Promising extensive all-inclusive complexes of culinary experiences, white sand private beaches, and beautiful pool bars, Sandals Resorts are among some of the best luxury getaways in the world.
While the upscale comforts of Sandals Resorts can be enjoyed along the picturesque coasts of numerous Caribbean islands, there is no better place to enjoy their top-of-the-line comforts than on the brand’s home island of Jamaica.
As the hub of Sandals Resorts, Jamaica features the most extensive selection of properties compared to any other location, with seven Sandals Resorts currently operating on the island.
From luxury overwater bungalows reaching out from a private island to a quiet tropical respite for a couples’ getaway, this guide analyzes each of the resort properties to determine the best Sandals Jamaica Resort for different types of vacations.
Standard Amenities at All Sandals Resorts in Jamaica
Each of Jamaica’s Sandals Resorts promises a unique stay experience with its own collection of onsite facilities and atmosphere. However, there are a few things you can expect to be included within any Sandals property.
Unlimited Gourmet Meals and Drinks
All Sandals Resorts in Jamaica feature all-inclusive stays. This means all meals, drinks, and unlimited snacks are included within your nightly rate. While many resorts on the island offer these packages, Sandals Resorts brings it to a new level, with each of its Jamaica properties boasting several onsite restaurants.
While specific restaurants vary between the resort complexes, each property is home to a great and varied selection of dining experiences headed by internationally acclaimed chefs and mixologists.
Onsite Entertainment
With dedicated entertainment teams organizing daily events and activities, there is never a moment of boredom at any Sandals Resort in Jamaica. Be it poolside competitions or volleyball on the beach, there is always fun to be had at all of the island’s resort properties.
Private Beach Area
A Sandals Resort wouldn’t be complete without a private beach area. Whether on Jamaica or another island, you can expect all Sandals properties to boast private stretches of white sands along some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world, complete with beach bars and sun chairs.
Multiple Pools
Sandals Resorts is all about giving their guests options to enjoy the holiday they deserve, and this includes having a variety of pools to choose from. Most of Jamaica’s Sandals Resort feature at least 5 outdoor pools, each promising its own atmosphere, from rowdy party pools to relaxing swimming experiences.
Recreational Facilities & Water Sport Facility
While all resorts have their own unique complexes and activities, there are certain facilities that come in all Sandals Resorts. These common features include the Red Lane Spa and Fitness Centre, onsite bars, and water sport rentals where you will find snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and more.
Sandals Exchange Program
Perhaps the biggest advantage of staying at a Sandals Jamaica Resort is that you don’t just receive access to the resort complex you’re staying in, but also all of the other resorts on the island, with the exception of Sandals Royal Plantation. However, guests staying at the Sandals Royal Plantation do receive access to every other Sandals Resort in Jamaica.
What’s even better is that each resort offers complimentary shuttle services to other properties, allowing guests to take advantage of the company’s full list of restaurants and facilities.
The 7 Best Sandals Jamaica Resorts
1. Sandals Royal Plantation Resort
Intimate Resort Complex for Romantic Getaways
The Sandals Royal Plantation Resort is a couples-only all-inclusive getaway and is easily the most luxurious Sandals Resort in Jamaica.
Set on the banks of Sandy Beach Bay in Ocho Rios, Sandals Royal Plantation goes above and beyond the all-inclusive service and is the epitome of a romantic luxury getaway. The resort features 74 suite-style lodgings, with each unit boasting premium in-room comforts, including ensuite bathrooms, private balconies, and intimate decor.
However, perhaps the most prominent highlight of the Royal Plantation is its private butler services. Each hotel guest, regardless of their suite choice, receives attentive and personalized care from their on-call butler, who is readily available to arrange a variety of services, from ordering a drink to arranging an excursion or dining experience.
Speaking of dining experiences, the Royal Plantation boasts five onsite restaurants. The Terrace and Royal Grill serve full-day menus of classic Caribbean and International dishes, while Le Papillon opens in the evening for an elevated French dinner.
Meanwhile, for entertainment, the resort boasts plenty of recreational facilities, including a private beach area, 2 outdoor pools, a water sport facility, and is the only resort to offer an open exchange program to all Sandals properties in Jamaica.
2. Sandals South Coast Resort
Lush Natural Setting with Picturesque Overwater Bungalows
Located within a 500-acre nature reserve in Jamaica’s ‘Sexy South Coast,’ the Sandals South Coast Resort is another couples-only property that promises plenty of romance and intimacy for your holiday.
The resort is broken up into several villages, with accommodation options ranging from swim-up villas to beachfront suites. However, the resort’s premium lodging is found within its overwater bungalows.
The resort is only one of two Sandals properties on the island boasting these water bound accommodations, and promises an elevated experience. All overwater bungalows feature private butler service, as do select beachfront and swim up suites.
Guests staying at the South Coast Resort have a selection of 7 onsite restaurants serving a variety of international flavors within Caribbean, Asian, and seafood menus.
Additional facilities featured within the resort include a tennis court, a games room, four outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars, an onsite hairdresser, and an impressive 2-mile-long beach area.
3. Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island
Beautiful Coastal Property with a Private Island
Located along the northwestern coast near Montego Bay, the Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort is a luxury destination resort with an extensive property that includes its own private island.
Along with providing a serene setting for enjoying the soothingly quiet ambiences of the Caribbean, the Royal Caribbean Resort provides plenty of recreational facilities, including 8 outdoor pools with swim up bars, 6 whirlpools, a water sport facility, and free shuttles to the nearby Montego Bay Resort.
Additionally, with nine onsite restaurants and six bars, the Royal Caribbean is home to one of the most diverse culinary offerings on Jamaica, making it a great spot to simply sit back along the white sand beaches of its private island while enjoying world-class food and cocktails.
The Royal Caribbean provides its all-inclusive lodging in a selection of poolside villas and lagoon suites. However, the property’s premier accommodation is found in its overwater bungalows, which, along with the South Coast Resort, are the only overwater bungalows in Jamaica and come with their own private butler service.
4. Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa
Luxury Resort Along Jamaica’s Most Beautiful Beach
Set along the shores of Seven-Mile Beach, Negril Beach Resort & Spa is easily the best Sandals property in Jamaica for beach lovers. Known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, the resort promises limitless access to the beach’s pristine white sands and sublime waters.
Beyond simply lounging in the sun along the tropical shores, the Negril Beach Resort promises an extensive complex of recreational facilities, including water sports facilities, seven onsite restaurants, 5 bars, and four pools, two of which feature their own swim-up bar.
While the resort is among one of the smallest Sandals properties on the island, the Negril Beach Resort is also one of the quietest, making it the perfect option for a relaxing beach holiday.
The resort features 226 guest rooms and suites, each equipped with base comforts that include ensuite bathrooms, minibars, and elegant decor. Meanwhile, the resort’s more luxurious options feature premium additions, such as private butler services, swim-up balconies, and beachfront access.
5. Sandals Dunns River Resort
Newest Sandals Jamaica Property with Luxury Villas & Suites
Reopened in 2023 after undergoing extensive renovations, the Sandals Dunns River Resort is an entirely reimagined property that boasts an extensive list of recreation and comfort facilities that have quickly made it one of the growing favorites on the island.
The resort offers several modern luxury suites and rooms, including its one of a kind Skypool Suites, the only accommodations in Jamaica that provides a pool as a private balcony. The Skypool Suites and several of the resort’s other higher end accommodations come with private butler services.
Whether staying in one of the resort’s basic rooms or luxury villas, all hotel guests enjoy a variety of onsite entertainment at its seven outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars, 12 onsite restaurants, 9 bars, and elegantly designed lounge areas with nightly performances.
Those looking for a more active day enjoying the tropical sun can head down to the resort’s private beach area, where they will find a water sports rental facility equipped to provide complimentary windsurfing, snorkeling, and diving experiences.
6. Sandals Ochi Beach Resort
Largest Sandals Resort in Jamaica with 16 Onsite Restaurants
With 529 guest rooms and suites spread over the 100+ acre property, the Ochi Beach Resort is the largest Sandals Resort in Jamaica and boasts the most extensive list of onsite amenities and facilities.
Boasting a beautiful beachfront location just 300 meters from the famous Ocho Rios Bay Beach, this luxury resort boasts a jaw-dropping total of 105 pools and 22 whirlpools, including its large main pool with a swim-up bar and luxury private suites.
The resort also has an impressive collection of dining options within its 16 onsite restaurants. Promising a varied and diverse culinary experience, each restaurant boasts a distinct menu and includes sushi, Mediterranean, Caribbean, seafood, and more.
As for recreation, the resort’s private beach area is popular for windsurfing, while the Upton East Golf & Country Club is just a short 3-kilometer shuttle away with tee fees included in your resort rate.
7. Sandals Montego Bay Resort
Exciting Sandals Resort with Vibrant Party Atmosphere
As the closest Sandals Resort to the airport, the Montego Bay Resort is often the most convenient option, and guests can be checked in and lounged on the beach within a half hour of landing on the island.
However, along with being the most convenient, Montego Bay is also perhaps the best Sandals Resort in Jamaica for those seeking a party vibe, offering a great collection of facilities for enjoying some social entertainment.
For starters, the resort features seven pools, each equipped with a swim-up bar, and frequently hosts daytime activities and games arranged by the entertainment team. Of course, with so many pool areas to choose from and a private beach area, there are also plenty of quiet spaces for those looking for a little relaxation.
As for the resort’s culinary scene, Montego Bay boasts the second most onsite restaurants of any Sandals Resort in Jamaica, making for a great foodie adventure exploring Caribbean, international, and seafood dishes.
From enjoying a cocktail poolside to lounging on the beach, Sandals Montego Bay Resort promises the traditional all-inclusive experience with an elevated flare.
FAQs About Sandals Resorts in Jamaica
How many resorts does Sandals have in Jamaica?
As its home country and base of operations, Jamaica has the most Sandals Resorts of any other destination. There are currently 7 Sandals Resorts blessing the island’s picturesque coasts, offering a great variety of stay experiences.
Which Sandals Resort in Jamaica is closest to the airport?
Sandals Montego Bay is the closest Sandals Resort to the airport. Located just 3 miles from Sangster International, guests can check in on the beach within half hour of landing at the airport.
What is the newest Sandals Resort in Jamaica?
Having reopened in 2023 after undergoing extensive renovations that have remodeled the entire property, Sandals Dunn’s River is the newest resort in Jamaica and promises a long list of modern luxury facilities and amenities.