Crystal Cove Hotel Barbados Review: All-Inclusive Resort in St. James

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A beach with waves crashing in the background

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Imagine waking up to dazzling views of the Caribbean Sea followed by a day of sinking your toes into the soft sand, snorkeling over stunning reefs, and grabbing drinks at the swim-up bar in the warm sunshine. At the Crystal Cove Hotel Barbados, this dream can be your reality!

Often considered one of the top all-inclusive resorts in Barbados, Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels is the perfect choice for a romantic getaway, family vacation, special occasion, or relaxing escape in paradise.

In this Crystal Cove Barbados hotel review, we’ll look at what to expect and why this resort might be the perfect fit for your Barbados vacation.

About Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels

Crystal Cove is an all-inclusive resort located on the west coast of Barbados, an area known for soft-sand beaches and clear, calm waters. It’s right on the beach which means many rooms and suites have sea views.

At Crystal Cove, your booking includes all food and drinks, beach and poolside service, water activities, fitness classes, kids club access, and even the opportunity to use amenities at other Marriott sister properties on the island.

From cozy garden rooms to spacious one-bedroom suites, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit your needs. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a trip with the whole family!

Where is the Crystal Cove Hotel Barbados located?

The Crystal Cove Hotel Barbados is located in the St. James parish between Holetown and Bridgetown. It’s directly on the beach so you’ll have easy access to some of the best beaches and snorkeling spots on the island.

Getting from the Airport to Crystal Cove Barbados

Crystal Cove reservations do not include airport transfers, so the best way to get there from the airport is by taking a taxi. When you arrive at the airport, walk out at arrivals and you’ll see the taxi stand. The taxi ride will take about thirty minutes depending on traffic.

It’s important to note that Barbados taxis aren’t metered, so make sure to agree on a price beforehand.

Crystal Cove Barbados Hotel Review

With first-class amenities and delicious dining options all available for an all-inclusive price, Crystal Cove Barbados is an excellent choice for a relaxing beach vacation! Let’s explore some of the features that make this resort shine.

Crystal Cove All Inclusive

Crystal Cove Barbados is an all-inclusive resort, which means that all amenities, meals, drinks, and activities are included in your booking. Here’s a look at all that’s included in addition to your room or suite.

  • All Food and Drinks: All guests get unlimited dining and beverages at two restaurants and three bars on the property. Indulge in everything from elegant coffee drinks to poolside cocktails, all included.
  • Motorized and Non-Motorized Water Sports: If you’ve ever wanted to try a new water activity, Crystal Cove is the place to do it since you’ll have access to boat rides, kayak rentals, paddleboard rentals, and more.
  • Fitness Facilities: Hit the gym, take a fitness class, or play a game of tennis at one of the Crystal Cove tennis courts.
  • WiFi Throughout the Property: Stay connected with fast WiFi in all private and public areas.
  • Stay In One Play In Many Program: Crystal Cove is a Marriott property and guests have the option to use the facilities and amenities at partner properties around the island if they wish.

Rooms and Suites at Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels

Depending on your preferences, Crystal Cove has several room options available. All rooms and suites are steps from the beach and feature bright, comfortable touches that will make you feel at home.

Choose from either a sea view or a view of the tropical gardens and relaxing pool area. If you’re traveling with a family or as a group of friends, check out the One-Bedroom Suites as these can accommodate four people.

These are the room types currently available:

  • Pool/Garden View Suite
  • Pool/Garden View Junior Suite
  • Pool/Garden View One-Bedroom Suite
  • Ocean View Room
  • Ocean View Junior Suite
  • Ocean View One-Bedroom Suite

You can check current prices for each room type here.

Resort Amenities

Crystal Cove Barbados is known for having amazing resort amenities. Crystal Cove is one of the only resorts on the island that offers both motorized and motorized water sports included in the price. That means that you’re free to snorkel, waterski, kayak, sail, tube, and paddleboard to your heart’s content.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, head to the pool for a drink at the swim-up cave bar or kick back on the beach with complimentary beverage service.

Crystal Cove guests also have access to tennis courts, a fitness center, and group classes like beach walks, yoga, and pilates. If you’re traveling with a family, there’s a playground and a kids club program included as well.

Dining

While staying at the Crystal Cove Hotel, you’ll have access to several dining and drinking options around the property. With poolside and seaside dining venues that serve Caribbean and international cuisines, you definitely won’t go hungry.

Guests can also enjoy the unique poolside cave bar and lively beach bar for unlimited drink creations. There’s even a coffee and wine bar where you can grab a snack and your drink of choice in the afternoons and evenings.

Access to Sister Properties

When you stay at Crystal Cove, you get access to amenities and restaurants at many of their sister properties around the island.

Dreaming of Asian Fusion? Head to Waves Hotel and Spa for a memorable meal at Shiso. Craving Italian? Make sure to stop by Asiago’s at Turtle Beach on the South Coast. It’s included in your stay and there’s even a complimentary water taxi to get you to your destination.

Crystal Cove Barbados Reviews

Across the board, Crystal Cove Barbados reviews highlight the amazing location, pristine beach, and friendly staff. Those traveling with a family particularly enjoyed the Kids Club and all the included water activities. Guests also note that having access to partner properties and a convenient water taxi was a huge highlight.

Read more Crystal Cove Hotel reviews on TripAdvisor.

Things To Do Nearby

If you choose to stay at Crystal Cove, you’ll be in an excellent location for exploring the west coast of the island. Tucked away just a short distance from Holetown and Bridgetown, you won’t run out of things to see nearby.

Paynes Beach: A peaceful stretch of beach with sun loungers and water activities. The water is clear and you can rent paddleboards, kayaks, snorkel equipment, and jet skis.

Holetown: Holetown is a lovely neighborhood of Barbados with great hotels, nightlife, restaurants, and shopping. Make sure to stop by the Limegrove Lifestyle Center for upscale shops, tasty restaurants, and fun events.

La Cabane: For a memorable evening at one of the most popular restaurants in Barbados, make sure to stop by La Cabane. La Cabane is one of the top sunset spots in Barbados and the casual, seaside vibe is perfect for the whole family.

Catamaran Cruise: What better way to experience Barbados than from the water! Book an afternoon catamaran cruise to snorkel, sunbathe, and enjoy the coastline. Most Barbados catamaran cruises depart from Bridgetown just a short drive south of Crystal Cove.

Final Thoughts: Crystal Cove Hotel Barbados Review

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience on the west coast of Barbados, Crystal Cove is a great option to consider. Great for couples and families alike, this beachfront accommodation option will make you feel like you stepped right into paradise.

More About Places To Stay In Barbados

One of the beaches near the Crystal Cove Hotel Barbados, All Inclusive Resort on the West Coast