Sandals Royal Plantation

There are two private cove beaches at the Royal Plantation that are incredibly secluded making it the best Sandals in Jamaica for an intimate getaway.  I especially like this location because you get the whole beach to yourself, only people from the resort can access it. 

The soft white sand melts beneath your feet with the crystal clear Caribbean waters stretching into the horizon.  On the east side of the beach you have water activities available while the west side is a pristine area for swimming and relaxing. 

Since the property is tucked into its own cove along the north coast of Jamaica, the water is very calm so it’s ideal for a relaxing swim. In fact, I occasionally spotted colorful fish swimming just a few feet from the shore. 

Here is what to expect for a day on the beach at Sandals Royal Plantation: 

• The Beach: Two private cove white sand beaches that are perfect for the most tranquil days lounging under the sun. The beautiful palm trees and lush vegetation surround the beach for an idyllic Jamaica experience!
• Waters: The water here is pristine and crystal clear.  It’s also generally very calm because of the location along the north coast of Ocho Rios.
• Activities: Unlimited water sports including professionally instructed scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, Hobie Cats, and more. 
• Beach Bar: The Royal Grill Beach Bar is situated steps away from the shoreline and is great for tropical cocktails and snacks. 
• Marine Life: The clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and swimming. There are frequently tropical fish just a few feet from the shoreline. 
• Lounging: There are plenty of lounge chairs along the beach with personalized service from the friendly staff.
• Beach Cabanas: Private cabanas are available that come with your own personal butler for an additional cost. 
• Sunsets: The sunsets on the north coast of Jamaica are known for their glowing pink and orange hues that look like a watercolor painting.

There are 5 world class restaurants and 2 bars throughout Sandals Royal Plantation offering delectable dishes that will leave you craving more. Each restaurant has a distinct theme so you are sure to find the perfect setting for any occasion. 

Importantly, you also get full access to the neighboring Sandals Ochi and Sandals Dunn’s River, which means you can go to 33 different restaurants in total. 

Expert Tip: Reserve a private candlelight dinner on the beach or at a location of your choice throughout the property. The four course meal is complete with a white table cloth setting with flower arrangements and comes with a dedicated server. For only $199 per couple, I think it’s definitely worth it!

Here’s a breakdown of the restaurant options at Sandals Royal Plantation:

1. Le Papillon: The French dining experience at Le Papillon is exceptional.  This was my favorite restaurant for dinner because the food is outstanding, but the elegant setting on a terrace overlooking the ocean was unbeatable. The roasted duck breast was perfectly cooked, and we even tried the escargots! Reservations for dinner are required here, and the dress code is evening attire. 
2. The Terrace: The Terrace offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with breathtaking ocean views. I particularly loved their breakfast that features fresh tropical fruits and made to order hot dishes, and starts at 7:30 AM. Reservations are only required for dinner here, and the dress code is resort casual. 
3. Royal Grill: The Royal Grill serves up fresh caught seafood right on the beach. The laid-back atmosphere is ideal for grabbing lunch while soaking in the Caribbean vibes. For dinner, reservations are required between 6:30 and 8:30 PM.  I highly recommend the Surf And Turf and the Smoked Fish Dip. 
4. The Wobbly Peacock: For a more late night experience, this pub has a wide variety of craft beers and hearty British fare. The fish and chips were fresh and crispy, just the way I like it. It’s a fun place to unwind with friends or enjoy some live piano.  The pub is open from 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM, so it is open the latest of all the dining options.
   
5. Tea Terrace: For a fun spot of tea, the Tea Terrace provides a classic setting for afternoon tea and light snacks. It is only from 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM, but we enjoyed getting a cup of tea with fresh baked scones, macaroons, and small sandwiches. 
6. Caviar Bar: Famous for being the only caviar and champagne bar in Jamaica. Indulge in the finer things with premium Sasanian caviar while watching the beautiful sunset. 

It’s all about the serene atmosphere at Sandals Royal Plantation. There’s one main pool at the center of the resort with beautiful views of the ocean and surrounded by lush greenery. Right next to the main pool is a large whirlpool which is a perfect place to relax with an equally amazing view of the Caribbean.

There is one other small freshwater plunge pool located on the west wing of the beach.  This is a fun little spot to hangout, but I spent most of the time on the main patio. 

Towels and concierge service are readily available around the pools for anything you need. The terrace around the pool has plenty of lounge chairs with umbrellas so you don’t have to worry about a place to sit. 

Also keep in mind that the exchange privileges with nearby Sandals Resorts means you get access to all of the other pools just a short trip away.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the pool amenities at Sandals Royal Plantation:

• Main Pool: The large freshwater heated pool located at the center of the resort is more also a large whirlpool right next to it.  The views from here are amazing. 
• Plunge Pool: There is a small plunge pool located on the west side of the beach. I loved this pool as an escape from the hot Caribbean sun.
• Private Pool: Get your own private pool if you stay in the beachfront Villa Plantana. This is a large pool with whirlpool attached to it that is exclusively for the Villa Plantana. 
• Shared Privileges: You also have access to the pools at neighboring Sandals Ochi and Dunn’s River, which means dozens more to choose from. I recommend checking out the Ochi Beach Club at Sandals Ochi.

The great thing about Sandals Royal Plantation is it has so much to offer that you can stay on the resort property the whole vacation, check out the neighboring Sandals Resorts, and everything Jamaica has to offer!  There’s wide ranging options for activities whether you just want to relax or head out for action and adventure.

Activities At The Resort

Yes, relaxing on the beach or lounging by the pool are my top priorities, but there are seemingly endless activities at Sandals Royal Plantation. From snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours, there’s something for everyone. 

I really fell in love with scuba diving here. The PADI certified scuba outings are a great way to explore the beautiful coral and tropical fish around the north coast of Jamaica. 

For golf lovers, greens fees and transfers to the Upton Estate Country Club are also included. This is an 18 hole course located along the rolling hills of Ocho Rios that offer panoramic views of the ocean. 

Here are all the activities you can do at Sandals Royal Plantation: 

• PADI Scuba Diving: The scuba diving program is a fantastic way to explore the Jamaican coastline and while learning something new (maybe you will see a dolphin if you’re lucky!). You just need to take a short 3 hour course for beginners in the plunge pool and you’re able to go for an open water dive.
• Unlimited Water Activities: Whether it’s snorkeling, paddleboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, or hobie cats, there’s always something to try.
• Golf: Free greens fees to the Upton Estate Country club, which is just a short drive away and transfers are included. Note that if you want a caddy, that is not included. 
• Glass Bottom Boat Rides: For a laid back way to explore the underwater world, take the glass bottom boat ride to see exotic marine life.  
• Tennis: The tennis courts are located in the back of the resort and come with complimentary coaching if you want.
• Fitness Center: The state of the art fitness center is open 24 hours a day.  There are very nice free weights, aerobic machines, ellipticals, and everything you need for a great workout. 
• Complimentary Fitness Classes: There are daily group fitness classes over at Ochi including water aerobics, yoga, beach workouts, and more.  The schedule for all classes can be found online for each day’s options.
• Beach Volleyball: It’s always fun to play some beach volleyball on the white-sand beach. 
• Land Activities: Other land based activities available include shuffleboard, bocce ball, lawn chess, table tennis, and more. 

Relaxation And Spa

When you’re on a romantic getaway with your loved one, there might be nothing better than a couples massage. The Red Lane Spa at Sandals Royal Plantation offers a variety of treatments in a serene setting.

The spa not only has treatment rooms, but it also has a steam room, plunge pools, and even a beauty salon for hair and makeup. This is a great escape from the hustle and bustle to rejuvenate your body and mind (and score brownie points)!

I highly recommend the signature Himalayan Salt Stone Couples’ Massage to unwind with your partner. This is where they use warm Himalayan stones for a full body massage that melts the tension away. 

Remember to book your massages or other treatments in advance as availability is limited.

• Massages: There are a whole host of massages to choose from, whether for individuals or couples. The Scents Of Love is the most popular couples massage.
• Spa Treatments: The Red Lane spa offers a variety of other spa treatments including hydrotherapy, body wraps, facials, and aromatherapy.
• Body Scrubs And Facials: The natural body scrubs and polishes help exfoliate your skin to leave it silky smooth. These include treatments like Blue Mountain Coffee scrubs, lemon body polish, or the Caribbean glow treatment. 
• Manicures and Pedicures: Enjoy a vegan nail treatment that will leave your hands and feet fresh for the beach!
• Wedding Packages: Several bridal packages come with a pre wedding couples massage included.

Off-Site Adventures

Exploring the area around Sandals Royal Plantation is a great way to experience Jamaica’s beautiful scenery and vibrant culture. The good thing is that all of these excursions can be booked at the Island Routes desk right in the main lobby or ahead of time on their website. 

Here are my top five picks for off-site adventures around the resort:

• Dunn’s River Falls: Just 10 minutes away from Sandal Royal Plantation, Dunn’s River Falls is one of Jamaica’s national treasures and is a must visit. Picture a 600 foot cascading waterfall with bright turquoise waters that empties directly into the sea. You are able to walk across the smooth rocks and experience the falls up close. Tours from the resort start at $70 per person.
• The Blue Hole: A short 30 minutes drive from Ocho Rios, the Blue Hole is a hidden gem known for its dazzling blue soaking pools and waterfalls.  It is a blast to jump off the waterfalls! There is also zip lining through the jungle and river tubing before reaching the Blue Hole that can be included depending on the tour you get. Guided tours cost between $70 – $200 per person and include transportation.
• Catamaran Cruises: The most popular catamaran outing is the Sunset Cruise with unlimited drinks and appetizers.  Alternatively, the Lover’s Rock cruise is especially ideal for honeymoons or other special occasions because of the sheer romance. For a more social experience, I recommend the Reggae Cruise with drinks, food, and reggae until your heart’s content.  The catamaran tours all cost around $110 per person. 
• Mystic Mountain: Located around 15 minutes from the resort, Mystic Mountain offers exciting activities like a bobsled ride, zip-lining, and a Sky Explorer chairlift. If you want to harness your inner Cool Runnings, the bobsled ride down the mountain is an adrenaline rush.  
• Golf Outing: Enjoy complimentary greens fees and transfers to the Upton Estate Golf Club. The grounds include a driving range, putting green, and an 18 hole par 72 course. The view here is absolutely incredible since the course winds through the hills overlooking the ocean. 

Nightlife And Live Music

Although I would classify Sandals Royal Plantation as one the most laid back of all the Sandals Resorts, you can always find entertainment around the beach and pools. There will be beach parties (usually Saturday nights), burlesque shows, fire dancers, and plenty more. These shows start at 8:30 or 9:00 PM. 

There is an activity schedule for the entertainment and themed parties to see if anything catches your eye.  My favorite theme nights were the Silent Disco and the Jamaican Jamboree.  

Another option is The Wobbly Peacock Pub, which is a traditional English pub that is open until midnight and has live piano music. 

That said, if you are looking for beach parties, the Ochi Beach Club has live DJ music and a swim-up pool bar. Here you can enjoy a fun beach day and head back to your suite at the Royal Plantation just minutes away.  

The Ocho Rios city center also has a lot of bars and clubs that are open until 4:00 AM. I would recommend Margaritaville to dance to great music with fun tropical cocktails. If you do go into Ocho Rios, only use official transportation and travel in groups within the secure tourist areas. The resort staff are more than happy to coordinate everything you need for trips into town. 

There are 11 different room categories that cater to everyone’s preferences and budgets.  In all, Sandals Royal Plantation has 74 rooms that are all butler suites.  

You can manage all of your specific butler preferences ahead of time on the Sandals website.  This includes any special occasions, requests, dietary restrictions, and more. 

Since it is a boutique resort with a more intimate setting, every suite will feature a stunning view of the Caribbean.  The rooms were recently renovated and feature elegant and chic details while still preserving the classic feel that the Royal Plantation is famous for.  

We stayed in the Imperial Oceanfront One Bedroom Suite that had a large balcony, mahogany floors, and a nice walk-in closet.  That said, all suites will include the ultimate 5-star luxury experience with 24 hour butler service to tend to your every need. 

The Royal Plantation also has a standalone villa on the east side of the property named the Villa Plantana.  This comes with its own private pool and separate driveway that leads to the villa for maximum privacy.  Featuring large living and dining room areas nestled atop the ocean, the large glass doors fold open to let the refreshing ocean breeze roll in. 

Sandals Royal Plantation redefines the term “all-inclusive” with its extensive list of offerings. When I look at all of the included activities, food options, and luxury amenities, the price is more than worth it for our vacation!

Remember that you have full access to Sandals Ochi right next door. There are transfers every hour until 11:50 PM.  It’s also about a 5 minute walk if you want to go that route, but the road is rather busy with no sidewalks. 

You also can get access to Sandals Dunn’s River, which is about 15 minutes driving. Importantly, because the Royal Plantation is significantly smaller, those other two resorts do not get reciprocal access to the Royal Plantation, so you get it all to yourself. 

Let’s unpack everything that is included:

• Unlimited Dining And Drinks: With unlimited dining at 5 world class restaurants and 2 bars to choose from, all-inclusive is taken to a whole nother level. When including the neighboring resorts, you get access to 33 restaurants in total.
• Stay At 1 Play At 3 Privileges: You get full access to the restaurants, pools, beaches, and activities at both Sandals Ochi and Sandals Dunn’s River.  This is like getting three vacations in one!
• Water Activities: Endless water activities to choose from like PADI certified scuba diving, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, hobie cats, windsurfing, and more!
• Land Sports:  Enjoy tennis and get lessons from a certified instructor if you want. There’s also beach volleyball, bocce ball, croquet, shuffleboard, lawn chess, billiards, and more.
• Glass Bottom Boat Tours: Enjoy a relaxing tour along the northern shoreline in a glass bottom boat.
• Daily Entertainment: Festivities every night from cabaret shows to live fire dancers. Our favorite is the Caribbean Beach Party night on Saturdays. Make sure to look at the event schedule so you don’t miss out!
• 5-Star Service: Especially at the Royal Plantation, all staff members we interacted with here are top notch, which is why this resort is one of the most revisited of all the Sandals Resorts. The butlers will greet you by name, prepare a bath when you return from your day’s activities, bring you amazing snacks, and plenty more!  The service here really is unbeatable. 
• Airport Transfers: Free airport transfers both to and from are included. 
• Top Shelf Wine and Spirits: Being that this is an all butler Sandals, only premium selections of wine and spirits like the local Appleton Estate Rum and Twin Oaks are offered. Your room will even have a fully stocked bar. 
• Private Cove Beach: This resort has two private cove beaches tucked away into the Jamaican coastline!  The pristine white sand beach is what Caribbean dreams are made of. 
• Golf: Free greens fees at the Upton Estate Golf Club in Ocho Rios Jamaica. Transfers are included to and from the course. Note that if you want a caddy, that is not included.
• Fitness Center: State of the art fitness center that is open 24 hours.  There are also daily fitness classes on the weekdays and personal training sessions. 
• No Tipping Policy: Last but not least, there are no extra gratuities allowed!  The one exception is if you want to tip your butler, but it is not required or solicited. I love this policy because you don’t have any extra fees or surprises when you check out. 

Keep in mind that there are a lot of extras available if you want a la carte experiences. For example, massages, private candlelight dinners, local tours and adventures can be arranged in advance.  Just message us for details!

Sandals Royal Plantation is nestled in Ocho Rios along the north coast of Jamaica.  The resort is located approximately 90 minutes from Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ). Although the commute is a bit longer than other Sandals resorts, it cruises along the northwest coast which has a lot of beautiful sightseeing. Importantly, airport transfers are always included regardless of your accommodations.

The other option is to fly directly into Ocho Rios, which is only 20 minutes from the resort, so you get more time relaxing on the beach and less time traveling. There are non-stop flights with American Airlines every Wednesday and Saturday that depart from Miami. 

Since Jamaica is relatively close to the US, flight times are shorter than for most other Caribbean Islands. For example, flights from Miami to Montego Bay or Ocho Rios are only about an hour and a half long.  

Expert Tip: Get the Club Mobay VIP service at the Montego Bay airport for your flights to Jamaica. This will get you through customs in about 10 minutes with the help of a personal chauffeur. For your departure flight you also get access to the Club Mobay lounge until your flight leaves.  You will need to book this in advance because they have specific time slots for each window. 

I also recommend completing the C5 Declaration Form before you get to Jamaica.  You can download the required form on the Jamaican Government site here.

Sandals Royal Plantation is tailored specifically for honeymoons, weddings, and anniversaries. Afterall, Sandals Resorts has been consistently rated as the top all-inclusive destinations for honeymooners for the last 40 years!  

As a Certified Sandals Specialist who has successfully planned thousands of romantic Caribbean escapes for couples, I can tell you that the Royal Plantation will not disappoint.

To start, the adults-only experience for you and your loved one is unbeatable. Second, the pricing at Sandals Royal Plantation is one of the most affordable Butler Suites that Sandals offers, which leaves more room in your budget for things like a couples massage, a romantic catamaran cruise, or a candlelight dinner on the beach.

Remember that you get a free honeymoon package if you go to a Sandals within 30 days of your wedding that includes:

• A sparkling champagne toast for the couple upon arrival
• A Special bed turndown service for the first evening complete with flower petals
• A special breakfast in bed for any morning that the couple chooses

Additionally, you can get a free night by staying 7 nights or more in a club or butler level room if it’s your anniversary! After you complete your booking, you just need to submit your wedding certificate to show that your wedding was within 30 days of your stay. 

For weddings, there are two beautiful wedding gazebos located out on a pier over the water, and one on the main patio. Don’t forget that group booking discounts apply for wedding groups that book five or more rooms.