This stunning location is radiating with music, history, art, activities and some of the best restaurants in the world. Barbadians are warm and friendly individuals who will greet you with a warm smile and make you feel at home in no time. Why not take a break from your regular life? Head to the Coral Reef Club for an unforgettable vacation with luxurious features throughout. Our review will walk you through the numerous benefits of a stay here, in addition to providing a few comparable alternatives.

There are so many reasons why the Coral Reef Club attracts so many tourists each year. With a variety of accommodation and things to do, it offers a wide range for everyone who visits here.

In the 1950s, Budge and Cynthia O’Hara set sail for Barbados from England, spending their honeymoon on a passenger cargo ship. Their plan was to spend 3 years in Barbados where Budge was to be the general manager of Coral Reef Club, a fledgling hotel property that was being slowly developed on 12 acres of beachfront property, with cottages and small coralstone buildings housing the charming accommodation.

They had 2 sons, Patrick and Mark, and a daughter, Karen, who spent happy childhood years growing up in these beautiful surroundings and more time in the water than out! All went on to the UK to be educated and all have returned not only to the island, but to the family business, with their spouses. Patrick’s wife is Sharon, Mark’s is Maria, and Karen’s husband is Wayne, who runs the sister hotel built in 1970 by Budge and Cynthia, The Sandpiper. There are 8 grandchildren who are growing up quickly. 

The Coral Reef Club is an unbelievable place to visit any time of the year. Situated just east of the Caribbean Sea, it’s an independent island which is peaceful and unique. There are so many things to do at this resort, and so many opportunities to make unforgettable memories. Everyone can enjoy their on-site restaurant for quick and easy delectable food. Also, with free Wi-Fi available throughout the property, you can work whilst traveling, or never miss out on communicating with friendly back at home.

Instead each room is a flat-screen TV, as well as an iPod docking station and a CD player to keep you entertained throughout the day. Certain rooms have a sitting area where you can relax. Certain rooms feature views of the sea or pool. Everyone who visits the Coral Reef Club feels peaceful and relaxed when they arrive back home.

There are so many connections and popular places to visit nearby the Coral Reef Club. Particularly, the ocean is located 0km away, so you can easily visit the beach every day. The international airport is less than 13 miles away for a quick and smooth journey. Let’s take a look at some of the best features of the Coral Reef Club, and our top reasons to visit here.

One thing is certain -- no matter which lodging option you choose at the Coral Reef Club, you're sure to be amazed. With simplistic decor and an island vibe, each of the accommodations are welcoming and comfortable.

The air-conditioned cottage on the ground floor or Suite on the first floor consists of a king or twin-bedded room, dressing area, en-suite bathroom with separate shower and tub, air-conditioned living room with sofa bed, large patio and private plunge pool. These cottages can accommodate either three adults or two adults and two children. They are located in the front half of the gardens leading towards the sea. The majority are garden view.

The five Luxury Plantation Suites are the pinnacle of elegance and style. They consist of a bedroom with a four poster or canopied bed, spacious living room, dressing area and a large bathroom with a walk-in shower and separate tub - all air-conditioned.

There is a large covered terrace complete with wet bar and complimentary starter bar (selection of spirits and soft drinks). There is also an open sundeck with a plunge pool. Featured in the living room is a television, DVD player, CD player and a selection of CDs and DVDs.

The Plantation Suites all have views of the sea and can accommodate two adults. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted. Three of the suites have king-size beds and two can convert from king to twin beds, if required.

Enjoy comfort and luxury at the Coral Reef Club. Their villas feature a variety of entertainment facilities and sporting options within a luxury environment. The Tamarind generously offers 3 double bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Situated in the gardens next to a shared swimming pool, this villa has a luxurious master suite with large air-conditioned bathroom with separate bath and shower. There is also a dressing room which could hold a crib, but please note it is a thoroughfare to the bathroom. Two double bedrooms share a bathroom with separate shower and tub. The villa also has a kitchen, spacious living room with television, DVD player, CD player and large terrace with chaise lounges and dining area leading to a large private lawn.

Alternatively, the Ixora ideal for larger groups of guests. This offers 4 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and 1 en-suite shower room. Located in the gardens next to a shared swimming pool, this villa has a luxurious Master Suite with private patio and large air-conditioned bathroom with separate bath and shower. It also has three double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a further double bedroom with en-suite shower room. This villa also has a kitchen, spacious living room with television, DVD player, CD player and a large terrace with chaise lounges and dining area leading to a large private lawn.

The Coral Reef Club is the epitome of luxury and class. The elegant Coral Reef restaurant overlooks the calm Caribbean Sea on Barbados’ West Cost. Featuring a daily changing a la carte menus, this offers choices of fresh seafood and dishes combining classical cuisine with Caribbean ingredients and flavours. Every evening during the winter, there is live entertainment.

On Monday, there’s a West Indian/International buffet. This is a great way to try new foods and get a real taste for authentic culture. On Thursday night, there is a full choice Barbecue serving fillet and sirloin steaks, marinated breast of chicken, veal and pork ribs, lamb chops, pork sausages, jumbo prawns, fresh catch of the day, fish kebabs and fresh salmon burgers. This is followed by a floor show featuring limbo dancing, folk dancing and fire eating.

There are many amenities to enjoy in your downtime in Barbados. The Coral Reef Club offers a selection that will make you feel catered to.

The Coral Reef Club is housed within a beautiful colonial inspired building with clean, modern lines and set within a tropical garden paradise. The scene is set for unparalleled natural beauty and tranquility. Waterfalls are placed throughout the space and it the four multipurpose treatment rooms. As a result, you’ll feel relaxed and energized as soon as you leave. The Spa offers a classic charm, along with a modern aesthetic and high-quality interior design. Also, the Spa takes its decorative colour palette from nature. Fine sand sheers, soft creamy linens and woven grasscloths sit with coral stone walls and dark chocolate wood. This tranquil palette accentuates the prevailing air of calm and the open walkways allow warm breezes to continually flow, emphasising the notion that interior and exterior are one.

The facilities include a luxurious 'open sided' Relaxation Room, an outdoor Hydro-pool with shaded cabanas for post treatment leisure, a Thermal Suite with a serene Crystal Steam Room and Experience Shower and a Spa Lounge offering secluded relaxation. Finally, a chic Manicure, Pedicure Room commands striking views over the treetops of the property.

Also, the Spa offers a wide selection of luxurious collections which are designed for health, beauty and relaxation. The multi award-winning luxury brand, Natura Bissé, provides the skincare range of choice. This brand is renowned for its innovative products which work in synergy with the skin's natural characteristics. To complement Natura Bissé, an exotic range of body treatments has been created exclusively for The Spa using locally sourced plant life and fruits. A team of skilled therapists perform massage, facials, wraps and scrubs, with unrivalled expertise. Indulge in the aroma and sensation of the signature Lemongrass and Ginger Rub, or invigorate your body with the Caribbean Calm Massage.

The Coral Reef Club is an ideal destination for golf lovers too. Sandy Lane is a luxury golf resort in the Caribbean that offers some of the best golf in the world. With a choice of three golf courses, no matter where you play, you’ll be enhanced by the spectacular natural beauty of the terrain and the stunning views of Barbados' platinum coastline.

​Apes Hill Club is one of the newest championship golf courses in the Caribbean and opened in late 2009. Enjoy a prime location at almost 1000 feet above sea level in the centre of Barbados. Elevated to showcase breath-taking views of the west and east coast, this allows you to make the most of the golfing experience. Also, the quality layout has been implemented with tremendous regard to the full range of strategies that players need to adopt when facing each hole

In addition, the Royal Westmoreland course boasts a par 72, 7045-yard championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jnr. Set in a lush tropical landscape and calling for every club in your bag, it’s consistently rated as one of the top courses in the Caribbean. Your Royal Westmoreland golf experience is enhanced by a pro shop, driving range, practice greens, clubhouse, short game academy, club hire, shoe hire and changing rooms. The tricky greens, ocean views from every hole, inviting halfway house and an amusing audience of resident monkeys place this course among the world’s best.

We love that the Coral Reef Club is great for families. There is an unsupervised playground available for children up to the age of 10 years. This offers swings, a slide and a playhouse. Also, there is complimentary supervision in the playhouse for 2-8 year olds between 2.30 p.m. and 4.30 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you’d rather have some alone time, you can hire a babysitter for US$7.50 per hour during the day and US$12.50 per hour at night. Furthermore, the Coral Reef Club has the following items at no additional charge: cribs, high chairs, beds with sides, play pens, push chairs, hot plates, bottle sterilizing tablets, children’s books, monitors, mosquito nets and kettles.

When the weather calls for it, enjoy the beautiful gardens with your family. They’re truly nature’s playground with humming birds and little black and yellow sugar birds waiting for your arrival. The tranquil and gentle gardens stretch down to the sea and whisper to you through the Casuarina trees to sit in the shade and dream in the quiet winds. There’s no better way to relax and unwind on vacation.

We’ve scoured the Internet to see what past guests said about the Coral Reef Club. Many thought highly of the welcoming and professional staff. Also, there wide selection and high-quality ingredients for food and cocktails makes it a great place to return to each year. Also, many guests commented that it’s the ideal place to spend several weeks at, to help you feel even more relaxed when you fly back home.

The Coral Reef Club has earned an award-winning reputation as one of the finest luxury hotels in Barbados and throughout the Caribbean. The staff continually strive to exceed guests’ expectations so that everyone feels as relaxed and satisfied as possible. Radiating with style and character, it’s one of the reasons why guests return back to the Coral Reef Club time and time again. In fact, many guests commented that they request the same room each time they visit.

We appreciate that the Coral Reef Club is more suited to families and those who enjoy absolute luxury. However, if you’re hoping for a hotel which is targeted towards couples, and offers adventurous activities, we’ve found three alternative hotels. Let’s take a look at reasons to stay there and ways to find the perfect accommodation for you.

Fairmont Royal Pavilion is an excellent luxurious alternative to the Coral Reef Club. If you’re looking for a resort purely based on luxurious rooms and suites, then this is a great choice to look into. There’s a beach-inspired ambience throughout the hotel which seamlessly blends with the fabulous direct view of the ocean from every room and suit.

Long-time guests will also note several new technological upgrades designed to improve functionality and comfort. The Beachfront Suites now accommodate an indoor partition that gives privacy, creating 2 different areas, offering the best possible use of the space, with custom furnishings and high-end finishes. On December 18th, 2018, the Legendary Fairmont Royal Pavilion invites guests to experience her new room categories as it undergoes a comprehensive rebrand of all guest rooms. This evolution will see each floor being uniquely enhanced and transformed with bespoke amenities and unrivaled services.

This hotel is a great spot to work whilst travelling. For example, with plenty of facilities and resources on-hand, you’ll never feel behind on work whilst visiting here. A few of the services include: Audio-visual aids available with advance notice, fax machine and full executive services. Also, LCD projector/screen available on-site, photocopier and TV rental.

Furthermore, the computers offer complimentary Internet access. When you’ve completed your work, head to the Spa to relax and catch your breath. Enjoy an invigorating massage in the comfort and privacy of your guestroom. Feel the stress melt away, while you relax and reenergize during your stay in beautiful Barbados with these exclusive spa experiences. Just a few of their treatments include: Hot Stone Therapy, reflexology, back clean and body wrap. Also, make the most of skin care holistic treatments, body polish, mineral salt scrub and more.

Crystal Cove is an excellent alternative to the Coral Reef Club if you’re looking for an all-inclusive vacation. It has everything you need – including breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks and snacks in between. The tropical, ocean-front resort features unbelievable views and buffets for an exciting night throughout the week.

They offer a wonderful variety of accommodations and amenities tailored to your needs. This ranges from family-friendly interconnecting rooms to luxurious suites to yoga mats. You’ll find four poster beds and mahogany finishes throughout the Crystal Cove, as well as plush luxury cotton linens in a clean design. Also, all properties include an iPod docking station, TV, coffee marker, free Wi-Fi, stocked minibar and more. Also, you’ll have the ocean within walking distance to enjoy the lapping waves each day.

This hotel is also a great alternative to the Coral Reef Club if you’re searching for adventurous activities and fun ways to spend your time. Barbados is a captivating island, and there’s nowhere else on earth like it. Their wide selection of tours and Barbados water activities are diverse, and the staff will help to find the right tour for you. Their activities also include: popular rum tours, catamaran cruises, horseback riding on the beach, cave tours, submarine trips, scuba diving and more.

We love that there’s a wider selection of restaurants in comparison to the Coral Reef Club. With over 20 restaurants and bars with nine ocean-front locations, it’s a romantic destination for couples. Fresh, local ingredients married with rich island spices and presented in scenic beachside locations, create memorable dining experiences. Also, their chefs cater to your wishes and your special dietary needs offering a variety of healthy options, vegetarian and gluten free dishes and kid-pleasing choices.

Mango Bay is another stunning destination in Barbados. This island paradise has captured the hearts of many as it is surrounded by stunning beaches of white sand and crystal-clear waters. Filled with sun-filled days which turn into balmy nights, it’s the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Also, you’ll be seduced by the warmth and welcome throughout the island.

If you’re heading to Barbados to get married, then this is an ideal resort for you. With an array of wedding packages to help you, there’s no other place in the world to tie the knot. Perhaps you’re looking for a simpler alternative to Coral Reef Club, if so Mango Bay is a great choice for food. For example, the Julian Restaurant offers open-air or air-conditioned dining. Meals come in a mixture of la carte options, International cuisine, or la carte options. Whilst you wait at the bag, enjoy unlimited drinks and refreshing cocktails created by in-house mixologists.

Furthermore, head to the Spa to unwind and feel like a completely different person. Visit the Elements Spa to rediscover your inner glow and radiate whenever the time calls for it. With deep, relaxing facial massages and skin treatments, your body, mind and spirit will thank you for it. Also, the setting is deeply relaxing and helps to melt away any stresses and tension. Customized for comfort and privacy, there are elements of natural wood, stone and marble finishes throughout the venue. Finally, when you’re built up enough energy, enjoy some watersports. This includes: water-skiing, kayaking, hobiecat sailing, pedal boating and snorkeling and complimentary scuba diving lessons.

We hope you enjoyed reading the benefits and past reviews of staying at the Coral Reef Club. Surrounded by so much beauty and set in paradise, there’s no other place in the world which can give you an experience like this one. You’ll be completely overwhelmed with the long list of entertainment options and activities. On the other hand, visit here for peace and quiet and to escape modern life.

Will you visit the Coral Reef Club or any of the alternative hotels? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments to inspire others.

Related Article: Barbados Hotels: A Look at Six of the Most Luxurious Resorts