Why We Recommend It:
Crystal Cove by Marriott is a boutique luxury all-inclusive on Barbados’ Platinum West Coast. Sitting high on a cliff it comes with some stunning views over the Caribbean.
Its grounds are lush, green, and beautifully kept too, and among its notable amenities is a rather special freshwater three-tier pool complex, complete with a waterfall and a swim-up cave bar.
Rooms & Suites:
It has just 88 rooms and suites in total across three classifications: Basic Rooms, Junior Suites, and One Bedroom Suites.
The interiors are cozy, comfortable, and homely, and display lots of the resort’s hallmark color scheme of bright, happy oranges and reds.
Facilities include satellite TVs, iPod docks, coffee, and tea stations, desks and seating areas, well-stocked minibars, and luxury pampering products in the bathrooms which all come with double sinks and bathtubs. All rooms have balconies, or patios if ground level.
Those after the ultimate experience at this resort should consider the One Bedroom Suite with Ocean View. The Junior Suites too, some of which also have ocean views, will offer most of the same features, but with a smaller amount of space.
Take a look at your room options now – with prices, reviews, and photos – at Expedia here or at Booking.com here.
Food, Facilities & Things to Do:
The resort’s most famous feature is its unique three-tiered pool and waterfall complex, with the top level hosting the very nicely designed, and atmospheric, Cave Bar.
You have two main restaurants at Crystal Cove: the more formal (smart casual) of the two being Reflections which has international food, both a la carte and buffet, in an outdoor setting with sweeping sea views.
The also outdoors Drifter’s Beach Restaurant and Bar is a more casual offering, and does mainly Caribbean food, again both a la carte and buffet.
Along with its award-winning Cave Bar, Crystal Cove has a relaxed, cool beach bar plus you can enjoy some drinks and/or coffee at the Vista Coffee & Wine Bar.
On the beach during the day guests can participate in a wide range of water sports and activities, including tubing, snorkeling, banana boating, water-skiing, boogie boarding, and others. All, including motorized water sports, are complimentary with the all-inclusive package.
Other facilities at Crystal Cove include a well-equipped fitness center, tennis courts, and a business center. Their Flying Fish Kids Club offers all sorts of games and activities for kids ages 3-12.
Location:
Crystal Cove Barbados is centrally located on the island’s west coast, a half-hour drive from Grantley Adams International Airport.
It is only 22 minutes away from the famous St. Lawrence Gap nightlife and entertainment area, or a mere 6 minutes from the Limegrove Shopping Center.
Some Guest Reviews:
“This resort was beautiful. The staff were excellent, friendly service, kind and responsive. The pools were nice and we loved the natural looks of these. The BEACH, WOW! I can’t say enough. Beautiful sand, gentle slopes into the ocean, lots of chairs to sit in, and enough space for everyone.…”
“We stayed for three night all inclusive break with our three year old daughter. We are a well travelled family but have rarely had the pleasure of experiencing such attentive and kind service. All of the staff go out of their way to ensure that you have a fabulous time. They create such a warm and welcoming atmosphere which in turn means that guests are friendly and caring towards each other.….”