Sandals Ochi – Review and Guide for 2024

Sandals Ochi is the largest Sandals resort in the Caribbean. You will find it on over 100 acres of land overlooking the Caribbean. The resort has two sides, with rooms on the seaside and luxury villas offering all Butler service on the hillside. This large resort has so much to offer, making it one of our favorite Sandals Resorts.

About Sandals Ochi

Resort Features

The resort features 519 luxury rooms, suites and villas with breathtaking ocean and mountain views. There are 105 pools and 22 whirlpools, with a choice of 16 restaurants and 11 bars. The resort boasts two Red Lane Spas plus a tropical Solarium and complimentary green fees to one of Jamaica’s most popular elite golf courses, with transfers included to and from the Sandals Golf & Country Club. 

Sandals offers guests a lot of firsts and onlys in the Caribbean. Find the ultimate party experience at the Ochi Beach Club and enjoy the Caribbean’s largest Rock Climbing Wall. Engage in music, entertainment and cuisines at its finest. If you are getting married, choose the spectacular overwater Serenity Wedding Chapel. The first Speakeasy in the Caribbean – The Rabbit Hole – is also found here. 

Two Resorts in One

Split in half with a major roadway going through, you will find the Ochi Beach Club and Riviera Seaside Village on the side to the Caribbean Sea, and on the other side you will find the Great House and All Butler Village. Both sides of the resort boast their own lobby, but you will find the larger lobby on the Riviera Seaside. Here you will find the Polo Lounge, the Private Lounge and several seating levels. 

Lobbies on either side are well decorated, and open with neutral colors, brown leather and dark wood furniture. You will find cookies, water, coffee, juice and wine available in the lobby for your indulgence right away. 

Don’t worry too much about both sides being separated by a major roadway. There are Jitneys that run from both sides regularly, so you don’t have to cross the busy street by foot. Butler level guests will have their own private golf carts to transport them between the two sides. 

Where is Sandals Ochi?

You will find Sandals Ochi at 130 – 131 Main Street in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, Jamaica. The all-inclusive couples-only resort is 97.2 km from the Sangsters International Airport, where you will fly in and be greeted by an included transfer. There is the option to fly into the Norman Manley International Airport, but there is no Sandals transfer if you choose the option, and so you will have to arrange transportation to the hotel on your own. 

Getting to Sandals Ochi  

To enjoy an all-inclusive experience, you should fly to the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Jamaica. You may also opt to fly into the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston. However, you will only receive an inclusive transfer when flying into the Sangster International Airport. This complimentary transfer is arranged for your arrival and departure. 

You will arrive at Sandals Ochi with a drive time of 1h and 45 minutes from the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. From the Norman Manley airport in Kingston, the drive is an approximately 2 hours. 

Best Time to Visit Sandals Ochi

Ocho Rios boasts temperatures similar to the rest of Jamaica. June is the hottest month, with temperatures averaging around 88F, and January is the coolest, with temperatures averaging 84F, which is still great weather! 

They receive approximately 37 inches of rain each year, with the rainy months being September and October. 

What is known as Shoulder Season is considered the best time to visit. This season runs from the middle of April to May, and then again from the middle of November to the middle of December.  We recommend this time because the weather is amazing, and the crowds have already gone or haven’t arrived just yet. This gives you more and better opportunities to take advantage of all the resort has to offer. 

What’s Included at Sandals Ochi

Sandals Ochi being the largest and with many firsts, offers more luxury than other Sandals properties. For starters, there is the included golf experience, with green fees and transfers to and from the resort included. 

Then there are the things that you enjoy at each and every Sandals, such as including transfer to and from the airport. All food and drinks are included, as well as premium spirits too. Every type of watersports, including scuba diving, all land sports, unlimited WiFi in room and all across the resort, and 24-hour access to the fitness center. These are all included every day of your stay. 

Pros and Cons of Sandals Ochi

The Pros

  • Large private beach located close to downtown Ocho Rios 
  • A luxury inclusive adults only experience on a large private beach near 
  • Upscale and spacious rooms with great views of the lush gardens, or the Caribbean sea 
  • 16 restaurants, 11 bars and room service at your fingertips
  • No tipping except for Butler guests 
  • So many pools with multiple having swim-up bars 
  • Free golfing privileges
  • Beach massages from the Red Lane Spa (not included)
  • Unlimited scuba diving 
  • Multiple included watersports 
  • Theme parties each evening 
  • Free shuttle to and from the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay 

The Cons

  • Property large and can be a bit confusing to navigate at first 
  • Long drive from the airport
  • Cabana rentals and spa treatments are at an extra cost 
  • You will need a caddy at the golf course, and this is an additional cost 
  • Beach is small in comparison to the vast property 

What To Do at Sandals Ochi

One thing is, you won’t be at Sandals Ochi, and that is bored! With over 100 acres, and with each one put to good use, you will find endless features. If you are scuba certified, enjoy unlimited scuba diving, and if you need certification, you can get this done at an additional cost. 

Water sports such as water skiing, paddle boarding, sailing and snorkeling are all free. There is also a glass bottom boat, but you will need to make reservations for this, it is included. When it comes to land activities, you have beach volleyball, billiards, croquet and tennis courts. There are even impromptu beach parties and talent shows throughout the day, so you really won’t have time to be bored unless you choose to be. 

There are so many swimming pools here at Sandals Ochi. Guests will find 7 public swimming pools, two with swim up bars. In the All-Butler Village, every villa has its own semi-private pool. At the main pool, you will find water fountains, dolphin statues and a swim up bar. You will find comfortable sun loungers and blue flotation mats for your convenience. Loungers come with white umbrellas, so you don’t have to be out in the direct sunlight. You can get a poolside cabana for two, but you’ll have to pay extra for that. With your poolside cabana, you will receive your own personal butler to bring you food and drinks at your request. 

The Red Lane Spa

Here you will find plunge pools, sauna, steam room and solarium. There are additional costs, but they are well worth it if you want a pamper and unwind day treat. You will find a wide array of services offered here, including massages, body wraps, beauty treatments and more. Boasting over 30 treatment rooms at the spa, and you can arrange a couples massage on the beach. 

The fitness center is spacious and included, with 24 hour access using your room’s access card. There is also an indoor squash court and aerobic rooms. 

Golf

Enjoy unlimited gold with included green fees and transfers to and from the hotel and golf course. The course is a par-71 course with views of the sea and the mountains. You will require a caddy, which will cost extra. Other things, such as lessons, golf carts and club rentals, come optionally and at an additional cost. You will find a practice putting course and a driving range. You can try and schedule one of the free golf clinics twice per week. 

Additional Amenities At Additional Costs 

  • Jerk Shack at the Golf Course
  • Clubhouse at the Golf Course 
  • Laundry service
  • Dry Cleaning service 
  • Money exchange 
  • Photography 
  • Hotel Gift Shop 

Restaurants at Sandals Ochi 

There are a total of 16 restaurants at Sandals Ochi with various operating hours, so you can almost always have something to eat. Don’t forget there is also room service when you’d rather kick back in your room. 

Find everything from al fresco lunch, early dinner and open air dining. Enjoy entertainment while your dinner is cooked right in front of you at Kimonos, where reservations are required. Room service is free, but Candle Light dinners come at an additional cost. 

Vista Sky 

Here you will dine overlooking the ocean. Find seafood selections high on top of this rocky cliff. Enjoy a decadent breeze while you dine on your gourmet meal. This restaurant opens for breakfast from 7:30 am to 10:30 am, enjoy lunch between 12:30pm and 2:30 pm, and then dinner from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm. The dress code is always resort casual, and reservations are not required. 

Valentino’s 

Here you will find southern Italian cuisines housed next to the Caribbean Sea. Find distinct Tuscan dishes here to be paired with great wines in this very intimate dining setting. You will find unique chicken and seafood creations for dinner, which are served between the hours of 5:30 and 9:00 pm. The dress code for dining at Valentino’s is evening attire, and reservations are required. 

Soy Sushi Bar

Here you will find fresh and delectable sushi options. All options are made to order using only the freshest ingredients. Come for dinner and enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail, or come closer to closing to enjoy a nightcap while enjoying the warmth and light of the stone lined fire pits. Dinner is served from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm, reservations are not required, and attire is resort casual. 

The Reef Terrace

Here is another dining option where you get to dine while basking in the beauty of the Caribbean sea. Find Pan-Caribbean cuisine here, including Jamaican favorites such as Spicy Snapper, cinnamon braised plantains, spice pepper pot soup and so much more. Dinner runs from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Reservations are required, but the dress code is resort casual, so you don’t have to dress up too much. 

The Southern Table 

Here you will also enjoy your meal with a view of the water. The Southern Table, as its name suggests, offers southern hospitality with a range of comfort foods made with ingredients grown locally. Come down at your leisure in resort casual attire for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Breakfast is served from 7:30 am to 10:30 am, lunch is served from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, and dinner is served from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm. 

Neptune’s 

Here you will find Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood right on the beach.  The open air restaurant features a rustic design against the beautiful Caribbean sea. Dinner is served from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm, reservations are required, and the dress code is resort casual. 

Manor House 

Enjoy a la carte innovative Jamaican-Caribbean dishes here, such as Red Stripe marinated scallops. Reservations are required, but you can dine in casual attire. Enjoy dinner here from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. 

Kelly’s Dockside 

Here is another dining option for Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood right over the water. Dinner is served from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm with a resort casual dress code, and reservations are required. 

Great House Cafe 

This poolside grill serves up Jamaican specialties, such as Jerk chicken, among others. It is a light-hearted place to enjoy a light meal or quick snack when you are yearning for a delightful Jamaican morsel. Find cajun dusted french fries, Jamaican patties, crack chicken and so much more. Dress code is resort casual, and there are no reservations required. The Great House Cafe is open for lunch from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, and then for late night snacks from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am. 

Tapas on the Riviera 

Find grilled fare here right alongside the beach. Enjoy small plates of food served with accompanying spirits and wine. You will find selections that have been inspired by cuisine from various regions all across the globe. You won’t need reservations to dine at this restaurant, and the dress code is resort casual. Find them open for lunch from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and then for a late night food adventure, you can visit them between the hours of 10:30 pm and 5: 00 am.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

The Mariner 

Here is another seaside eatery, complete with its very own bar. You can find light snacks and lunch items here from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Come in your everyday attire and enjoy the diverse options available to tantalize your taste buds.

Dino’s Pizzeria 

Here you will find gourmet pizza. Pizzas are made to order, where you can choose from a menu item or create your very own specialty pizza. The dress code here is resort casual, with no reservations required. Lunch is served from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

Kimonos 

Find teppanyaki style cuisine here, providing a balance between dining and entertainment. Reservations are required, but the dress code is resort casual. Dinner is served between 6:00 pm and 9:30 pm. 

Le Gourmand 

Here you will find French cuisine at its finest. Enjoy wine, signature drinks and elegant decor while you dine. Breakfast is served from 7:30 am to 11:00 am, and dinner is served from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm. Remember to make your reservation to dine!

Bella Napoli Pizzeria 

Pizza here is made on a wood fire. You can find toppings such as artichokes, Brie, seafood, Gorgonzola and prosciutto to name a few. The dress code is resort casual, and there is no need for reservations. The restaurant is open from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

The Jerk Shack 

Find true Caribbean traditional cuisine here in this open air restaurant with its rustic vibe. Your experience isn’t complete until you have tasted what the Jerk hut has to offer. Resort casual is the dress code, and you will find meals served here from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.  

Pools at Sandals Ochi

Sandals Ochi has a whopping 105 swimming pools. The Manor Pool is the largest, divided into three different levels. Here is where you will find a good time no matter what. The pool features submerged sun loungers, and there is an incorporated firepit into the pool’s design. The swim-up bar serves your favorite drinks, and you can even find bartenders who can make you their own specialty. 

Find four whirlpools in total on the Ochi Beach and Riviera side, while the Butler Village features private pools for each villa. In addition to that, the following list of pools exist as well.  

  • The Ochi Beach Club Pool
  • The Riviera Pool
  • The Riviera Garden Pool
  • The Hidden Pool
  • The Scuba Pool

Bars at Sandals Ochi

At Sandals Ochi, you get to enjoy top-shelf liquor at no additional cost. Indulge in Beringer wines, Smirnoff, Bombay Sapphire and Jim Beam. Enjoy your favorite beverages and cocktails at the following bars. 

  1. Swim Up Pool Bar at the Ochi Beach Club Pool
  2. The Mariners Seaside Bar
  3. Latitudes Overwater Bar
  4. Sundowner Bar
  5. Ocean Beach Bar
  6. Miss Ethel’s Piano Bar
  7. The Amphitheater Swim Up Bar
  8. The Polo Lounge Piano Bar
  9. Swim up Pool Bar at the Greathouse pool
  10. The Rabbit Hole Speakeasy Bar
  11. The Bar at Kimonos

Activities at Sandals Ochi

A stay at Sandals Ochi will give you so many things to enjoy, with so many of them included. Engage in the following activities while on resort to make the most of your time and vacation. 

  1. Padi Certified Scuba Diving

This is an included activity. You can get lessons here at Sandals Ochi if you do not have certification. The lessons will cost you extra, but diving is unlimited. 

  1. Water Sports

If the water is your thing, then you can indulge in a variety of included watersports activities. If your idea of fun in the water is ordering from the swim up pool bar, there is also that. Don’t forget, you can rent a poolside cabana that comes with its own butler to bring you food and drink at your request. 

  1. Land Entertainment 

Each day scheduled events take place at the beach or pool, sometimes even multiple events at different times of the day. You can enjoy parties, live shows and more. You can also enjoy tennis, volleyball and pool tables, as well as the fitness center. 

  1. The Red Lane Spa 

Enjoy a luxurious spa treatment at the Red Lane Spa. Spa services come at an additional cost, and you can take your massage to the beach. 

  1. The Boutique 

Shop for the things you forgot to pack, or for trinkets and gifts to take back home with you. Shopping here is duty free, and you don’t need to worry about vendors to haggle with. The boutique is air conditioned, so you can shop slowly and fully enjoy your time there. 

  1. Island Routes Adventure Tours 

Island Routes Adventures tours provide a great way to enjoy the local area. Find out what they have to offer at the Island Routes desk, and book a tour to enjoy the island. 

FAQ

Is Sandals Ochi on a private beach?

Yes, Sandals Ochi does sit on a private beach, but it doesn’t offer powdery white sand. The beach is clean and you won’t encounter any vendors, but wooden docks break up the beach and rows lounging chairs, tightly packed. You have a section of the beach for swimming and sunbathing, and then another section where all the water sports toys dock, such as raft floats, paddleboards and kayaks. 

What airport do you fly into for Sandals Ochi?

To enjoy the full all inclusive experience, we recommend flying into the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. You will be shuttled to the resort and will be able to wait in comfort in the Sandals lounge if there is any wait time. 

Are there two Sandals in Ochi?

Yes, the two Sandals found in Ocho Rios, Jamaica include Sandals Ochi and Sandals Royal Plantation. 

How Far Apart are the Two Sandals in Ochi?

You will find Sandals Royal Plantation and Sandals Ochi approximately 2 minutes apart via car and and 10 minutes walking. 

About The Author
Bevony
Bevony is a content writer for EpicCaribbean.com. She has an ongoing curiosity to learn new things that is satisfied by her writing career. As a nature lover, when she isn't writing or doing mom duties, she can be found enjoying the outdoors on her beautiful island of Jamaica.

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