Beaches Negril

As I sit in my beachfront suite overlooking the azure Caribbean Sea, it feels like I’m staring into a postcard. The 7 Mile Beach in Jamaica is the best beach on the island by far. What makes the location of Beaches Negril better though, is that it’s situated right along the waters edge. 

The white sand is nice and soft.  It’s perfect for walks since it stretches for a long way. I love that it is not overly crowded, with loungers spaced apart so I could relax without any problems finding a spot. There’s also plenty of palm trees and umbrellas for shade. 

Because the resort is tucked into the northwest corner of the island it almost always has nice and calm water.  Additionally the water is very warm, especially in the summer months. That’s why it’s ideal for swimming and water activities. 

The water sports equipment rental is located on the south side of the beach. You can check-out equipment like kayaks, hobie cats, snorkeling gear, and paddleboards for free starting at 9:00 AM. I even spotted some cool tropical fish while snorkeling just a few yards from the beach!

• The Beach: Located on the best beach in Jamaica, Seven Mile Beach. Its pristine white sand is soft with palm trees lining the shoreline. 
• The Water: The water is very calm which makes it perfect for water sports and swimming. There’s no seaweed, which is a huge plus. I also like that it’s not too deep by the beach so even kids can safely play. 
• Motorized Water Sports: Access to water skiing and wakeboarding is included, which is a bonus because not all locations are able to offer this. 
• Water Activities: Unlimited water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, Hobie Cats, and snorkeling, are available on the beach. Professional instructions are also available if needed!
• Beachside Bites: There are several restaurants on the beach if you are feeling like a snack or a drink. Dino’s Pizza, Green Machine, and Chick’n Dippers were my go to!
• Lounging: The beach has rows of lounge chairs and cabanas. I love the palm trees that provide shade from the hot Caribbean sun. I never had an issue finding a place to relax and the staff were quick to deliver food and drinks when we needed them. 
• Sunsets: I have to mention the sunsets that glowed of orange and pink hues that are a signature off the west coast of Jamaica. Absolutely beautiful!

The Pirates Island Waterpark is an enormous 18,000 square foot facility with something for all ages. There are two slides that are 200 ft long but you need to be at least 42 inches tall to ride them without an adult.  

That said, there are 5 smaller slides which are perfect for smaller children. There’s also Trench Town which has water jets and a big water drop bucket on top that’s a favorite spot for the kids. Don’t forget the lazy river that winds along the beachfront with nice views of the sea. 

Overall, Beaches Negril has 3 pools and 3 whirlpools located throughout the resort grounds. Whether you want to relax, meander around, or enjoy a cocktail at the swim up bar, there’s something for everyone.

The main pool is quite large and has a swim up bar. It frequently has entertainment nearby in the evening. I also felt like it was a little bit more peaceful, because the other pool (Piazza Pool) is located by the waterpark so there are more kids running around. 

But what I especially like about the pool areas is they have plenty of lounge chairs with shaded cabanas. The friendly staff are readily available to deliver towels, snacks, and drinks. Just sit back and relax!

Here’s a quick breakdown of the pool amenities at Beaches Negril:

• Waterpark: The Pirates Island Waterpark Includes 7 water slides of different sizes, a splash deck, and a kids pool.
• Lazy River: Float down the 650 foot long lazy river that surrounds the waterpark and enjoy a relaxing trip ride for the whole family. 
• Main Pool: A large pool located just off the main lobby at the center of the resort. It also features a big swim up bar and a whirlpool. The main pool will also have live music and entertainment. 
• Piazza Pool: This pool is located over by the water park so it has more kids running around than the main pool. It’s pretty big and also has good places to grab snacks nearby. 
• Kids Pool: There is also a smaller kids pool back by the kids camp that a lot of people don’t know about.

The great thing about Beaches Negril is there’s so much to do that you don’t need to leave the property during your family vacation. From scuba diving and kayaking to water skiing, the options are endless!  That’s why this is one of my favorite Beaches Resorts!

The daily events are listed on a schedule when you arrive at the resort which is super helpful when making your plans. That also includes a daily itinerary for the Sesame Street characters so you know where to find them throughout the property!

Here are all the activities that are included at Beaches Negril: 

• Kids Camp: Beaches has amazing baby sitting services that are supervised by certified nannies. Each age group is broken down into different programs from infants to teens so there’s something to entertain all ages. The kids camp is located back behind the Island Village and operates between 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.  
• Motorized Watersports: Enjoy motorized watersports like skiing, wakeboarding, and kneeboarding. You can even do a banana boat ride! This is a bonus because it’s not available at all Beaches locations!
• Sesame Street: Sesame Street characters roam the resort which is sure to put a big smile on the kids faces. There’s a full parade once a week where you can jump in the conga line with Elmo, Cookie Monster, and the gang if you want! Oscar is also around, and thankfully he was not too much of a grouch with us. I also recommend the Sesame Street breakfast for the kids because it’s only $18 per child and $14 per adult where you can hang out with all the favorite characters and get some fun photos while enjoying a tasty breakfast buffet. 
• Scuba Diving: Go on daily PADI certified scuba diving outings. There are up to two dives per day, one two-tank dive or two one-tank dives. If you aren’t certified, you can take a 3 hour class right at the resort and you can do your first open water dive up to 40 feet deep. Note that you have to be 10 years or older for first time divers. We went diving in an old plane wreck site which was a first for us! 
• Glass Bottom Boat: They have a cool glass bottom boat that you can go for a cruise on and check out the underwater marine life. These are free so they typically fill up fast. You need to go to the dive shop the day before and sign up for the cruise. 
• Land Sports: Tons of land sports to choose from including tennis, pickleball, croquet, soccer, beach volleyball, lawn chess, basketball, shuffleboard, and more. There are actually free tennis lessons available in the mornings, for both children and adults. We did this the last time we went and there was nobody else there so it was like a private lesson! They provide the racquets so you don’t have to bring your own gear.   
• Water Sports: A wide assortment of water sports like kayaking, aqua bikes, Hobie Cats, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. They offer free lessons for all the equipment so you can learn how to use everything if you need help. Just go to the beach in front of the main pool and the friendly staff gets you all squared away with your rentals. 
• Water Park: The Pirates Island Waterpark is a huge draw for the kids, once they go they never want to leave! The park covers 18,000 sq ft of waterslides, Trench Town, and a 650 ft lazy river. I also love this setup because it’s right on the beach so you get great panoramic views while the family is splashing around the park.
• Night Club: Club Liquid is located in the middle of the resort by the main pool. It has a dance party for teens from 10:00 PM to 11:00 PM, then it turns into an adults only club until 1:00 AM with premium drinks and guest DJs. 
• Game Lounge: There’s a gaming lounge located by the waterpark. Also the arcade and other fun options like ping pong, foosball, air hockey, pool tables, and basketball. 
• Spa Time: The famous Red Lane Spa is located back by the entrance of the resort. It’s a full service spa with everything from manicures to massages. My wife and I loved the Tropical Paradise couples massage set just off the beach with the sound of the waves splashing in the background. We get them every time we go to Beaches. Note that spa treatments are extra (our massage was $458 for 60 minutes), but well worth it!
• Excursions: You can book any excursions you want at the Island Routes desk in the front lobby. Whether you want a Catamaran cruise, deep sea fishing, or an ATV adventure, and beyond! There are dozens of outings to choose from if you want to step off the resort to discover more of Jamaica. We took a catamaran cruise that sails up the coast line and you can jump in the water to go snorkeling and check out old caves. 
• Playground: There is a playground in the middle of the property that is perfect for smaller children to have fun on. 
• Live Entertainment: There’s day and night entertainment for all ages. Some of the favorites include live music, themed parties, silent discos, beach parties, and Sesame Street shows for families. My favorite show was the fire dancing and the chocolate party for sure!
• Fitness Centers: The fitness center is open 24 hours and has fantastic equipment to get a solid workout in. I went one morning and it was pretty quiet because, as it turns out, not a lot of people work out on vacation. But the facility is great, there’s basketball courts there, and it’s right next to the kids camp. 
• Rick’s Cafe: Here is an important bonus tip! I highly recommend you go and check out the famous Rick’s Cafe. It’s just about 15 minutes from the resort, and it sits on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean. You or the kids can cliff dive into the glowing blue waters and then relax with a drink to take in the sunset. The vibe is lively and full of music. There’s no entry fee, you just need to pay for the taxi which is about $20 each way.
  

There are 13 world-class restaurants and 5 bars throughout Beaches Negril offering specialty dishes from around the world. Each has its own theme so you are sure to satisfy your hunger after a full day of playing on the beach.

I typically started my days with a strong coffee from Cafe de Paris. They have fantastic pastries and crepes if you’re in the mood for sweets. The Mill also has an amazing breakfast buffet that lasts until 10:30. 

There are a lot of options for lunch whether you’re around the pool or the beach. I highly recommend the Jerk Shack for traditional jerk chicken right off the grill, and don’t forget a Red Stripe to wash it down!

Kids really enjoy the made to order pizzas at Dinos and the frozen yogurt bar at Yoyo’s. The food trucks like Chick’n Dippers are great options for quick snacks too.  A lot of the restaurants have kids menu items, which is a great touch. 

Note that there are a few restaurants that require reservations for dinner, including Stella, Yaku, and Kimonos. I suggest making your reservations when you check in if possible to ensure you get a spot. You’ll also get a pamphlet with all the restaurants, their hours, and reservation requirements. We utilized this quite a bit during our stay. 

Here’s a breakdown of the restaurant options at Beaches Negril:

• The Mill: The breakfast buffet at The Mill is amazing. It’s filled with international dishes and made to order plates like omelets. They also have lunch and dinner buffets with a different theme each day. Located right by the main pool, the open air space is designed to look like an old sugar mill.  
• Kimonos:  Kimonos is a must when you stay at Beaches! The teppanyaki style dinners are so much fun. Gathered around the table with the chef flipping the shrimp onto your plate or sparking a fire. Because seating is limited, you need to make a reservation in advance here. 
• El Mariachi: This Mexican themed restaurant is right by the water park, so it’s perfect to grab lunch or dinner after working up an appetite. The sizzling beef fajitas are fantastic. I would be remiss if I did not mention the extensive margarita menu 🙂. They also feature a kids menu with bites like fish fingers and quesadillas.  
• Bar B Q Park:  The grilling smell alone drew me into Bar B Q Park! The burgers and pulled pork sandwiches are excellent. Note they are only open for lunch between 11:00AM and 3:00PM. 
• Café de Paris: Café de Paris was my go to spot for coffee in the morning because it opens early at 6:30 AM. They also have delicious pastries and crepes if you have a sweet tooth. 
• Soy Sushi Bar: Soy has a variety of fresh nigiri and sushi rolls. The restaurant is hidden back behind bamboo fronds by the Piazza Pool so it has a unique oriental feel. It’s fun to sit at the sushi bar and watch the chefs prepare your plates. The signature seared tuna tataki is fantastic! They are open from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM for dinner. 
• Dino’s Pizzeria: Dinos is located by the main pool with a big patio that also overlooks the beach so it’s a perfect spot to grab a lunch snack and relax. They make tasty, wood fired pizzas. The crust is crispy just how I like it!  They are open between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM. 
• The Jerk Shack: I went to the Jerk Shack multiple times. It became one of my favorite spots at the resort to snack on the delicious jerk chicken and sausage. If  you have not had authentic Jamaican jerk, you HAVE to try this place! Of course, I always pair it with a cold Red Stripe for the full island feel.
• YoYo’s Frozen Delights: YoYos is primarily designed for the kids, but I have to admit, I love the DIY froyo bar just as much! The self-serve setup allows you to build your own creation with all the toppings you want. It’s a great place to grab a cool treat after basking in the hot sun all day. 
• Yaku: Yaku has delectable Peruvian-inspired plates and colorful décor. I enjoyed the fresh ceviche paired with a refreshing pisco sour – it’s a super refreshing combination. Note that you need to make reservations for this restaurant, and it’s open from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. 
• Stella:  Stella has a cool setup with an open air atmosphere right on the beach. They have a very nice breakfast menu, but I especially recommend making reservations there for dinner at sunset.  There’s an Italian theme and the pasta dishes were simple yet flavorful. The scampi pasta is a must try! Also make sure to save room for the tiramisu.
• Green Machine: When I want something quick and healthy for lunch, Green Machine is the place to go. Their fresh salad bowls and customizable options are a great cleanse from me eating like a pig the rest of the time. You can’t go wrong getting the quinoa bowl with chicken. 
• Chick’N Dippers: Chick’N Dippers is a fun food truck located along the beach. A perfect spot to take a break and grab crispy chicken strips with your favorite dipping sauces. This is especially great for the kids to post up after playing around in the water park. 

Importantly, all adults that are staying at Beaches will also get full access to Sandals Negril to eat at all of their restaurants as well! You just need to pay for a taxi to get over there which is only about $15 and 5 minutes away.  Sandals Resorts is the sister brand of Beaches, which is adults only. 

If you have any dietary restrictions, you can tell the concierge desk or the servers ahead of time. They do an excellent job at accommodating any requirements you or the kids may have. 

Expert Tip: Private candlelight dinners on the beach are available for romantic date nights. The dinner includes a four course meal and a dedicated waiter who decorates the table with flowers and tends to your every need.  For only $199 per couple, it was definitely a worthwhile experience for us!

Beaches Negril has 29 different room categories with unique layouts, making it easy to find something for everyone’s needs and budgets. In all, the resort has 186 rooms varying between Luxury Level, Concierge Level, and Butler Level. Importantly, EVERY room has been recently renovated.  That’s compared to the other Beaches location in Turks & Caicos, which has 858 rooms, so you can see that Negril is a much more intimate option.

Entry rooms in the Luxury Level will start at around $280 per person over 16 years old, per night. Note that children between 2-15 years old start at $51 per night, and infants under 2 years old are free.  

This last time we visited, we stayed in the Tropical Oceanview Walkout Oversized Concierge Suite in the Reggaeville Village (room code WBS). As the name implies, it had a walkout balcony on the first floor and a nice view of the Caribbean. I personally loved this suite because you are centrally located by the beach, the pool, and most of the restaurants.

Also note that there are no elevators at Beaches Negril, so if you have any accessibility concerns, make sure that your room is a “walkout room”. 

Ultimately the room you choose will depend on the number of people and your overall budget. That said, all accommodations come with the 5-star luxury experience that Beaches Resorts is famous for. 

• Luxury Level: Beaches Luxury Level rooms are ideal for those who want 5-star accommodations but are on a tighter budget. They are the entry level rooms that are the least expensive overall. You still get features like a private balcony, modern decor, free airport transfers, and a mini bar with local beer and wine. The primary difference is the size of the room and the views will generally be garden views rather than ocean views. Note that Luxury Level rooms will generally accommodate up to 4 people, so if you have a larger group, you will need to stay in a Concierge or Butler Level room. 
• Concierge Level: The Concierge Level rooms have all the benefits of Luxury Level rooms but with dedicated concierge service, a private lounge, and private check-in. The concierge can help arrange restaurant reservations or excursions (pretty much anything you need). A lot of these rooms will have ocean views as well. One of the biggest differences is these rooms are generally designed to accommodate more people. For example, the Tropical Oceanview Two Bedroom Junior Suite can accommodate up to 9 people! Although they can be more expensive, they may actually be cheaper per person depending on the size of your party and number of kids. 
• Butler Elite Level: The Butler Elite suites are for those who want the full pampering treatment. You get a dedicated butler and 24 hour room service. You also get a private transfer to and from the airport instead of a shared shuttle. Aside from the perks, the suite designs are the best and have unrivaled views of the Caribbean.  The new Eventide Penthouse Suites can fit up to 18 people and features a rooftop terrace, four bedrooms, and a huge living area with kitchen. But my personal favorite is the three floor Firesky Reserve Villa that’s situated right on the beach with its own private pool, and has 4 bedrooms, three bathrooms, massive living room, and kitchen. Once you check-in you will get a smartphone to communicate directly with your butler from about 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM. 

Beaches Negril is situated on the northwest coast of Jamaica on the outskirts of a low key fishing village.  The resort is about 80 minutes by car from the Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay. Although it’s a little bit of a longer ride, it wasn’t a deal break for us because the scenic coastline is beautiful to see along the way, and you really get a more authentic Jamaican vibe out here. 

I highly recommend getting the Club MoBay service so you get through customs faster both ways.  Once you arrive there is a Beaches arrival lounge just past the baggage claim where you will be greeted to wait for your transfer.

Airport transfers are included regardless of which room category you stay in. The only difference is that with Butler Elite Level Suites you will get a private transfer vs a shuttle transfer for other room categories.

Since Jamaica is one of the northernmost islands in the Caribbean, flight times from the United States are pretty short. This makes it great if you’re traveling with kids or have limited time for a vacation. For example, flights out of Miami to Montego Bay are only about 1 hour and 45 minutes long. The flights are also relatively cheap!