Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels

We had a week at Crystal Cove at the beginning of May. We had read some poor reviews before we left, people complaining about the poor quality of the food / service and were a bit worried. We didn't have to be. The staff were friendly and welcoming from the minute we arrived and throughout the holiday. The hotel and rooms were great, even when our shower wasn't working properly, it was fixed within hours of it being reported, Friendly restaurant and bar staff and all through the resort. Yes, the food isn't Michelin star level, but we weren't staying at a Michelin starred hotel! There was a good variety of well cooked, tasty food. The counters weren't always brimming with food, but there was enough option and volume for the number of guest, limiting waste! The A la Carte menu evenings were great.

We stayed at Crystal Cove for 10 nights as part of a large group for our wedding at Sea Shed, and overall we had a really great stay. Before travelling, we were slightly concerned because the hotel had only recently reopened after a lengthy renovation and there had been quite a few negative reviews online. Thankfully, our experience was much more positive. It’s a 4 star all inclusive resort, and it’s important to set expectations correctly. It’s not perfect. At times service could be slow, and there were a few breakfasts where coffees we ordered never arrived. Some staff were more enthusiastic than others. But honestly, that’s fairly standard for a busy all inclusive resort. For the most part, the food and drinks were very good, with plenty of variety throughout the stay. One thing we particularly liked was the sunlounger food service during the day. The Caesar salads became a daily go to for us, and it was nice being able to avoid doing buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner every single day. A few staff members also deserve special recognition. Lisa was incredibly helpful in the lead up to our wedding and during the stay itself. She really went above and beyond to help coordinate things for our group. Kerry Ann also gave by far the best service we experienced at dinner throughout the holiday. She was enthusiastic, attentive and warm every time we saw her. The pools are great, the beach is lovely with plenty of sunbeds, and overall it’s a really good option for families and groups with children. We’d definitely come back to Crystal Cove and were really happy with our stay.

Had mother's day lunch there and the food was amazing!!! The service was excellent as well thanks to our server Donna!!! Kudos to the chef a d team...great work!!!!

I have rated Crystal Cove 4 stars as there are still improvements needed for 5. This was our 8th visit and we will return. Firstly the staff are amazing and too many to thank but I have to mention some. Dolores in the bar who we have known since 2013 and always greets us with a smile. Kevin who just returned from holiday a few days before we left. All the restaurant/bar staff Hazel who is our friend for many years, Donna, Rayna, Allison, Jencil, Sharian, Tsyirsha, Toni, Kerry Ann and Kerri Ann. If I have forgotten anyone I am sorry and thank you. Darren who smiled and chatted at the egg station every morning. Devon our amazing pool attendant and good friend. Security namely Kenroy Harrison who we have known many years and Tariq and Shakira who we only met this year and were also up for a chat. Antonio who helped us with our luggage and Curtis who seems to do everything and be everywhere. Also Richard (guest relations) who was always available to answer any questions. Marriott have made a great job with renovations. The vibrant colours make it feel vey Caribbean. This resort is a little gem. The beach and pool being beside each other is fantastic. A few negatives are when there is only one restaurant open for dinner the menu on the one that is open should be more varied. Mini bar should be restocked automatically every day. Vista bar was a great place to meet for a chat and cocktails and tapas before dinner but unfortunately with the change of furniture it is no longer like that. No one sits in there anymore. We were told new furniture is on order so fingers crossed this will go back to the way it was. What makes this hotel amazing is the staff and location. Yes improvements need to be made and we could see progress while we were there. We will definitely return.

Most incredible place to stay at. It is so much nicer than it's sister property Waves. Let me start off by saying the views are incredible and the staff make it so easy to arrange excursions and anything else you need. An airport transfer was waiting for us when we landed. The driver was very knowledgable about the island with great ideas for me and my boyfriend to consider. Upon arrival, we were greeted and given a welcome drink (choice between regular or alcoholic) along with a pamphlet with dining times, water taxi schedule, excursion list, and spa treatment at their sister property. Our room was incredible with a view of the garden and the beach. It had a tv, a balcony, a huge bathroom mirror with lights on the celing and around the mirror. Also had a makeup mirror which was super helpful. The shower is a rain shower so the water falls straight down. The only thing I wish the room had was a ceiling fan. The room does have ac, but you have to move the vent and point it in the direction you need. We booked excursions at the activities desk which was too easy. My bf and I did a catamaran sailing trip that included lunch and snorkeling. Important to note, if you are not a strong swimmer, do not participate in the snorkeling on this excursion. It takes you out to Carlisle Bay and is subject to strong currents from the Atlantic. I struggled even with my flotation device. But absolutely enjoy the sailing portion of the excursion. We also did a glass bottom boat snorkeling excursion. The snorkeling on this excursion was much better. Clearer water and calmer seas. You absolutely must do Oistens on Friday nights. This is the best place to experience and purchase Barbadian goods. Make sure you have Barbadian cash as not all tents take card. Luckily, the resort has an ATM. The food at Crystal Cove was incredible. I was nervous because of the negative reviews., but I didn't need to be. They have a mix, depending on the night, of buffet dinners and menu dinners. Occasionally they will do cultural night and serve Jamaican, Indian, Italian, etc. The service is spot on. We were never left needing anything. I loved the pools and the swim up grotto bar as well as easy access to the beach. Bring swim shoes for the beach. There are rocks on the bottom. House keeping comes everyday with fresh towels. Beach towels are easily available. Sun screen is a necessity. The sun is hot and powerful here. You will burn. Complimentary water taxis run on a schedule so if you are going to a sister property via water taxi, make sure you know the times. All in all, Crystal Cove was everything we could have hoped for. I would highly recommend.