The Royal Sands

This resort is absolutely fantastic. The staff is the nicest that I have ever experienced anywhere. The place is immaculate. Beautiful gardens. I love the onsite grocery store. Has everything you could possibly want at extremely reasonable prices. The restaurant has delicious food; again at extremely reasonable prices. I loved the terrace on each unit. They are huge and its like having an extra room. The pools are great, the beach is wonderful. I have traveled a great deal and there is absolutely nothing I could find to complain about. Loved it!!!!

We love the Royal Sands! We stayed in Phase 2 the first week and Phase 1 the second week. The furniture, kitchen appliances and TV's had been updated. We vacationed 11/29 thru 12/13. Weeks 48 & 49 before school vacation.

The beach was beautiful & beach chairs have been replaced and there were many new palapa's for shade on the beach and around the pools. The service and restaurants are the very best and also the restaurants on the Blvd. have always been wonderful.

The spa and exercise facilities are top notch. There's nothing to complain about when staying in any Royal Resorts, if you have a complaint they will make it right.

This is one of the finest 5 star resorts in Cancan. Always a pleasure to visit.

We love the Sands, we stayed here 3 times in the past 2 years, both in Phase I and Phase II. Phase II is more quiet than Phase I and a little newer.

What we love about Royal Resorts is customer service - impeccable - and how clean the resorts and units are. The grounds are beautiful, the pools are very big, and the access to the beach is easy, although the beach is very narrow in all of the Cancun hotel zone after the last hurricane few years back. The beach will naturally come back as the sea retracts at some point, but noone knows when - it's all up to nature. They tried to bring sand in and spent lots of money doing that, and the sea just took the sand away.

To summarize the good: excellent customer service, beautiful grounds with large pools, fun atmosphere for families, the balconies are large and all have at least a partial oceanview, maid service is daily except Sunday and holidays (many timeshares have cleaning service once a week), easy access to the beach, good location within short distance of Kukulcan Mall and other hotels/shops/restaurants in the Cancun hotel zone, great exchange rate (better than outside the resort), decently priced grocery store on site, easy to get on the bus to go shopping for groceries at Walmart, Sams, Mega or Costco (just take a cab back).

Some downsides: furniture really needs updating, kitchen appliances are particularly outdated, TVs are small-screen and old, the beach chairs need replacement (they are cheap plastic and snap out of their position, plus they do not recline all the way making it hard to lay on your belly), the beach is rocky but again this is not the resort's fault (walk over to JW Marriott Beach to the right, that's a nice piece of beach with no rocks and nice waves to play in), the food at the restaurants on the property is mediocre (walk over to Hacienda Sisal next door, their food is awesome). The couches in the lobby have a strong smell too, they need replacement or a hefty cleaning.

There were a lot of kids on the property when we went Thanksgiving 2008, and many parents just let them scream without bothering, a lot of other couples felt quite annoyed by that. If you are without kids, you may want to try instead the Royal Haciendas, the newest Royal Resort in Mexico, which is on the Riviera Maya, those apartments are new and gorgeous (very high end), the beach is beautiful (although there are still rocks in the water) - we found the Haciendas more quiet and relaxing. The Haciendas are a 15 minute shuttle ride to Playa del Carmen.

Also, this depends on your taste, both the Sands and Haciendas have very hard beds, which we adore.

Internet is free but you can only access it in the lobby, so it was a hassle to bring the laptop downstairs all the time from our ninth floor apartment. The Haciendas has free wireless in the room, although the connection is somewhat slow.

There is one thing I would like to mention for all the folks. The timeshare staff - your concierge in particular - are awesome people who often work 14 hour days 7 days a week for a handful of dollars, and their income depends on being able to bring you downstairs to the timeshare presentation. Since we come here for years we made close friends with some sales and concierge staff - we go out with them, keep in touch, etc. This year when we went it was worse than ever - our friends were so tired and overworked and underpaid, and they don't make money unless they can bring 80% of all apartments occupants to the timeshare presentation\sales person you are assigned to. At least stop by your sales person and say hi if you don't want to attend their sales presentation (although you may want to hear about the Haciendas or go see it, it is beautiful - this is their latest property they are still building out and selling); it will help your concierge a lot. We felt disappointed by Royal Resorts that they work the staff so hard and pay them so poorly - a lot of staff left this past year due to the conditions, many went to work at the new timeshare Westin Lagunamar resort which is just opening.

Overall, the Sands and Haciendas are still the top two timeshare resorts we have ever been to, and we do travel a lot. Highly recommended despite minor glitches mentioned above.

We just returned from our fifth year at the Royal Sands. We have never had a bad day and it has impoved every year. Now they have free wi fi. The food at all the restaurants is great and inexpensive. But we especially love the Captains Cove where we always sit outdoors so we can watch the sea life. Ther eis usually an alligator and this year we saw a ray. Be sure to try the buffet breakfast at the Veranda.

We stayed at the Royal Sands from Dec 29 - January 5 with our 3 children raning in ages from 8-5.

The resort arranged our pickup from the airport was seamless and checkin took less than 10 minutes. We had a 2BR lockoff and each room has an oceanview. The rooms were huge, nice kitchen, nice family room. The master bedroom and bath were spacious. The lockoff bedroom had two double beds and a bath (there was no kitchen in the lockoff unit). The family room had two pull down beds that were hidden very well.

The pools are the major attraction at the resort. One area is huge and about 30 feet from the ocean. There is a smaller pool in Phase II. Both pools have swim up bars and food is served in the pool area.

There are activities for adults and kids, although that's one area that could probably use a bit more diversity.

The restaurant at the Royal Sands La Veranda has received some negative reviews in the past, but we loved it. It was affordable and the food was good (try the Chicken and Lime soup).

The market in the resort itself is a little more expensive, but you can't beat the convenience.

The only downside is that there isn't much swimmable beach area, especially when the wind is blowing. Of course we checked out the other Royal Resort locations and their beaches were very rocky.

If we decided to go back to Cancun, we'd definitely look to stay at the Royal Sands again.

Stay for seven days in the lock-off unit (hotel room). Place is well tended (clean and attractive and the hotel room was roomy and had plenty of closet space.

Was surprised not to find a coffee maker or microwave in the room. Or shampoo/conditioners or soap in the bathroom. And there is no maid service on Sundays.

Otherwise staff is very friendly and helpfull. Recieved two calls from our personal concierge (timeshare salesperson) but we where left alone when I made it clear that I was on vacation and with no intent on purchasing. The facility is located close to La Isla and Kukulcan (upscale) malls. The pool and grounds are kept immaculate.

Awesome, this place Rocks. Gorgeous view from every room. Great friendly service. Beautiful sand and pools. We WILL be back. May 2006 Vickie Kuhnley

Vacationed with friends during the week of March 24, 2007. Everything was perfect. Fantastic pools, nice affordable restaurants, fun Sunday welcome party (Free beer, dancing, limbo, etc. for 2 hours). It never feels crowded except on check in day on Saturdays. Very friendly and helpful staff. Make sure you take lots of one dollar bills for tips.

After renting for two years, we bought a week and have been going ever since. The property is simply beautiful. The facilities are exceptional. And kids absolutely love the heated pools.

The Royal Resorts are always among the highest rated timeshares. They are well maintained, clean and spacious, but not really a 5 star.(I think of Ritz quality as a 5 star) Not the place to be for quite as it is a noisy, crowded timeshare. There are several social activities. You need to get to the pool early to get a poolside chaise. The Sands, I think, is the newest and nicest in Cancun (though the Haciendas in the Rivera Maya is newer and nicer). The terraces are huge and excellent. The furniture is a little sparce and used. There are two huge pools, spacious but not interesting, not hot tub for such a large resort. Food is reasonably priced, a nice spa if you want one. The beach is great since the sand has been pumped in after the last hurricane.

Have stayed here a number of times with a large group from OKC. Its a very casual, family friendly place that take good care of it's guests.

My only gripe was the constant hassling from the timeshare salespeople. We got phone calls each morning, and was approached several times around the pool.

You have to tell the front desk to take your room off the "sell" list, when you arrive or be prepared for the hassle.

Our group goes spring break and its a very popular time. We have found www.omcancun.com the most helpful website to rent from owners direct. The savings are about 35% over the resort offered prices. Hope this will save you some time and money.

The Sands is perfect. neautiful Beaches, top notch service.

Spent the week in a beach front 2 bedroom unit March 25 to April 2, 2006. Beach was completely restored and it was beautiful! Unit spacious and well maintained with the exception of the kitchen being a bit dated, though functional and well equiped. Service 5 star. Beach bar service outstanding. Pools beautiful and spacious. Food excellant and three restuarants offered great variety and excellant service. Don't miss breakfast buffet. No trace of huricane Wilma at this resort, with the exception of the palm tree tops, which are already sprouting anew. A wonderful relaxing vacation. I would return in a heartbeat-- one week wasn't long enough!

Just returned from a week stay at the Royal Sands. Witnessed the re-making of the beach. Quite a site as they pumped the sand along the beach front. View on www.royalresorts.com. Beach is back to what it was before hurricane Wilma. The staff at this resort gives excellent service and never disappoints us. It's amazing that the structure of all the Royal resorts in Cancun held up so well as we couldn't believe the damage of other resorts along the beach front as they continue to recover after Wilma.

Just got back...yes the beach is back at the Sands....alot smaller than last yr but we spent everyday on it and in the water. There is alot of destruction...but not at the Royal Resorts...it is pretty wild except for the beach you would never know the Sands went through Wilma. Alot of clubs and restaurants are still under repair but they're working like crazy down there...It'll be back to normal within a yr or two...they are hard workers.

Paradise - with all the amenities!

Just returned from a two week stay at the Sands. Service is outstanding as usual! The restaurant food was good; however, we enjoyed dining at the Royal Caribbean, Bubba Gumps, The Italian restaurant in the mall and Puerto Madero....pricing but worth the $$$. The beaches are supposed to be restored in the fall which will be great. We had a storm while we were there and some of the palapas on the beach came down but there are still plenty and the sand on the beach is still as fine as sugar. Cancun continues to recover from the hurricane Wilma and restaurants and condos are going up everywhere. Shopping is still best downtown at Walmat-foor food and anything else you need. The staff is sill the best-Javier is an excellent Sr. Bell Boy, always focusing on the customer's needs.

Beautiful resort, spotlessly clean, wonderful employees. Two-bedroom, two-bath condos with full kitchen, dining room, living room, huge balconies and walk-in closets. Plenty of room for family and friends to join you on vacation. Great views of ocean, pools or both from all villas. This resort has everything you need - laundry facilities, grocery store, travel agency, gift shops, family activities, spa & fitness facility, restaurants, even a doctor's office. Located right on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with white sugar sand and gorgeous turquoise water. Great value for the money. Would not hesitate going back here.

Great for the whole family and friends. Plenty of activities, great restuarants, dancing and nearby shopping malls.

Gorgeous resort. No detail is left out. Fantastic service all around. The beaches and amenities are all you need. The grocery store in the resort is so convient, especially with kids. The restaraunts are also excellent.

The resort is also conviently located and minutes from all the Cancun hot spots. Our kids simply love this resort.

This is the gold standard for all timeshares. Place is spectacular. Beautiful physical plant and great location on the strip. You can walk to Kuklacan Plaza and 1 bus stop ride to LaIsla Mall. Beautiful spa, gym, etc, etc...

UPDATE: The Royal Sands BEACH IS BACK!!! See link http://www.royalresorts.com/gallery.php

My Wife & I have been going been going down to the Sands at least once a year since they first opened in 2000. The Resort is ideally located, has any facility you could ask for on site, and every unit is extremely large and everyroom has a great view of the Ocean. We have traveled to may locations, but this is by far our favorite resort in the world. We now own many weeks at the Sands and look forward to our next trip down.

We used our unit in 2004 and had the best experience at the resort. The unit was in great condition. The restaurant wasn't as good as I expected but was convenient.

The deck had a fantastic view of the ocean and the resort.

My wife and I bought a week back in 1999 before the Sands was even done being built. We now own weeks in January and November. This resort is simply fantastic. I've never been to any resort anywhere where the entire staff has been this consistently good. The front desk personnel are the weakest but everyone else is great. Having been the Sands over 10 times now we've gotten to know several of the staff as well. It is so nice to pull up front and be recognized and "welcomed home". Cancun may not have the beauty of Hawaii or some of the Carribbean Islands, but I've never been on any other beaches where the sand and water are better. We just purchased two weeks at the Sea Aquarium in Curacao and the staff is amazing there as well. For all Royal Resorts owners you should definitely visit this resort--I walked around speechless it was so beautiful there as well.

I purchased a villa in March and brought my family in the beginning of November. Everyone absolutely loved the resort, the villa, the pools, and all of the activities on the hotel zone strip. I must say, the ocean water was a bit rough so we hung in the pool or went snorkeling to Puerto Morales. My husband loved it so much, we bought a second week for the spring!! Can't wait to go back...selling all other timeshares!

What a fabulous resort! We have been to the Royal Sands 4 times - and can't wait to return. Impeccable grounds, wonderful service, friendly employees, fresh towels at the pool, daily maid service - all fantastic.

We love how the pool and the beach are on the same level so that you can easily roam between the 2. But, you don't even have to get up for a drink. The efficient bar staff ensures that your drink orders are always filled!

Thumbs up. Way Up.

we loved the Royal Sands. I enjoyed their "fully" equipped kitchen: stove,dishwasher, and full fridge came in very handy. The staff is wonderful, and we enjoyed the group activities thru out the week. We've met some wonderful people in our week there and I highly recomend a stay. already planning for next year.

Awesome!

We went in Sept. 2002 (hurricane season) and had a great time. You are treated like royalty the moment you check in. First class all the way. 2 huge pools, spacious grounds, good restaurant on site.

As close to heaven as you can get! Fantastic accommodations! All of the employees treat you with first class all the way and pay attention to every little detail for your comfort. If I could afford it...I'd move in!!!!

I am interested in staying again some time in January. If you have a week to rent please contact me also I would like to look into buying my own time-share if it is reasonably priced.

Thanks Royal Sands...YOU'RE THE BEST!!

Wendy

We've been going to Cancun for a decade and bought a time share in the Royal Sands when it first opened. Never one regret! Right in the middle of the hotel strip. Plenty to do.

The resort is beautiful. We were in an oceanfront unit. There is nothing like waking up every morning with a view of the white sand beach and turqoise waters.... My friends compared the resort to a Las Vegas penthouse.

The staff & spa services was very good. The spa has a complete work out facility that could compete with the gym from home!

We would definitely return to the Sands.

We are owners, so you can take this with a grain of salt if you like. The minute we walked through the lobby and saw the view across the pool toward the beach, we knew we would find a way to afford a unit. This resort is simply paradise.

We went with some owners from Club International to view the Royal Sands and get a free breakfast buffet (a treat in itself). The thing we couldn't believe was even after we asked multiple questions, the salesperson never tried to close a deal with us. He respected the fact that we were guests of his clients. We finally asked if we could get an appointment to discuss purchasing a unit. Of course he was happy to sell us one, but every time we go to Cancun (several times a year) he stops by to say hello, asks if we are in a position to consider another unit, then let's it drop. Even when we tell him we aren't interested, he still takes the time to help us with any questions we might have.

One side of the resort is very active, the other a bit more laid back. Depending on our mood, we have the best of both worlds. Don't miss this one!

The Royal Sands is sensational! Walk into your oceanfront villa and the very first thing you see is the shimmering blue sea right in front of you! It's breathtaking! Open the patio door and feel the warm, tropical air surround you! It's like a dream!

The service at this luxury resort is impeccable whether you're by the pool, on the beach, in your room, or in the lobby area. There is always someone wanting to wait on you and make you happy! This is the life!

If you want peace and relaxation, it's yours for the taking everywhere you turn. We've been here Week 19, 37, and 44 ~ all weeks that were quiet and unpopulated. But if you want action, there are plenty of activities to choose from all the time at the resort.

Everyone here speaks English and caters to your wishes. The staff caters to your wishes. We've met very nice guests too that we've kept in touch with since.

WE HAVE STAYED HERE IN 2002 AND 2003. WONDERFUL STAFF TAKES EXCELLENT CARE OF YOU AND LETS YOU ENJOY YOURSELF. ROOMS ARE TREMENDOUS AND THE TERRACE OVERLOOKING THE SEA IS HUGE! CONVENIENT TRAVEL AGENCY, MEDIA CENTER, AND GROCERY IN THE HOTEL. THIS IS THE BEST SERVICE WE HAVE EXPERIENCED AND WE WILL KEEP COMING BACK EVERY YEAR! THE ROYAL RESORTS ARE FANTASTIC!

Just got back from this resort. Stayed week 18. I would rate this as a best resort I ever stayed in. The location on the beach is perfect, the only downside is big waves and we went to other beaches with more calm water.

Not an owner Family of four spent seven nights March 15-22, 2003. J Villa fifth floor last unit facing pool with an incredible view of the beach/ocean. Huge Balcony with comfortable furniture.

Loved the location. Beach was spectacular, staff friendly and helpful not pushy, at all. Class operation all the way.

Resort accomodations like new. Great laundry service, with drop off, which was only $3.80 US for a wash, dry and fold!!! Would have packed much lighter if I knew of that convenience.

Only one complaint- the Villa floors, which are tile get wet and very slippery. We followed the suggestion of turning off air conditioning when opening balcony doors but to no avail. A couple of us took a good tumble when we forgot to tread slowly and softly, especially in the Master bath area. Cuidado!!!

Pull down Murphy beds were comfortable and so easy to put away and get ready. Left living area clean and spacious. TV,VCR, Stereo system with CD and cassette deck--nice touch.

Minimal kitchen supplies. Wish there had been a baking sheet for quick cooking baking.

Convenient grocery and pharmacy on property. Less expensive at very close by Mall. And only in Cancun, Sam's and Walmart a bus ride away and a $12.00 US cab return. If you are a family away for a week on a budget---its worth the trip on the first day to stock up and then forget about it---

Water sport vendor on-site and very reasonable, only down side is that the shuttle that takes you between resorts does not take you to the departure points for water sports or excursions. A little inconvenient but Cancun buses are so easy to use and cheap 6 pesos ($.60 us cents) per ride.

Try parasailing, tour to Xcaret (all day but worth it), and the jungle tour (power boat drive/ride fun---snorkeling too rushed)

Pericos is a fun restaurant --- singing waiters and waitresses, customers on stage and konga line dancing. If you are a tequila drinker watch for the traveling shots and pan waiter shaking up your head after you down one.

Enjoy. Cancun was an unexpected delight. We saw some spring breakers on the buses who were having some kind of young fun but our resort was very family oriented-fun- pool games, Kareoke, activity center with ping pong but somewhat quiet, which suited us.

If only they didn't build all high rises, Cancun's beaches are just spectacular. Go, enjoy!

This is the newest and most modern of the 5 Royal Resorts in Cancun. There are two phases, each with its own swimming pool. The pool in phase one is huge and includes a lap pool. The beach here is about the best white sand in Cancun. The villas are big and roomy. The construction is quality. Air conditioning works very well. Each villa has a huge outside terrace with an ocean view. Every amenity is available including a full American kitchen complete with all appliances, cookware and table service. The folks that work here are friendly and can't do enough for you. One of the best resorts in Cancun or anywhere for that matter!

Brand new 5 star Royal resort with excellent amenities in a prime location. See reviews under Royal Mayan, Royal Carribbean and Royal Islander. Phase one sold out, phase two now open. A new restaurant to open early in 2003.