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      7 Best Sandals All-Inclusive Resorts in Jamaica — Top Sandals’ Hotels for Your Jamaica Trip in 2024

      Holly Riddle
      Best Sandals Resorts in Jamaica

      Jamaica is an undoubtedly popular destination for travelers seeking a convenient Caribbean getaway. This is because the island is accessible via a large number of affordable flights, from all over the United States. Additionally, there are tons of resorts to pick from, including lots of all-inclusive and adult-only resorts. In other words, if it’s a convenient, minimal-planning-needed trip you want, you’ve found it in Jamaica.

      And what is generally one of the more popular resort chains you’ll spot on the island? It’s Sandals. The well-known name in couples’ resort experiences boasts seven different resorts in Jamaica so far. So, with so many options, how do you pick the best one for you and your other half? 

       Here’s everything you need to know about Sandals’ all-inclusive, couples-only resorts in Jamaica. 

       1. Sandals Dunn’s River

      Sandals Dunn's River

      sandals.com

      The most important thing to know about Sandals Dunn’s River is that it’s not open yet. Instead, the luxury resort opens in May 2023, but you can book your trip now, so long as your arrival dates fall after May 24. 

      When it opens, the resort will offer a secluded location on Jamaica’s north coast, near some of the island’s most gorgeous natural settings. To highlight these natural settings, the resort will boast a nature-inspired design that’s intended to complement the environment, rather than interrupt it.

      The resort will also be home to Jamaica’s first Sandals SkyPool Suites, a type of suite that offers balcony-set pools, for a private dip with a view. The resort will also offer first-of-their-kind Coyaba Sky Rondoval villas, which will provide couples with extra privacy, lots of outdoor living space, huge rooftop terraces, and oversized private pools. 

      Pros: This resort is going to be brand-new when it opens, offering some features you won’t find at other Sandals resorts in Jamaica.

      Cons: If you were hoping for a winter 2022-2023 getaway, you’ll have to look elsewhere, as this resort isn’t open until May 2023.  

      Audience: Luxury travelers who want lots to do during their stay

      Inclusions: Dining, liquor, in-room bar, scuba diving, snorkeling, water sports, entertainment, taxes and gratuities, WiFi, golf green fees, wedding services 

      Parking Fees: No!

      Restaurant Reservations Needed: Only at some restaurants 

      Number of Restaurants: 12

      Number of Pools: 7

      Airport Shuttle: Yes!

      Address: Mammee Bay Rd, Ocho Rios, Jamaica

      Phone Number: 888 726 3257

      Click Here to See All of Sandals Dunn’s River’s Room Options

      The Vacationer Tip

      If you are open to other resorts beyond Sandals, read our Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Jamaica guide.

      2. Sandals Montego Bay

      Sandals Montego Bay

      sandals.com

      Sandals Montego Bay’s reputation undoubtedly precedes it. As the very first Sandals all-inclusive resort, this property has been around for a while, raking in awards and accolades. In addition to being highly revered for its luxury, and as a destination wedding option, the property also boasts the largest exclusive beach in Jamaica. Furthermore, it’s designed with play in mind and offers lots of ways to have fun and be active. The resort also is conveniently located, so once you fly in, there’s not a lot of driving around the island to get to your resort (because who wants to be stuck in the back of a car — even if the transfer is free — after you’ve been stuck in a plane seat for hours?). 

      Pros: This award-winning resort is conveniently located and also offers one of the best beaches in Jamaica.

      Cons: Because Sandals Montego Bay was essentially the Sandals resort that started it all, it is on the older side. If you want a brand-new resort experience, you might want to consider the new Sandals Dunn’s River instead. 

      Audience: Active couples who want a full itinerary 

      Inclusions: Dining, liquor, in-room bar, scuba diving, snorkeling, water sports, entertainment, taxes and gratuities, WiFi, golf green fees, wedding services 

      Parking Fees: No!

      Restaurant Reservations Needed: Only at some restaurants 

      Number of Restaurants: 12

      Number of Pools: 7

      Airport Shuttle: Yes!

      Address: Kent Ave, Montego Bay, Jamaica

      Phone Number: 888 726 3257 

      Click Here to See All of Sandals Montego Bay’s Room Options

      3. Sandals Royal Caribbean

      Sandals Royal Caribbean

      sandals.com

      Just glimpse a photo of Sandals Royal Caribbean and you may think you’re looking at a high-price, remote resort in the Maldives, rather than a Caribbean resort that’s easily accessible via a quick flight from the States. That’s because Sandals Royal Caribbean is home to the Caribbean’s very first over-water bungalows and villas. You can, as a result, relax in your villa in luxury, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. 

      However, if the over-water bungalow thing isn’t your preference, this resort offers other all-inclusive options, too. For example, it also has a British-style Great House, a style that’s popular with boutique luxury resorts throughout the Caribbean. The resort also offers a private island. 

      You get all this just a short drive from the airport, additionally, as this property is located in Montego Bay. 

      Pros: For an overwater bungalow, look no further. 

      Cons: Undeniably, the main attraction here is the setting. Travelers are invited to kick back and relax in their villa and on the private island, or in the refined Great House. However, you’re not going to find endless ways to party. 

      Audience: Travelers who just want to relax 

      Inclusions: Dining, liquor, in-room bar, scuba diving, snorkeling, water sports, entertainment, taxes and gratuities, WiFi, golf green fees, wedding services 

      Parking Fees: No!

      Restaurant Reservations Needed: Only at some restaurants 

      Number of Restaurants: 9

      Number of Pools: 8

      Airport Shuttle: Yes!

      Address: Mahoe Cl, Montego Bay, Jamaica 

      Phone Number: 888 726 3257 

      Click Here to See All of Sandals Royal Caribbean’s Room Options

      4. Sandals Negril

      Sandals Negril

      sandals.com

      Negril is known as one of the most beautiful spots in all of Jamaica, and that’s unquestionably what makes this Sandals property stand out. Negril is known to have better beaches than the more popular Montego Bay, while also being less crowded. 

      However, as for the property itself, Sandals Negril sits on the famously picturesque Seven Mile Beach and claims the longest, “best” part of the beach for its guests. Just like with Sandals Royal Caribbean, the setting is the star of the show at Sandals Negril, but you’ll still find plenty to do and enjoy, whether you’re a couple craving some relaxation or an adventuring couple that needs a steady stream of activities to fill your itinerary.  

      Pros: This property is located in one of the most coveted spots in all of Jamaica.  

      Cons: If you’re looking for a party atmosphere or a location that’s close to the airport, then this might not be the best fit for you. 

      Audience: Travelers who want location, location, location  

      Inclusions: Dining, liquor, in-room bar, scuba diving, snorkeling, water sports, entertainment, taxes and gratuities, WiFi, golf green fees, wedding services 

      Parking Fees: No!

      Restaurant Reservations Needed: Only at some restaurants 

      Number of Restaurants: 7

      Number of Pools:

      Airport Shuttle: Yes! 

      Address: Norman Manley Blvd, Negril, Jamaica

      Phone Number: 888 726 3257

      Click Here to See All of Sandals Negril’s Room Options

      5. Sandals South Coast

      Sandals South Coast

      sandals.com

      Sandals South Coast is (obviously) on Jamaica’s South Coast, but, beyond this, the award-winning property, which is also one of the largest in Jamaica, has been specifically designed to take advantage of the coastline. You’re going to find over-the-water bungalows, an over-the-water wedding chapel, a beachfront village with swim-up suites, and more. The resort additionally offers two miles of beach.

      However, for all its love for the water, you won’t find as many pools here as you will at some of the other Sandals resorts on the island. Sandals South Coast only has three beachfront pools, plus one other, somewhat surprisingly and unlike its fellow resorts.

      Pros: This property is one of the largest in Jamaica, with a private two-mile beach and lots of different accommodations options simultaneously. 

      Cons: The property is a little bit out of the way and there’s a relaxation vibe here, unlike the active, playful, fun, and youthful vibe you might find at some of the other Sandals properties in Jamaica. 

      Audience: Travelers who want to kick back and relax in luxury on an uncrowded beach  

      Inclusions: Dining, liquor, in-room bar, scuba diving, snorkeling, water sports, entertainment, taxes and gratuities, WiFi, golf green fees, wedding services 

      Parking Fees: No! 

      Restaurant Reservations Needed: Only at some restaurants  

      Number of Restaurants: 9

      Number of Pools: 4

      Airport Shuttle: Yes!

      Address: White House, Jamaica

      Phone Number: 888 726 3257

      Click Here to See All of Sandals South Coast’s Room Options

      6. Sandals Ochi

      Sandals Ochi

      sandals.com

      Firstly, Sandals Ochi is a gorgeous property with a lot to offer. Sandals Ochi is a bit out of the way, further from the airport than some of Sandals’ other Jamaican properties, but its location allows it to blend Jamaica’s beachside and rainforest side near-effortlessly, to create a one-of-a-kind destination in itself. Plus, beyond all the normal all-inclusive resort fare — like multiple pools, a spa, beach, water sports, and etcetera — the resort also goes above and beyond by offering an 18-hole golf course, an impressive number of restaurants, and an impressive number of bars (including what Sandals calls the Caribbean’s first speakeasy). 

      Pros: This property has a little bit of it all, all in one space, and a lot of it, with attention to luxury. Accordingly, you’ll be hard-pressed to find yourself bored or unsatisfied here.

      Cons: The property is out of the way, so expect a longer trek from the airport.

      Audience: Luxury travelers who want to party for part of the time, even if they want to relax for the rest of the time

      Inclusions: Dining, liquor, in-room bar, scuba diving, snorkeling, water sports, entertainment, taxes and gratuities, WiFi, golf green fees, wedding services 

      Parking Fees: No!

      Restaurant Reservations Needed: Only at some restaurants  

      Number of Restaurants: 16 (plus 11 bars)

      Number of Pools: 105 (plus 22 whirlpools)

      Airport Shuttle: Yes!

      Address: 130-131 Main St, Ocho Rios, Jamaica

      Phone Number: 888 726 3257

      Click Here to See All of Sandals Ochi’s Room Options

      7. Sandals Royal Plantation

      Sandals Royal Plantation

      sandals.com

      If you’re looking at all of the above Sandals properties and just thinking that they’re a little too large for your tastes, consider our last of the seven Sandals properties in Jamaica: Sandals Royal Plantation. This intimate resort encompasses less than 75 guest rooms and all are suites, all are ocean view and all come with butler service. This is the place to go for pampering, exclusivity, and a boutique feel, unlike what you’ll typically find with a big, well-known brand like Sandals. 

      Pros: This property is undoubtedly your place to go for an intimate, ultra-luxury experience. 

      Cons: The property is located in Ocho Rios, so it’s a bit out of the way. It also has a very luxurious, upscale, and relaxing vibe, so if you want to party, you might want to go to neighboring Sandals Ochi. Additionally, because the property is so small, you won’t have the same wide number of restaurants and pools that you would at another Sandals resort.

      Audience: Luxury travelers who especially want to be pampered in an intimate environment 

      Inclusions: Dining, liquor, in-room bar, scuba diving, snorkeling, water sports, entertainment, taxes and gratuities, WiFi, golf green fees, wedding services 

      Parking Fees: No!

      Restaurant Reservations Needed: Only at some restaurants 

      Number of Restaurants:

      Number of Pools: 2

      Airport Shuttle: Yes!

      Address: Main St, Ocho Rios, Jamaica

      Phone Number: 888 726 3257

      Click Here to See All of Sandals Royal Plantation’s Room Options

      A Quick Glance at the Jamaican Sandals Properties 

      PropertyLocationProsConsAudience
      Sandals Dunn’s RiverOcho RiosBrand-new propertyIsn’t open until May 2023Luxury travelers who want lots to do
      Sandals Montego BayMontego BayAward-winning property and convenient locationProperty is on the older side and the location can get crowdedActive travelers
      Sandals Royal CaribbeanMontego BayThree words: over-water bungalowsNot as much to keep you entertained as other propertiesTravelers in search of relaxation
      Sandals NegrilNegrilAwesome locationNot close to the airport, no party atmosphere Travelers specifically looking to stay in Negril
      Sandals South CoastWhitehouseVery large resort with lots of accommodations optionsLocation is out of the way and the vibe is more relaxation-focused than fun-focusedTravelers wanting luxury relaxation
      Sandals OchiOcho RiosTons to do, all the time, with lots of restaurants, bars, and poolsLocation is out of the wayTravelers wanting the best of both worlds: relaxation and fun
      Sandals Royal PlantationOcho RiosSmall, all-suite, all-butler service propertyA smaller property equals fewer restaurants, pools, etc. Travelers who want luxury pampering and no crowds

      Are There Other Options?

      It’s worth noting again that all of the above Sandals resorts in Jamaica are adults-only and geared toward couples. However, that doesn’t mean that you’re out of luck if you want to stay at a Sandals-esque property but you’re traveling with the kids in tow. Beaches by Sandals is the company’s family-friendly brand that provides much of the same experiences, just with a family-geared slant. There are two Beaches by Sandals resorts in Jamaica, Beaches Negril, and Beaches Ocho Rios.

      FAQ

      Are Sandals Jamaica resorts couples only?

      Yes, all Sandals properties are couples and adults-only.

      How many Sandals resorts are in Jamaica?

      There are seven total Sandals resorts in Jamaica, with the newest and latest opening in May 2023.

      Are Sandals resorts luxurious?

      Yes, most Sandals resorts are rated as either 4 or 5-star properties and many offer luxury amenities, such as butler service, and luxurious accommodations including villas and over-water bungalows.

      Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. 

      Holly Riddle Headshot

      By Holly Riddle

      Holly Riddle is a freelance travel, food, and lifestyle journalist who also dabbles in ghostwriting and fiction. Her work appears in publications ranging from Global Traveler to Golf Magazine, Mashed to Forbes, and Bloomberg. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring the mountains near her home in the Adirondacks. Her favorite travel destinations include Chicago and New Orleans.