Sandals Ochi

I was immediately struck by the beauty of Ochi Beach during my stay here. The soft white sand is perfect for relaxing under the Jamaican sun. The beach itself is private, offering a secluded atmosphere away from the busier tourist areas. 

The best part is getting free access to the Ochi Beach Club, which is one of the nicest beach clubs in all of Ocho Rios. For a more social vibe, head over to the beach club and listen to the excellent DJ music.  

When it comes to water-sports, they offer kayaks, hobby cats, paddle boards, volleyball, and snorkeling right on the beach.  There are SCUBA excursions available if you sign up for them in advance. 

Here is what to expect for a day on the beach here: 

• Beach: The private cove beach feels like your own Caribbean sanctuary, far from the busy resort zone.  
• Ochi Beach Club: The Ochi Beach is located along the side of the beach and also includes a pool with a swim up bar. 
• Beach Bars: Several beach bars like Neptunes and the Ocean Beach Bar to hangout at or order drinks. 
• Activities: Water sports are easily accessible. I tried kayaking and paddleboarding, both of which were a blast!
• Waters: Calm and a stunning shade of turquoise, making it perfect for snorkelling or swimming. 
• Marine Life: The clear water lets you see colorful fish and coral formations from long distances. Snorkeling here was a highlight of my trip; I saw a lot of cool tropical fish right of the shore.
• Lounging: Plenty of loungers with umbrellas and cabanas on the beach. For those who prefer relaxation, there are hammocks hanging between the palm trees.

There are 16 first-rate restaurants throughout Sandals Ochi offering dishes from all around the world. Each restaurant has its own distinctive vibe so you’ll find the perfect setting for any craving or mood.  

Remember that you also get access to all the restaurants at neighboring Sandals Dunn’s River, which adds another 12 restaurants (28 total restaurants). 

Here’s a breakdown of the restaurant options at Ochi:

Le Gourmand: This chic bistro offers French delicacies from classically trained chefs. I ordered Souris D’Agneau au Romarin which was superbly prepared. The stylish decor made for an elegant dining experience.  Reservations are required here for the dinner hours.

The Reef: The terrace offers a romantic setting to have dinner under the stars.  The food is Caribbean inspired with dishes like curried snapper, coffee marinated pork loin, red pea soup. This is also a great place for a late dinner since it is open until 10:00 pm.

The Jerk Shack: My go-to spot to grab jerk chicken and a Red Stripe. The chicken wings are addicting here!  It’s a great place for lunch in a casual setting. Reservations are not required, but it is only open until 6:00 pm. 

The Great House: This restaurant has a broad menu of tasty snacks. I loved the cajun french fries, chili-dog, and jerk cricket quesadillas. It is open until 6:00 am, which is the latest of all the restaurants here.  

Kelly’s Dockside: Perched over the sea, this restaurant features a mix of grilled meat and seafood. I highly recommend getting during the sunset to enjoy the panoramic views. Note that it does require a reservation and closes at 9:30pm.

Vista Gourmet: Fantastic food while overlooking the ocean.  The Sky Terrace on the roof offers incredible views, especially at sunset. This restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with hours of 7:30am – 9:30pm. I highly recommend the breakfast buffet here!

The Southern Table: Focusing on Southern US cuisine, I enjoyed classic dishes like fried catfish and shrimp and grits. The warm, welcoming setting made it perfect for a cozy dinner. The live music really makes the dining experience here.

Soy Sushi Bar: If you’re a sushi fan, this is a must-visit. I enjoyed a variety of sushi rolls crafted with fresh ingredients. The chefs are friendly and put on a great show right in front of you.

Valentino’s: This Italian restaurant offers classic Tuscan dishes in a romantic setting. I highly recommend the homemade gnocchi; it was light and delicious. Since this is a nice restaurant, resort “evening attire” is required.

The Mariner: Situated right by the water, this seafood haven offers fresh catches daily. My lobster dish was perfectly cooked and full of flavor. The sound of the waves adds to the ambiance.

Neptune’s: This beachside restaurant boasts a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on grilled options. I enjoyed the fresh fish, grilled to perfection. Dining with my feet in the sand was a highlight.

Bella Napoli: A casual spot for pizza lovers, where the options are endless. I tried a classic margarita, and it was delightful.  You can tell them to make whatever pizza you want! Perfect for lunch or snack while lounging while you are poolside during the day.

Manor: A proper 16th century dining experience focused on gourmet Caribbean cuisine.  The restaurant showcases locally sourced dishes.  My favorite dish from the menu is the Jamaican style curry chicken, which is expertly marinated and grilled to perfection.  

Tapas On The Riviera: Tapas on the Riviera specializes in Spanish tapas (small plates for sharing).  Its beachfront atmosphere makes it perfect to enjoy a casual meal with friends or family. Importantly, this restaurant is open until 5:00 am, so you can go here late night for amazing munchies.

Dinos: Located back toward the center of the property, Dino’s offers Neapolitan style pizza.  Here you can order you pizza with any toppings you would like and it’s done in under 10 minutes.  I would recommend this place for a quick lunch by the pool. 

Kimonos: A Japanese teppanyaki style restaurant. I really enjoyed the interactive dining experience with the entertaining chefs and socializing with the other people around the table.  Reservations are required to secure a spot since it is such a popular spot. My favorite dish from the menu is the hibachi shrimp and the Yakisoba noodles.  It also has great views out to the ocean. 

With 105 pools and 22 whirlpools, Sandals Ochi has by far the most pools of any Sandals. The lively main pool features a swim-up bar, perfect for relaxing with a cocktail.

There’s also the tranquil quiet pool (the Great House Pool) back by the butler village that’s ideal for those seeking a more peaceful environment. I personally liked the beachfront pool, where I can bask in the sun while soaking in the views of the Caribbean sea.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the pool amenities:

• Great House Pool: The large pool back by the Great House and Butler villages.  More of a tranquil vibe. 
• Ochi Beach Club Swim-up Bar: The beach club pool with swim-up bar was my personal favorite. There is great music and it is good for socializing. 
• Riviera Pool: A beautiful beachfront pool with more of a laid back experience compared to the beach club.
• Private Pools: Get your own private pool (or semi-private) with Butler or Club Level Suites.
• Poolside Cabanas: Luxury cabanas are available to rent if you want a more VIP poolside experience.

The great thing about staying at Sandals Sandals Ochi is it is so big, that you would never have to leave if you didn’t want to. There are a wide range of activities for any taste whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation at the spa.

Activities At The Resort

Aside from relaxing on the beach, there are endless activities included at Sandals Ochi.  SCUBA diving was my personal favorite activity.  With a short 3 hour class, you can go out and explore the coral and marine life with a certified instructor.  The resort also offers a glass bottom boat cruise which is a more low key way to explore the coastline. 

Here are all the activities you can do at Sandals Ochi: 

• Water Sports: Windsurf, paddle board, snorkel, kayak, Hobie Cats, and more are available right on the beach. 
• PADI Certified Scuba Diving: Enjoy a guided dive by certified instructors.  For beginners, you just need a 3 hour course and you can do an open water dive!
• Beach Volleyball: Play a friendly game of beach volleyball on the beautiful private cove beach. 
• Fitness Center: Open daily with a nice selection of premium equipment. There are also group classes. 
• Tennis: Courts are available day and night, with complimentary coaching.  Basketball courts are also located by the tennis courts. 
• Glass Bottom Boat: Free glass bottom boat cruises multiple times per day.  Just be sure to make reservations in advance as seating can be limited. 
• Rock Climbing: Check out the largest rock climbing wall in the Caribbean!

Relaxation And Spa

Who doesn’t appreciate the opportunity to relax at the resort’s Red Lane Spa. Indulge in signature treatments that showcase classical Caribbean techniques. Massages, facials, and body scrubs are available with a reservation in advance. The spa is located by the tennis courts in the Ginger Lily Building. 

I highly recommend the Scents Of Love couples’ massage to unwind alongside your partner. This serene setting in the tropical gardens made it easy to let loose and completely recharge.

• Spa Treatments: The spa offers a variety of treatments such as massages, hydrotherapy, aroma therapy, facials, and scrubs.  
• Manicures and Pedicures: Expert beauty treatments for your nails.
• CBD Massage: Get a massage with CBD infused oil to melt away muscle tension and fatigue. 
• Himalayan Salt Stone Treatment: Full body warm himalayan salt stone massage. 

Off-Site Adventures

For those who want added adventure, there are plenty of off-site things to do around Sandals Ochi.

I had to make a journey to the famous Dunn’s River Falls, which are incredible. For golf enthusiasts, the nearby championship golf course is an excellent way to spend a day. You can book all of these right at the Island Routes desk at the resort. 

Overall, Ocho Rios offers a range of adventures for exploring the beauty of Jamaica. Here are my top seven recommendations.

• Dunn’s River Falls: Just 10 minutes from Sandals Ochi, the famous Dunn’s River Falls is a stunning waterfall cascading 600 feet into the Caribbean Sea. I love climbing through falls and soaking in the natural lagoons. The experience is both exhilarating and refreshing. Entrance fees are around $25.
  
• Golf Outing: Enjoy free transfers and greens fees to the Upton Estate Golf Club. The grounds include a putting green, driving range, and a full 18 hole par 72 course. The view is absolutely beautiful as the course is up in the hills overlooking the ocean. 
• The Blue Hole: Approximately 30 minutes away from Ocho Rios, the Blue Hole is a hidden gem in the White River Valley. You can also get tours that include zip lining through the jungle and river tubing before reaching the Blue Hole. Tours typically cost around $70 – $200 per person (depending on what you want to do) and include transportation.
• Catamaran Cruises: There are several options for Catamaran Cruises from Ocho Rios.  One of the more popular outings is the Sunset Cruise with unlimited appetizers and cocktails, which is ideal for honeymoons and couples. For a more social vibe, check out the Reggae Cruise that features drinks, appetizers, and the latest dance moves.  The catamaran tours all cost around $110 per person. 
• Mystic Mountain: Located about 15 minutes from the resort, Mystic Mountain provides breathtaking views of the rainforest and coastline. The bobsled ride through the trees is so much fun! Prices start around $99 for a combination pass including the chairlift and bobsled.
• Horseback Riding in the Sea: Just 20 minutes from Sandals Ochi you have the unique experience of riding horses along the beach and into the warm ocean water. I am not a huge horse person, but it did look pretty epic to ride a horse along the shoreline! Prices for this adventure are around $120 per person.
• Blue Mountain Hiking: Go for a guided hike through the tropical forests of the Blue Mountains.  Enjoy cascading waterfalls and mountain top views that are unbeatable.  The Blue Mountains are the highest peaks in Jamaica at nearly 7500 ft above sea level!

Remember, some of the activities might require advanced bookings and may not be included. My advice is to pick one or two excursions to you can get a full immersive experience in some of Jamaica’s natural treasures.  They are definitely worth it. 

Nightlife

There is always entertainment around the pools and beach. For late night beach parties, head over to the Ochi Beach Club where there is live DJ music and a pool with a swim up bar.  Another option is The Rabbit Hole, which is speakeasy with secret code to get in – so you need to ask an employee the code during the day! 

There are also live shows like fire dancers or reggae performers that are worth checking out.  Don’t forget to check the activity schedule for the entertainment and themed parties!  My favorite theme night was the silent Carnival Dance Party and the Jamaican Jamboree.  

There are two places to grab food at the resort if you need a late night snack. The Great House and Tapas On The Riviera are open until 5:30 and 6:00 am, respectively. 

You can take a transfer into the Ocho Rios city center and find a lot of bars and clubs that are open until 4:00.  Margaritaville is also a fun place to grab drinks and dance to great music.

There are 22 room categories that cater to everyone’s preferences and budgets.  In all, Sandals Ochi has 519 luxurious rooms, making it the largest of all the Sandals Resorts.

The resort property is more or less separated into two areas, the beachfront rooms and the secluded Butler Suite Village.  

For example, we stayed in one bedroom butler villa suite, but here are the different room levels to choose from:

Luxury Level Rooms:  The Sandals Luxury Level rooms are premium entry level rooms with amenities such as a private balcony, king-size bed, smart TV, and a fully stocked refrigerator. These rooms are still very nice with great views (pool, oceanview, or tropical garden), but without additional amenities like butler service or private pools. Luxury Level rooms are perfect for those seeking luxury without breaking the bank.

Club Level Rooms: Club Sandals Level rooms include the Luxury Level offerings with added concierge services. Some will have their own semi-private pool. These rooms come with a fully stocked bar with premium liquors and access to the Club Sandals Lounge. All of these will also have great views of the ocean or beach.

Butler Elite Level Suites: The Butler Level suites include a personal butler to tend to your every need. These include large one bedroom suites with their own private pools and spectacular views. My favorite suite is the Romeo And Julliet Villa that has a private courtyard with a pool for unmatched privacy. 

Sandals Ochi brings a new meaning to the term “all-inclusive”. It’s one of my favorite resorts in Jamaica because there is so much to offer that it’s hard to keep track of it all.  Considering all of the included amenities, it was definitely worth it to us.

Let’s unpack everything that is included:

• Stay At 1 Play At 2: Get access to all of the amenities at neighboring Sandals Dunn’s River.  It is essentially getting two resorts for one!
• Free Golf Greens Fees: Get free transfers and greens fees at a championship level golf club. 
• Unlimited Dining And Drinks: With 9 gourmet dining options and 7 bars, all-inclusive is taken to the next level. You choose which restaurant you want for every meal.
• Water Sports: The range of included water sports is extremely large. Options include PADI certified scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more!
• Land Sports:  Enjoy tennis and tennis training from a certified instructor.  There is also beach volleyball, rock climbing, basketball, table tennis, shuffleboard, pool tables, and more.
• Entertainment: There is always music and festivities going on somewhere it seems.  We really enjoyed Beach party night.  There is also live music, reggae, steel drums, and dancing.
• Luxury Accommodations: The suites strike a fine balance of elegance and comfort. Even the Luxury Level rooms stand out as being quite nice for “entry level”.
• Service: The team is clearly dedicated to providing a friendly and attentive service.  If you go with the butler service, you can request anything you want at any time of day!
• Airport Transfers: Hassle-free transfers to and from the airport are included.
• In-Room Wine and Spirits: A selection of premium wines and spirits are stocked right in your room.
• Private Cove Beach: The beauty of the private cove beach is just steps away from your luxurious accommodation.
• Fitness Center: There is a really nice and modern fitness center here.  You can do classes or have a trainer, but we were too busy on the beach.
• No Tipping Policy: Last but not least, no tipping is allowed! Indulge in whatever you want without the need for extra gratuities.  This creates a laid back atmosphere, but more importantly, you wont get any extra fees or charges at checkout.

There are a lot of other amenities available but not included in the price. These are things like the on-site Red Lane spa, butler candlelight dinners, and other offsite tours.  You can book all of the offsite tours at the Island Routes desk at the resort.

Sandals Ochi Beach is located on the north coast of Jamaica, near the town of Ocho Rios. This prime location is known for its stretching white sand beaches and azure waters. 

There are several direct flights to Montego Bay Jamaica from major cities in the United States, Canada, Europe, and the UK.  Since it is relatively close, the flights are shorter than for other Caribbean Island destinations. For example, the flight from Miami to Montego Bay only takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. 

The Sandals Ochi Resort is approximately 60 miles from Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay, which is about a 1.5 hour drive to the resort.  Additionally, there are now direct flights from Miami to Ocho Rios every Saturday and Wednesday, which is only 20 minutes from the resort so the transfer times are much faster. Remember that transfers are included regardless of what airport you choose. 

Honeymoons or anniversaries are life events that we want to remember forever, and Sandals Ochi offers the perfect setting for endless romance. After all, there is a reason why Sandals is consistently rated the top all-inclusive resorts for honeymoons.  

As someone who has sent hundreds of happy couples on their dream Caribbean escape, I can assure you Ochi will not leave you disappointed.

First, it’s hard to beat the adults only, all inclusive experience for you and your partner.  In addition, the pricing at Ochi is amongst the least expensive of all the Sandals.  This leaves room in your budget for extras that can enhance the romance, like a private candlelight dinner. 

The overwater wedding chapel with glass bottom is truly one of a kind. There is also a beautiful gazebo perched on the cliffs overlooking the ocean that is stunning for more intimate weddings. 

What’s more, the free Sandals honeymoon package creates a warm welcome for couples, including:

• Special turndown service with petals on your bed on the first evening
• Sparkling prosecco upon arrival
• Breakfast in bed one morning of your choice

Whether you’re toasting to a new chapter or celebrating years of love, it’s a veritable love nest tailored for couples.

How far is Sandals Ochi from the Airport?

There are two airports that can be used to get to Sandals Ochi.  The first, and most common, is the Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay, which is about a 1 hour and 30 minute drive to the resort.  The second is the Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) in Ocho Rios, which is only about 20 minutes away from the resort. Regardless of what airport you choose, Sandals includes transfers to and from the airport.  

Is Sandals Ochi adults only?

Yes, Sandals Ochi is an adults only resort that is geared more towards couples.  The 100 acre property is ideal for honeymoons, wedding anniversaries, and special birthdays.

How much is it to stay at Sandals Ochi?

The average price to for Sandals Ochi is $180 per person/per night.  Because it is the largest Sandals resort, it is almost always the cheapest Sandals to choose from.  You can also frequently get discounts with the Sandals 777 Deal or Last Minute Deals.