Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort is situated within 750 acres of tropical plantation on a two and a half mile long beach. Its beautiful surroundings are complemented by an 18-hole golf course and close proximity to the attractions of Scarborough and Pigeon Point Nature Park, and you can expect to enjoy comfortable sea view accommodation in rooms, and one and two bedroom suites. There are five restaurants to choose from including two à la carte choices; and you can spend days relaxing on the beach, unwinding in the spa, enjoying complimentary bicycle hire, or diving with the 5 Star PADI Dive Centre; while children enjoy the kids' club.
Discover the ocean with a 5 Star PADI Dive Centre
Nearby 18-hole par-72 golf course
Desirable oceanfront location with sea view rooms
Plenty of dining choice including 2 à la carte restaurants
A tranquil location with lakes, golf course and towering palm trees
A short taxi ride to Pigeon Point Heritage Park and Scarborough
1707 Reviews
76% of travellers recommended this hotel
Traveller ratings
Excellent
671
Very Good
553
Average
278
Poor
123
Terrible
82
What to Expect
Sleep Quality
Location
Rooms
Service
Value
Cleanliness
Reviews
May 22, 2019
The “Good”,The “meh” and The “awful”!
Kingston, Canada
Arrived here the week of the 18-26th of April. Quick 15 min ride from the airport. Hotel entrance looked nice, resort was clean, and rooms were comfy.
We had a king size bed in our oceanfront room. Rooms/hotel was dated and in desperate need of some paint and new furnishing. It appears that this hotel has been neglecting some maintenance. But either way, everything worked. Down side is there is a mini fridge in the room with nothing in it. Asked to have drinks brought up to room 3 times through out the week and not one person fulfilled our request. Not even the maid. All rooms face the ocean front so don’t upgrade your room.
Beach was packed full of seaweed. Most I have ever seen. Ocean was mildly rough but the red flag for swimming was up all week. Main pool was great and had plenty of loungers around. Some umbrellas were torn. It had a pool bar and swim up bar. There are 2 other “so called” pools. They appeared to be about 25’ in diameter. But the lounging area was very small.
Restaurant by the main pool was great. Good atmosphere. Great food. Buffet restaurant was good as well with theme nights nightly. Buffet was small but never ran out of food.
Bars were ok. Drinks inconsistent as usual at an all inclusive resort.
Grounds were somewhat well kept. Staff were hit and miss there. Some couldn’t give you the time of day there, others made you feel like you were requesting the world from them and a small handful were great.
The golf course was in ok shape. Appeared very dry even though they have plenty of water ponds around. Pro shop women was not very helpful. Again, it was like pulling teeth to try and get anything done with her. Carts were in bad shape. We had a deal of $150pp usd and play golf for 7 days with a cart. That’s a great deal for Caribbean golf, just too bad that the course didn’t look like the brochure.
All in all, this place was alright, nothing to write home about. The food was surprisingly good but the rest was either “meh” or awful. This place could definitely use some customer service experience, a fresh paint job and some much needed maintenance. If you come here, it’s to relax. There isn’t much going on here. We made the best of it and didn’t sweat the small stuff. Free spotty wifi all over the resort.
BEWARE!!! Don’t bring anything with Camouflage on it. I’m talking like luggage,clothing, bags or anything. They will seize it at the airport. It’s against the law there to have camo as it has to do something ridiculous about the military there. They have the right to confiscate it and either sell it, use it or destroy it. I lost an expensive backpack and I did them a favour and destroyed it in front of the officer at customs. He wasn’t too happy that I did that but he wasn’t going to profit off of my belongings.
As usual, if you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask. I always like to help out others.
May 19, 2019
What a relaxing break
Portsmouth, United Kingdom
Our stay here was incredibly relaxing. We were a group of 4 visiting Tobago for the first time. We chose this hotel mainly because of the offer that was available however we did find it very suitable for the style of holiday we wanted. We have been to the caribbean several times and enjoy the slow pace, wonderful weather and friendly people. It is on the Atlantic coast so there is always a warm breeze/wind
The plus points were:
1. The staff were very friendly and couldn't do enough for us. Just talking to them became a real part of our holiday. A few are mentioned below but nearly everyone we met was so cheerful.
2. The rooms were next to each other, had lovely views, loads of space, good facilities and comfy giant beds. Tea making facilities were good and the hotel were more than happy to provide us fresh milk at the start of each day (thanks to Krystal and Troy for this) . 2 small problems in our rooms, one with a tv remote and one with a tap, were rectified almost instantly. The rooms were cleaned and beds made up promptly in the morning , (while we were having breakfast) on every day except one. That day it was done in the afternoon.
3. The food was quite varied and we all had lots of things we liked. It all seemed very well prepared, tasted good and was well presented. Pamela was very welcoming and we enjoyed lots of laughs . The main problem with the food was trying to get smaller portions if it wasn't a buffet. The chocolate cake portions were ridiculously large!
4 We never had queues for the bar, where Adanna and Kerline made us our drinks and also made us laugh. We also had hardly any queues for food and we nearly always sat exactly where we wanted. On two occassions at lunch they set up extra tables for us on the patio which was a really nice touch (thanks to Troy again). The one exception was Mothers Day breakfast which caught us by surprise. We enjoyed the singing entertainment that morning.
5. The pool area was very nice with a very large clean pool and easy access, good recliners and umbrellas and quick access to everything.
6. The little cafe out the front was a hidden gem for the late afterrnooon. Nicole and Desreen were so welcoming and provided lovely coffees and cookies. Again we never queued.
7. The hotel is in a lovely setting , the sea birds and land birds are spectacular. We really enjoyed the frigates and swifts whilst relaxing by the pool. Even the lapwings which buzzed us on the golf course were so interesting.
8. The use of the bikes and golf course were bonuses - best used later in the day when it was cooling down a bit. We didn't try the tennis or gym. The free shuttle to
Pigeon Point was also useful.
The negative points were:
1. Having to sign for nearly everything even when we were all inclusive and everything we had was included.
2 The beach was out of action due to the weed. (Not really the hotels fault)
3 It wasn't always clear which restaurants were going to be open for lunch and dinner.
4 We think the hotel would benefit from a bit of regular maintenance and update. The mixer in the pool bar was on its last legs, a few of the general wcs had loose fittings/cracked tiles, the lights were loose on a couple of stairs etc.
5 The all inclusive drinks are a little limited compared with other caribbean holidays we have been on.
6. The wi-fi was strong in the main areas including the pool, but was very intermittent in the rooms we had.
All in all, this was lovely place for a quiet break. The setting is a real paradise.
May 16, 2019
Dont forget the positives
Yes true this hotel does need a little TLC and yes the seweedy beach is mis-sold. but lets not always look for the negatives. It is a little bit of paradise. The views are breathtaking. Our room was large and with a massive bed. If peace and relaxation is what you are looking for then this is the place. The main pool area is lovely, spacious with very comfortable sun beds for which you dont have to get up at the crack of dawn and put your towel on for. The food in general was full of flavours, especially in the poolside restaurant. Yes it is quite quirky sometimes a certain normal breakfast food is there sometimes it isnt. You are not always aware which of the restaurants are going to be open, but this is part of its charm, getting away from the norm and getting you out of your routine. There is always a choice of something, just go with the flow its the Caribbean, you are on holiday. Does everything always have to be perfect? The grounds/plantation/golf course are great to walk/bike around. (The bikes were very good and free). The week we were there there were not too many guests, so not much atmosphere in the evening, but there was a group one night and a karaoke another and on Mother`s Day a group played outside during the morning and it and was nice to see all the local mums and their families all dressed up for a special breakfast. The majority of the staff are very friendly and helpful, in particular Pamela in the main restaurant, Kerchief and the girls in the pub. If you want everything perfect and an instantaneous response to every request this is not the place for you, if you just want to chill out in lovely surroundings go for it.
May 14, 2019
Very disappointed
We originally booked this hotel as we were looking for a location for our wedding next year as well as having a nice relaxing family holiday.
We wanted a hotel that could cater for our wedding for over 80 plus people, with a kid’s club, entertainment and also nice setting for the wedding.
Kids club is very important to us when booking so we have a chance to relax and our son has the opportunity to play with other children and have child fun.
I had been to Tobago previously and told my partner how much of a beautiful island it was. I previously stayed in a self-catering villa and after reading this you may want to as well.
Upon arrival from the UK we were about to find out how disappointed we would be, read on.
Before I start, can I please add if it was not for Troy (food and beverage manager) I would have left this hotel and sought more suitable accommodation? He was fantastic and tried to sort our issues and make our holiday as good as possible
We arrived with our 4 year old child only to be given two beds that were just about bigger than a single. The following day I spoke to the reception desk (who are more miserable and grumpier than my ex mother in law which I thought was impossible) who said they would change the room first thing tomorrow morning, happy days, so I packed all our stuff back up. We left the following day for the beach and when I returned to the hotel I found our new room not ready. After a bit of huffing and puffing from the reception desk and some disgruntled ones from this unhappy slightly sunburnt customer I finally get given a new set of keys to a different room. . I change rooms myself as was scared to ask for assistance with cases etc., only walking into the new room I notice we have a king size bed only and no bed for my son. So I find the housekeeping team and ask them to do it myself. All Sorted now and the room is now what we expect. Happy days, now to enjoy our Caribbean holiday….. just to add we had no hot water in the shower or bath for the whole 10 days we stayed.
Next morning we try to book our son into the CEE CEE kids which is advertised on the website and all good travel sites. We are told the kids club is always in room 139 but it is flooded. So they will set the kids club up in Robinson Crusoe pub. (I later saw a couple taking cases into room 139 …. Most confusing I thought, either that or they must have their wellies with them). The toys provided in the kids club were a few building blocks and skittles and the member of staff who was assigned was not available for more than hour as she supposed to be entertaining the adult guests so she said. On one occasion I walked in to find my son sat at the bar watching the assistant (Kevin’s) iPhone which was shocking. There were days when I no kids club assistant was present or available at all and I sat with him myself which was lovely but not the idea of a couple of hour’s break we were really looking for an allegedly luxury break and hotel. I think the whole trip the most my son spent in there was an hour and that is being generous. I looked very hard during my 10 day stay for the CEE CEE club but I couldn’t see it anywhere. Perhaps it didn’t exist after and it was an error on their website. I’m sure I will find out on day.
Food and drink.
We had the all-inclusive package which stated we could drink any 3 types of local beers and all local drinks (spirits and wines) as stated. Perfect and happy with that. My happiness was short lived however, the pool bar (when open) will not serve you the best beer which was Carib and you had to put up with Polar beer which wasn’t great if honest, if you want Carib in this bar you have to pay for it even though in the menu it states it is one of the 3 beers. Went to another restaurant and you could have Carib but then in the lunchtime solaki restaurant you have to pay for Carib. Totally confusing and I class myself as a generally bright person (perhaps the sun had got to me a bit more than expected). The poor wine selection changed daily and they consistently kept running out of Sauvignon Blanc which was the only drinkable wine on the list and unfortunately for me the only one that kept my lovely lady smiling and Tipsy.
I approached Vine (hotel manager) and Troy regarding this and they kindly said drink what you want and they would sign it off. A very nice gesture. However Sauvignon Blanc was very hard to come by unless you were prepared to donate a kidney.
On the whole the food was excellent, breakfast was always fantastic and plenty of selection for all of us. Most occasion’s lunch and dinner was excellent too but there were two occasions in the Solaki where we had to complain regarding the standard of the food. I ordered medium to well lamb and it came out bleeding and cold one evening. The worst occasion came when I had eaten the majority of a chicken Caesar salad only to find towards the end of it that part of chicken was off and rock hard. This was on the last day and I was ill when I back to the UK for days after.
The hotel is dated but most are in the Caribbean which I can accept, the smell from sea is so bad some days you cannot sit outside (not hotels fault I know) due to the stench, broken and rusty pool furniture, broken lights with wires hanging out of units, pool table damaged, I could go on. The communication of staff is appalling and it got to the stage where we were afraid to ask any questions or make a request for the silliest of things like an extra pot of coffee or a jug of water due to the response and disgruntled looks we would get from the staff.
We were in the hotel every evening for dinner and not once did I see any local entertainment for the adults such as live music as promised. There was a piano in the lobby but that was very silent throughout the stay. Again disappointing
As I have stated Troy did his best to resolve this but he is just 1 person. It did seem that when Troy and Vinaj were present things ran a lot better and the staff were happier but they cannot be there 24-7.
Some staff told us towards the end of the holiday that the hotel has been sold to a major hotel company who are going to sort this out. It needs a major overhaul I feel but they must get the staffs attitude and approach right first before looking at any fixtures and fittings. If you want any assistance with this just contact me as it would not take much for me to turn this hotel around.
My partner, son and I were so excited about this holiday and was giving us a chance to look at a hotel where we could possibly get married. Tobago was a beautiful place and we made the best of it but unfortunately our choice of hotel was a mistake. That saying we met some lovely people and made some good friends. Unfortunately the MAGDALENA GRAND will not be the hotel of choice for our wedding as I would like to stay friends with the guests that attend for many years after.
I did speak with Vinaj regarding available wedding packages and he said he would get the member of the team to discuss the options available to us. She must have been entertaining the adult guests as no one made any effort to speak with me.
So for a 4 star hotel I was majorly upset and shocked by our stay, however I would give Troy 5 stars for trying and being so professional in resolving, but the hotel would just about achieve 1* and that is being generous
I really hope you take my comments on board as it will not be fair to any other people travelling such a distance to have their dream holiday with the family ruined.
May 08, 2019
Husband's bday trip
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Since being in Hospitality for over 20 years, the hospitality at the resort was impeccable! The resort does its very best with what it all it has to work with!!!! Clean, comfortable, and the friendliest Tobagoans. They work very hard to serve tourist. I respect this island as learning how Sandals resort wanted to come and take a sacred part of the island away from the hardworking citizens! The struggle to maintain the Tobagan authenticity was important to our decision to visit the island. The security was attention to detail and knowledgeable staff staff was very impressive!! Needlessly to say, Lemann in Bar with Karaoke night made us feel like forever family. The Karaoke bar is where Lemann and staff (singers) woeked made my Hubs bday most special. We are Sandals members but the personal touch at Magdalena Golf & Resort is unbeatable and what we needed in our lives! The true Caribbean is the truth about this island and resort! We shall return!! L, Renee & CTS!!
Offering PADI courses and programmes, the onsite dive centre has everything you need to embark on your first steps into diving or to rediscover your favourite activity. Nearby dive sites offer plenty to see and explore with an abundant marine life including many types of fish and even turtles.
Restrictions:
Subject to additional charges, payable locally.
Fitness Centre
Keep your regular workout routine going with modern fitness equipment.
18-Hole Golf Course
The nearby Tobago Plantations Golf Club has a professional 18-hole par-72 course landscaped around mangroves and coastal palm trees. It has a driving range and putting greens, as well as a clubhouse with a bar and grill, pro shop and practical facilities.
Restrictions:
Subject to additional charges, payable locally.
Spa & Beauty Salon
Offering a luxurious menu of treatments, sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated, the spa has full body scrubs, massages and facials for you to book. There is also a beauty salon which can help you stay fresh with hair styling, waxing, and nail treatments.
Restrictions:
Subject to additional charges, payable locally.
Daily Activities
Complimentary bicycles are provided by the hotel to get you exploring the local area and you can also enjoy a daily activities programme selected by the hotel. You may also book some nearby activities like water sports, rainforest tours and turtle watching from the hotel's tour desk.
Restrictions:
Certain activities subject to additional charge, payable locally.
3 Swimming Pools
Of the three swimming pools at the resort, one is just for adults and there is also a swim-up bar to quench your thirst in the water.
With partial ocean views, the standard room is well appointed inside with a full bathroom with bath and shower, and king-sized beds or twins. Amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi and a coffee maker.
With premium views of the ocean, these rooms are furnished with king-sized beds or twin doubles. The bathroom has a bath and shower, while a flat screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and coffee maker are among the amenities.
These luxurious suites come with large balconies or terraces which allow gorgeous views of the sea. There is a king-sized bed or twin doubles and a separate living room with sofa bed, and you'll also find two bathrooms and a private hot tub to relax in.
Great for families or groups of friends, these suites have two bedrooms: one with a king-sized bed and a second with twin doubles. There is a living area with sofa bed and a large private balcony or terrace with ocean views, and you'll also have a private hot tub and three bathrooms.
A casual English-style pub and sports bar open every day until late, serving a menu of classic pub food. Happy hours occur daily and there is live entertainment on Fridays.
Restrictions:
Happy hours: 17:00pm to 19:00pm; and 21:00pm to 22:00pmFood: 15:00pm to 22:30pmGuests under 18 years of age not permitted after 21:00pm
Pembois Restaurant & Terrace
The main buffet restaurant serves a varied array of food with plenty of choice for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Nightly themed buffets highlight Caribbean and international cuisine, with the Grand Tobago Buffet showcasing local flavours on Wednesdays.
Restrictions:
Breakfast: 07:00am to 10:30amLunch: 12:00pm to 15:00pmDinner: 18:30pm to 22:30pm
Benné Café
Benné Café is located just by the lobby, serving a selection of baked treats and fresh coffees to help you relax in the day.
Salaka Grill
Home to refreshing drinks and light meals during the day, and an evening dinner menu emphasising grilled seafood in an intimate oceanfront atmosphere.
Restrictions:
Drinks service: 10:00am to 18:00pmFood service: 11:00am to 17:00pmDinner (Reservations recommended): 18:30pm to 22:30pm
Fairways Bar & Grill
This bar and grill is situated at the 18-hole golf course and features a menu of tasty dishes throughout the day and drinks too, all to keep your satisfied before or after a round of golf.
Restrictions:
Food Service: 07:00am to 16:00pm
Kali'na Restaurant
Tobago's culinary tradition is influenced by many different places around the world — including Africa, Europe and Asia. Here at Kali'na you'll find gourmet dining inspired by the country and other Caribbean cuisine.
Restrictions:
Reservations required. Children under 12 not permitted.Closed Sundays and Wednesdays.
Tavaco Lounge
This sophisticated piano and lounge bar serves a premium menu of drinks and is home to Jazz Sundays which showcase local bands.
Li'l Nylon Pool Bar
This swim-up bar lets you enjoy a refreshing drink without getting out of the water, with a menu of signature cocktails that will certainly put you in a holiday mood.
Board Basis Options
Bed & Breakfast
FOOD: Full breakfast from the buffet of Pembois Restaurant daily.
Half Board
FOOD: Full buffet breakfast in the Pembois Restaurant, and a choice of dinner from the buffet of Pembois or dinner from the pub menu of Robinson Crusoe Bar.
All Inclusive
FOOD: Full buffet breakfast and lunch at Pembois Restaurant, or lunch at the poolside snack bar. Dinner at Pembois or Robinson Crusoe Pub. You may also dine two nights per week at the seafood restaurant Salaka Grill or the Caribbean fusion restaurant Kali'na (from a special table d'hote menu, subject to availability). Afternoon tea at Kali'na Restaurant every day from 16:00pm to 17:30pm. Room service for breakfast, lunch and dinner (subject to tray charge).DRINKS: House brand alcoholic drinks including spirits and beer. Tropical coolers, house wines by the glass and soft drinks. ACTIVITIES: Tennis, access to the fitness centre, sauna access, bicycles, daily activities and entertainment programme. Round trip scheduled shuttle transfers to and from Pigeon Point Nature Reserve. Kids' Club for children aged 4 to 12 years.
Children aged between four and twelve are welcome to join the activities of the kids' club during the day and enjoy indoor games and movies, as well as beach games and turtle watching. Children under four are welcome to join in, but a parent of guardian must be present. Babysitting may also be requested so you can enjoy some free time to enjoy a romantic meal.
Restrictions:
Babysitting subject to request and additional charge.
1707 Reviews
76% of travellers recommended this hotel
Traveller ratings
Excellent
671
Very Good
553
Average
278
Poor
123
Terrible
82
What to Expect
Sleep Quality
Location
Rooms
Service
Value
Cleanliness
Reviews
May 22, 2019
The “Good”,The “meh” and The “awful”!
Kingston, Canada
Arrived here the week of the 18-26th of April. Quick 15 min ride from the airport. Hotel entrance looked nice, resort was clean, and rooms were comfy.
We had a king size bed in our oceanfront room. Rooms/hotel was dated and in desperate need of some paint and new furnishing. It appears that this hotel has been neglecting some maintenance. But either way, everything worked. Down side is there is a mini fridge in the room with nothing in it. Asked to have drinks brought up to room 3 times through out the week and not one person fulfilled our request. Not even the maid. All rooms face the ocean front so don’t upgrade your room.
Beach was packed full of seaweed. Most I have ever seen. Ocean was mildly rough but the red flag for swimming was up all week. Main pool was great and had plenty of loungers around. Some umbrellas were torn. It had a pool bar and swim up bar. There are 2 other “so called” pools. They appeared to be about 25’ in diameter. But the lounging area was very small.
Restaurant by the main pool was great. Good atmosphere. Great food. Buffet restaurant was good as well with theme nights nightly. Buffet was small but never ran out of food.
Bars were ok. Drinks inconsistent as usual at an all inclusive resort.
Grounds were somewhat well kept. Staff were hit and miss there. Some couldn’t give you the time of day there, others made you feel like you were requesting the world from them and a small handful were great.
The golf course was in ok shape. Appeared very dry even though they have plenty of water ponds around. Pro shop women was not very helpful. Again, it was like pulling teeth to try and get anything done with her. Carts were in bad shape. We had a deal of $150pp usd and play golf for 7 days with a cart. That’s a great deal for Caribbean golf, just too bad that the course didn’t look like the brochure.
All in all, this place was alright, nothing to write home about. The food was surprisingly good but the rest was either “meh” or awful. This place could definitely use some customer service experience, a fresh paint job and some much needed maintenance. If you come here, it’s to relax. There isn’t much going on here. We made the best of it and didn’t sweat the small stuff. Free spotty wifi all over the resort.
BEWARE!!! Don’t bring anything with Camouflage on it. I’m talking like luggage,clothing, bags or anything. They will seize it at the airport. It’s against the law there to have camo as it has to do something ridiculous about the military there. They have the right to confiscate it and either sell it, use it or destroy it. I lost an expensive backpack and I did them a favour and destroyed it in front of the officer at customs. He wasn’t too happy that I did that but he wasn’t going to profit off of my belongings.
As usual, if you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask. I always like to help out others.
May 19, 2019
What a relaxing break
Portsmouth, United Kingdom
Our stay here was incredibly relaxing. We were a group of 4 visiting Tobago for the first time. We chose this hotel mainly because of the offer that was available however we did find it very suitable for the style of holiday we wanted. We have been to the caribbean several times and enjoy the slow pace, wonderful weather and friendly people. It is on the Atlantic coast so there is always a warm breeze/wind
The plus points were:
1. The staff were very friendly and couldn't do enough for us. Just talking to them became a real part of our holiday. A few are mentioned below but nearly everyone we met was so cheerful.
2. The rooms were next to each other, had lovely views, loads of space, good facilities and comfy giant beds. Tea making facilities were good and the hotel were more than happy to provide us fresh milk at the start of each day (thanks to Krystal and Troy for this) . 2 small problems in our rooms, one with a tv remote and one with a tap, were rectified almost instantly. The rooms were cleaned and beds made up promptly in the morning , (while we were having breakfast) on every day except one. That day it was done in the afternoon.
3. The food was quite varied and we all had lots of things we liked. It all seemed very well prepared, tasted good and was well presented. Pamela was very welcoming and we enjoyed lots of laughs . The main problem with the food was trying to get smaller portions if it wasn't a buffet. The chocolate cake portions were ridiculously large!
4 We never had queues for the bar, where Adanna and Kerline made us our drinks and also made us laugh. We also had hardly any queues for food and we nearly always sat exactly where we wanted. On two occassions at lunch they set up extra tables for us on the patio which was a really nice touch (thanks to Troy again). The one exception was Mothers Day breakfast which caught us by surprise. We enjoyed the singing entertainment that morning.
5. The pool area was very nice with a very large clean pool and easy access, good recliners and umbrellas and quick access to everything.
6. The little cafe out the front was a hidden gem for the late afterrnooon. Nicole and Desreen were so welcoming and provided lovely coffees and cookies. Again we never queued.
7. The hotel is in a lovely setting , the sea birds and land birds are spectacular. We really enjoyed the frigates and swifts whilst relaxing by the pool. Even the lapwings which buzzed us on the golf course were so interesting.
8. The use of the bikes and golf course were bonuses - best used later in the day when it was cooling down a bit. We didn't try the tennis or gym. The free shuttle to
Pigeon Point was also useful.
The negative points were:
1. Having to sign for nearly everything even when we were all inclusive and everything we had was included.
2 The beach was out of action due to the weed. (Not really the hotels fault)
3 It wasn't always clear which restaurants were going to be open for lunch and dinner.
4 We think the hotel would benefit from a bit of regular maintenance and update. The mixer in the pool bar was on its last legs, a few of the general wcs had loose fittings/cracked tiles, the lights were loose on a couple of stairs etc.
5 The all inclusive drinks are a little limited compared with other caribbean holidays we have been on.
6. The wi-fi was strong in the main areas including the pool, but was very intermittent in the rooms we had.
All in all, this was lovely place for a quiet break. The setting is a real paradise.
May 16, 2019
Dont forget the positives
Yes true this hotel does need a little TLC and yes the seweedy beach is mis-sold. but lets not always look for the negatives. It is a little bit of paradise. The views are breathtaking. Our room was large and with a massive bed. If peace and relaxation is what you are looking for then this is the place. The main pool area is lovely, spacious with very comfortable sun beds for which you dont have to get up at the crack of dawn and put your towel on for. The food in general was full of flavours, especially in the poolside restaurant. Yes it is quite quirky sometimes a certain normal breakfast food is there sometimes it isnt. You are not always aware which of the restaurants are going to be open, but this is part of its charm, getting away from the norm and getting you out of your routine. There is always a choice of something, just go with the flow its the Caribbean, you are on holiday. Does everything always have to be perfect? The grounds/plantation/golf course are great to walk/bike around. (The bikes were very good and free). The week we were there there were not too many guests, so not much atmosphere in the evening, but there was a group one night and a karaoke another and on Mother`s Day a group played outside during the morning and it and was nice to see all the local mums and their families all dressed up for a special breakfast. The majority of the staff are very friendly and helpful, in particular Pamela in the main restaurant, Kerchief and the girls in the pub. If you want everything perfect and an instantaneous response to every request this is not the place for you, if you just want to chill out in lovely surroundings go for it.
May 14, 2019
Very disappointed
We originally booked this hotel as we were looking for a location for our wedding next year as well as having a nice relaxing family holiday.
We wanted a hotel that could cater for our wedding for over 80 plus people, with a kid’s club, entertainment and also nice setting for the wedding.
Kids club is very important to us when booking so we have a chance to relax and our son has the opportunity to play with other children and have child fun.
I had been to Tobago previously and told my partner how much of a beautiful island it was. I previously stayed in a self-catering villa and after reading this you may want to as well.
Upon arrival from the UK we were about to find out how disappointed we would be, read on.
Before I start, can I please add if it was not for Troy (food and beverage manager) I would have left this hotel and sought more suitable accommodation? He was fantastic and tried to sort our issues and make our holiday as good as possible
We arrived with our 4 year old child only to be given two beds that were just about bigger than a single. The following day I spoke to the reception desk (who are more miserable and grumpier than my ex mother in law which I thought was impossible) who said they would change the room first thing tomorrow morning, happy days, so I packed all our stuff back up. We left the following day for the beach and when I returned to the hotel I found our new room not ready. After a bit of huffing and puffing from the reception desk and some disgruntled ones from this unhappy slightly sunburnt customer I finally get given a new set of keys to a different room. . I change rooms myself as was scared to ask for assistance with cases etc., only walking into the new room I notice we have a king size bed only and no bed for my son. So I find the housekeeping team and ask them to do it myself. All Sorted now and the room is now what we expect. Happy days, now to enjoy our Caribbean holiday….. just to add we had no hot water in the shower or bath for the whole 10 days we stayed.
Next morning we try to book our son into the CEE CEE kids which is advertised on the website and all good travel sites. We are told the kids club is always in room 139 but it is flooded. So they will set the kids club up in Robinson Crusoe pub. (I later saw a couple taking cases into room 139 …. Most confusing I thought, either that or they must have their wellies with them). The toys provided in the kids club were a few building blocks and skittles and the member of staff who was assigned was not available for more than hour as she supposed to be entertaining the adult guests so she said. On one occasion I walked in to find my son sat at the bar watching the assistant (Kevin’s) iPhone which was shocking. There were days when I no kids club assistant was present or available at all and I sat with him myself which was lovely but not the idea of a couple of hour’s break we were really looking for an allegedly luxury break and hotel. I think the whole trip the most my son spent in there was an hour and that is being generous. I looked very hard during my 10 day stay for the CEE CEE club but I couldn’t see it anywhere. Perhaps it didn’t exist after and it was an error on their website. I’m sure I will find out on day.
Food and drink.
We had the all-inclusive package which stated we could drink any 3 types of local beers and all local drinks (spirits and wines) as stated. Perfect and happy with that. My happiness was short lived however, the pool bar (when open) will not serve you the best beer which was Carib and you had to put up with Polar beer which wasn’t great if honest, if you want Carib in this bar you have to pay for it even though in the menu it states it is one of the 3 beers. Went to another restaurant and you could have Carib but then in the lunchtime solaki restaurant you have to pay for Carib. Totally confusing and I class myself as a generally bright person (perhaps the sun had got to me a bit more than expected). The poor wine selection changed daily and they consistently kept running out of Sauvignon Blanc which was the only drinkable wine on the list and unfortunately for me the only one that kept my lovely lady smiling and Tipsy.
I approached Vine (hotel manager) and Troy regarding this and they kindly said drink what you want and they would sign it off. A very nice gesture. However Sauvignon Blanc was very hard to come by unless you were prepared to donate a kidney.
On the whole the food was excellent, breakfast was always fantastic and plenty of selection for all of us. Most occasion’s lunch and dinner was excellent too but there were two occasions in the Solaki where we had to complain regarding the standard of the food. I ordered medium to well lamb and it came out bleeding and cold one evening. The worst occasion came when I had eaten the majority of a chicken Caesar salad only to find towards the end of it that part of chicken was off and rock hard. This was on the last day and I was ill when I back to the UK for days after.
The hotel is dated but most are in the Caribbean which I can accept, the smell from sea is so bad some days you cannot sit outside (not hotels fault I know) due to the stench, broken and rusty pool furniture, broken lights with wires hanging out of units, pool table damaged, I could go on. The communication of staff is appalling and it got to the stage where we were afraid to ask any questions or make a request for the silliest of things like an extra pot of coffee or a jug of water due to the response and disgruntled looks we would get from the staff.
We were in the hotel every evening for dinner and not once did I see any local entertainment for the adults such as live music as promised. There was a piano in the lobby but that was very silent throughout the stay. Again disappointing
As I have stated Troy did his best to resolve this but he is just 1 person. It did seem that when Troy and Vinaj were present things ran a lot better and the staff were happier but they cannot be there 24-7.
Some staff told us towards the end of the holiday that the hotel has been sold to a major hotel company who are going to sort this out. It needs a major overhaul I feel but they must get the staffs attitude and approach right first before looking at any fixtures and fittings. If you want any assistance with this just contact me as it would not take much for me to turn this hotel around.
My partner, son and I were so excited about this holiday and was giving us a chance to look at a hotel where we could possibly get married. Tobago was a beautiful place and we made the best of it but unfortunately our choice of hotel was a mistake. That saying we met some lovely people and made some good friends. Unfortunately the MAGDALENA GRAND will not be the hotel of choice for our wedding as I would like to stay friends with the guests that attend for many years after.
I did speak with Vinaj regarding available wedding packages and he said he would get the member of the team to discuss the options available to us. She must have been entertaining the adult guests as no one made any effort to speak with me.
So for a 4 star hotel I was majorly upset and shocked by our stay, however I would give Troy 5 stars for trying and being so professional in resolving, but the hotel would just about achieve 1* and that is being generous
I really hope you take my comments on board as it will not be fair to any other people travelling such a distance to have their dream holiday with the family ruined.
May 08, 2019
Husband's bday trip
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Since being in Hospitality for over 20 years, the hospitality at the resort was impeccable! The resort does its very best with what it all it has to work with!!!! Clean, comfortable, and the friendliest Tobagoans. They work very hard to serve tourist. I respect this island as learning how Sandals resort wanted to come and take a sacred part of the island away from the hardworking citizens! The struggle to maintain the Tobagan authenticity was important to our decision to visit the island. The security was attention to detail and knowledgeable staff staff was very impressive!! Needlessly to say, Lemann in Bar with Karaoke night made us feel like forever family. The Karaoke bar is where Lemann and staff (singers) woeked made my Hubs bday most special. We are Sandals members but the personal touch at Magdalena Golf & Resort is unbeatable and what we needed in our lives! The true Caribbean is the truth about this island and resort! We shall return!! L, Renee & CTS!!
Whilst Antigua is a popular choice to many, the little island of Tobago is its less notorious counterpart, showcasing the authentic side of Caribbean life. In Antigua you will find glorious white sand beaches and a great selection of karaoke...
For those wanting to escape the towns and cities and enjoy a more quiet way of life and enjoy mother nature, then Grenada and Tobago is the perfect twin-centre holiday for you. In Grenada, step away from the beach to...
1707 Reviews 
Traveller ratings
What to Expect
Reviews
The “Good”,The “meh” and The “awful”!
Kingston, Canada
What a relaxing break
Portsmouth, United Kingdom
Dont forget the positives
Very disappointed
Husband's bday trip
Virginia Beach, Virginia