Caribbean Vacation

Of the 15 Sandals resorts in the Caribbean, six of them are in Jamaica.  In our rankings of the best sandals resort overall, three of the top 4 are in Jamaica, but 3 of the bottom 4 are also in Jamaica.  So which is the best Sandals resort in Jamaica?

The Best Sandals in Jamaica:

1. Sandals South Coast
2. Sandals Royal Plantation
3. Sandals Negril
4. Sandals Montego Bay
5. Sandals Ochi Beach Resort
6. Sandals Royal Caribbean

What’s new: The new over the water bungalows at the Sandals Royal Caribbean are simply stunning.

1.  Sandals South Coast – Jamaica

On the untouched South Coast of Jamaica, Sandals South Coast is a 50-acre seaside resort within a 500-acre reserve. It is in a rather isolated location and so your vacation will be primarily limited to the expansive resort grounds.  As you can see below, they have added over the water bungalows.

What guest like about Sandals South Coast:

• The South Coast resort has an excellent and beach that is notably private
• Great selection of pools – The French pools is the largest and has a large, and popular swim up bar.
• Spectacular views and all rooms have an ocean view.
• The Food is delicious! There are seven different restaurants to choose from. All are top notch. An example is, Café de Paris, it being a favorite, serves great desserts, crepes, pasties, ice cream, coffee, and drinks, with the menu changing 2 to 3 times a day.
• The Staff are awesome! Everyone goes out of their way to greet you and to ensure that you are having a great time.
• The Rooms are well appointed, clean, and the beds are comfy. All of the rooms have an ocean view.
• There are three pools. The French Pool is the most active, volley ball, etc. The Italian pool is the largest with floats you can lounge on. There is also a swim up bar that is a lot of fun.
• The Beach is beautiful. You can walk either direction without seeing anyone.
• There are plenty of beach and pool lounge chairs available.
• The water sports are a lot of fun with a very helpful water sports team at your service. Kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, snorkeling, big tube floats are all available.
• The Red Lane Spa is incredible. The spa offers several different services. There is a complimentary steam room, sauna, hot tub, plunge pool, and refreshments. The spa facility is beautiful and relaxing.
• The gym and fitness center is top notch.Nightly entertainment is amazing. The variety shows, talent shows and games are very enjoyable. There is something different every night.
• Fire pits and seating in the bayside area is awesome.
• The Grounds are immaculate and beautifully maintained. The garden tour is phenomenal.
• No tipping policy is great.

The common complaints about Sandals South Coast:

• There isn’t much to do nearby the resort
• The resort is large and you may have to walk quite a bit, especially from the French Village
• The snorkeling is average at best
• The ride from the airport takes approximately 90 minutes. The roads are curvy and bumpy at times. If you have a tendency to get motion sickness, or, you  do not wish to experience the 90 minute ride from the airport, the Island Hopper is available.  For an additional fee a helicopter can take you to and from the resort.
• Seaweed is excessive at times. The beaches are raked and cleaned daily.
• The ocean floor is rocky and has a lot of seaweed in places.  It is easy to step on rocks or the sea urchins hiding in the seaweed.   Wear water shoes.
• The no-see-ums and mosquitos come out toward the evening. Bring bug spray.
• Wi Fi can be hit or miss.

Temporary (Updated 6/20/2017):

• Construction on the over-the-water bungalows (near the French Village) is on-going. Some views are interrupted by the crane.  There is some noise (not excessive)….and the fencing prohibits any long beach walks.

Other considerations and reviews:

• Most feel the rooms are excellent, but not all rooms have the same quality view, and some guests are expecting larger rooms
• The resort is not noted for its entertainment, and some guests feel it is a little sedate
• Sandals has an arrival lounge at the airport. Their goal is that you will not wait in the lounge for more than 15-20 minutes before being taken to the resort. However, there is no departure lounge for Sandals. Quests recommend Club Mo Bay, $80.00/person. You are fast tracked through immigration, and their guest lounge is available to you with food and drinks provided.
• Guests recommend upgrading to club level or butler service. The amenities are well worth the extra money.
• There is a newsletter every night of what activities are going on the next day so you can plan your day accordingly.
• The resort’s location is remote. If you are looking to party and shop with the locals. This may not be the place for you. It basically sits alone on a beautiful quiet beach. You will not hear any traffic or planes overhead.
• Review the resort map before you decide which area to stay in. Close to the large pool or small pool, close to the dining, etc.
• The Italian Village is going through renovations and is not currently open to guests until December 2016.
• If you are looking for a relaxing, beautiful island atmosphere with something for everyone, this may be the place for you.

2.  Sandals Royal Plantation- Jamaica

Understated elegance and exquisitely private, this is Sandals Royal Plantation – an intimate all-butler resort of just 74 ocean view suites tucked into a magnificent coral bluff. You can spend your days lazing by the pool with cool libations delivered right to you by a beach butler. You can also tee off at nearby Sandals Golf & Country Club.

Traveler Reviews – Sandals Royal Plantation

What people love about Sandals Royal Plantation

• This is an all butler resort and most of the butlers are very good
• The Staff are outstanding! They go out of their way to make sure your every need is taken care of promptly, professionally, and with kindness.
• Couples are assigned two Butlers.  Guests are provided with a cell phone so they are able to  reach their Butlers when needed.  The Butlers attention to detail is exceptional and truly enhances the guests experience.
• The Food is very delicious!    There are three restaurants to choose from.  The Terrace, The Royal Grill, which serves lunch and dinner along the beach, and LePapillon which has a French menu.
• Tea time is professionally done.  White table clothes and napkins, three tier plates with sandwiches, pastries and scones is a treat to look forward to everyday at four o’clock.
• The Rooms are spacious, clean, and, well appointed. The beds are comfortable.  All rooms have a fabulous view of the ocean.
• There are two small beach areas.  The water is clear and the sand is firm. There are no rocks on the ocean floor.
• There are plenty of beach loungers and umbrellas available.
• The Beach Butlers cater to your every need.  You are never without something to drink.
• The water sports are a lot of fun, sailing, kayaks, paddle boarding, etc.
• The pool is small with plenty of loungers.
• The plunge pool filled with cool water is very refreshing.
• An air conditioned game room with a pool table, lots of games, back gamma, etc. is enjoyable.
• Two tennis courts with a tennis pro available.  The courts are in excellent condition.
• The Spa is very relaxing, offering great massages and treatments.
• Nightly music and entertainment is a lot of fun. It makes guests want to get up to dance and sing.
• There are two bars.  Drinks are made from high quality alcohol.  The Wobbly Peacock is an evening favorite..
• The grounds are beautiful and immaculate.  Peacocks roam the property freely.
• The real advantage to staying at the Royal Plantation is that guests have access to the other nearby Sandals Resort (Ochi), it’s restaurants and amenities.  But, guests from the other Sandals do not have access to the Royal Plantation, which maintains the relaxing elegant atmosphere of Royal Plantation.  The shuttle service to and from the resorts is great.
• Wonderful views (all rooms have ocean views) and grounds.  Beautiful beaches, though small.
• Golf – Nearby course that is well maintained
• Pool is heated in winter – not common at most resorts

3. Sandals Negril – Jamaica

One of the most popular of Sandals resorts, Sandals Negril is set on one of the longest and best stretch of Negril’s famous Seven-Mile Beach. Sandals Negril Resort is close to shopping and lies in the midst of great night life and tourist attractions like Rick’s Cafe and Margaritaville.

• The Staff are friendly and accommodating.  They provide everything you need to make sure your stay is memorable.
• The Food is delicious and of a high quality.  Kimonos is a favorite.
• The Rooms are gorgeous, clean and comfortable.  The beds are comfortable and the bed linens are very nice.  The mini frig is restocked daily.  The views are breathtaking.
• The Swim up Suites are amazing.
• Many guests highly recommend the Butler service.
• The pools are nice.  Guest can swim around the clock.  The main pool always has some fun activity going on.  There is not a problem finding lounge chairs.
• The Hot Tub is great.
• The Beach is beautiful.  The staff are always working to keep it in perfect condition.  Guests are able to take long walks along the legendary seven mile beach, or, relax on the floating islands and rafts.
• The Water Sports and team are great.  Kayaks, paddle boarding and aqua trikes, etc. are available for the guests enjoyment.
• There are plenty of daily activities to keep you entertained throughout the day, trivia, volleyball, pool parties, ping pong, corn hole, etc..
• The nightly entertainment is a lot of fun.  The staff is very good at getting spectators involved and energized.
• Photographers continuously roam the property taking pictures of the guests.  They are professional and fun.
• The Spa is nice.  The couples massage is very relaxing.
• The Captain and Dive team are first class.  The boat is  immaculately clean and well maintained.  There is great attention to detail in regard to safety and welfare.
• The Gym is clean and well equipped. The Fitness coordinator is great.  Classes range from yoga to circuit training.
• The bars are fun.  The drinks served are top shelf.
• The gift shop has a lot to choose from.
• The property and grounds are beautiful and well maintained.

• There is construction and renovations going on at the resort at this time.
• There are sections in the water which have lots of sea grass.
• Many cats roam the property.
• There are a few guests that did not believe the butler service was worth the extra money.
• Guests leave their towels on the beach loungers and chairs, which tie them up all day.
• Wi Fi connection is sporadic.

• This is not a huge resort.  Guests are able to find their way around quickly.
• Local crafters set up their goods along the sidewalk by the beach.   They are not pushy.  Most have good prices, some, you may want to haggle with.
• Locals peddle their wares along the beach.  The security guards follow them at all times.  But, don’t be surprised if someone offers to sell you drugs everyday.
• Security continuously patrols the beach to make sure guests feel comfortable.
• The intimate feel of Sandals Negril with it’s numerous activities and areas of relaxation appeal to a multitude of couples.

4. Sandals Ochi Beach Resort

Recently renovated, this resort offers two resort experiences in one, spanning the lush foothills of the St. Ann Mountains on the Manor side, down to Jamaica’s most sought-after stretch of coastline on the Caribbean Riviera side. It is closer to the sea than any other resort in the area.

What people love about Sandals Ochi Beach Resort:

• The Resort has recently been renovated.  Everything is updated and new.
• The property is beautiful and the grounds are meticulous.  The staff are always working to make it picture perfect.
• The Staff are friendly and very accommodating.
• There are several restaurants to choose from.  The food is good to very delicious.  The service is good.  You can spend a week at the resort and not eat at every restaurant.
• The Rooms are beautifully decorated, clean and comfortable. Beds and pillows are comfortable. The fridge is restocked daily.
• There are several pools.  They are clean and are as beautiful as they appear in the pictures.  Some pools are more active than others.  There is a pool to fit every mood.
• Chairs and umbrellas are plentiful.
• The beach is small but beautiful. There are floats with cup holders in the water to lounge on.
• There are plenty of beach chairs available.
• The Water Sports and the Water Sports Team are great.  Paddle boarding, snorkeling, kayaking, hobie cats, etc. are available.
• Entertainment is good.  There is something to look forward to every evening.
• The Rabbit Hole is a favorite.  You need a secret password to enter.
• The piano bar is a lot of fun.  There are singing books available so everyone can join in.
• Entertainment is always going on during the day.  You wish you could be two places at one time.
• The Bars are nice.  The bartenders are generous with the rum.
• The White Chocolate Party is a must.
• The Spa is excellent.  The massages are amazing.
• The Gym is nice, clean, and has great equipment.
• Movies are played outside almost every night.  They put out large bean bag chairs and lounge chairs. Popcorn and nachos are served.
• There are so many activities at the Ochi Resort that you do not need to leave the property.  There is a shuffleboard area, tennis courts, a life size chess board, ping pong, pool tables, etc., or, there are  hammocks, and lazy swings assorted throughout the resort.  There is something for everyone.

The common complaints about Sandals Ochi Beach Resort:

• Long ride from the airport (2 hours)
• Although there is golf, it is not free when you consider the caddy and other charges.
•  It is approximately a 90 minute ride to and from the airport.
• The Resort is Huge.  There are a lot of stars and walking.  If you have mobility problems this may not be the resort for you.
• The Butler service can be hit or miss. Some guests rave about the butler service, and, some guest say, do not waste your money.
• The beach is small so do not expect long walks along the beach.
• The resort has a no tipping policy.  Some guests felt that tipping was expected, and, that if you do, you are definitely taken care of.

Other things to note:

• Again, the Resort is huge!
• There are two sections to this resort, split by a semi-busy road.  The ocean side is where most of the action and activities are.  Some of the rooms close to the entertainment can be noisy.
• The Butler Village side is more relaxing and quiet.  Make sure you know what your preferences are before booking a room.
• The Hop takes you to and from either side of the resort and circulates every 10 minutes.
• There are Cabanas available all over the resort.  There is an extra charge to use them.
• By the beach is a new addition called the Treehouse.  It is an awesome way to find some shade, privacy, and, it has a fantastic view.
• If you are looking for a resort that is more upbeat and want to have some fun, that is couples focused, with numerous dining and entertainment options, has good food, good drinks and a good staff, this may be the resort for you.

5. Sandals Montego Bay – Jamaica

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The original Sandals, this resort is set on Jamaica’s longest private white-sand beach. Originally the Bay Roc Hotel, it was designed by Edward Durrell Stone, one of America’s most famous architects and creator of the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Today, it offers a lively, upbeat scene where the party doesn’t stop until you do.

The Best Attributes of Sandals Montego Bay:

• Nightly entertainment is noted by many guests at this resort
• This resort is noted for its party atmosphere, which most guests liked, while some others did not
• Very friendly staff
• Great beach
• Many guests note the benefits of the multi-resort privilages

The common complaints about Sandals Montego Bay:

• The resort is close to the airport and so plane noise is an issue for some guests
• Because this resort seems to attract a party croud, running out of alchohol is a problem noted by many vacationers
• The problem of drug peddlers is noted by many guests

Features that received mixed reviews (some positive, some negative):

• Some guests note that the rooms are dated
• The pools are a little small and can be chilly in winter

6. Sandals Royal Caribbean – Jamaica

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Situated just outside Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean is an active Sandals destination with plentiful activities.  It is known for it’s private island just a short boat ride away.

This is the Sandals Resort for you if:

• You are looking for a resort with over-the-water bungalows. 
• You are looking for a smaller resort that is easy to navigate.
• You are social. Since the resort is so small, you’ll get to know all of the staff and other guests. 

This probably is NOT the resort for you if:

• You are looking for a “party” resort. Royal Caribbean is more about R&R. 
• You like to take long walks along the beach. The beach at Sandals Royal Caribbean is on the smaller side. 
• You don’t want to hear airplanes taking off and landing during your vacation. Sandals Royal Caribbean is 10 minutes away from the airport. 

What people love about Sandals Royal Caribbean:

• Staff are welcoming and professional. They work hard to ensure that you have a nice stay. 

• Guests said the following staff members provided top-notch service: Warren, Ellis, Dwight, Nigy, Nicole, Shaq, Steve, Akine, Garfield, Elizabeth, Sherrianne, Dwayne, Kemar, Chad, Patrice, Akeem, Danielle, Nicolas, Clayon, Roy. 

• Butlers really add an extra spark to your vacation to make your stay special. 

• The resort is smaller in size. Like a community – very calm, not a ‘party’ resort. 

• Resort is clean and well-maintained. Landscaping is beautiful – there are tropical flowers everywhere. It seems easy to navigate. 

• Security walks the property 24/7. Guests felt safe. 

• Many guests have said the luxury car transfer to and from the airport was worth the extra money. Makes the transfer trip much more romantic than the 6-8 passenger van. 

• “Club Mobay” upgrade for the airport is highly recommended and makes bag check a much smoother process. 

• Red Lane Spa is very nice and relaxing. Guests recommended the couples massage. Masseuse Alicia gives a great deep tissue massage. 

• Drinks were great! The bartenders at the swim-up pool were especially funny and entertaining. 

• Food is delicious. Guests recommended The Regency, Le Jardinier and Eleanor’s. Private dinner in a gazebo over the ocean is said to be incredible. Cricketers Pub is fun for a late night snack. 

• Guests liked that they were able to visit close-by Sandals resorts – Sandals Montego Bay & Sandals Inn.  The “stay at 1, play at 3” experience is a great added bonus. 

• Entertainment was fun – guests agree that Sandals Royal Caribbean has some very talented singers and performers, such as the Silverbirds Steel Drum Band as well as country singer, Billy Joe. 

• This resort has servers on the beach to keep the drinks flowing. 

• Rooms were nicely appointed and clean. The in-room bars contained soft drinks, water, beer and wine – and was refilled daily. 

• The beds are soft and comfortable with nice linens. 

• The pools are enjoyable and clean. The main pool is where all the activities are located, but if you want a quieter experience – try the South or East Pools. There is said to be a good mix of sun and shade at each pool. 

• Guests felt that the Cabanas on the beach were worth the extra money. It made for a more relaxing day. 

• The private island is gorgeous and has a nice set-up. There is a swim-up bar and lunch available at the Jerk Shack. 

• The beach is quaint and clean.  

• There are plenty of land and sea activities to get involved including volleyball, lawn chess, bocce ball, tennis, billiards, kayaking, hobie cats, paddle boarding, snorkeling, tubing, skiing and SCUBA. 

• Excursions add some extra adventure to your vacation. The Dune Buggies as well as the Tubing/Sunset tours are recommended. 

• Sandals Royal Caribbean is a wonderful place for a wedding. The wedding planners handle everything. They go above and beyond to make your day special. 

Reviews are mostly positive, but when people complain about Sandals Royal Caribbean, they say this:

• The beach is smaller than guests were expecting. 

• Airplanes frequently fly overhead (not during sleeping hours) and are noisy. 

• The rooms and bathrooms could be updated. Some guests felt that furnishings/décor seemed dated. 

• Beach and pool loungers are all reserved by 7:30 am, which made it difficult for non-butler guests to find chairs if they didn’t wake up early.

• Local vendors on the beach trying to sell you things can be annoying when you’re trying to relax. 

• If you leave windows/ doors open to your room, mosquitos and bugs will get inside. 
• Some guests felt that the private island wasn’t too special and it seemed crowded. A few guests mentioned they wished the private island had more food options than just the Jerk Shack. 

• A few guests had problems with having to change rooms because the room type they booked online wasn’t available when they arrived. 

• Some of the crystal lagoon rooms have an obstructed view due to large vegetation.  

• Guests stated that the bathroom floors in some of the rooms flood when you take a shower. 

• The fitness center is said to be dated and needs its equipment updated. 

• You have to ask for premium brand alcohol when they make your drinks (or else you get the cheap alcohol).

• Photo packages are too expensive. 

• Even though Sandals doesn’t allow tipping, there were a few staff members that hinted strongly for tips and it made some guests uncomfortable. 

Other considerations:

• Upon arrival, you’ll proceed to the Sandals desk or lounge, conveniently located at Sangster International Airport, just 10 minutes away from the resort. Your complimentary transfer to and from the resort will be arranged by Sandals.
• Note: A departure tax is to be paid in cash upon leaving the airport if not included in airline ticket.
• In 2017, Sandals Royal Caribbean introduced brand new over-the-water bungalows. Previous guests have mentioned that they are cozy, relaxing, quiet, clean and private.
• Resort has a dress code: Resort casual by day, resort elegant by night.
• There are 8 restaurants at Sandals Royal Caribbean and 15 additional options at nearby resorts. Reservations are required for: Royal Thai, Le Jardinier (Royal Caribbean); Oleander Room, Cucina Romana, Butch’s (Montego Bay); Carlyle (Sandals Inn).  It is suggested that guests should make dining reservations upon arrival – reservations fill up quickly! 
• Age demographic of guests at this resort skews older (~ 45+). 
• There are 12 buildings/accommodation areas at this resort. It is reported that the Kensington Building overlooks a pool and ocean. The lagoon rooms have a pool, sunning area and a garden view… know your room-view preferences before booking!  
• Most public areas of this resort and all of the rooms have Wi-Fi coverage. Instant access to the Internet may be obtained by simply connecting to the network.
• Guests will receive a copy of the “Footprints” newsletter each evening outlining the next day’s activities, so you can plan your day. 
• Previous guests recommend having cash on hand to tip excursion tour guides. 
• There is an exchange bureau at Sandals Royal Caribbean. The Jamaican Dollar is the legal tender in Jamaica. Most merchants do accept U.S. Dollars, traveler’s cheques and major credit cards.
• Electricity: 110 volts, 60 cycles in Jamaica. But don’t worry about bringing your hair dryers; they’re already provided in every room.
• Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island has a gift shop with souvenirs, perfume, tobacco and sundries. Duty-free shopping is available on all islands and at the airport.

7. CLOSED – Sandals Inn – Jamaica

Located in Montego Bay, Sandals Inn was the smallest of the Sandals resorts with only 52 rooms.  This resort was a good way to get the Sandals experience without the big price tag – especially if you utilized the nearby Sandals resorts.  There are no plans to reopen this resort.

The Best Attributes of Sandals Carlyle:

• Most guest note the very friendly staff at this resort
• Because this is one of the cheaper Sandals resorts, many guest like the ability to utilize the facilities at the other nearby Sandals resorts

The common complaints about Sandals Carlyle:

• The resort is on a very busy street that can be noisy into the night – room selection will impact this as well.
• The beach is very small and is across a small road from the resort – it is also public and sometimes crowded with locals
• There is less entertainment at this resort than most guest expect

Features that received mixed reviews (some positive, some negative):

• The rooms are hit or miss for many guests

CLOSED – Sandals Dunn’s River Villaggio – Jamaica