign up.
Diving on resort, know before you go.
Sandals will require you to prove you have dove in the last 18 months. Make sure your log book is up to date and that your information on the PADI website is up-to-date. If you forget your information, they can look you up on the PADI website, but they will most likely have you do a quick refresher in the pool before you head out. As always, this is subject to change. It is always best to call ahead or there is an unofficial Sandals Facebook Dive group you can ask questions on.
Does Sandals Emerald Bay have snorkeling?
There is a little bit of snorkeling off the resort beach. If you go to the end of the beach at Grand Isle Resort, there is a small reef. It is recommended to ask the locals or resort staff before you go out. There are lemon sharks, black tip sharks, and reef sharks that frequent the area.
How much does it cost to Golf at the Sandals Emerald ay Golf Course?
Green fees are included with your resort stay. But if you need to rent clubs or a cart, those will be an additional fee.
Are rental golf clubs available at the course and are they any good?
Yes, there are rental clubs available for both men and women's sizing.
How do you get from the airport to Grand Exuma Sandals Resort?
There is a contracted shuttle service that will pick you up at the airport and take you directly to Sandals. Since this is a contracted company, you can tip your driver.
How far is Sandals Emerald Bay from the Exuma airport?
It is about a 15 minute drive.
What is the airport code for Great Exuma Bahamas?
GGT (Georgetown)
Is there a gift shop on the resort?
Yes! It's a pretty decent gift shop that has most of your basic necessities if you forgot something or are looking for a gift to take home for your friends or family. The spa also has a few great giftable items too!
Our favorite gift shop item to bring home to our friends is the Blue Mountain coffee and our favorite gifts to bring home are the items made by the local students who are helping to raise money for the Sandals foundations.
Are there cigars available on the resort?
Yes. The gift shop does have a small selection of cigars in their humidor.
Enjoy our personal photos from staying at Sandals Emerald Bay, Exuma Bahamas.
If you have more questions, please feel free to reach out either via text messaging or phone (208)241-4845 or email info@208travelagency.com.