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By Jonathan | Updated on February 16, 2025
Sandals Ochi Review: Our Getaway to The Northern Coast of Jamaica
As travel professionals specializing in Sandals resorts, Angela and I have spent a majority of our time on the western coast of Jamaica where most of the resorts are located.
However, we have always wanted to get to the Ocho Rios port town on the North Coast. So, when the opportunity arose to visit one of our clients' most popular resorts, Sandals Ochi, we packed our bags faster than you can say "One Love."
For those not yet familiar with this resort or looking to find out more, we're going to get into our review below highlighting our top points for why this could be the right choice for your time away.
At Rivage Travel, our specialty is the Caribbean and as an awarded Sandals Chairmans Club Diamond Elite travel expert, we hope our review below helps guide your decision. If you have any questions, let's chat.
Here we go!
Key Takeaways for Sandals Ochi
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The Beach Club & Oceanfront Side: This is where the action is at. With beachfront pools, bars, and entertainment, there will always be something to do.
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The Hillside & Butler Villas: You'll find more secluded, private areas and room categories with butler service.
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Unlimited gourmet dining at 16 speciality dining options and top shelf liquor at 11 bars, including the Caribbean’s first speakeasy and nightclub.
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Unlimited water sports, including scuba diving, snorkeling, paddleboarding, hobie cat sailing and kayaking.
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An 18-hole championship golf course, with included green fees and shuttle service to the Sandals Upton Estate Golf and Country Club.
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Poolside and beachfront theme parties with live music and karaoke.
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The Rabbit Hole, a secret speakeasy with a password entry. Hint - Find a butler for the password!
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Luxury & Club Level Rooms: Affordable and stylish with tropical views.
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Butler Village Villas: Ultra-private suites with personal butlers, 24-hour room service and pools.
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All activities are included. From pickleball at the tennis courts, to rock climbing, table tennis, and off-site excursions through our preferred travel partner, Island Routes.
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Great for large groups or destination weddings in the overwater chapel
What to Know About Sandals Ochi All-Inclusive Resort
This property is the largest Sandals resort and the most affordable. With room rates starting at $182.00 per person, per night, there is a room to match any budget for an all-inclusive getaway.
What do guests have to say about Sandals Ochi? According to over 15,000 4.5 star Sandals Ochi reviews on TripAdvisor, along with guest reviews from our clients, this is known to be one of the most popular all-inclusive, adults-only resorts in Jamaica.
Jump to Section
Arrival & First Impressions: A Warm Jamaican Welcome
Getting to the Resort
Our flight from Atlanta was just a quick two hours and upon landing at the Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay, we were greeted with that salty Caribbean air, which was both warm and inviting.
As we made our way through the relatively calm airport and through immigration, the sound of Bob Marley was playing in the arrivals area which instantly set the tone for what was to come. With our bags in tow, we met with the friendly Sandals agents at the Sandals arrivals lounge where they took our names and escorted us to a comfortable waiting area where we were offered a snack and cold beer to sip on while I waited for my transfer.
Before getting into the 90-minute transfer to Ocho Rios from Montego Bay, we want to point out that with the addition of Sandals Dunns River, Sandals has worked out a bi-weekly flight with American Airlines, from Miami that goes directly to the Ian Fleming airport. This flight reduces the transfer time by over an hour, which is something that our clients connecting through Miami love.
Since we had to fly direct from Atlanta, that wasn't an option for us, so we're taking that 90 minute transfer.
So, what was that like? Let's start!
The drive from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios wasn’t just a ride; it was part of the experience. We decided to book a private transfer with our friend O'Shane from O'Shane Tours. As usual, he entertained us with stories about Jamaica and pointed out some of the landmarks along the way.
When it came to food, we didn't just pass by the roadside jerk shacks where thick clouds of smoke billowed from their grills. We stopped for lunch, and there really isn't a better way to enjoy it - except with a cold Red Stripe. Further down the road, we also made a stop at a of the fruit stand while taking in the cliffside views of the Caribbean Sea. What a trip!
As we neared Ocho Rios, you could see the landscape starting to shift. Surrounded by the Blue Mountains where rainforests lined the roads, we saw waterfalls moving down rocky hillsides, and the air just felt fresher,.
After a bit over 90 minutes, we pulled into Sandals Ochi, where we immediately felt the shift from traveler to guest. The front desk lobby was elegant and you could sense its laid-back island charm, with tall ceilings, polished wood, and an open-air design that let in a gentle breeze.
As we've come to expect at Sandals, we were warmly greeted with a cool lemongrass scented towel, a glass of bubbly, and a friendly "Welcome home" from the staff. In the background, a steel drum band was playing and we could already feel the stress melting away.
Resort Facts for Sandals Ochi
Sandals Ocho Rios Map
Ready to experience Sandals' largest resort? Book your stay at Sandals Ochi now!
Butler Village Honeymoon Romeo & Juliet One Bedroom Villa Suite with Private Pool Sanctuary
For this part of our stay, we were in the 1200 sqft, Butler Village Honeymoon Romeo & Juliet One Bedroom Villa Suite with Private Pool Sanctuary. This room starts at $633.00 per person, per night and is completely private. In our opinion is the best room category here and one of the most affordable high-end butler suites in the Sandals portfolio.
Andre, welcomed us home and completed our check-in at the room. Being beach people, he reserved us the best cabana at the beach each morning, while bringing us fresh fruits and coconut water before we even asked. He made all of our dinner reservations and even surprised us with a bubble bath filled with rose petals one evening. Yep, this is paradise.
One evening, Andre setup a romantic dinner on our patio, complete with candlelight, music playing from a hidden speaker, and a bottle of my favorite wine. We even got to select food options for our restaurant of choice on the resort. How cool!
Let's talk about the two villages at Sandals Ochi
A Resort with Two Personalities: Laid-back Luxury & Nonstop Fun
Sandals Ochi isn’t just big—it's an enormous resort, Spread across over 100 acres, the resort has two distinct personalities that cater to different moods and vacation styles:
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The Riviera Seaside Village: If your idea of a dream getaway involves waking up to the sound of waves, sipping cocktails by the shore, and feeling the sand between your toes, this is your paradise. The beachfront rooms offer great ocean views, while the pools and swim up bars create an added to that reggae vibe. The infinity pool, near the ocean, became a go-to spot for soaking up the sun with a rum punch in hand. Cabanas lined the shore too, offering shaded retreats where guests lounged.
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The Butler Village & Great House: This section is furthest from the beach and is separated by a main road. Located in the hills, this area of the resort offers more privacy. Butler suites come with private pools and terraces, making it a top recommendation for honeymooners or anyone looking for privacy. The peaceful surroundings, combined with the gentle sounds of nature, made this area feel like my own personal oasis. Down below, the Great House is a stately colonial-style building, perched high on a hill, giving guests panoramic views of the entire resort.
Getting around Ochi Beach
The beach at Sandals Ochi is not as expansive as the ones you'll find on the western coast of Jamaica, and depending on where you're located, you can take a shuttle from the hills to the beach. Walking is a doable but know that you will need to cross a public road, so be careful.
What is the beach like at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort?
We were fortunate to have great weather on this trip, and while it was at 95% occupancy, the beach never felt crowded. There are three beaches near Sandals Ochi Beach. One is the main beach area located close to the main pool near the Riviera Beachfront Tower. This is where the beach party will be located. The second beach has a Riviera zone that is separated from the pier and features shallow water with round floats. The third option is a smaller, quieter beach.
What to Know about the Pools at Sandals Ochi
At Sandals Ochi, there are 105 swimming pools. Yes, that is right, 105 pools and hot tubs! Amazing, right? The largest pool is at the Great House and is where you'll find most of the action. There are other pools and pool bars nearby too. One sits just behind the Great House Café and the rest are scattered around the property, including some hidden semi-private pools which are a great place to relax.
What are the restaurants and quality of food like at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort?
The food quality at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort was great for us. During our time there, we tried pretty much everything we could and even had second dinners from time to time so we could try it all! (Its vacation right?)!
Key Restaurant Details for Sandals Ochi Beach Resort
The Reef Terrace – International Buffet
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Cuisine: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a global buffet.
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Vibe: Casual, open-air dining with views of the beach.
Bayside – Mediterranean Cuisine
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Cuisine: A Mediterranean-inspired menu with seafood, pasta, and grilled meats.
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Vibe: Open-air, overlooking the beach. Casual yet elegant.
The Oleander – Caribbean
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Cuisine: Traditional Jamaican and Caribbean flavors.
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Vibe: Authentic island atmosphere, a favorite for local dishes.
Neptunes – Seafood Specialties
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Cuisine: Specializes in seafood, from fresh fish to shellfish.
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Vibe: Casual dining.
Soy – Sushi and Japanese
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Cuisine: Sushi rolls, sashimi, and Japanese-inspired dishes.
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Vibe: Cozy, intimate atmosphere.
The Jerk Shack – Jamaican Street Food
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Cuisine: Classic Jamaican jerk chicken, pork, and traditional sides.
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Vibe: Casual and laid-back beachside snack bar.
Cucina Romana – Italian Cuisine
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Cuisine: Traditional Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and classic sauces.
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Vibe: Cozy and intimate with a romantic setting.
Le Gourmand – French Fine Dining
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Cuisine: French haute cuisine, offering elegant dishes like foie gras, escargot, and gourmet meats.
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Vibe: Elegant, romantic, and upscale.
The Mariner – Caribbean Grille
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Cuisine: Seafood-focused dishes with Caribbean flair.
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Vibe: Casual and beachfront.
The Venetian – Italian Fine Dining
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Cuisine: Italian classics like risotto, osso buco, and rich sauces.
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Vibe: Elegant, with an upscale, romantic atmosphere.
Tips and Considerations for Visiting Sandals Ochi Beach Resort
Book Dinner Reservations Upon Arrival
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While many restaurants operate on a first-come, first-served basis, the more exclusive dining options (like Le Gourmand and Kimonos) require dinner reservations.
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To ensure you get your preferred dining times, visit the Club Sandals concierge or culinary desk as soon as you check in.
Get your Shaded Spots on the Beach Early
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Sandals Ochi offers plenty of beach seating, but shaded spots and cabanas can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Interactions with Beach Vendors
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Like many other Jamaican resorts, Sandals Ochi does have local beach vendors selling souvenirs, crafts, and excursions.
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Vendors are friendly but persistent—a simple, polite "No, thank you" is enough if you're not interested.
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If you do want to purchase something, feel free to negotiate for a better price.
Room Modernization Information
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Some rooms at Sandals Ochi have been recently refurbished, particularly in the Butler Village and Riviera Bamboo Grove sections.
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If you prefer a newly updated room, check with us before booking to request an upgraded or renovated accommodation.
Our wrap up: Would we come back?
In short, yes! Is this our favorite Sandals resort? I wouldn't say it is, but there is something special here. For us, we prefer smaller resorts and have been enjoying the newer properties in Saint Vincent and in Jamaica like Sandals Dunns River or Sandals South Coast.
That being said, for the price it's a great contender and I would never shy away from recommending this resort for our clients. If you can afford it, we highly recommend Butler service at Sandals Ochi for the personalized travel experience that you'll receive.
Overall, we had a great time and look forward to coming back to Ocho Rios in March!
If you have any questions, please reach out to us via our chat feature below. Our professional travel planning services are complimentary and we'd love to help plan your next Sandals getaway!
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Does Sandals Ochi have a beach?
Yes, Sandals Ochi features a beautiful private beach and The Ochi Beach Club, where you can enjoy sun loungers, cabanas, and beachside service.
Is Sandals Ochi all-inclusive?
Absolutely, Sandals Ochi includes unlimited gourmet dining, premium liquors, land and water sports, entertainment, and even complimentary scuba diving for certified divers.
What does Sandals Ochi include?
Your stay covers meals at all 16 restaurants, unlimited premium drinks, round-trip airport transfers, entertainment, and access to pools, the beach club, fitness center, and Red Lane spa services.
What are the things to do at Sandals Ochi?
You can enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, tennis, beach volleyball, pool lounging, spa treatments, live entertainment, and excursions to nearby attractions like Dunn’s River Falls and Blue Hole.
How far is Sandals Ochi Beach Resort from the airport?
It is approximately 90 minutes from the MBJ airport, and complimentary airport transfers are provided. If traveling from Miami, you can also fly into the Ian Fleming airport on Wednesdays and Saturdays with American Airlines. This reduces your transfer time by over an hour.
What’s the dress code?
Casual by day, resort evening attire at fine dining restaurants at night. Some restaurants require collared shirts and closed-toe shoes for men.
Has Sandals Ochi been renovated?
Yes, for 2025 the resort is undergoing renovations, with updated rooms, improved dining experiences, and enhanced amenities.
s Sandals Ochi couples-only?
Yes, like all Sandals resorts, Sandals Ochi is exclusively for couples.
Which is better, Montego Bay or Ocho Rios?
Montego Bay is more touristy and has a busy nightlife, while Ocho Rios is more laid-back and known for its natural attractions like waterfalls and scenic tours.
What is the best month to visit Ocho Rios, Jamaica?
The best time to visit is December through April for warm, dry weather, but the offseason (May-November) offers great deals and fewer crowds.
Are Sandals Ochi noisy?
It depends on where you stay. The Ochi Beach Club and Riviera side tend to be more lively with music and events, while the Butler Suites Village offers a more peaceful and secluded atmosphere.
Ready to Book?
Sandals offers seasonal discounts and exclusive deals through their 777 promotions. If you’re planning, check out their latest offers to snag the best deal.
About the Authors
Jonathan & 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
certifications and training. We've been honored by Sandals Resorts as a top US travel agent with their highest honor of a Sandals Chairman's Club Diamond Elite travel expert and look forward to using our experience to earn your business today and in the future.