Jamaica isn’t just another Caribbean island; it’s a place with rhythm in its soul and stories to tell.
Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive getaway, a more modest stay near the beach, or an adventure that keeps you out and about every day, Jamaica delivers. And here’s what we love—Jamaica has some of the most romantic settings in the Caribbean. So, if you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary trip, or just need a reset, you’re in the right spot, and with Best Caribbean Resorts, you’re in the right place.
If you’re seeking an all-inclusive Sandals vacation, Jamaica is the perfect choice with seven resorts featuring the best of what Jamaica has to offer, and as one of the few Sandals Royal Chairman’s Club Diamond Elite travel experts, we’ll help guide you to the resort that is perfect for your time away!
Let’s get into what makes Jamaica so incredibly special!
With seven Sandals resorts in Jamaica, choosing where to stay can be overwhelming, especially when considering all of the room options and the paragraph titles of each one! Every Sandals resort has its own personality. Let us walk you through them.
1
5 Star Resort
Exceptional
Rating: 9.6 / 10
After years of anticipation, this Ocho Rios resort reopened fully reimagined—and it didn’t disappoint. featuring the BEST of Sandals 2.0, you’ll find a fresh modern design, and that unbeatable stretch of coastline, making it one of the most beautiful resorts in Jamaica. If you want brand-new everything, this is your move.
2
5 Star Resort
Exceptional
Rating: 9.6 / 10
Picture a European-inspired village dropped onto two miles of private beach. Add in an overwater wedding chapel and bungalow villas, and you’ve got a destination perfect for weddings, anniversaries, or vacation getaways.
3
5 Star Resort
Exceptional
Rating: 9.5 / 10
As the original Sandals and the flagship resort for the brand Sandals Montego Bay has been completely refreshed, and we love this resort! Set on 26 acres with the longest private beach in Jamaica, it’s an active resort and fun. If you like energy (with plenty of quiet nooks when you need them), Sandals Montego Bay won’t let you down.
4
5 Star Resort
Exceptional
Rating: 9.5 / 10
People always ask me, “Where’s the best beach in Jamaica?” My answer: Sandals Negril on Seven Mile Beach. Hands down. Add in those epic sunsets, and you’ve got one of the most photogenic spots on the island with updated rooms and the brand new FireSky Villas with rooftops.
5
5 Star Resort
Exceptional
Rating: 9.4 / 10
Montego Bay’s standout. The private offshore island is where you’ll find the overwater bungalows you’ve seen splashed across Instagram. Recently renovated for 2025, you’ll find traditional Jamaican touches meet chic design. And yes, the food and service live up to the hype.
6
5 Star Resort
Exceptional
Rating: 9.3 / 10
This is the largest Sandals resort in the portfolio. With 100 acres of gardens, pools, and oceanfront. It’s also the most budget-friendly Sandals, which surprises people once they see how much is packed into it. Sandals Ochi is great for couples who like options and nightlife.
7
Exceptional
Rating: 9.4 / 10
If intimacy is your style, Sandals Royal Plantation is it. We love that it features just 74 all-butler suites, which means ultra-personal service and a quiet vibe. Think of it as Sandals’ hidden luxury pocket. This resort also offers the best of the original Caribbean charm, which is something truly unique to this resort.
Here’s the breakdown of what to expect when visiting Jamaica—because let’s be real, budget is almost, always part of the conversation.
Sandals All-Inclusive Resorts: $300–$600 per night for two. Ultra-luxury properties (like some of the overwater bungalows) run $800+ per night.
Hotels: More traditional stays in other Jamaican all-inclusives average $200–$400 nightly for two.
Budget Stays: Hostels or guesthouses in quieter areas run $50–$200 nightly.
Extras: At an all-inclusive, most of your spend is upfront. Outside resorts, plan for $75–$200 daily on meals and $20 taxi rides for short trips. Excursions? Anywhere from $25 (walking tours) to $95 (catamaran cruises).
Pro tip: Double-check whether gratuities are included at your resort. At Sandals, they are—no awkward tipping moments.
Flights: Roundtrips from North America usually fall between $400–$1,100. Montego Bay (MBJ) is the main hub. Sometimes bundling airfare with hotel stays saves a chunk.
Peak Season (Dec–Apr): Perfect weather, 80s and sunny. Higher prices, more crowds.
Shoulder Season (late Apr–May, Nov–mid-Dec): Fewer crowds, better deals, still warm.
Hurricane Season (Jun–Nov): Rarely an issue, but expect rainier days (especially Sept). Great pricing if you’re flexible.
If weather is your top concern, stick with December–April. If cost matters more, summer months often strike the sweet spot—plenty of sunshine, fewer tourists.
Here’s the honest truth: Jamaica is safe for tourists who are smart and common sense. The U.S. currently has it listed at a Level 2 Travel Advisory—exercise increased caution, but don’t let it scare you off.
Practical tips:
Avoid wandering at night in poorly lit areas.
Skip public buses—taxis and Ubers are more reliable.
Protect valuables; use hotel safes.
Book excursions through licensed operators.
I’ve never felt unsafe at resorts or major attractions. Like anywhere else, awareness goes a long way.
Now the fun part. Beyond the beaches and rum punch, Jamaica is packed with activities.
Dunn’s River Falls – Climb it. Trust me. The hour-long trek up the cascading falls is unforgettable.
Catamaran Cruise – Sunset sails along the coast are magic. Bonus: snorkeling stops.
Golf – White Witch and Cinnamon Hill courses give you greens with a view.
YS Falls – Jungle setting, natural pools, rope swings—need I say more?
Martha Brae Rafting – Drift on a bamboo raft down the river. Romantic and peaceful.
Bob Marley Museum – Kingston’s must-see for reggae fans.
Kool Runnings Adventure Park – Waterslides, go-karts, and paintball. Perfect if you’ve got kids in tow.
Appleton Rum Estate – Small-batch tastings at a distillery dating back to 1749.
Blue Hole – Natural pools with glowing turquoise water. Feels like you’ve walked into a movie set.
As you start planning your Jamaican getaway, here are some local tips and tricks to keep in mind.
English is the official language, but you’ll hear Jamaican Patois everywhere. The energy? Laid-back with reggae always in the background. You’ll find live music in countless local spots.
Jerk chicken is Jamaica’s national calling card. For the best, hit Scotchie’s in Montego Bay. Other must-tries: curry goat, plantains, ackee and saltfish, beef patties, and bammy flatbread. Oh—and don’t leave without sampling local rum.
Jamaican Dollars (JMD) are the official currency, but U.S. dollars and credit cards are widely accepted. If you need local cash, use ATMs tied to major banks. Exchange rate hovers around 150 JMD per $1 USD.
Stick with licensed taxis (red license plates marked “PP”). Hotels can call them for you—always confirm price before hopping in. Skip public buses; they’re crowded and risky for pickpocketing.
Montego Bay is known for luxury resorts, Negril for its beaches and sunsets, and Ocho Rios for attractions like Dunn’s River Falls. South Coast is quieter, more off-grid.
September and October usually have the lowest rates—just keep in mind it’s the rainy season, although even then you’ll still find plenty of sunshine.
Roughly $1,500 per person for accommodations and food (excluding airfare). Cost shifts depending on season and lodging choice.
Our #1 recommended adult-only, all-inclusive luxury resort brand
Sandals Dunn’s River
Sandals South Coast
Sandals Montego Bay
Sandals Negril
Sandals Royal Caribbean
Sandals Ochi
Montego Bay is known for luxury resorts, Negril for its beaches and sunsets, and Ocho Rios for attractions like Dunn’s River Falls. South Coast is quieter, more off-grid.
September and October usually have the lowest rates—just keep in mind it’s the rainy season, although even then you’ll still find plenty of sunshine.
Roughly $1,500 per person for accommodations and food (excluding airfare). Cost shifts depending on season and lodging choice.
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