Jamaica is one of the biggest islands in the Great Antilles and the Caribbean. It offers several accommodation options, making it tough to choose what’s best for your upcoming vacation. For an excellent all-inclusive resort experience, book your stay at the best Sandals resort in Jamaica.
With a presence in the most beautiful parts of the island, any Sandals Resorts will give you a memorable Caribbean holiday in Jamaica.
This was a recharge trip for me and my husband celebrating a lat 16 year anniversary. The staff was courteous and loads of fun. Ray by day and Party by night took me by storm great guy lovely singer. His…
This was a recharge trip for me and my husband celebrating a lat 16 year anniversary. The staff was courteous and loads of fun. Ray by day and Party by night took me by storm great guy lovely singer. His counterparts Ormando and Rebbecca great dancers and fabulous attitudes. Singer Alicia awesome voice and Conrad I adored he entertained us with his Witt and charm. Tawana was a hostest at several of the restaurants her smile was infectious and we adored her. I love sandals service is always top notch food, service and staff gets a 10. Oh I forgot Tanny!!! Our pottery instructor he was the best so patient with us. Yes please go visit Dunns Sandals we loved it.
16 years Anniversary 2nd Sandals visit.
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7_ch_3
July 20, 2025
A Truly Unforgettable Stay at Sandals Dunn’s River
We recently returned from an incredible stay at Sandals Dunn’s River, and it was everything we hoped for and more. Our stay was 7/7/25-7/17/25. We stayed in Room 2318 in the Mammee building, which offered spectacular views. Waking up to…
We recently returned from an incredible stay at Sandals Dunn’s River, and it was everything we hoped for and more. Our stay was 7/7/25-7/17/25.
We stayed in Room 2318 in the Mammee building, which offered spectacular views. Waking up to that scenery every morning was pure paradise.
The dining options were fantastic! One of our favorites was Zuka, especially their amazing surf and turf. At both Banyu and the French restaurant, King was incredibly kind and attentive—his genuine hospitality really stood out.
Our butlers, Rocky and Patrian, went above and beyond throughout our stay. A special thank-you to Rocky for recreating a special drink I’ve enjoyed at other Sandals resorts, even though it wasn’t on the menu here—talk about personalized service!
We also fell in love with the Dunns Rum Club—it became one of our go-to spots. Shout out to Jashane, whose warm smile and attentive service made every visit a joy.
For anyone looking to unwind, go see Tashieka at the Red Lane Spa! She gave me the best facial and most relaxing massage I’ve ever had—hands down.
At the swim-up bar, Andre and Ajay kept the drinks flowing and the vibes high all week with their fun personalities and top-notch service.
We also loved the thoughtful touches around the resort—like the morning performances by the violinist and saxophone players, which added a beautiful and relaxing ambiance to start our days.
Overall, Sandals Dunn’s River is absolutely stunning, and it has officially become one of our favorite Sandals properties. From the exceptional service to the relaxing atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, everything was top-tier. We’re already dreaming about our return!
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Jessicawjones
July 19, 2025
The resort is STUNNING! From the beach, to the pools, to the rooms- it’s all incredible. No wonder it’s called a Sandals 2.0. The biggest part of the experience is the INCREDIBLE STAFF! From the moment we got there we…
The resort is STUNNING! From the beach, to the pools, to the rooms- it’s all incredible. No wonder it’s called a Sandals 2.0.
The biggest part of the experience is the INCREDIBLE STAFF! From the moment we got there we were treated like royalty from every person we encountered.
Although all the team members were incredible- A few went above and beyond so I’d like to mention them specifically:
•Mark at the pool bar is so friendly and welcoming. He’s prompt and always serves with a smile!
•Rebecca with the playmaker team- she’s so sweet and has such a great personality! She made sure we had fun and treated us like dear friends. We truly enjoyed meeting her and looked forward to seeing her during the day and evenings because she would always greet us with a smile and a hug!
•Donovan at the plaza bar is so much fun! He took care of our party group each night!
•Asley at the bar in front of Banyu is SO sweet! She took care of us at night and made sure we didn’t want for anything. We felt like we were family by the way she was checking in on us and providing us with top-shelf service!
•Jashane at the Rum Club is an absolute asset to the resort and made our night fabulous! He taught us Caribbean dances and kept us laughing!
•King one of the dinner managers is so personable and friendly. You can genuinely tell he loves his job. He surprised my husband with a Japanese beer and even poured it for him. He also checked in with us every time we dined in one of the restaurants he was working at.
•Tonishae at banyu was professional and prompt. We enjoyed dining with him.
•Mario at Plaza Bar is so friendly and welcoming. We chatted with him for a while and it was a joy!
•Trudy Ann with Guest Experiences handled an issue our friends were having and called us a few times to check in. We appreciated the follow-through and attentiveness.
•Carnel with Sales- INCREDIBLE
They are all assets and really make the experience a great one!
Looking forward to visiting again in the future!
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Fivelittleducks
July 19, 2025
Love Sandals Dunn’s River
Truly a special resort with employees that make you feel like family. Shout out to the following employees for exceptional service … StacyAnn from Club Sandals (and her boss Ashley) who ensured our room was perfect and always goes above…
Truly a special resort with employees that make you feel like family. Shout out to the following employees for exceptional service …
StacyAnn from Club Sandals (and her boss Ashley) who ensured our room was perfect and always goes above and beyond to ensure our stay is excellent.
Paul (bell hop service) who upon arrival remembered us by name and that we like an extra luggage rack and had one in our room prior to our arrival.
Salvatore, Manager of Cascata, works so hard to endure his restaurant is welcoming, personally made us affogatos, and introduced us to other yummy specials in his restaurant.
King, Manager of Banyu, made sure we were also taken care of with his personalized service.
Romaine, a very wonderful server at L’Amande.
This year, we met Jahvoy who made the best breakfast mimosas at Edessa and also personally made us his favorite version of a Jamaican patty for lunch one day!
Seriously, all of the employees are so friendly and do their best to make our stay memorable. Thank you Sandals Dunn’s River for another amazing trip!
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W1798TAbrendah
July 19, 2025
Exceptional Service
Me and the hubby ate at Salitare for Breakfast . Been here for five days so far and I’ve noticed I’ve seen no Callaloo! We’ve been coming to Jamaica for years and I love it! So I asked Anita who…
Me and the hubby ate at Salitare for Breakfast . Been here for five days so far and I’ve noticed I’ve seen no Callaloo! We’ve been coming to Jamaica for years and I love it! So I asked Anita who was making the omelettes , which are Amazing! That sweet girl went above and beyond and had the Chef make me some! It was delicious . The staff here is exceptional! Thanks Anita , she’s a keeper! But Callaloo is definitely a staple in Jamaica and I think it should be served on buffet especially lunch on Jamaican day or at breakfast! Keep up the great work Sandals Dunns🇯🇲
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The newest and most innovative Sandals resort in Jamaica
First-ever SkyPool Suites and Sky Villa Rondovals in Jamaica
Nature-inspired design with easy access to Dunn’s River Falls
Full exchange privileges with nearby Sandals Ochi
What To Expect Sandals Dunn’s River is a fully reimagined beachfront haven located on Jamaica’s north coast. The resort embraces the island’s natural beauty, blending modern design with lush surroundings. Guests will experience a new level of luxury with rooftop hideaways, Skypool Suites, and signature soaking tubs. All-inclusive experiences are seamlessly paired with the legendary nearby Dunn’s River Falls and full access to Sandals Ochi.
Pros and Cons The Pros
Brand new, cutting-edge accommodations
Unique nature-forward setting
Exclusive exchange privileges with Sandals Ochi
Great for couples wanting luxury and excursions
The Cons
Newer resort, so landscaping and vibe are still evolving
1.5 to 2 hour transfer from Montego Bay airport
What Vacation Experiences It Offers From exploring the iconic Dunn’s River Falls to spa treatments and private candlelit dinners, guests can fully immerse in both relaxation and adventure. Add in full access to Sandals Ochi’s amenities and restaurants, and you have a dynamic two-in-one vacation.
Our first trip to Jamaica Royal Plantation was in April 2025 and loved it so much I booked a trip for July 2025. I have never booked a trip to the same place twice (we like to explore new countries…
Our first trip to Jamaica Royal Plantation was in April 2025 and loved it so much I booked a trip for July 2025. I have never booked a trip to the same place twice (we like to explore new countries when we have vacation time).
However, this resort changed my mind. I had to come back to make sure I didn’t imagine the entire stay.
It truly feels like a resort for royalty. Everyone will know your name, food/drink preferences and how you to prefer to relax within the first day. We are low key - my partner likes to read under the patio or sun shade and I like to dip my toes in the pool or ocean.
Every single guest feels valued (it is a small resort so you meet your ‘neighbors’ and have chats at breakfast or lunch). The butlers go above and beyond to make sure you don’t worry about a thing. My shout is to our butlers Anthony and Robert. They never missed an opportunity to make our vacation amazing!
Finally, Omar…the amazing general manger. WOW. I have never met a general manager of any Caribbean resort, and certainly never one that is always present, greeting guests by name (and bringing popsicles to beach - for real!)
I wish I could go back in three months…I think every guest does…but I will DEFINITELY be back within the year.
Yes, it is that good. ❤️
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anglynnhamp
July 17, 2025
Jamaican Paradise
Sandals Royal Plantation has become our little 'Heaven on Earth'. Our first trip there was when we had our 'Weddingmoon' in 2018. We went back in 2024 and again in 2025. We love the quiet, relaxing, and rejuvenating aspects of…
Sandals Royal Plantation has become our little 'Heaven on Earth'. Our first trip there was when we had our 'Weddingmoon' in 2018. We went back in 2024 and again in 2025. We love the quiet, relaxing, and rejuvenating aspects of the resort. Our butlers, Adrian and Alrick, are always so personable and accommodating. The GM, Omar, is so welcoming and has the best memory out of anyone we know. The entertainers, Brandon and Nataki, are wonderful singers and so very sweet to talk to. We thoroughly enjoy getting to know, and chatting with, the waiters, waitresses, and beach butlers. Please do not hesitate to book this resort if you are looking to be pampered and experience a serene vacation!!!
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cherylaV7701DP
July 15, 2025
Do Not Wait to book a trip here!
Do Not Wait to book a trip here! Just got back from this blissfully happy resort and we already booked on site. This is something we have NEVER done before. The GM Omar, will make sure your are well taken…
Do Not Wait to book a trip here! Just got back from this blissfully happy resort and we already booked on site. This is something we have NEVER done before. The GM Omar, will make sure your are well taken care of! The food is SOOO good you will actually cry, if your lucky enough to have the Private Chef Experience in your room. The Beach is Lovely. The Water is perfect. The Staff Members are exceptional. Our Butlers were absolutely AMAZING 🙂 I booked the outdoor massage, and was treated like a Queen. We were lucky enough to book the Private Villa at this resort and it did not disappoint. Quiet, Relaxing, and Peaceful. 5 star experience.
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ayolask
July 14, 2025
Our little home away from home special gem!
What can we say about Sandals Royal Plantation, aka our home away from home? This place is the best kept secret of the Sandals resort family. It is a small, step filled resort on a hillside that boasts beautiful beach…
What can we say about Sandals Royal Plantation, aka our home away from home? This place is the best kept secret of the Sandals resort family. It is a small, step filled resort on a hillside that boasts beautiful beach views from what I believe is almost every room and sunsets that will take your breath away. The team that operates this gem of a resort is what makes absolutely all the difference. Every single person encountered is absolutely wonderful, kind, and make you feel special. I will be listing some but I am sure I may forget some, and for that I hope I am forgiven.
As you may or may not know, this resort is a butler only resort. We had the wonderful experience of having the dream team combo of Bebeato & Marvin. Just the two kindest, easiest going and sweetest humans. Nothing asked is ever a problem and everything was always delivered with a smile. From the moment they walked us into our awesome room with an AWESOME view, with sweet anniversary greetings, to the moment they had to sadly evict us.
Marlene made sure our room was always clean and turned down by the time we returned. We were so glad we got to at least greet her on our last day.
In terms of food - this place is top notch. I am unsure how many chefs are around that make the culinary magic of this place, but every meal was divine and the service that goes along with it is second to none. We had the wonderful experience of being served by Sherika at the Royal Grille on our last day (because we're spoiled by our butler team who brought us food daily at the beach or to our room), and Deaundre at the Terrace. They made sure every detail and ask was delivered on and then some! The beach butler team made up of the amazing trio that is Daniello, Trevardo and Romaine are simply the best! Daniello even treated us to a sweet surprise to go along with our drinks on our anniversary 🙂 These guys work hard under the Jamaican sun to ensure we all keep our cups filled with a cool beverage.
Not far from the superior food team service, then comes our wonderful bar team. There are not enough words to describe the smiles and fabulous drinks created by the amazing Crocodile, Garnett! But let us of course do a shout out for the amazing Junior & Jahvaine who also ensure your drink is never empty at the bar. And if you choose to sit outside to watch the stars or watch the evening entertainment, the wonderful Treselle is there taking care of you as well.
Which transitions us into the unmatched entertainment team. We LOVE the SRP Entertainment team. This was our first time meeting Marvin and Nataki and we look forward to getting to know them better in future stays. They ensured that we knew what guaranteed line ups we could expect and even prepared us for our New Year's return 🙂 But I can't keep going without letting you know how the mighty King Alex has stolen our hearts! He keeps us all super entertained, has a gorgeous singing voice and is just an overall gem! Brandon has the patience of a saint and is filling the place with smiles and engagement in ways that I haven't seen in any other Sandals property!
And not far from entertainment, but of a different kind, we move to the Water Sports team led by the amazing Fabian. Fabian and Tivawne took us out on a morning escape and there are no words to make this romantic getaway justice. We were able to snorkel around a shipwreck, get a bit of historical lessons in the area and just take in the gorgeous turquoise waters in the area. We got to see SO much sea life and have such great conversations with this fabulous duo. They also were wonderful, along with the other aqua sports team members, in getting kayaks, the hobie cat sails to keep us entertained on the quieter beach 🙂 This team works hard. If not working hard to keep the guests supplied with all of their water sports needs, you would see them out cleaning boats, gear, and so on. We can't wait to hang out with them in the water when we return.
Which I have kept saying...indeed, we are returning. Mahesh and Sequoia will make sure they understand all of your travel needs and provide you an incredible offer to ensure your return to this piece of heaven, or any other Sandals property you wish to check out. The Loyalty team takes the time to know you, your interests and preferences. Simply amazing!
But I would be remiss to say that as a manager myself, I know that this place is as magical as it is due to the leadership of the one and only Omar. Omar is a general manager like no other. He ensures *every single* guests feels seen, known, and welcomed. All it took was a good warm greeting from Omar, requesting that we return and that's all it took. You lead by example, and we see Omar helping his team with anything needed and ensuring that this place remains special. You can probably guarantee our return to the Sandals Royal Plantation for as long as the magic attained by Omar doesn't ever disappear. So for now, it is a can't wait to come back home soon 🙂
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dennisgF4020IV
July 14, 2025
Sandals Royal Plantation's Warm Customer Service
Unfailingly warm and friendly customer service on the part of all team members made all the difference to us, during this relatively short vacation. Our butlers merit special mention, as always. We add the Guest Relations staff, and the massage…
Unfailingly warm and friendly customer service on the part of all team members made all the difference to us, during this relatively short vacation. Our butlers merit special mention, as always. We add the Guest Relations staff, and the massage therapists at the Red Lane Spa. In addition, the Sandals Royal Plantation environment encourages the guests themselves to engage in pleasant interactions, as they meet each other.
Located near Sandals Ochi and Sandals Golf & Country Club
What To Expect
Sandals Royal Plantation is a top-rated resort that guarantees a worry-free stay with their stellar butler service. Its steeped-in-vintage sophistication is matched by its stunning front-row views of the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy the quiet, have a sporty escape at the Sandals Golf & Country Club, or explore more amenities at the nearby Sandals Ochi Resort.
Pros and Cons
The Pros
All-butler property
Uncrowded and intimate
Unrivaled ocean view
Quick access to other Sandals properties and Jamaican gems (like Blue Hole and Dunn’s River Falls)
The Cons
Fewer dining options (though they have the only caviar & champagne bar on the island)
Fewer choices of activities
Rooms are a bit dated
What Vacation Experiences It Offers
Be treated like royalty at this all-butler resort in Ocho Rios. This is a beautiful sanctuary for tourists who want a relaxing and intimate retreat over anything else. You can experience dining under the stars and say goodbye to stress with Red Lane Spa. But if you’re up for an adventure, the resort also arranges tours of the famed Dunn’s River Falls.
Sandals Negril did not disappoint! My happy place!
This was our 6th time to Negril, we had always been to the Beaches, we brought our boys! This time we were going to be just a couple and very excited to see the resort. We stayed in a walkout…
This was our 6th time to Negril, we had always been to the Beaches, we brought our boys!
This time we were going to be just a couple and very excited to see the resort.
We stayed in a walkout room and we were not disappointed! Being able to walk right onto the beach was delightful.
Our service was excellent; Olivia from Bayside and Sundowner, Trishan from Barefoot and Perla, Ashalea from Perla and Barefoot, Arron, Nick, from Barefoot.
Our bartender Chris at the piano bar went overboard with wonderful drinks!
We brought our friends and I had told them how wonderful Negril was and they had a wonderful experience!
Negril is my happy place there is a wonderful feeling in my heart and has been there since I first came here. That was 37 years ago, Negril Jamaica is still that special place for me!
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carolyncK9394MO
July 18, 2025
Absolutely Perfect Honeymoon at Sandals Negril! We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect honeymoon. From the moment we arrived at Sandals Negril, we were blown away by how clean, beautiful, and welcoming everything was. The staff truly goes above…
Absolutely Perfect Honeymoon at Sandals Negril!
We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect honeymoon. From the moment we arrived at Sandals Negril, we were blown away by how clean, beautiful, and welcoming everything was. The staff truly goes above and beyond — they’re not just helpful, they’re warm, friendly, and make you feel like family.
The food was fantastic, the amenities top-notch, and there was always something fun to do. We loved the daily activities and entertainment, from water sports to shows and themed nights. Two of our favorite activities were the sip and paint and bracelet-making classes — we had an absolute blast, and the staff running them made it even better with their energy and humor.
The real highlight of our stay was getting to know the amazing entertainment team. Princess, Briana, Ruth, Odane, Sky, Oniquekio, and of course King James made our trip unforgettable. They truly made us feel like part of the Sandals family. They took time out of their busy schedules to check in on us, hang out, and even came in on their day off just to say goodbye. Their shows were incredible and their energy was contagious — they’re a huge reason we’re already planning to return.
The grounds were immaculately kept, the beach was stunning, and the whole resort had such a relaxing, joyful vibe. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon or just a getaway, I would HIGHLY recommend Sandals Negril. It was an experience we’ll never forget — and we can’t wait to go back!
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JasonG481
July 18, 2025
Thank you for a great vacation!
Just returned from a 6 day/5 night stay; here is my honest review. The ride from Montego Bay to Negril was about 2 hrs. The driver was awesome and made the trip fun. We arrived and since we were club…
Just returned from a 6 day/5 night stay; here is my honest review.
The ride from Montego Bay to Negril was about 2 hrs. The driver was awesome and made the trip fun. We arrived and since we were club level, we went up to the club concierge for check in. The process was very smooth, and we were taken to our room. Unfortunately, we were put in the section of the Paradise building that was being remodeled so our view was 1/2 beautiful beach and 1/2 construction debris. I don't normally ask for a change but did this time, and they were more than accommodating. They relocated us to room 3204 in the Paradise Building and the view was spectacular! Of note, there are only a handful of rooms getting redone at a time. This was the only negative experience, and again, the club concierge staff made it right immediately!
On to the good... the food, drinks, and atmosphere, all absolutely awesome! Each and every staff member we encountered seemed genuinely happy to be there. Most importantly though, Trevolyn (hope that's right) the bartender at Perla was fantastic ( my wife your best friend lol says hi) .. and also Keron (hope that's right as well) the photographer who we saw every day; he was by far my favorite of all the staff and we were truly saddened when we said goodbye ...Even on our last night when we already paid for some really great photos from the resort, he took two amazing shots of my wife and I using her cell phone so we'd be sure to have them. Both are VALUABLE ASSETS to your resort, and should be recognized as such!
Also, the bartenders at the main pool were some of the best I've ever met! I don't have his name but a big thank you to the one who provided the recipe for the Sundowner!
Again, all staff members were fantastic. My wife and I actually said that to ourselves many times, as thats something we've never seen before (and we travel alot). All your employees truly seem to love their jobs.
The beach and pools did the job, and staff at the pool had activities every day. We had a blast!
Not sure why I've read negative reviews as we have nothing but great things to say! This was our first Sandals experience and wont be our last. We just booked Sandals Royal Bahamian for next summer! We will however make plans to come back to Negril. Thank you for an amazing and well needed vacation!
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myersfam5
July 16, 2025
Wonderful!!
We had an amazing trip last week to Sandals Negril. The resort is beautiful and so relaxing. Our room was updated and great as well. The only thing I was a little disappointed in was the food choices, there are…
We had an amazing trip last week to Sandals Negril. The resort is beautiful and so relaxing. Our room was updated and great as well. The only thing I was a little disappointed in was the food choices, there are much less restaurants than other resorts we’ve been to, but the food was great at the restaurants! We just like to have a variety!
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Nomad37375168892
July 11, 2025
Marriage, honeymoon and new family
The atmosphere is beautiful.The beach is peaceful and gorgeous. We love every moment of the resort .big big shout out to king James,Briana ,Ruth, Skyye,lushon they did amazing job .shout out to bartender Dillon. Also shout out to Sasha, O'Neil,Jeffery…
The atmosphere is beautiful.The beach is peaceful and gorgeous. We love every moment of the resort .big big shout out to king James,Briana ,Ruth, Skyye,lushon they did amazing job .shout out to bartender Dillon. Also shout out to Sasha, O'Neil,Jeffery from the photo shop they are amazing. Seluica from the wedding department. We love every single minute with these staff.
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In front of Seven Mile Beach, which is one of the best beaches in Jamaica
Boasts great snorkeling and scuba diving spots
Offers gorgeous sunset views and an overall chic, carefree Caribbean experience
What To Expect
Want to stay in the best Sandals resort in Jamaica with the best beach? Look no further than the Sandals resort nestled in the tropical paradise of Seven Mile Beach. The Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa beachfront accommodation gives you the best access to fun-filled water adventures and awe-inspiring views.
Pros and Cons
The Pros
Location is ideal for beach lovers
Variety of watersports
On-land activities like horseback riding and tennis
World-class dining (has 7 gourmet restaurants)
The Cons
An overall smaller property than other resorts
Properties down the beach can be noisy at night
Non-ocean view rooms face the highway
Not as lively nightlife
What Vacation Experiences It Offers
As it’s situated in front of what is called the seven-mile-long stretch of fine sands and turquoise waters, the beach experience at Sandals Negril is unparalleled. If you want to try Red Lane Spa experience or share a candlelight dinner with your beau. To get that adrenaline pumping, you can book an ATV safari tour.
We just returned from our 5 day stay at Sandals Coast. This was our anniversary trip. We went to Sandals , St Lucia for our honeymoon 4 years ago and it was great. The food at South coast was sub…
We just returned from our 5 day stay at Sandals Coast. This was our anniversary trip. We went to Sandals , St Lucia for our honeymoon 4 years ago and it was great. The food at South coast was sub par. We made reservations for Schooners for 8:00
Pm and we were not seated until 9:15. The resort was not crowded at all. On our way back to our room there was a strong raw sewage smell coming from running water out of the resort into the ocean (see pictures taken the next morning ) . The odor was very strong. We will not be going back to South coast
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anethian
July 20, 2025
Experience with butler service
I want to give the highest praise to our butler, Clive who made our stay absolutely unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, he went above and beyond to make sure every detail was perfect — from anticipating our needs to…
I want to give the highest praise to our butler, Clive who made our stay absolutely unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, he went above and beyond to make sure every detail was perfect — from anticipating our needs to making thoughtful recommendations and always being just a message away. The way he decorated our Long Beach room for my husband's 50th birthday and prepared lunch for us and our guests was truly the best. His professionalism, warm, funny personality, and attention to detail made our vacation seamless and stress-free. He truly elevated our entire experience, and we are so grateful. Thank you for the outstanding service!
Marcellus & Anethia Norris
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adamhH286VV
July 20, 2025
Beautiful but…
Just returning from 5 nights at Sandals South Coast. Would like to start with recognition for our beach cabana butler Melisa, she went above and beyond with service, very friendly and took time answer a lot of our questions about…
Just returning from 5 nights at Sandals South Coast. Would like to start with recognition for our beach cabana butler Melisa, she went above and beyond with service, very friendly and took time answer a lot of our questions about the island and culture. The beach cabana experience was fantastic, butlers get you drinks quickly, special lunches (battered and fried lobster was spot on) and food from any restaurant on the property! I had wings from way over at Neptune’s for a snack and just made for an enjoyable beach day. Also, impressed with food quality overall, for an all inclusive it was above what I have experienced at other resorts.
Stayed in the Longbeach building, room was nice but limited patio space and seating. I know those tubs are a big deal but honestly how many people actually use them versus a nice patio table and chairs? Big issue with water pressure during the day. 8am, 1pm, multiple days it slowed to a trickle that would not suffice to rinse hair. Spoke with another couple and we were not the only ones with this issue!
Beware of the beach/water-sports crew! There were one or two really great guys but the rest seem to be very proficient at not working. I water skied and had to be a little insistent for them to get the boat untied and out doing its job. We were watching the captain napping on the pier one day. Worst experience was second day skiing I forgot to leave my sunglasses in the cabana so after a few red stripes I trusted them with a couple water sports employees who were hanging out at their “desk” on the beach. Skied for 15 minutes, when I came back everyone was gone and my glasses with them. It took me 30 minutes and had to chew on 3 different people to get my Oakleys back. Dumb to leave $200 glasses with them but the vibe of the resort seemed to be very trusting, I never saw the guys again that day. Funny it was in the middle of the afternoon, people were waiting to take kayaks and stuff out and the water-sports guys (and my glasses) were completely MIA. Ask for management and most employees will jump pretty quickly. I hate having to be that guy and most resort employees were very dedicated to customer service.
Not sure I would return to Sandals, lot of positives but a couple hard megatives, also brutal septic smell btw longbeach and starlight buildings.
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589melodya
July 20, 2025
Excellent care
Sandals doesn’t disappoint when it comes to food allergies and cabana experiences. My husband and I just returned from our second trip to South Coast. I have a food allergy that is complicated. Chef Charmaine at Bayside and Chef Tedroy…
Sandals doesn’t disappoint when it comes to food allergies and cabana experiences. My husband and I just returned from our second trip to South Coast. I have a food allergy that is complicated. Chef Charmaine at Bayside and Chef Tedroy at Eleanor’s both took great care of me.
We also used the beach cabanas twice. Maxine the Cabana Butler truly treated me as a queen. She was wonderful.
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krisw617
July 18, 2025
Fun Anniversary Trip
My family had the pleasure of vacationing at Sandals South Coast! We stayed in the Rondoval Swim-up Butler Villas with Private Pool Sanctuary. The entire stay was amazing. The rondovals were extremely spacious and accommodations were exceptional. The private swimming…
My family had the pleasure of vacationing at Sandals South Coast! We stayed in the
Rondoval Swim-up Butler Villas with Private Pool Sanctuary. The entire stay was
amazing. The rondovals were extremely spacious and accommodations were
exceptional. The private swimming area and access to the secluded river pool was a
special feature for us. All resort staff were incredibly helpful and worked to meet all of
our needs. There are many restaurants that are guaranteed to meet everyone’s food
preferences. The real highlight for us was the butler services provided. My sister and
her husband joined my husband and I, so we had access to four fantastic butlers. Alicia,
Mel, Tiffany, and Latoya did a fantastic job ensuring all of our needs were met and we
could truly enjoy our vacation. They scheduled events for us, set up special décor in our
rooms, got us set up each day at the beach/pool, booked all dinners and excursions,
and made sure we always had plenty of our favorite drinks and food. Their main focus is
that we were able to fully enjoy every minute of our vacation. It was one of our favorite
vacations, and we would highly recommend the resort.
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Has over-the-water bungalows, chapel, and bar
Offers one of the largest swimming pools in all of Jamaica
World-class amenities are spread over 500 acres of land and set along 2 miles of beach
What To Expect
Sandals South Coast wouldn’t be called the Sexy South Coast for nothing: It boasts a good 2 miles of mesmerizing Jamaican southern waters. It’s on a vast private nature reserve, so there’s plenty to do here even when you’re on land. No all-inclusive resort offers tranquil seclusion as seductively as this place.
Pros and Cons
The Pros
Long stretch of private beach
Gets you closer to water with its over-the-water amenities and bungalows
European-style villages
Secluded
The Cons
Longer transfer from the airport
Exhausting to explore
The water has some mucky sand and seagrass
What Vacation Experiences It Offers
If your idea of a Jamaican holiday is spending great days living literally above the water, this resort has to be on the top of your list. Its seclusion also makes it a great honeymoon destination. Apart from pools, restaurants, and water- and land sports, you can enjoy a candlelight dinner, a Red Lane Spa experience, or a trip to the majestic YS Falls, courtesy of the resort.
This resort is quaint and beautifully maintained. We truly felt like family! Kristoff, Jerome, and Devroy are gems! They were so kind, welcoming, and made sure we were beyond comfortable and happy. I’ve never had a better all inclusive experience.…
This resort is quaint and beautifully maintained. We truly felt like family! Kristoff, Jerome, and Devroy are gems! They were so kind, welcoming, and made sure we were beyond comfortable and happy. I’ve never had a better all inclusive experience. We rebooked while on site, and it is 100% due to the service and love shown to us by Kristoff, Jerome, and Devroy!
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jessicawF2471OP
July 19, 2025
THE HAYNES REVIEW
I just want to give a huge thank you to everyone at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica. My husband and I got married there on June 20th, right on the beach. It was truly unforgettable. From the…
I just want to give a huge thank you to everyone at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica. My husband and I got married there on June 20th, right on the beach. It was truly unforgettable.
From the moment we arrived on June 16, we were welcomed with warm smiles and amazing energy. It instantly felt like paradise. Our wedding coordinators, Shadeen and Sherica, were absolutely incredible. They are patient, detailed, and attentive. They made sure everything was in place so we could actually relax and enjoy every moment of our big day.
And we did! From the beautiful ceremony to the delicious food, top service, and fun entertainment, it was everything we dreamed of and more.
Our guests couldn’t stop talking about how gorgeous the resort was. It had this peaceful vibe we all needed.
We chose the Windsor Beachfront Club Room with a balcony and a tranquility soaking tub. It was an amazing view.
I have two recommendations regarding the room. Our AC was a wall unit. It dripped water every day, so we placed a towel under it to prevent us from slipping and falling. My other recommendation is to create a sliding door for the showers. Our floor got wet each time we showered. We placed multiple towels on the floor to prevent us from falling.
One of our favorite memories is the sunset dinners by the water. SPICES is the best restaurant with great food and service.
We’re already counting down the days until we come back to celebrate our first anniversary.
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marykP2562YM
July 18, 2025
First-Time Visit to Sandals Royal Caribbean – A Memorable Anniversary Getaway!
This was my first visit to both Jamaica and a Sandals resort, and my husband’s second for each. We’re avid travelers and have been to many all-inclusives—Secrets, Excellence, RIU, Iberostar, Grand Palladium, Valentine—you name it. So we arrived with pretty…
This was my first visit to both Jamaica and a Sandals resort, and my husband’s second for each. We’re avid travelers and have been to many all-inclusives—Secrets, Excellence, RIU, Iberostar, Grand Palladium, Valentine—you name it. So we arrived with pretty high expectations!
Resort Size & Layout
Royal Caribbean is definitely on the smaller side compared to some of the sprawling resorts we’ve visited. The pools and beach areas are more intimate, but that actually worked to our advantage—everything is so accessible. Forgot something in your room? You can be back in under 10 minutes without missing a beat. The grounds are beautiful, well-kept, and the beach is absolutely stunning—clear water, soft sand, and no rocks. I’m typically a pool girl all day, but this time we spent 90% of our time in the ocean. That says a lot!
Room & Butler Experience
We stayed in the Romeo & Juliet balcony suite, and it was perfect! This was our first experience with butler service, and Rayo and Jocelyn truly set the bar high. They were attentive, kind, funny, and always made us feel like VIPs—especially for our 20th wedding anniversary. They even dropped by in person just to check in, which felt way more personal than a call. Coordinating dinner plans with our friends’ butlers couldn’t have been easy for the week, but they made it seamless!
Shoutout to Andre!
Our friends’ butler, Andre, deserves a huge shoutout. On our last night, there was an apparent miscommunication with our Butch’s reservation. We were told there was no reservation on file and they contacted Royal Caribbean to speak to Andre and within 10 minutes, who came running up the sidewalk at Montego Bay? Andre!!! He went inside, worked his magic, and then personally escorted us to our table. Andre for the win!! That left a lasting impression!
Food & Drinks
The food overall was good—no complaints! Don’t miss the jerk shack. The jerk chicken and fish in foil were fabulous. Do not miss out on getting yourself some!! Loved that there is always fresh coffee and those yummy oatmeal raisin cookies available throughout the day & night by the pool area. Sometimes at the end of the night you want a cup of coffee and a cookie on the way to your room. 🙂
Entertainment
Nightly entertainment was a mixed bag. The violinist, steel drum band, and singers were top-notch and super talented! The silent disco, which is usually one of our favorite activities at resorts, was a bit of a letdown. Only two channels were available, both with Jamaican/hip hop. Normally there’s more variety (80s/90s, EDM, pop, etc.), so people lost interest quickly and left.
Noise from the Airport
Being so close to the airport is a huge perk—you’re at the resort in minutes! Yes, you do hear planes fly overhead, especially when at the beach, and you might have to pause conversations momentarily. But it’s brief, and you don’t hear anything at night. Small price to pay I'd say.
Final Thoughts
All in all, we loved our stay at Sandals Royal Caribbean and would definitely return. The staff’s hospitality, the intimate layout, and the beautiful beach made for a wonderful experience. We even rebooked another Sandals resort before leaving and will definitely be watching for specials to come back to RC again!
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B6715EWcarols
July 14, 2025
Royal
Our Butler Andre made our Anniversary so very special. We have been coming here for 11yrs. and have experienced all the highs of a great entertainment show. However, this year was the worst. There was no personableness and entertainment show…
Our Butler Andre made our Anniversary so very special.
We have been coming here for 11yrs. and have experienced all the highs of a great entertainment show. However, this year was the worst. There was no personableness and entertainment show to begin with. They did not announce any shows or events that informed us of upcoming events. I approached Mrs. Marshalee the entertainment manager about interacting with the guests and encouraging them to participate in events and she informed me that, and I quote, “When we have to prepare and set up for other events, we don’t have time for that, we just put the items out & allow the guests to do their own thing.” It was then that I asked again, “So you are not gonna announce or ask for participation?” She stated, “No, we don’t.”
Our Butler Andre was the best. He made sure we were happy and enjoyed other activities and festivities to make our stay eventful.
We did have good experiences with our dining with Mrs. Nejdra at the Spices.
And although our butlers Andre & Marcuelle were awesome, whenever we needed anything, Nicole, Rayo &
Sherry-Anne assisted us with anything we needed.
Andre & Rayo were awesome and despite Rayo not being paired with us, he was a great Support for Andre.
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FarAway04633222472
July 14, 2025
Still our favorite
The service and food are still the best we've had - the staff is amazing overall. We were disappointed that there is no longer a piano bar (something we enjoyed on previous visits and at other Sandals resorts). On a…
The service and food are still the best we've had - the staff is amazing overall. We were disappointed that there is no longer a piano bar (something we enjoyed on previous visits and at other Sandals resorts). On a few occasions there was an activity scheduled, but no one showed up to lead it. The entertainment staff deserves a special shout-out. They were talented and professional in the evening shows!
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Has a private offshore island for an intimate getaway
Free and quick access to Sandals Montego Bay
Takes influences from Britain and Bali
What To Expect
Though it’s one of the smaller resorts on the island, a certain air of luxury and elegance surrounds the Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island. The main resort touts British elements like the Georgian-style Great House, manicured lawns, and afternoon tea times. Its offshore island has Bali written all over it — from the beach cabanas to the pool.
Pros and Cons
The Pros
Beautiful architecture
Only Jamaican resort with a private island
Wide range of cuisines (including Caribbean, Thai, and French)
Quick drive to its sister resort, Sandals Montego Bay
The Cons
Airport and entertainment noises are some common complaints
Smaller beach area
Can be a little too quiet
Looks more dated than other Sandals resorts
What Vacation Experiences It Offers
This resort is ideal for holidayers who prefer to enjoy a more intimate time in the Caribbean. Like its bigger sister and neighboring resort, it offers an under-the-sky private dinner, a Montego Bay cruise tour, and the popular Red Lane Spa experience.
We have become avid Sandals travelers over the years! It is our home away from home. We love the peace & joy it brings into our lives. Our latest stay was at Montego Bay the flagship resort that started it…
We have become avid Sandals travelers over the years! It is our home away from home. We love the peace & joy it brings into our lives. Our latest stay was at Montego Bay the flagship resort that started it all. It was our 2nd time. We enjoyed our room, beach, pools, drinks, food, hospitality, fun & level of attention that we received. Joel the MGR of Soy the sushi restaurant was an absolute gem, so welcoming & so professional. Christoper Grant the Hosptality MGR was out of this world, friendly, helpful, kind and caring, Stephen the Bartender by Butches/Soy has the best attitude & service of any bartender there. Phillip the waiter at Butches was so thorough and polite. Darren at Island Routes was on top of his game, caring and so friendly & together. These people mentioned are some of the best of the best and made our vacation this year one of the most fun and enjoyable.
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H9837QUmichaelad
July 18, 2025
This experience was awful. We just got back from 9 days there for our honeymoon and we will NEVER go back. With the amount of money we spent and this being our once and a lifetime honeymoon we expected so…
This experience was awful. We just got back from 9 days there for our honeymoon and we will NEVER go back. With the amount of money we spent and this being our once and a lifetime honeymoon we expected so much especially after reviews from friends and family that have been to other sandals locations- however off the bat, the butler service was LESS than mediocre. The entire time we were there, getting a hold of the butlers was near impossible. Between the lack of service in the area and the lack of communication on their end- we were left doing all of the things that we were promised to receive from our butlers on our own. We would go hours without hearing from them, and god forbid we asked them for lunch- it would take hours on end.
Then let’s get to the fact that we had 3 cockroaches in our room on 3 different occasions. Um EW ?!?! For what you spend at a sandals, one would expect not to have to be disgusted and scared to stay in their own expensive hotel room.
Lastly- every single night at 2 am we were woken up to the sound of the kitchen staff putting plates away for 30+ minutes which we then could not go back to sleep. Talk about ridiculous
I am truly disgusted and disappointed that our honeymoon was ruined by a sandals resort being so gross.
I am equally as frustrated that we’re being told that we can’t get any type of refund or comp for at least a few nights of our stay for our awful experience. That’s not a good look for any sandals.
Would not recommend / I will never be going to a sandals again.
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avai120
July 17, 2025
The Perfect Vacay!!
Went to Jamaica for me and my moms birthday with my boyfriend, had such an amazing time! The workers and entertainment team were awesome, I always felt included and they really helped me get out of my comfort zone to…
Went to Jamaica for me and my moms birthday with my boyfriend, had such an amazing time! The workers and entertainment team were awesome, I always felt included and they really helped me get out of my comfort zone to do more things and I’ve met amazing people. Akeem from entertainment was the first person to come up to me and continued to say Hi to me and invite me to all of the activities, which really made a big impact on my stay. During beach volleyball I also met super Mario who was so friendly and funny. There were so many things to do everyday such as karaoke, bingo, tie-dye, tubing, snorkeling, professional photos! Definitely rate this trip a 10/10, excursions were so fun and the environment was the perfect escape I needed during the summer.
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U5865ZOgeorgeh
July 17, 2025
what a bomboclaat trip
the people is nice and very engaging (akeem, super mario, jordan) entertainment team helpful and cool akeem helped me and my girlfriend open up and be more engaged
the people is nice and very engaging (akeem, super mario, jordan) entertainment team helpful and cool akeem helped me and my girlfriend open up and be more engaged
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55jameyd
July 16, 2025
Sandals Montego Bay is amazing!
We had the best time on our vacation to Sandals Montego Bay! The staff was so friendly and did their absolute best to ensure we enjoyed our stay. The food was great and the grounds were so beautiful! The hardest…
We had the best time on our vacation to Sandals Montego Bay! The staff was so friendly and did their absolute best to ensure we enjoyed our stay. The food was great and the grounds were so beautiful! The hardest part of our trip was deciding if we wanted to be poolside or oceanside :).
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Sandals’ flagship and first-ever all-inclusive resort
Exclusive stretch of pristine coastline and azure waters
Free and quick access to Sandals Royal Caribbean
What To Expect
The redesigned Sandals Montego Bay is the nearest Sandals in the airport. Because of its strategic location, many choose this venue for their Caribbean destination wedding. Have we mentioned it has an Over-the-Water Chapel? Additionally, it has an over-the-water bar, 12 gourmet eateries, and over 260 rooms and suites (including swim-up rooms).
It’s also located just 5 minutes from another Sandals resort — the Sandals Royal Caribbean, which has its own private island.
Pros and Cons
The Pros
Near the airport
Beach is exclusive to guests
Redesigned as a modern, open-concept resort
Sandals Royal Caribbean is nearby and amenities there are free to use
The Cons
Airplane noise can be bothersome
There could be jellyfish and stingrays on the beach
The pools are not as large
Room service is only for certain rooms
What Vacation Experiences It Offers
The resort that started it all is the best Sandals resort if you want a hassle-free Jamaican holiday. Optional vacation experiences include a private candlelight dinner, a catamaran cruise tour of Montego Bay, and a relaxing Red Lane Spa experience.
Mixed Experience – Beautiful Setting, But Disappointing Service & Accessibility We recently stayed at a Sandals resort and were met with a mix of beauty and frustration. The weather was absolutely perfect, and many of the staff members were warm,…
Mixed Experience – Beautiful Setting, But Disappointing Service & Accessibility
We recently stayed at a Sandals resort and were met with a mix of beauty and frustration. The weather was absolutely perfect, and many of the staff members were warm, friendly, and professional. However, the experience was marred by several avoidable issues that significantly detracted from our trip.
First, the accessibility around the resort was a major concern. There were far too many stairs, making it extremely difficult for my wife, who has mobility issues, to get around. No clear accommodations were made, and this presented a serious obstacle throughout our stay.
The reservation system for activities and dining was disorganized and unnecessarily complex. We had to visit multiple locations just to book activities, and dinner reservations were equally frustrating. Despite being told that availability was limited, we regularly saw numerous empty tables at the restaurants. We later discovered that butlers were reserving large blocks of tables, leaving concierge-level guests like us with very few options. This felt both unfair and poorly managed.
Our stay was further complicated when my wife tripped on a raised tile threshold in the bathroom, resulting in a sprained ankle. While the fall was unfortunate and preventable, the first aid staff were exceptional—quick to respond, compassionate, and professional. A doctor visited us on-site, and the resort arranged careful transportation to a nearby clinic for an X-ray. That part of our experience was handled very well and deserves recognition.
Another frustration was the lack of accessible ice. Staff were routinely emptying the guest floor ice machines to supply the lobby, making it nearly impossible to get ice when we needed it—especially after my wife’s injury.
Finally, the building we were placed in was noticeably outdated compared to the others around us. Given the price point, we expected more updated accommodations.
In the end, the four of us traveling together all felt that we received budget-level service at a premium price. While there were moments of kindness and professionalism, too many aspects of the resort were inconsistent, inconvenient, or poorly managed. Sadly, we cannot recommend this Sandals property based on our experience.
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810roxannea
July 19, 2025
Fantastic Trip!
My wife and I just returned from our "home away from home" in Jamaica, staying at Sandals Ochi Hillside. As always, we had a spectacular time. Daniel, the resort manager, went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we…
My wife and I just returned from our "home away from home" in Jamaica, staying at Sandals Ochi Hillside. As always, we had a spectacular time. Daniel, the resort manager, went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed for a perfect vacation. The staff were all friendly, helpful, and always smiling. Special thanks to Rudolph, Karlene, and Deshayne for making our stay even more memorable. The hotel was clean, the food was delicious, and the Italian restaurant was our favorite.
We highly recommend Sandals Ochi if you're looking for an upbeat hotel, warm and welcoming people, and a wide variety of great food.
Thank you again, Daniel, for another amazing visit. We’ll see you when we return during the Summer of 2026
Robert and Roxanne
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parishdanni
July 18, 2025
Vacation trip 2025
This is our 3rd time at a Sandals resort. I can say Grenada and Barbados was wonderful. Sandals Ochi has been good. Our butler’s Roberto and Moria are AMAZING, and the ladies Shameka and Sheneka were fabulous ( I’m sure…
This is our 3rd time at a Sandals resort. I can say Grenada and Barbados was wonderful. Sandals Ochi has been good. Our butler’s Roberto and Moria are AMAZING, and the ladies Shameka and Sheneka were fabulous ( I’m sure I misspelled their names) sorry 😞. The breakfast at southern has not been up to par. The waffles, French toast pancakes have been cold. When I said something about it , it was a problem. For the money I paid to visit this resort I do not want to be served cold food. One night at sky vista the hostess sat us down and the table was covered with red ants, they were crawling all over the silverware, plates everywhere. We asked to be seated at another table and the waiter grabbed the silverware and plates from the ant infested table. I said excuse me sir, but we need all new glassware, plates and silverware. Not sure if we’ll return to this Sandals.
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heidipL4098XI
July 18, 2025
We had high hopes for our trip to Sandals Ochi, especially since this was our very first vacation without our children in 24 years. The warm welcome at check-in—with the front desk ladies singing to us and offering refreshing towels—made…
We had high hopes for our trip to Sandals Ochi, especially since this was our very first vacation without our children in 24 years. The warm welcome at check-in—with the front desk ladies singing to us and offering refreshing towels—made us feel like we were about to have an unforgettable, top-tier experience. Unfortunately, while there were some memorable highlights, our stay overall didn’t live up to the Sandals reputation we had envisioned.
Private Cabana Disappointment:
We rented a private cabana on the beach for $180. While the cabana itself was comfortable and the sound of the ocean was calming, the service was lacking. We spent more time tracking down our butler than relaxing. The advertised mini-fridge with our favorite drinks was nonexistent, and we never received the level of attentiveness we expected.
Dining: Amazing Food, Frustrating Service
The food at Sandals Ochi was absolutely delicious—everything from the breakfast to the steak, lobster, swordfish, and snapper was flavorful and plentiful. However, the service was extremely slow. Meals routinely took 1 hour and 15 minutes to nearly 2 hours. After being seated, we often felt forgotten. My husband had to get up twice at Kelly’s Dockside to refill our drinks after sitting with empty glasses for over 15 minutes.
Servers at some restaurants, such as Southern Table, were inattentive or even dismissive. A simple request for a mimosa and hot sauce was ignored entirely, and we later found out we could have helped ourselves—something that would’ve been helpful to know upfront. In contrast, Nicollette at Reef Terrace provided exceptional service. She was proactive, attentive, and made our entire dining experience enjoyable from start to finish.
Mixed Interactions with Staff:
Some staff members were wonderful—Stephen (Hop driver), Monique (bartender), Nicollette (server), and Slisha (photographer) truly stood out for their friendliness and excellent service. On the other hand, several others appeared unhappy or uninterested in guest experience. Shavonne at the Aqua Shack was rude and dismissive during our snorkeling check-in, and another staff member at the Ocean Club Bar scolded my husband about dripping water after walking in from the beach—a moment that could’ve been handled much more kindly.
Spa Experience:
Our “Scents of Love” couples massage at Red Lane Spa was a highlight. Marcia and Jocelyn were gentle, friendly, and made us feel comfortable throughout. However, we never got to use the sauna as the package promised, and we were repeatedly approached by massage staff throughout the resort trying to sell more services—even after we’d already had our treatment.
Housekeeping & Room Amenities:
Housekeeping did a great job keeping our room clean, restocked, and tidy. We appreciated the daily fresh towels and a consistently stocked fridge. However, we requested a wine opener and didn’t receive it until the night before we left—three days after our initial request, despite follow-up conversations with staff, including the head of housekeeping.
Other Notes:
Only 1 of the 3 beach showers was functional, which made rinsing off difficult.
The resort has free-roaming cats across the property, which was never mentioned prior to booking. As someone allergic to cats, this would’ve been helpful to know in advance.
Final Thoughts:
This trip had special meaning for us, and while we did enjoy many aspects, we expected a much higher level of service, communication, and attentiveness given the premium price. This was our first Sandals experience, and sadly, we left feeling disappointed by the inconsistencies. There were definitely some standout moments and staff members who made a difference, but overall, Sandals Ochi fell short of delivering the luxury, all-inclusive experience we had hoped for.
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dennissl
July 17, 2025
Amazing Experience
Where do I begin? This was our first trip to Jamaica as well as our first time to a Sandals resort. Looking online to possibly see what we were in for did not prepare us for the experience we were about to…
Where do I begin?
This was our first trip to Jamaica as well as our first time to a Sandals resort. Looking online to possibly see what we were in for did not prepare us for the experience we were about to live out.
I will give you my only 2 cons for the trip first.
1. the LONG bus ride from the airport to the resort. roughly 90 minutes to 2 hours. Bus had AC so was not that bad. We just wanted to get there. There is now a direct flight to Ochi twice a week via American I believe.
2. Our AC was not able to be adjusted in the room and even though we reported it the first day it was never corrected. Luckily it was a comfortable temp but could have been cooler for our comfort.
3. We had to go home after 5 nights.
Now the Pros.
The greeting you get upon arrival was great! they were singing and dancing, welcoming us and also offered an ice-cold towel to refresh after the bus trip. This was very nice.
We were greeted by Davian (hope i spelled his name right) I seen him almost every day, sometimes twice and he ALWAYS asked how things were, had a huge smile, quick chat, and a fist bump.
Davian your are awesome! see ya in May!
Next up is the beautiful Samantha in the gift shop. Me being the forgetful person I left something on the counter after checking out not once but twice! Both times she came out with what I left or laughed when I turned around to get it and she was holding it. This became a running joke for the entire trip.
Samantha thank you.
We stayed on beach side and while wifey took a nap I would go sit at the sundowner bar. 3 of the best bar tenders ever!
Adieb, Delano, and Kevaugn. These guys were great with plenty of smiles and positive vibes. I spent several afternoons and early evenings here with them. Happy this was on the side we were staying.
I had to save the best for last. The Rabbit Hole! Now we see all about this place watching videos, but until you are there......We had the PLEASURE to sit at the bar and have Kimari as our bar tender. He became a mixologist for the wife with Duke and Dame a salted caramel whiskey. Dude threw it down and never looked back. It was that good! Needless to say, it was amazing, and I drank the Dame and Duke on the rocks every night. The music, the atmosphere, the crowd, the singers! This place was great and a visit for us every night.
Kimari thank you!
Little run down on where we ate.
Dinner at La Gourmet was incredible. Had to purchase a bottle of the wife's favorite wine with dinner. (yes purchase they have a very nice selection, but you pay for it. This is the only upcharge we saw and they do have wine you do not pay for) breakfast was amazing as well. Salmon eggs benedict was next level for breakfast. Dinner we had a filet and lamb chop. apps were escargot and seared tuna salad. Everything was absolutely perfect!
Soy the sushi was very good. very fresh. Nice inside the restaurant, but just like a sushi place nothing extra just good food.
Kimonos was very good. I forget our chefs name but very funny and engaging with the group. We had apps and main there but left before desert. Nothing to do with it being bad we just wanted to hit as many places as possible.
Jerk shack- OK I am no jerk expert, but this place rocked. We both prefered the pork as the chicken was a bit dry. We knew it was fresh daily as one day the sauce had a nice heat to it then the next day WOW thats some hot jerk lol. Amazing food for pool side.
Tapas on the riviera- just a simple snack/tapas shop, but at 2am they are a godsend! got something from them almost every night.
southern table - we only had breakfast here and it was a buffet with a egg station and very nice variety.
vista/sky - only had breakfast here same as southern table buffet with egg station and nice variety.
Bella Napoli - not bad pool side pizza. Calzone I got was good. Wifes pizza was better. I felt the pizza was overcooked and calzone undercooked?
room service - Now this was crazy! Within 30 minutes of ordering, they were at my room. Not a huge selection, but fillers for a lazy day. We order sandwiches or cheese boards before we go out for the night. Then when we stroll in after room service ends, we have night snacks to with the tapas.
Places we did not eat at and will be having next trip.
vista/sky for dinner
valentinos for dinner
the reef for dinner
southern for dinner
neptunes for dinner
manor for dinne
rkellys for dinner
mariner for dinner
Sat poolside every day at the big pool on hillside. This was a party spot. Loved the swim up bar and the tables in the water. DJ's rocked it and the pool games were great!
Then go relax in the room and refresh for a hour or 2 before going out for the night time.
We would have a drink or 2 at the Sundowner bar then make our way back over to the hillside and the Rabbit Hole. Close the Rabbit hole and the party moved back to beachside and the reef club till 2am, then over to tapas for some food to take back (they are open till 5am) that is a basic run down of every day for us.
We met a beautiful couple on the bus ride in and their family. We ended up at the same pool every day and the same rabbit hole and reef club every night. Even went to their wedding there.
Congratz Ein and KiKi!
Photo shoot was great as well. Beautiful memories to look back on and was not to expensive and the ladies in the photo shop were amazing help picking photos and a frame for them.
All in all I would have to give Sandals Ochi a 9.5/10
While we did rebook for next year and got a very good rate. We rebooked at Ochi as we only did less than half of what we could have and have to eat at a few places we missed.
Can not wait till next year and be back home.
One thing I forgot to state was club sandals in the airport was a nice touch and unwind after the flight. The vacation started once we checked in there. they wouldn't let you touch your luggage or anything.
Premier access to one of the best golf clubs in the Caribbean, Sandals Golf & Country Club
What To Expect
Can’t decide if you want to have a peaceful Caribbean holiday in Jamaica or one that’s full of partying? You can enjoy both worlds when you stay at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort. One side has 11 bars — including the first speakeasy in the Caribbean; on the other is a lush garden that sits on over 100 acres of land. Another great highlight is its proximity to an 18-hole golf course.
Pros and Cons
The Pros
Budget-friendly
Green fees for the Sandals Golf & Country Club are already included in the cost of your stay
Has over 100 pools
Largest among all Sandals resorts
The Cons
Because it’s the largest, it can be exhilarating to explore
Smaller beach area
Can be too lively on one side
What Vacation Experiences It Offers
For honeymooners on a budget, this is the resort to be. It has great nightlife, awesome pools, and remarkable food. You can also opt to have a private dinner (complete with candles and set under the stars), enjoy a Red Lane Spa experience, or have zip-line adventures.
A Jamaican holiday is a wish come true for anyone who wants to indulge in pure tropical greatness. It’s a complete package that boasts the following:
It has great weather and even greater beaches
It offers awesome culture, rum, and food (jerk chickens, anyone?)
It is home to the reggae and dancehall music genres
It has several UNESCO World Heritage Sites
There’s a wide variety of things to do in Jamaica — from swimming to rafting to hiking
Why Stay At Sandals Resort Jamaica
Wondering where to stay in Jamaica? At Sandals Resorts, it’s not only white-sand beaches that are endless. You can enjoy unlimited food and drinks. And it’s not just any other hotel food and beverages — each resort offers 5-star gourmet dining and premium liquors.
Apart from access to different amenities and water activities, you can take many burdens off your shoulder with their complimentary services. They offer free WiFi, roundtrip airport transfers, and even an exclusive airport arrival lounge (if you’re traveling to Jamaica).
Best Sandals Resort In Jamaica: Conclusion
If you’re looking for the best Sandals resort in Jamaica, you’ve got six top-rated all-inclusive resorts to choose from. With this guide, our goal is to help you decide which resort will make your dream Jamaican holiday an unforgettable reality — whether that holiday is a quiet, romantic getaway or one packed with adventures.
About The Author
Jim is the founder of EpicCaribbean.com. As a Sandals & Beaches Resorts Chairman's Club Diamond Elite travel advisor, he is an expert in all inclusive travel to Sandals adult-only resorts and Beaches family-friendly resorts.