My wife and I stayed at the Crane in January of 2011 (note 2011, not 2013). We've traveled to a few other places in the Caribbean and this was definitely one of our favorites. We were looking to relax by the beach, pool and bar and this is definitely the place for that. It's a bit secluded, but we found that to be a very good thing. Being isolated in a beautiful place, with a lovely room and view, staffed by really kind and helpful people is a good thing--as long as you like your traveling companion (I got lucky there). The rooms are very spacious, and the plunge pool (although a bit cold at times) is an absolute must. I rarely go back to the same hotel but if I do go back to Barbados, i would absolutely stay at the Crane again.

Really expensive, but worth the money. This is The 5* hotel all over its plush, grand, massive complex which is so clean just amazing in every way. The rooms are to die for, contemporary colours mixed with solid woods making it feel homely too. People you NEED to stay here if you ever visit Barbados

My husband and I bought two weeks at the beautiful Crane Resort several years ago and we are thrilled each time we return to our lovely and well appointed apartment. Nothing compares with Crane beach and those wonderful Crane breezes. The grounds, the pools, the restaurants, bars, staff---all come together to make for a fantastic experience. We have traveled all over the world, and find the soft pink sand and turquoise sea at Crane Beach unmatched!

We had tired of the intensity of luxury all-inclusives, and decided to go to the Crane for 2 weeks in January. It was perfect… Paradise!
The suites:
we stayed in a one-bedroom suite in building 8, which overlooks the beach. It was exactly what we wanted: clean and quiet with a wonderful covered balcony a full kitchen a large living room, 2 bathrooms, 2 large televisions, and a very comfortable bed. Suites with the private pool on the first floor looked inviting, but people hardly ever used them it seemed. Some say the plunge pools in the one or 2 bedroom suites were cold but others seem to enjoy them. I think it is worth upgrading to an ocean view, but even the one-bedroom lockout garden view suites are large and comfortable. There is a charge for air-conditioning, but we never needed it. Breeze just blows right through. The only bugs I saw were sand fleas on the beach.
The grounds:
the grounds are very well-maintained, with gardeners constantly working. There are orchids attached to palm trees, and a wide array of ornamental plants. There are mischievous monkeys eating the mini banana trees that the Bajans call fig trees. The pools are out of this world, with a large formal pool near the spa, used by quiet adults. The multilevel main pool area has quiet nooks, comfortable lounges with brand-new deep chair pads, and multiple waterfalls. It has a shallow section for little kids, and a good mix of sun and shade. There is a large bubble pool, like a hot tub but not hot, overlooking the ocean, and a wonderful lunch and bar area.
The restaurants:
they are all good, from the expensive Zen (where Mick Jagger was dining one night) to the inexpensive carriage restaurant at the pool and Italian restaurant in the village area. The signature restaurant, L'Azure , has a stunning view. We had earlier read complaints about the service, and it was slow and disorganized one night at L"Azure for some reason, but otherwise perfect. Food in Barbados can be expensive, but you can make meals in your fully equipped kitchen, and buy food nearby supermarkets or at the minimart in the hotel "village".
The beach:
incredible. There were always waves, but lifeguards made sure that small children were looked after and kept people away from the undertow area near the cliffs.
Lots of umbrellas for shade, at no cost to people staying at the Crane, handy elevator down, shower at the bottom of the elevator, and wonderful soft pinkish sand.
Entertainment:
thankfully there is no loud music at the pools throughout the day, no group sports, and just a fun guitarist or band at the central bar at night. If you are looking for nightlife or big shows, you will have to go elsewhere, and the Crane is quite a distance from the busy spots on the social war and the elegant places on the West Coast. It was perfect for us because we were looking for relaxation.
Overall:
staff was friendly and very anxious to help. We had no problem getting extra towels or taxis anything we needed in the room. This is quiet beautiful well-maintained resort. Don't go if you're looking for action, but for romance and relaxation, this is an excellent choice. We will be back.