Monday, December 10, 2012

Review: Grand Pineapple Beach Resort, Antigua (3.5 Star)


Overview: 
30 mins from airport
30 mins from St. John’s
North-east side of island (Atlantic side)
2 Pools (1 Kid Pool)
3 Restaurants (1 buffet)
1 snack bar
Poolside bar, Beachside bar
180 Rooms in mostly 2-3 storey buildings
All Inclusive

This is a medium sized property that is a solid 3.5 star. It is one of the more affordable options in Antigua, and although the beach isn’t AS nice as Jolly Beach, the rooms are a lot nicer, much cleaner.
It is definitely much better value for a 3.5 Star vs. the Jolly Beach, and almost just as nice as The Verandah Resort.  Overall I’d say it’s a well-rounded property, well suited for families, couples and singles – a big variety. It’s a bit more of a social atmosphere than other resorts we saw. Everything on the resort is walkable, and is known for its’ water sports because the water is a little rougher on the Atlantic side. The staff seemed pretty friendly, casual, but didn’t get to experience their service as we didn’t have any meals here.

Accommodations: 

The rooms were pretty standard, clean, what you’d expect from a 3.5 star. They looked to be well maintained. No matter where you are, the beach and pool are close and walkable. If you dont mind the view, I suggest booking in the buildings at ground level, as the bigger ocean view rooms have a bit of a hike up the hill. Don’t book the ocean view rooms if you have any mobility issues. There are very few beachfront rooms, but they are definitely worth it. You literally step out your back door onto sand. Book early to ensure you get one. Most rooms have either 1 King, or 2 Doubles. Standard rooms can have either 1 King or 1 Queen or 2 Doubles.

Pools: 

There are two pools. Both are a decent size, but most people go here for the beach. They are in a good location, close to the beach and are right by the bars.

Beach: 

The beach is large, has white sand, and beautiful bright blue waters. It`s a little bit rougher because it’s on the Atlantic Ocean but it’s great for water activities. There`s lots of equipment on the beach for kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing. There is a small local market on the beach with crafts and things for sale.

Facilities: 
There is a 24 hour snack bar, 3 restaurants (1 a la carte is converted to buffet for lunch each day), 1 grill, 3 bars, entertainment 3 nights a week, lots of land and water sports, wi-fi, gratuities included (owned by Sandals).

Overall, like most other resorts in Antigua, you are going here for the beach. The entertainment is not spectacular at many resorts and this resort has shows 3 nights a week only. This resort is great because everything is close on site - the bars, pool, grills, beach and most rooms. It is quite a distance to go to St. John`s. It seemed like there was a good mix of couples and families, but mostly middle aged people. For more details about this resort, see their website:

http://www.grandpineapple.com/resorts/grand-pineapple-antigua/resort-home/

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