Best Sandals Resort In Jamaica: All 7 Compared
Jamaica is home to the most Sandals all-inclusive resorts out of any island in the Caribbean. After all, the company was founded in Jamaica over 40 years ago!
With 7 different Jamaican Sandals resorts to choose from across Montego Bay, South Coast, Negril, and Ocho Rios, it can be a challenge deciding which is best. After visiting all of them over the last year, we put together this comprehensive review of the resorts to help decide.
As a Certified Sandals Specialist (CSS), we are a recognized authority on Sandals Resorts. We incorporate our first-hand findings, along with feedback from our clients that we have planned a Sandals Jamaican vacation for. Our ranking factors focus on the average nightly price, location, included amenities, and level of service.
I can safely say that each location has something unique to offer. The good news is that Jamaica offers some of the best value relative to other Caribbean islands, and you also get access to multiple Sandals Resorts when you stay here. Whether you are going on a honeymoon or just need a tropical escape, we’ve got you covered with the VIP treatment.
Expert Tip: I highly recommend getting the Club Mobay pass for the Montego Bay Airport (MBJ) so that you can get through customs quickly. It comes with a personal liaison to escort you through and you also get access to their VIP lounge, which is nice for the return flight. The pass is only $85 per person, but slots are limited, so reserve it as early as possible.
Sandals Resorts In Jamaica Ranked
- Sandals Montego Bay: The closest Sandals to the airport so it’s easiest to get to, and packed with activities and the most vibrant nightlife.
- Sandals South Coast: The South Coast of Jamaica is perfect for nature lovers, with a more intimate setting and overwater bungalows.
- Sandals Ochi: The least expensive of all the Sandals, you can get the best bargains without sacrificing 5 star accommodations.
- Sandals Negril: The best white sand beach of all Jamaican Sandals and ideal and first time travelers.
- Sandals Royal Caribbean: The best luxury Montego Bay experience with overwater bungalows and a private island.
- Sandals Dunn’s River: The newest of all the Sandals in Jamaica, this resort offers the best pool and the most modern accommodations.
- Sandals Royal Plantation: Easily the most laid back vibe with the most exclusive suites of all the Sandals.
Best Sandals Resort In Jamaica
1. Sandals Montego Bay
MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA
Cost Per Night/Per Person:
$268 Per Night
Number Of Rooms:
264 Rooms
Distance From Airport:
5 Miles
Number Of Restaurants:
12 Restaurants
Resort Mood:
Social
Number Of Pools:
7 Pools
When people think of Sandals, Montego Bay frequently comes to mind since it is the original Sandals Resort location. Despite the fact that it’s the oldest Sandals resort, major renovations have brought all the modern amenities that are expected at an all-inclusive 5 star resort.
From the moment I walked in, I was welcomed with an unobstructed view through to the glowing Caribbean. It immediately sets the tone for the vacation.
Situated on Jamaica’s largest white sand beach on the north coast, it’s easy to soak in the tropical vibes. The blend of luxury and fun along the coastline struck a perfect balance.
But what I really love about Sandals Montego Bay is the Stay At One, Play At Two program that gives access to all the amenities at the neighboring Sandals Royal Caribbean for free. It’s like having two vacations for the price of one!
When it comes to nightlife, Sandals Montego Bay is unmatched by any other resort in Jamaica. Not only is there a lot of activities around the resort itself with live music, beach parties, and fire dancers, but the party scene in downtown Montego Bay is very lively.
What we love about Sandals Montego Bay:
- Enjoy the largest private white sand beach in Jamaica with plenty of lounge chairs and cabanas.
- Get access to 21 restaurants and 15 pools through the Stay At One, Play At Two exchange program with neighboring Sandals Royal Caribbean.
- Accommodations for every level whether you want a stunning Millionaire Suite or a Luxury Level suite, you can’t go wrong.
- All the leisure activities you could want including water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, PADI scuba diving, tennis, and state-of-the-art fitness center.
- Unlimited fine dining and drinks all day with a stocked bar in every room.
- The Red Lane spa is absolutely amazing to book a romantic couples massage on the beach.
- Beach parties and live shows every night.
Key considerations for Sandals Montego Bay:
- Sandals Montego Bay is only a 3 mile drive from Sangster International Airport (MBJ). Since it is so close, some people say they can hear the planes during the day. That said, I personally did not have an issue with any noise – but I did appreciate it takes just a few minutes to get to the resort from the airport!
- It is an adults-only resort which makes it Ideal for romantic getaways for couples (no families or children allowed).
- It is all inclusive and tipping is prohibited. So once you pay for your booking, you are all set! The only extras would be for any additional tours or experiences.
Who It’s Best For:
Sandals Montego Bay is best for couples looking for a convenient romantic escape paired with more lively nightlife options. The resort is positioned on the largest beach in Jamaica yet located minutes from the Airport.
2. Sandals South Coast
WHITEHOUSE, JAMAICA
Cost Per Night/Per Person:
$186 Per Night
Number Of Rooms:
372 Rooms
Distance From Airport:
40 Miles
Number Of Restaurants:
9 Restaurants
Resort Mood:
Relaxing
Number Of Pools:
4 Pools
Nestled along an expansive two-mile beach in Jamaica, Sandals South Coast has an eye-catching European-inspired architecture. The entire layout of the property is made to really celebrate the coastline. Most rooms have stunning ocean views.
The South Coast resort includes the famous overwater bungalow villas with butler service. It’s also an ideal destination wedding location with the overwater wedding chapel that has panoramic views and a glass floor aisle.
But my favorite part of this resort is it’s located within a massive 500 acre nature preserve for maximum tranquility Excursions to locations like the beautiful seven tiered YS Falls are just minutes away too.
Sandals South Coast is definitely a more laid back environment than some of the other Jamaican resort options which makes it a popular destination for intimate honeymoons. That said, there is no shortage of activities, but it is just not geared toward a party vibe.
What we love about Sandals South Coast:
- The Blue Mahoe overwater bungalows are absolutely stunning and offer uninterrupted views of the Caribbean Sea.
- The beach at South Coast is one of my favorites of all the Sandals Jamaica because it is a private 2 mile beach, it feels like you have the whole coast to yourself.
- Take a catamaran cruise out to one of the most unique bars in the world, only accessible by boat, Floyd’s Pelican bar.
- Includes 9 specialty restaurants with everything from Caribbean jerk, Asian fusion, and fresh seafood.
- The newly finished over-the-water bar is a perfect place to relax with some tropical cocktails. (especially at sunset!)
- Enjoy a variety of water sports including wake board, snorkeling, paddle boards, and snorkeling.
- There are 4 large pools right along the beach that offer a great place to hang out with fantastic views. There are also swim up bars in the pool 🙂
- I think you get a more authentic Jamaican vibe here with local reggae and rum. You can even tour the old rum estates.
Key considerations for Sandals South Coast:
- The main airport is the Montego Bay Sangster International Airport (MBJ), which is about an hour away from the South Coast resort (40 miles). Transfers to and from the airport are included. The drive is scenic and provides a good opportunity to see more of the island.
- The US Dollar is widely accepted, but the local currency is the Jamaican Dollar. Additionally, most major credit cards are accepted at stores.
- Rainy season is from May to November, while the dry season runs from December to April. There are better deals during the rainy season if you are open to the occasional rain sprinkle.
- Make sure to know the evening dress code for your night as some restaurants require slacks and collared shirts.
Who It’s Best For:
Sandals South Coast is a top rated resort that is ideal for adults that want a more tranquil Caribbean experience with a lot of eco-tourism options closely located. The luxury accommodations like the overwater bungalows, Rondoval suites, and beachfront swim up suites are truly one of a kind.
3. Sandals Ochi Beach
OCHO RIOS, JAMAICA
Cost Per Night/Per Person:
$180 Per Night
Number Of Rooms:
519 Rooms
Distance From Airport:
62 Miles
Number Of Restaurants:
16 Restaurants
Resort Mood:
Active
Number Of Pools:
105 Pools
Sandals Ochi in Ocho Rios strikes the perfect balance with a lively Caribbean beach atmosphere and a lush 100 acre Garden Of Eden.
That’s what I like the most about this all inclusive resort. If you want to check out the beachside, Ochi Beach Club is one of the best beach clubs in Jamaica. On the other hand, the sprawling gardens are filled with secluded getaways and private villas.
Another plus for Ochi Beach is the beautiful 18 hole golf course just a short drive away. Transfers and green fees at the Upton Estate country club are included.
Aside from the resort itself, Ocho Rios offers a bustling nightlife scene. There are plenty of clubs with live music and beach parties that go until 4:00 AM.
My overall take is that Sandals Ochi provides one of the best bangs for your buck if you’re on a budget. It is the least expensive Sandals, starting at just $180 per night, but you still get the all-inclusive amenities that Sandals is known for. On top of that, you also get unlimited access to the neighboring Dunn’s River Sandals with free transfers back and forth.
What we love about Sandals Ochi Beach:
- There are 105 pools across the entire Ochi Beach property! The main Great House pool is one of the largest pools in Jamaica that is perfect for floating around in.
- Shared access to Sandals Dunn’s River – that includes all of the beaches, pools, restaurants and bars. They provide free transfers there and back.
- Enjoy fine dining at 16 different restaurants, each with their own unique offerings and style. My favorite is Kelly’s Dockside which is located on the pier over the water. It’s perfect to watch the sunsets.
- Short commutes to some of the best natural attractions in Jamaica like Saint Ann Parish and Dunn’s River Falls. You can book all the excursions right at the Island Routes desk in the resort.
- Enjoy endless water sports like SCUBA diving, snorkeling, glass bottom boat cruise, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more are included.
- The Upton Estate Golf Club is only 15 minutes away so you can get easy access (and free access) to an 18 hole course that overlooks the sea.
- Top notch live entertainment at the Ochi Beach Club. I also really loved the Rabbit Hole speakeasy where you can get great classic cocktails.
- If you’re tying the knot, there are several locations around the property for amazing ceremony venues. The overwater wedding chapel has a glass bottom aisle that is absolutely stunning.
Key considerations when choosing Sandals Ochi Beach:
- There are now two airports to choose from. The Sangster International Airport (MBJ) is an hour and a half away or the Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) is a short 15 minutes drive away. Sandals provides complimentary transfers to the resort for both airports.
- Sandals Ochi Beach is the largest of all the Sandals Resorts with 519 rooms! This means there is definitely a more social element to staying at this resort, but that also leads to more affordable pricing.
- The local currency is the Jamaican Dollar, but nearly all vendors will accept the US dollar or major credit cards so you likely won’t need to exchange any currency.
- Note that some of the resort’s restaurants have a more formal dress code for dinner and require pants and collared shirts.
Who It’s Best For:
Sandals Ochi Beach is the best all inclusive resort on a budget because it is the least expensive Sandals, but you still get all of the amenities not only at Ochi Beach, but also with neighboring Dunn’s River Sandals.
4. Sandals Negril
NEGRIL, JAMAICA
Cost Per Night/Per Person:
$206 Per Night
Number Of Rooms:
226 Rooms
Distance From Airport:
45 Miles
Number Of Restaurants:
7 Restaurants
Resort Mood:
Relaxing
Number Of Pools:
4 Pools
Located on Jamaica’s famous Seven Mile Beach, Sandals Negril has the best white sand beach out of all the resorts in Jamaica. Its unique location gives unrivaled access to the island’s crystal-clear waters and pristine shoreline.
The pools and swim up suites are located right along the beach so you can relax just steps aways from the sea. I also love the Barefoot By The Sea restaurant because you can enjoy a good meal in your casual beach clothes while digging your toes in the sand on the beach.
Since it’s all about the beach at Negril, I have to mention the motorized water sports. Not all Sandals offer motorized water sports like wakeboarding and skiing, but it is included here.
Because the resort is located on the eastern tip of Jamaica in a protected cove, the water is calm, which makes it perfect for swimming and watersports.
My overall take is that Sandals Negril stands out for its laid-back atmosphere. We love that Sandals Negril provides a casual but chic vibe that encourages romance and relaxation.
What we love about Sandals Negril:
- The spectacular white sand beach and turquoise waters are only steps away from the resort.
- The 8 different fine dining restaurants, all offering different international cuisines to fit your mood.
- You get a more authentic Jamaican experience since you are out from the busy Montego Bay area.
- Take a catamaran cruise out to Rick’s Cafe, the world famous bar only accessible by boat.
- Luxurious swim-up suites have direct pool access and are nestled up to the beach.
- The Red Lane Spa offers a broad assortment of amazing treatments. The couples massage on the beach is a must!
- One of the more eco-friendly resorts committed to preserving the beauty of Jamaica’s coastline.
- Since the resort has a unique location that closely lines the beach, most of the rooms, hotels, and pools have stunning views of the Caribbean.
- Tons of activities with snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, skiing, and land sports are all included.
Key considerations for stays at Sandals Negril:
- The Sandals Negril Resort is an hour drive from Sangster International Airport (MBJ). Free airport transfers both ways are included. Note that the resort is located further from the airport than the other Sandals Jamaican properties, but it wasn’t a deal breaker for us.
- Starting at $241 per person per night, Sandals Negril is one of the more affordable options. You can balance budget and luxury for the ideal experience.
- Jamaica’s 7 Mile Beach is a developed area for resorts, and although this Sandals is very secluded, it is not like some of the other more intimate resort locations.
Who It’s Best For:
Sandals Negril is best for couples looking for an unmatched white sand beach getaway with a 5 star luxury experience. The famous 7 Mile Beach in Jamaica is world famous and this Sandals resort has one of the most prime locations along that stretch.
5. Sandals Royal Caribbean
MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA
Cost Per Night/Per Person:
$224 Per Night
Number Of Rooms:
227 Rooms
Distance From Airport:
5 Miles
Number Of Restaurants:
8 Restaurants
Resort Mood:
Relaxing
Number Of Pools:
7 Pools
The second resort located in Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean offers a unique blend of Jamaican charm and British ambiance. This resort is definitely rated the most luxurious after visiting all of the ressort Sandals in Jamaica.
Here you will find an exotic private island with overwater bungalows that were inspired by bungalows in Bali. These were my favorite overwater suites in Jamaica because they are very secluded and come with your own infinity pool.
If you spring for one of the top tier suites, you will also get private BMW transfers included. Note that regular transfers are included with any Sandals reservation regardless of room type.
When you stay at the Royal Caribbean, you also get access to Sandals Montego Bay because of the Stay At One Play At Two program. The resorts are only 5 minutes apart and you get free transfers.
What we love about Sandals Royal Caribbean:
- The private island experience is very difficult to beat. There is a boat to transfer you out to the island where you can enjoy the beach, a Thai restaurant, and a nice pool.
- My favorite overwater bungalows in all of Jamaica. They have glass bottom floors and private pools, which are features not seen anywhere else.
- Enjoy 21 restaurants, 11 bars, and 14 pools in total with the Stay At One, Play At 2 Program where you get access to the neighboring Sandals Montego Bay Resort.
- Live entertainment every night including beach parties, fire dancers, and reggae.
- The one of a kind swim-up bars and an over-the-water bar are perfect to lounge in for hours at a time.
- The resort grounds include perfectly maintained gardens for peaceful strolls or a quiet respite.
- Indulge in the British traditions of afternoon tea and cricket elevate the experience.
Key considerations for Sandals Royal Caribbean:
- The Royal Caribbean is one of the easiest Sandals resorts to get to. The closest airport is Sangster International Airport (MBJ) right in Montego Bay. Transfers take only 10 minutes and are included with your stay.
- Montego Bay is one of the most developed portions of Jamaica, so consider if you are indifferent to that or would prefer a more off the beaten path experience.
- Make sure to book your restaurants and excursions in advance. Especially the Martha Brae bamboo river rafting and the sunset catamaran tours.
- You must have a valid passport for the duration of your trip, however, visas for US citizens are not required.
Who It’s Best For:
The Royal Caribbean is perfect for couples looking for an exotic private island experience, but that is still very easy to access being just outside of Montego Bay.
6. Sandals Dunn’s River
OCHO RIOS, JAMAICA
Cost Per Night/Per Person:
$278 Per Night
Number Of Rooms:
260 Rooms
Distance From Airport:
56 Miles
Number Of Restaurants:
12 Restaurants
Resort Mood:
Luxurious
Number Of Pools:
5 Pools
The newest of all the Sandals in Jamaica, Sandals Dunn’s River is located on the north coast of Jamaica which offers some of the most beautiful views of the azure Caribbean sea.
We were lucky enough to visit this location after the renovations were completed in May, 2023. The property feels like a brand new resort with a full top to bottom update.
My favorite additions are the beachfront Skypool Suites, which have a private infinity pool overlooking the beach. If you want to level up, the Rondoval private villas come with a private hot tub, swim up pool, and rooftop terrace for starlight dinners.
I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention the phenomenal pools here. The main pool is a massive glass walled infinity pool that tucks right up to the beach. It is the nicest pool out of all the Sandals in Jamaica in my opinion.
For all the golf lovers, Sandals Dunn’s River offers free greens fees at the 18 hole Upton Estate Golf Club. It includes a restaurant, proshop, and putting greens for a perfect day of golf.
Also worth noting is the Stay At 1 Play At 2 partnership with neighboring Sandals Ochi, which allows you to access all the accommodations at the Ochi location. Although they are both located in Ocho Rio (only 10 minutes apart), Sandals Dunn’s River is considered to be a more polished resort over Sandals Ochi.
My overall take is that Sandals Dunn’s River offers some of the most elegant accommodations of all the Jamaican Sandals, but you pay a little bit of a premium for that luxury. Aside from the resort itself, the surrounding lush greenery and winding rivers are something to behold. After visiting all of the Sandals on the island, I would absolutely say it’s worth it.
What we love about Sandals Dunn’s River:
- Choose from 12 unique restaurants and 9 bars with something for everyone. Our favorite is the Galene Seaside Grill that has amazingly fresh seafood.
- Get full access to Sandals Ochi Resort and Beach Club just a 10 minute drive from Dunn’s River.
- Five pools to choose from, including two lazy river pools and a big glass edged infinity pool.
- Fantastic nearby excursions to St. Ann Parish, Dunn’s River Falls, the Blue Hole, or go swimming with the dolphins!
- Daily entertainment with live music, dancing, and performances that capture Jamaica’s vibrant spirit.
- Unlimited water sports including snorkeling, kayaking, hobby cats, and PADI-Certified SCUBA diving.
Key considerations for Sandals Dunn's River:
- There are now direct flights from Miami to the Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ), which is only a 30 minute drive from the resort. The other options are Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) or Sangster International Airport (MBJ), which are 90 minutes away. There are free transfers to and from the resort from all airports.
- It is one of the more expensive Sandals in Jamaica. Visit during the off-peak season between June to November for the best deals though.
- Remember that is is adults only resort.
Who It’s Best For:
Sandals Dunn’s River is the best all inclusive resort for couples who want the most luxurious accommodations in Jamaica, but also value the natural beauty that Ocho Rio has to offer.
7. Sandals Royal Plantation
OCHO RIOS, JAMAICA
Cost Per Night/Per Person:
$271 Per Night
Number Of Rooms:
74 Rooms
Distance From Airport:
62 Miles
Number Of Restaurants:
5 Restaurants
Resort Mood:
Exclusive
Number Of Pools:
2 Pools
Even though Sandals Royal Plantation is number 7 on our list, it certainly doesn’t mean it’s last! The Royal Plantation is a vastly different type of resort than the others on this list. You immediately notice that it is structured as a more intimate boutique resort.
With only 74 suites in total, each one has premium luxury finishes and stunning ocean-views. Nestled within the lush bluffs of Ocho Rios, Sandals Royal Plantation is set apart because of its all-butler setup (every room comes with a butler).
You can also hit the links at Upton Estate Golf Club, where greens fees and transfer are complimentary.
It’s important to note that since this is the smallest of all the Sandals resorts in Jamaica, guests staying in other Sandals resorts do not get access to the Royal Plantation. In contrast, if you are staying here, you get full access to the nearby Sandals Ochi and Sandals Dunn’s River.
What we love about Sandals Royal Plantation:
- A very intimate (only 74 suites) setting that includes butler service for unmatched luxury.
- The most laid back atmosphere of all the Sandals Resorts in Jamaica
- The beach here is not the biggest, but that’s because it’s secluded and tucked away into its own cove. I really appreciated that it feels like your own private beach.
- There are 5 specialty restaurants and 2 bars with unlimited fine dining and drinks.
- Access to the Upton Estate Golf Club is included.
- Only 10 minutes from the famous Dunn’s River Falls And Park.
- Complimentary snorkeling, SCUBA diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more. There is also a glass bottom boat to take tours on and see the coral and sea life.
- Full access to amenities at nearby Sandals Dunn’s River and Sandals Ochi. The resort provides transfers to the resorts.
Key considerations for Sandals Royal Plantation:
- The most popular airport is Montego Bay Sangster International Airport (MBJ) which is about an hour and a half away from Sandals Royal Plantation. The Fleming International Airport (OCJ) is closer, and offers direct flights out of Miami. There are transfers to and from the airport regardless of the airport you choose.
- This is a more intimate and laid back vibe, so if you are looking for a party scene, this would not be the best fit.
- Make sure to book the popular excursions in advance, like golf tee times, Dunn’s River, or sunset catamaran cruises.
Who It’s Best For:
Sandals Royal Plantation is best for couples that want the most intimate experience of all the Sandals Resorts in Jamaica. The property is exclusive and enjoys two private beaches tucked away in private coves.
Sandals Jamaican Resort Locations
Here is an interactive map we made that shows all 7 Sandals Resort locations in Jamaica. You can click on each location to get more information.
Jamaica Immigration And Customs
Arrival: There are a few things to know when you arrive at either Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay, or Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston. You are required to complete the Jamaican Immigration And Customs C5 Form online at before you arrive.
Visas: United States and Canadian citizens to not need a visa for tourist trips that last less than 90 days. You just need a valid passport that won’t expire for at least 6 months beyond your stay.
Departure: You are technically supposed to be at the airport 3 hours prior to your departure. Sandals will schedule your transfer to the airport to accommodate your flight times.
VIP Passes: Whenever I travel to Montego Bay, I always get the Club MoBay pass which gets you a concierge to escort your through customs quickly. Then on your departure, you get access to their club lounge to wait for your flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest Sandals Resort in Jamaica?
The least expensive resort in Jamaica is Sandals Ochi Beach which starts at about $180 per person per night. The good news is that Jamaica offers many of the most affordable options of all the Sandals Resorts. Sandals South Coast for example also costs under $200 per person per night.
What is the best time to visit Jamaica?
The best time to visit a Sandals Resort is during the low season, which is between June and November. The biggest deals on airfare and suites are available over this period. During the high season between mid-December to mid-April the prices will be higher, but the weather is more consistently sunny.
What is the newest Sandals Resort in Jamaica?
The newest Sandals Resort in Jamaica is Sandals Dunn’s River which just completed in a full top to bottom renovation in 2023. Here you will find new accommodations like the beachfront Skypool Suites and the Rondoval private villas come with a private swim up pools. You also get access to the two neighboring Sandals with the Stay At One Play At Two program.
Are Sandals Resorts in Jamaica safe to visit?
Yes, all 7 of the Sandals Resort in Jamaica are safe to visit regardless of which location you choose. Every property features gated access with several security professionals and 24 hour surveillance systems. Furthermore, none of the parishes in which a Sandals is located is rated “do not travel” from the US State Department.
BEST SANDALS RESORTS
Our favorite all-inclusive resort brand.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Sandals Grenada
Sandals Royal Barbados
Sandals Grande Antigua
