Sandals Negril Reviewed: A Top Jamaica All Inclusive

By Jonathan | Updated on February 1, 2025

Remembering the Time I Forgot to Leave!

Sandals Negril was my first Sandals experience and the story is that we were having such a good time, that we completely lost track of the days and ended up staying and extra night. As you could imagine the departure was chaotic and costly as was the experience getting home, however what it told us was that Sandals is a truly special place and five nights will never be enough, again.

So that is how it all began.

From that point forward, all future trips to Sandals prior to starting a family we're a minimum of seven nights which is the perfect amount of time to experience Jamaica and all that Negril has to offer!

So let's get into why Sandals Negril is such a special resort and why Jamaica is so close to our heart.

Sandals Negril is located on the shores of world-famous Seven Mile Beach and is a top Jamaica all inclusive that offers a special adults only all-inclusive Caribbean getaway. Situated on the waters edge, this resort is more bespoke in nature with amenities and personalized experiences that set it apart from other Jamaican resorts.

For those celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon or anniversary or simply need a break, Sandals Negril has the perfect backdrop for creating new memories with those you love the most. We even have families who enjoy staying here. While the room configurations are more suited for couples, there are new

With its intimate atmosphere the newly released Bamboo Grove butler accommodations makes Sandals Negril Jamaica is one of the most cherished destinations in the Sandals Jamaica portfolio. From water sports to epic sunsets, the resort has something for everyone.

At Rivage Travel, we specialize in Sandals resorts and have over 15 years of experience in this area. We’ve personally visited all of their properties and have been recognized as Sandals Top Travel Agency, as well as one of the top seven travel advisors in the United States for 2024.

As a Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club Diamond Elite travel expert, we will share our insider knowledge to help you plan the perfect trip to one of their stunning resorts. The best part? Our professional services are complimentary to you. Please connect with us using the chat feature below!

Let's begin!

Key Takeaways: (Jump to Section)

Introduction to Sandals Negril: Find out why this resort is a top choice for a getaway in Jamaica.
Seven Mile Beach Experience: We'll review in detail the beauty and activities surrounding Jamaica’s iconic beach.
All-Inclusive Features: See what’s included in your stay, from dining to water sports.
Modern Accommodations: Learn about room options, including the new Bamboo Grove Skypool Butler Suite.
Dining and Bars: A look at the global gourmet restaurants, dining experiences, and nightlife.
Activities and Winding Down: Scuba diving, water sports, and spa treatments.
Local Excursions: Highlights like Mayfield Falls, Rick’s Café, and Floyd’s Pelican Bar.
Romance In The Air: The couples-only focus makes it perfect for honeymoons and anniversaries.
Travel Tips: Advice for dealing with local vendors, safety measures, and planning excursions.
Pros and Cons: Strengths of the resort and considerations for your stay.
Final Thoughts: Why Sandals Negril is ideal for your next Caribbean escape with Rivage Travel.

The Seven Mile Beach Experience

The Seven Mile Beach Experience

One of the most important features of Sandals Negril Jamaica is its private location on Seven Mile Beach which is one of the most stunning stretches of sand in the Caribbean. The soft white sand and shallow crystal-clear waters give the perfect setting for those afternoon strolls, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the gentle sound of the waves.

While there are other resorts around Sandals Negril, this one is tucked in a private cove, so guests from the neighboring resort to the north cannot access this part of the beach.

Activities for Enjoying your Stay

Morning Strolls: Start your day with a peaceful walk along the beach, taking in the refreshing sea breeze. Visit with the fishermen as they bring in lobsters and more.
Sunsets: Sandals Negril faces due west and has some of the most awe-inspiring sunsets, which paint the sky with shades of orange and pink. Occasionally, you'll even see a green flash as the sun drops slowly behind the ocean.
Access to Beaches Negril: Sandals Negril Jamaica guests can also visit the nearby Beaches resort for a family-friendly atmosphere and additional activities. The walk is approximately 30 minutes and is easy at low tide.

Pro Tip: Remember your camera! Jamaica's sunsets and beach views are some of the most photographed.

All-Inclusive Offerings at Sandals Negril

All-Inclusive Offerings at Sandals Negril

When staying at Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa, nearly everything is included in your booking price, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without worrying about hidden costs.

Dining and Drinks

Eight unique restaurants serving global cuisines, including seafood, Caribbean flavors, and Japanese teppanyaki.
Five bars, featuring two swim-up bars and a variety of handcrafted cocktails and mocktails for those who do not drink alcohol.
Unlimited premium liquors and wines, including stocked minibars in every room.

Activities and Entertainment

Complimentary water sports like paddleboarding, snorkeling, and kayaking.
PADI-certified scuba diving for beginners and experts with awesome night dives (at an additional cost) where you'll see everything from octopus to sea horses.
Land activities such as tennis and live evening entertainment.
Four pools and three whirlpools for ultimate relaxation.

Additional Perks

Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the resort.
Round-trip airport transfers for added convenience.
All taxes and gratuities are included.

How It Compares to Other Sandals Resorts

Sandals Negril has an intimate and laid-back vibe compared to the larger Sandals properties like Sandals South Coast or Sandals Ochi. Its beachfront location and updated accommodations make it an attractive option for couples who want to mix it up with both excitement and relaxation. You won't be bored here and while the pools are smaller than some other resorts, the proximity to the ocean more than makes up for it.

Our clients frequently ask, "How far away is Sandals Negril from the airport?".

In short, it's approximately 75/90 min through the countryside but can be longer depending on traffic as there currently is only one main road connecting Montego Bay to Negril. It was recently announced in 2023 by the Prime Minister Andrew Holeness, that a new highway will be built to reduce the travel time between parishes and in 2024, progress is being made.

Room Categories

Room Categories and Features

Sandals Negril Jamaica has modernized this resort and has updated accommodations designed to cater to every couple’s preferences and budget. From cozy luxury-level retreats to opulent butler suites, whether you’re looking for a beachfront room to wake up to ocean views or a butler suite with a fully customizable vacation experience, the resort has something for everyone.

Here are a few of our favorites:

Bamboo Grove Skypool Butler Suite: This option is perfect for couples who want to literally elevate their vacation experience. It features a private rooftop pool, spacious living and dining areas, and butler service to meet every need.
Beachfront Swim-Up Suites: These rooms give you direct access to a shared pool with beachfront views.
Caribbean Deluxe Rooms: A more budget-friendly option without sacrificing comfort, these rooms provide modern amenities and easy access to the resort’s amenities.

Updated Accommodations and Stunning Views

Recent updates have modernized the resort’s rooms, giving you stylish decor with many having beachfront views of Seven Mile Beach. Whether you choose a garden view or a beachfront suite, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of Negril so you can't really make a bad decision here.

Rivage Travel Tip: If you’re celebrating a special occasion, the butler-level suites are worth the splurge for personalized service.

Dining Options

Dining and Restaurant Options

There are eight specialty restaurants at Sandals Negril with each offering a culinary experience that caters to every palate. From local Caribbean flavors art Sundowner to international cuisines at Bayside, you're going to travel the world as you experience each of these dining options.

Bayside Brasserie: A casual yet elegant spot offering a mix of international dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Barefoot by the Sea: Dine with your toes in the sand while enjoying fresh seafood in an open-air setting.
Sundowner: Savor Caribbean cuisine with an ocean view, making it ideal for a romantic dinner.
Kimonos: A Japanese teppanyaki dining experience where dinner is prepared right at your table.
Perla: Latin fusion restaurant that offers bold flavors on your plate. Special mention: this is one of the only Sandals resorts that offers more than just Jose Cuervo Tequila; here you'll find multiple options to choose from, including reposado.
Bella Napoli Pizzeria: Perfect for a laid-back meal, offering handcrafted Neapolitan-style pizzas.
Crema: A coffee and dessert haven featuring sweet treats and rich Jamaican coffee.

Dining Experiences

Sandals Negril goes beyond traditional dining with options like a private candlelight dinner under the stars, adding a touch of romance to your stay. For casual moments, grab a quick bite at the beachfront cafes or order room service for a quiet meal on your balcony.

Rivage Travel Tip: Reservations are required for Kimonos and private dining experiences, so we recommend making them early - either prior to arrival or the day of.

Bars and Nightlife

The bars at Sandals Negril cater to relaxed afternoons and fun evenings, making it easy to find your vibe. Each bar serves unlimited premium spirits so you can indulge without a second thought.

Swim-Up Bars: Enjoy your drink at two conveniently located swim-up bars without ever leaving the water.
Piano Bar: The night spot where guests gather for music and fun.
Beach Bar: Perfect for grabbing a cocktail while lounging on the sand.
Main Bar: The hub for evening mingling and entertainment.

A Balance of Lively and Intimate Nightlife

From low-key evenings enjoying live music to dancing at one of the resort’s themed events, something always happens here. If you prefer a quieter experience, the resort's southern end offers tranquil spaces for stargazing or intimate conversations.

Rivage Travel Tip: The bartenders are known for their creativity—ask them to surprise you with a signature drink to make your evening extra special.

Activites & Entertainment

On-Site Activities and Entertainment

While Sandals Negril Jamaica might be smaller on size, it is not small on fun as there is a hub of activity for couples who want to make the most of their getaway. Here is an overview of the activities you'll find at Sandals Negril.

Scuba Diving: Explore Jamaica’s underwater world with complimentary PADI-certified scuba diving. Whether new to diving or an experienced diver, the resort provides all necessary equipment and professional guidance. This is a great place to acquire new certifications too!
Water Sports: Paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat tours are all available here, including motorized activities like water skiing and wakeboarding. Jet skis are available for rent from local vendors.

Evening Entertainment

When the sun sets, Sandals Negril comes to life with evening entertainment options that include:

Live music and performances
Themed nights with dancing and interactive games
Intimate fire pits for romantic evenings

Relaxing by Day

If your idea of a vacation is unwinding, Sandals Negril has plenty of options for daytime relaxation:

Quiet Pools: Head to the resort's southern end for a peaceful pool experience away from the lively main areas.
Lounging on Seven Mile Beach: Spend the day soaking up the sun with a cocktail in hand, listening to the soothing waves.

Rivage Travel Tip: The towel game happens here so you may need to wake up early to get a good spot on the beach or by the pool.

Spa and Relaxation Options

A visit to the Red Lane® Spa at Sandals Negril is the ultimate indulgence for those looking to rejuvenate their mind and body. The spa offers a wide array of Caribbean-inspired treatments, including:

Aromatherapy massages
Deep-tissue and hot stone therapies
Seaweed body wraps and salt scrubs
Facials using natural, locally sourced ingredients

Guest-Favorite Treatments

Our clients love the aromatherapy massage, which combines soothing techniques with the calming scents of essential oils derived from plants in the Caribbean. The seaweed body wrap is another popular choice for its hydrating and detoxifying properties.

The spa also offers couples’ packages, allowing you to privately share a relaxing experience with your loved one.

Rivage Travel Tip: Book your spa treatments early in your stay to secure your preferred time slot, especially for couples’ massages.

Excursions

Local Excursions and Attractions

While Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa provides everything you need for your vacation, there’s much to see and do outside the resort. Some must-visit local attractions include:

Mayfield Falls: Take a guided river walk through this lush, tropical area filled with cascading waterfalls and natural pools.
Rick’s Café: A famous cliffside bar known for its breathtaking sunsets and daring cliff divers. You can jump too off the visitors platform!
Floyd’s Pelican Bar: A one-of-a-kind bar set on a sandbar in the middle of the ocean, accessible only by boat.

Tips for Booking Excursions

Plan Ahead: Popular excursions, like the reggae sunset catamaran cruise can fill up quickly. Booking in advance ensures you don’t miss out. We can help!
Use Sandals’ Partner: Book through the resort or trusted partners like Island Routes for the best experience with trusted vendors.
Pack Accordingly: Bring water shoes, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag for excursions like Mayfield Falls.

Rivage Travel Tip: Combine multiple excursions into one day to maximize your time off the resort while still returning in time to enjoy the evening entertainment.

Romance

Couples-Only Paradise

Sandals Negril Jamaica is an adults-only haven designed exclusively for couples seeking a romantic and stress-free getaway. This resort is not just about luxury but also about fostering intimacy and connection. From the secluded beachfront spots to cozy fire pits, every element of the resort has ben designed to help couples relax and enjoy each other’s company.

While we love our kids, the absence of children creates a peaceful atmosphere, allowing couples to immerse themselves in their vacation without distractions. Whether you’re sharing a candlelit dinner under the stars or enjoying a private butler suite, the focus is entirely on your relationship.

Perfect for Honeymoons and Anniversaries

Sandals Negril is a popular choice for honeymoons and anniversaries due to its romantic offerings:

Private Candlelight Dinners: Celebrate milestones with a white gloved, four-course meal on the beach, complete with soft waves as your soundtrack.
Butler Suites: For couples who want the ultimate personalization, butler service ensures your every need is taken care of, from breakfast in bed to drawn bubble baths.
Spa Treatments for Two: Indulge in couples’ massages or spa experiences

Rivage Travel Tip: Let us and the resort staff know if you’re celebrating a special occasion. They often add thoughtful touches like champagne or flower petals to your room.

Accessibility and Transportation

The journey to Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa begins with a flight to Montego Bay Sangster International Airport (MBJ). This is the nearest major airport to the resort and is serviced by many international airlines.

Complimentary Transfers

All guests at Sandals Resort Negril, Jamaica, receive complimentary round-trip airport transfers. The scenic drive from Montego Bay to the resort takes approximately 90 minutes, and you can enjoy the lush Jamaican landscape along the way.

Private Transport Options

For an upgraded experience, private transfers can be arranged at an additional cost. This is an excellent option for couples who want a more personalized and luxurious start to their vacation.

Rivage Travel Tip: Arrive early in the day to make the most of your first afternoon at the resort. If your flight arrives late, let's talk about the Club MoBay immigration expedited service to help you quickly get through customs.

What Makes Sandals Negril Unique

Sandals Negril Jamaica is compact and easy to navigate, unlike some sprawling resorts. The intimate size means you’re never far from the beach, your room, or the dining options. This setup is perfect for couples who want to enjoy their vacation more and walk less from one place to another.

The resort’s cozy layout creates a relaxed, laid-back vibe, making it feel like a private getaway. Despite its smaller footprint, the resort doesn’t compromise on amenities or activities, offering the complete Sandals experience in a more manageable space.

Personalized Attention from the Staff

One of the most praised aspects of Sandals Negril reviews is the exceptional staff. From the moment you arrive, you’re treated like family and will welcome you home. Guests frequently mention the attentiveness of the staff, whether it’s the bartender remembering your favorite cocktail or housekeeping going above and beyond to make your room feel special.

Our Client Feedback Highlights:

“The staff made our honeymoon unforgettable. They truly care about your experience.”
“We felt like VIPs from start to finish. The attention to detail was amazing.”

Rivage Travel Tip: Take time to chat with the staff—they often have great local recommendations for excursions or hidden gems at the resort.

At Sandals Negril, everything—from the romantic atmosphere to the exceptional service—is designed to create lasting memories for couples. With Rivage Travel, you can rest assured that every journey detail will be handled carefully, ensuring a stress-free experience.

Travel Tips

Tips for First-Time Visitors

While Sandals Negril Jamaica provides a private and secure beachfront, you may encounter local vendors on the public stretches of Seven Mile Beach. These vendors often sell souvenirs, offer excursions, or provide local crafts.

A polite “No, thank you” is usually sufficient if you’re uninterested.
If you find something you like, feel free to engage and negotiate prices—bargaining is common.
Remember to carry small bills if you plan to purchase anything from the vendors.

Security Measures and Overall Safety

Sandals Negril places a strong emphasis on guest safety.

Security Patrols: The beach and resort are monitored 24/7 to ensure only guests can access private areas.
Room Safes: Each room has a safe to store valuables, offering peace of mind during your stay.
Transportation: If you venture off-property, use transportation arranged by the resort or a trusted provider.

Rivage Travel Tip: While the area is generally safe, staying alert and following the resort’s guidelines will ensure a worry-free experience.

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons of Sandals Negril

Strengths

Western Facing Beach Location: Situated on one of the most beautiful stretches of Seven Mile Beach, Sandals Negril offers amazing ocean views and soft white sands.
Dining Options: With eight specialty restaurants, guests can enjoy various cuisines, from seafood to Japanese teppanyaki.
Activities: Complimentary water sports, live entertainment, and access to Beaches Negril gives variation to your getaway.
Updated Rooms: Recent renovations have enhanced the accommodations, offering modern amenities and stunning beachfront views.

Considerations

Smaller Pools: While the beach access is exceptional, the pools at Sandals Negril are smaller than those at more significant Sandals properties.
Diving: Although the dive team is excellent, Jamaica isn’t always known for world-class scuba diving compared to other Caribbean destinations.

Rivage Travel Tip: If diving isn’t a top priority for your vacation, focus on the beach and water sports.

Final Thoughts & Recommendations

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa is an incredible resort for those wanting to truly relax and be active in a breathtaking setting. With its beachfront location, all-inclusive amenities, and focus on couples, it makes it one of our highest ranked Sandals properties when rating the best Sandals resort. The resort’s intimate size and attentive staff add a personal touch that more significant properties often lack.

Whether you’re strolling along Seven Mile Beach, indulging in a private candlelight dinner, or exploring local attractions like Mayfield Falls, Sandals Negril provides a vacation experience that’s both relaxing and memorable.

At Rivage Travel, we specialize in helping travelers create personalized Caribbean getaways. Let us handle the details so you can focus on enjoying every moment of your stay.