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As one of the biggest and most popular islands in the Caribbean, we love Jamaica for its reggae vibes, beauty, and amazing people. It's truly one of the Caribbean's crown jewels for a vacation, honeymoon, or destination wedding and in Jamaica, Sandals has the best all-inclusive resorts across the island. With its personalized service, global gourmet dining, and seven idyllic locations in four parishes, Sandals has created seven world-class destinations that immerse you in the beauty of this Caribbean nation.
As a travel professional, who has spent many days and weeks in this beautiful country, today, we'll go into detail and comprehensively review the best Sandals resorts in Jamaica. We'll outline our list of recommendations based on over 1500 client reviews, our extensive personal travels, and Trip Advisor reviews.
What we'll see is that while each resort is unique, Sandals has developed some of the most amazing resorts not only in Jamaica but in the Caribbean. Each resort will bring you closer to connecting with nature and each other. Whether you want to wake up to sweeping ocean views from your overwater bungalow, steps from the beach or enjoying some of the best food from around the world, these seven Sandals resorts in Jamaica have something special for you!
We appreciate you visiting our blog and hope you find this information helpful! As an award-winning 2025 Sandals Chairman's Club Diamond Elite travel expert, if you have any questions about which resort to book, we look forward to using our experience to help you plan an amazing Jamaica getaway.
Let's chat!
- Jonathan & Angela
Key Takeaways for the Seven Best Sandals Resorts in Jamaica for 2025
Sandals Montego Bay - Best for those seeking nightlife and an active social scene. Here you get exchange privileges with Sandals Royal Caribbean, so you stay at one and play at two!
Sandals South Coast - A modernized resort known for its overwater bungalows and secluded setting within a 500 acre private nature reserve.
Sandals Royal Caribbean - A smaller, boutique styled resort featuring a private island with Sandals overwater bungalows in a heart-shaped formation.
Sandals Negril - Ideal for beach lovers. With its location on the famous Seven Mile Beach, you'll get a laid-back atmosphere with brilliant sunsets.
Sandals Dunn's River - As the newest and best Sandals resort in Jamaica, this is quickly becoming a favorite for our clients due to its Sandals 2.0 design philosophy, accommodation options & new dining concepts.
Sandals Royal Plantation - An all-butler service boutique resort with an intimate atmosphere. Its emphasis on personalized service makes it a top choice for those seeking a quieter getaway.
Sandals Ochi - Offers the best of both worlds and an active atmosphere. Here you get 21+ dining options, and over 100 pools. This is a great option for those looking to relax while having an active social scene.
Sandals Montego Bay - Nightlife & First-Time Sandals Travelers
This is the flagship resort of the Sandals brand, and as the first ever Sandals resort, it truly embodies Jamaica's spirit. Upon arrival at the Sangster International Airport (MBJ), you'll be at the resort within five minutes of leaving the Sandals departure lounge. Because of its proximity to the airport and ease of getting to Jamaica from most airports throughout the United States, this is also our favorite destination for first-time Sandals visitors and those looking to do a shorter stay of three nights or more.
Gateway to the Caribbean
Sandals Montego Bay, Jamaica is known for its expansive private white-sand beach, with rooms steps away from the Caribbean Sea. Fun Fact: The beachfront suites at Sandals Montego Bay are the closest to the water's edge out of any resort in Jamaica.
Dining at Sandals Montego Bay
There are 12 specialty restaurants on-site, offering a dining experience spanning the globe. From the beachfront Tokyo Joe's, where Asian cuisine meets Caribbean cuisine, to the upscale Jamaican offerings at Oleander, the resort caters to every mood. At night, themed parties come to life, and the Latitudes Overwater Bar is our favorite place to end the day. Dirty martini, anyone?
Resort Experiences
Best of the Best Location: Located less than 2 miles from Montego Bay airport (MBJ), Sandals Montego Bay gives you the best way to maximize your vacation time, making it a great choice for short stays or those new to the Sandals experience.
Watersports: From PADI-certified SCUBA diving to kayaking, wakeboarding, and waterskiing, the resort offers activities for all skill levels and interests. While scuba diving isn't great in Jamaica, it is still an awesome place to practice your skills and acquire new certifications.
Entertainment: The resort's entertainment is on point and there is always something going on, day and night. Check out the daily bulletin board for all of the activities.
Accommodations and Wedding Venues
Accommodations at Sandals Montego Bay are designed with the traveler in mind. Here, you'll find Beachfront swim-up Suites that give you direct access to a shared pool from a private patio.
Looking to have a destination wedding? The Overwater Wedding Chapel at Sandals Montego Bay is only one of three in Jamaica. It's the perfect place for an intimate wedding for groups of less than 35 people. As with all Sandals resorts, your dedicated wedding team expertly plans both weddings and vow renewals.
Exchange Privileges
As part of your all-inclusive package, Sandals Montego Bay Jamaica guests benefit from exchange privileges with the nearby Sandals Royal Caribbean, which combines two vacations in one. To get there, you'll find the shuttle schedule posted in the main lobby, which is only a short drive between resorts.
Touring Montego Bay, Jamaica
Want to leave the resort? We recommend taking a local tour to visit the historic Rose Hall Great House or the Montego Bay Marine Park. For those interested, Jamaica is now 420-friendly. While smoking marijuana is not allowed on any Sandals resort, there is a dispensary in downtown Montego Bay next to Margaritaville, which has great music and beautiful ocean views.
Tips for Visiting Sandals Montego Bay
Getting off the Resort: Island Routes offers many excursion options, and we're happy to recommend our favorites. Another benefit of staying in Montego Bay is that you're close to many off-site locations.
Diving Opportunities: PADI-certified diving courses are available to all guests, perfect for beginners and experienced divers. For those new to diving, we recommend taking the online courses before arrival and completing the open-water dives at the resort. Just bring your online certification with you.
Sandals Montego Bay is great for those wanting to experience Jamaica's lifestyle while enjoying the comfort and service the Sandals brand is so well known for. This Jamaican-owned company is one of our all-time favorites. You can tell they've put the love into bringing this resort up to the new Sandals 2.0 standards, and we believe it should be a top contender for your next vacation.
Through Rivage Travel, our clients will access exclusive offers and personalized planning services. Let's connect!
Sandals South Coast - Overwater Bungalows & Secluded Setting
Sandals South Coast is inside a 500-acre nature reserve on Jamaica's South Coast of Whitehouse, Jamaica. This AAA Four Diamond Resort is all-beachfront, just 75 minutes from Sangster International Airport on a newly paved highway through the countryside. It's the perfect spot for anyone wanting to have some real down time while enjoying the true beauty of Jamaica. Here you'll get a one-of-a-kind Caribbean island vacation experience in the great outdoors, surrounded by the blue mountains.
Privacy and Exclusivity
As of January, 2025, Sandals South Coast has recently completed an extensive renovation of the resort and renaming of its beachfront buildings. With its signature accommodations, including the newly released overwater bungalows in a heart-shaped formation and swim-up Rondoval suites. These luxurious accommodations provide:
Modernized features
See-through glass panel floors.
Private infinity pools.
Direct access to the ocean.
Tranquility Soaking Tubs
Complimentary private airport transfers and Club MoBay Fast Track Immigration services.
Why Choose Sandals South Coast?
Secluded Paradise for Nature Lovers: Located inside a 500-acre reserve, Sandals South Coast is an isolated resort with modern amenities.
Overwater Bungalows: Why travel to French Polynesia when these beautiful accommodations are just hours away from the United States. They are the most expensive accommodations at the resort, but there are deals to be found! Just this past week of February 5th, 2025 - Sandals put the Overwater Bungalows on their weekly 777 promotion. Contact us for more information!
A Global Gourmet Journey: Sandals South Coast features nine restaurants, where you can enjoy global cuisines from around the world. From the fresh sushi at Sushi on the Sand to classic Italian dishes with freshly made pasta at Giuseppe's, there is something here for everyone.
Activities and Experiences
Despite its laid-back setting, Sandals South Coast is a hub for activity where you can do everything from windsurfing along the scenic coastline to scuba diving. Best of all, it's all included!
Love in Paradise
Sandals South Coast has customizable packages for those planning a wedding or celebrating a honeymoon. There are packages to fit every budget and due to the size of the resort, it can accommodate both large and small weddings. The over water wedding chapel is one of our favorite highlights too. It offers a romantic and unforgettable venue for exchanging vows against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea. Looking for more information, let's connect!
Guest Services
The staff at Sandals South Coast are the heart of the resort, and they provide attentive and personalized service. It's common for the staff to remember your name, and they will quickly become familiar faces to you during your stay.
This is for those looking for a higher-end travel experience. Select suites come with personal butler service and 24-hour room service. Additionally, the resort has received a Master Series Certification from EarthCheck, certifying it as an environmentally friendly vacation resort for its commitment to sustainability.
Planning Your Stay at Sandals South Coast
Book Spa Treatments Early: To fully enjoy the Red Lane Spa's offerings, we advise scheduling your treatments in advance or upon arrival to ensure availability during your stay.
In conclusion, your Sandals vacation is more than just a visit to a world-class resort; it is a sanctuary where Jamaica's beauty meets the refined comfort of a world-class destination. For those seeking a secluded vacation experience complete with luxurious and modernized accommodations, Global Gourmet dining, and a commitment to excellence, Sandals South Coast is the place to be.
Rivage Travel is here to assist with exclusive offers and personalized planning services to make your visit to Sandals South Coast an unforgettable experience. Let's connect!
Sandals Royal Caribbean - Private Island & Overwater Bungalows
Sandals Royal Caribbean offers a private retreat near Montego Bay that brings together British colonial charm with the benefits of a private offshore island. This exclusive resort gives you the unique opportunity to stay in one of the overwater bungalows or villas that seem to float above the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Let's find out what makes Sandals Royal Caribbean so special.
Resort Experiences
This 272-room resort is centered around privacy. It features a Thai restaurant on the private island and is accessible via a quick dragon boat ride. For 2025, construction of the new building is coming to a close with a beach expansion, so if you're traveling this year, please be prepared for some construction; however, Sandals does a good job of making this a minor inconvenience.
Global Gourmet Dining
With nine restaurants, Sandals Royal Caribbean has everything from Indian cuisine at Bombay Club to the refined French dishes at Le Jardinier. Our favorite is the Thai restaurant on the private island!
Bars and Entertainment
Five bars, including a swim-up bar and a traditional British pub, complement the resort's experience. There is no shortage of spots to relax with your favorite cocktail in hand, while nightly entertainment and theme parties keep you going throughout your stay.
Activities and Down Time
At Sandals Royal Caribbean, you can take part in water sports and activities like snorkeling, paddle boarding, and sailing. The beach is not the largest of the seven resorts in Jamaica, but with the Sandals exchange privileges, you can visit Sandals Montego Bay, which is just a quick 5-minute shuttle ride away. Travel Tip: Check the shuttle schedule posted in the main lobby.
Sandals Royal Caribbean is a jewel in the Sandals crown, perfect for those seeking an escape that combines privacy and adventure in one of Jamaica's most picturesque settings.
We'd love to help you plan your stay. Please get in touch with us for our complimentary planning services!
Sandals Negril - Seven Mile Beach & Laid-back Vibes
Set along the waters edge of the world-renowned Seven Mile Beach, Sandals Negril gives you a laid-back experience at one of the Caribbean's most beautiful settings on arguably the best beach in Jamaica. This resort is perfect for those drawn to clear waters and expansive white sands.
Comfort While Taking Care of Nature
Sandals Negril is distinguished by its commitment to environmental preservation. With multiple awards for its environmental practices, you can be assured that when it comes to energy management, water conservation, and waste management, Sandals cares as deeply about its impact on the surroundings as it does about the guests traveling there.
Culinary Adventure and Unlimited Premium Beverages
At Sandals Negril, you can explore the world of gastronomy across eight restaurants and five bars, including two swim-up options. A refreshing cocktail, or snack is never far away!
The Ideal Retreat for Relaxation and Romance
Beach Paradise: Sandals Negril is the place for beach lovers; with a wide, beautiful beach, there are plenty of loungers and beach service. So no towel game here, unless you're looking for a place with shade at the main pool.
Exchange Privileges with Beaches Resorts: As a guest of Sandals Negril, you can visit and dine at Beaches Negril. You can get there by taking a quick 30-minute stroll down the famed 7-mile beach. Note. If doing the beach walk, wear sandals as there are some narrow beach areas that need to be walked through.
Accommodations: From brand-new beachfront suites with butler service to charming garden cottages, Sandals Negril provides accommodations to suit your every need.
The Atmosphere: Sandals Negril captures the spirit of the Caribbean and offers a lively vacation experience. Activities range from beach parties to sunset gatherings around the bar.
Beachfront Firesky Reserve Villas & Eventide Penthouse Collection
Just steps from Negril Beach's fresh white sands, the newly unveiled Beachfront Firesky Reserve Villas are one of the hottest spots to stay. This, in addition to Beaches Negril, offers an experience for adult-aged families (18+) and friends. With accommodations designed to cater to every need, you can enjoy the freedom of spacious, sunlit living areas, private pools, and butler service.
The Firesky Reserve Villas highlight this collection, giving you private living spaces unlike anything across Jamaica. These villas have three levels of spacious interiors that bring in the outdoors to the indoors while offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy a nightcap on the private rooftop deck, while gazing upon the stars with your telescope, or take a dip in the private courtyard pool.
Included with the Firesky Villas:
Butler Elite Service: Your personal team of butlers will make sure every need is met with precision and a personalization.
Private Pool and Courtyard: Quick access to the beach with spectacular ocean views.
Rooftop Deck: Ideal for stargazing and gatherings with friends and family under the stars.
Telescopes in Firesky Suites: Get lost in the night as you search the starry horizon.
Multiple Bedrooms with En-suite Bathrooms: Accommodating adult aged (18+) families and groups.
Private Beach Access: Just steps away from the soft sands and clear waters of Negril Beach.
The Beachfront Firesky Reserve Villas at Sandals Negril elevate the standard for an all-inclusive getaway. They offer one of the best ways to experience Jamaica, are designed for total relaxation, and promise a vacation filled with unforgettable memories.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Sandals Negril Experience
Be a local: Guests are encouraged to jump into Negril's laid-back vibes by visiting local attractions such as Rick's Café.
Sunset Views: The resort's location on Seven Mile Beach provides the perfect setting for taking in their magical sunsets.
Early Booking Recommended: Booking early is recommended to secure your choice of beachfront rooms or suites, especially for special occasions like honeymoons.
Diving Adventures: With a PADI-certified SCUBA program, Sandals Negril is an ideal destination for practicing your skills or acquiring new ones. Here the dive team caters to beginners and experienced divers, where you'll see everything from friendly sharks to sea horses.
Sandals Negril is not just a resort; it reflects Jamaica's beauty and relaxed way of life. With its beautiful beach, laid-back atmosphere, and luxurious accommodations, it offers a real piece of paradise.
Sandals Dunn's River - The Rising Star
Tucked away in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Sandals Dunn's River is one of the Country's newest Sandals resorts and top spots. Every detail—from the panoramic views to the room amenities—has been carefully designed to ensure an unforgettable stay.
Global Gourmet Dining
This resort offers a real culinary experience. It features 12 specialty dining venues that guide guests through global cuisines. From authentic Jamaican jerk chicken at the Jerk Shack to the refined elegance of Japanese dishes at Hanami, the resort caters to every palate.
Leisure and Total Relaxation
Our love for Sandals Dunn's River extends far beyond its dining options. The resort is home to five pools, including two river pools that mimic the natural flow of Jamaica's famous rivers. Here, you'll find a wide range of water sports, while those seeking downtime will find solace in the Red Lane Spa. For those looking to be active, the fitness center is equipped with the latest exercise technology and has personal trainers who will ensure your ongoing wellness goals are met.
Reasons to Choose Sandals Dunn's River
The Skypool Suites and Rondovals with butler service truly stand out. With sweeping ocean views, infinity-edge plunge pools, and the attentiveness of a personal butler, these suites offer the most intimate and lavish retreat available.
Local Vibes
Sandals Dunn's River remains deeply connected to Jamaica's culture and nature. The resort's proximity to Dunn's River Falls, one of the island's most well-known attractions, allows you to easily experience Jamaica's beauty beyond the resort's boundaries.
A Closer Look at its Features
Beach and Wellness
The pristine beach at Sandals Dunn's River is small, yet perfect in size for this resort. From healthy food options at each restaurant to the Red Lane Spa, which elevates your wellness experience, you'll find this resort blending traditional spa treatments with local ingredients for a truly rejuvenating experience.
Staff and Service
The heart of Sandals Dunn's River's success lies in its staff, whose dedication to service makes it one of the top Sandals resorts in the portfolio. They are not just employees but ambassadors of Jamaican hospitality, ready to share their culture while making your trip amazing. The staff here take real pride in their work and genuinely care about your experience.
Beyond the Resort:
Discovering Ocho Rios
Guests are encouraged to explore Ocho Rios, a region famed for its waterfalls, gardens, and local life. From the climb up Dunn's River Falls to moments in the Blue Hole, Ocho Rios has many treasures waiting to be discovered. Looking for the best off-site excursions? Our preferred partner is Island Routes, together we'll make sure you get the most out of your stay!
A Beautiful Mix of Living and Culture
Sandals Dunn's River is more than just a resort. It's a gateway to experiencing the soul of Jamaica. Its luxurious accommodations, deep culinary landscape, and adventure make it a top destination for those seeking the ultimate Caribbean getaway in 2025.
Sandals Royal Plantation - One of the Best
Located in the beauty of Ocho Rios, Sandals Royal Plantation is a testament to time. As one of the smaller resorts, this all-butler resort offers a bespoke travel experience that combines personalized service with a tropical paradise.
Personalized Service
Sandals Royal Plantation is a sanctuary for those seeking personalized attention. Each suite's dedicated butler service shows the resort's commitment to guest satisfaction. Here, your butler will cater to every whim with discretion and professionalism.
Culinary Excellence and Leisure Options
The Culinary Journey
The resort's dining experience starts with five gourmet restaurants, offering everything from French cuisine at Le Papillon to seaside dining at the Royal Grill. The resort's exclusivity is highlighted by its caviar and champagne bar, symbolizing the experiences waiting for you at Sandals Royal Plantation.
Downtime
In addition to its specialty dining offerings, Sandals Royal Plantation provides plenty of leisure activities. From complimentary golf at the nearby championship course to water sports and treatments at the Red Lane Spa, you'll enjoy relaxing at this resort.
Why Sandals Royal Plantation is a Caribbean Jewel
Personalized Service: Butler service at Sandals Royal Plantation is a true highlight, where you will receive attentive and bespoke care throughout your stay.
Intimate Dining Experiences: The resort's dining options cater to all tastes and occasions, from sophisticated dinners at Le Papillon to relaxed meals by the beach.
Accommodations: The Governor General Oceanfront Butler Suite offers guests a beautiful ocean view and direct access to private beaches and lush gardens.
Perfect for Relaxation and Romance
The resort's cliffside location provides amazing views of the Caribbean Sea and access to secluded coves. This idyllic backdrop, combined with the resort's activities, original Caribbean charm, and amenities, will create memories to last a lifetime.
Sandals Royal Plantation in Jamaica offers an intimate resort experience with impeccable service and a beautiful setting. At Rivage Travel, we're here to provide personalized vacation planning for your dream vacation and ensure every aspect of your stay at Sandals Royal Plantation is perfectly tailored to your desires. Let's connect!
Sandals Ochi - Affordable & Bustling Nightlife
Sandals Ochi in the Ocho Rios area is Jamaica's most affordable Sandals resort. With over 100 pools and accommodations from the luxury level to Butler Elite, this is one of the largest Sandals resorts, and it has a perfect room for travelers of all budgets.
Culinary Excellence and Global Gourmet Dining
Sandals Ochi shows off the most extensive dining options within the Sandals brand. Featuring 16 restaurants that range from the romantic ambiance of Kelly's Dockside to the lively atmosphere of the Jerk Shack, here you'll find eleven bars, including chic swim-up options and the Rabbit Hole speakeasy, where live music will carry you throughout the evening.
The Hub of Entertainment
Energetic Nightlife: The resort's nightlife is a highlight, with live shows, beach parties, and one-of-a-kind Rabbit Hole offering a glimpse into Jamaica's social scene.
Luxury Accommodations: From Butler Villas with private pools to stylish Great House rooms, Sandals Ochi has some of the best prices with accommodations to fit every budget.
Pools for days: The Ochi Beach Club has 105 pools, including the signature zero-entry pool.
Activities and Amenities for Every Taste
Activities at Sandals Ochi allow guests to fully customize their stay. Whether golfing at the nearby Sandals Golf & Country Club, participating in water sports along the stunning coastline, or enjoying the personalized service provided by Butler service, there’s truly something for everyone.
Tips for Maximizing Your Sandals Ochi Experience
Navigate the Resort: Utilize "The Hop" shuttle service to get around the resort.
Explore Locally: Take advantage of Rivage Travel's expertise to venture beyond the resort with excursions to Ocho Rios's attractions through our partner Island Routes.
Sandals Ochi Beach Resort captures Jamaica's spirit. It caters to every traveler, promising a vacation with unforgettable moments.
If this is your future vacation destination or you have questions, let's connect!
Comparative Analysis of Room Categories Across Resorts
Sandals Resorts in Jamaica are located in some of the best locations. They all feature global gourmet dining options and accommodation categories to cater to different needs and budgets. Understanding the nuances between Sandals Luxury, Club Level, and Butler Elite categories can enhance your vacation experience, so let's dive in!
Sandals Luxury: The gateway to the Sandals experience, Sandals Luxury rooms provide comfortable and beautifully appointed accommodations that offer excellent value. Ideal for guests who prioritize exploring over staying in, these rooms feature king-sized beds, smart TVs, and balconies or patios with various views. They're perfect for active couples who plan to spend their days enjoying the resort's amenities and exploring the island.
Club Sandals: These accommodations add a layer of service and amenities, including access to the Club Sandals Lounge for a private check-in. Concierge services are available to assist with reservations, and room service is provided during certain hours. These rooms and suites are in preferred locations, and have additional in-room luxuries like stocked minibars. They're suited for travelers seeking more exclusivity and convenience in their stay without getting into the highest tiers.
Butler Elite: The Butler Elite category offers top-tier accommodations, often in the resort's most exclusive locations. Guests enjoy the attentive service of a butler trained by the Guild of Professional English Butlers, who can take care of everything from unpacking luggage to arranging private dinners on the beach. These rooms and suites are designed with the finest furnishings and offer the best views. Ideal for romantic getaways, special occasions, or those who desire the best of the best.
Each category offers a distinct level of service, luxury, and exclusivity, catering to various vacation styles and preferences. Have questions? Lets chat!
About the Authors
Jonathan and Angela
Based out of Atlanta, GA, Rivage Travel is a boutique travel consultant group dedicated to providing personalized travel experiences. Owned by husband and wife duo Jonathan and Angela, our love for travel brought us together during a trip to Sydney, Australia. Our work is based on over 15 years of professional experience, hundreds of hours of travel industry certifications and training. We've been honored by Sandals Resorts as a top US travel agent with the highest honor of being a Sandals Chairman's Club Diamond Elite travel expert, and we look forward to using our experience to earn your business today and in the future.
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