Your holiday trip to the small Caribbean Island, Jamaica, is fast approaching. While usually, most people would tend to approach it with a slacken attitude during preparation, it is agreeable that those who have a blissful experience in Jamaica, or in any vacation for that matter, take ample time to plan.
One of the most critical considerations is identifying good hotels in Jamaica. The challenge of getting a suitable accommodation is that many factors come to play such as its' location, whether you have a family or will be traveling solo, amenities offered and possibly, cost considerations.
It is for this reason that we have reviewed and compiled a list of resorts and hotels in Jamaica facilities in top five travel destinations in the Island: Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, Kingston,and Port Antonio.
Hotels in Montego Bay
Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort and Private Island
About the hotel
British culture, evidenced by Georgian-style Houses inspired the idea of Sandals Royal Resort. The natural setting and hospitality of the Thai restaurant make any vacation to Jamaica memorable.
Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort and Private Island. Photo by Tour Press. Flickr
Location
Saint James Parish, Mahoe Bay, Montego Bay
Pros
Free internet
Inclusive of breakfast
Free airport transportation
Has non-smoking rooms
Cons
No air conditions in the bathrooms
High noise levels at the open bungalows
Who is it best for?
It is suitable for all visitors, be it solo travelers, families or even friends.
Business associates can also benefit from the amenities.
Amenities
Indoor and outdoor pools
Spa
Beachfront
Bar and Lounge
Gym facility
Business and conference facilities
Free shuttle services
Price
The price ranges from $460 to $1070 depending on the average rates for a standard room.
Reviews/What people are saying
They have excellent employees who are well trained and friendly. Additionally, the rooms are ultra-modern,and the facility has an exceptional view.
Secrets
About the hotel
Secrets is a 5-star hotel and accommodation facility with a Green Leaders Platinum level ranking. It is located on a peninsula and is a perfect hideaway for couples on a romantic vacation, or groups out to relax and explore Jamaica. Many online reviewers rank it as one of their favorite Hotels in Montego Bay.
Secrets. Photo by Lilbit91. Flickr
Location
Lot 59A, Freeport, St. James, Montego Bay
Pros
Trendy and modern resort
Offers personalized gift cards for those celebrating birthdays or weddings.
Airport transportation
Free internet connection
Cons
Some employees not very friendly and the overall staff morale is low.
At times there are delays during meal preparation.
Who is it best for?
Adults
Amenities
Fitness center with gym
Spa
Free internet
Adult pool
Concierge
Business and meeting facilities
Outdoor pools
Tennis court
Price
Accommodation ranges from $320 to $730 depending on average rates of a standard room.
Reviews/What people are saying
Secrets hotel has world-class amenities, which makes it a perfect place for holding events such as weddings or even birthdays. However, employee morale is relatively low evidenced by the way they are aloof and unpleasant when dealing with the visitors.
Round Hill Hotel and Villas
About the hotel
Round Hill Hotel and Villa is a 4.5-star accommodation facility which offers relaxing on-site vacation facilities, though it is not an all-inclusive facility. The property is set in an 100-acre piece of land which consists of several exquisite villas.
Living Room, Round Hill Hotel and Villa. Photo By TDH Furniture. Flickr
Location
At Hopewell along John Pringle Drive, Montego Bay
Pros
Free fast Wi-Fi connection
Airport transport
Great View
Cons
Service delivery is inconsistent, mostly excellent but at other times it is sub-par.
The bar has limited options of wines and spirits.
Some structures are old,and rooms feel outdated.
Who is it best for?
Couples on a romantic gateway
Conducive for family vacations
Amenities
Fitness center with Gym
Yoga studios
Salt Pools
Bar/Lounge
Spa
Business center and conference rooms
Tennis court
Price
Booking a double room starts at $320
Reviews/What people are saying
The hotel has simple structures with a great view since it is located on a hillside. Overall, the property is beautiful, though some structures give the impression of a poorly maintained property. Service delivery is good, and there are many facilities to keep you engaged during your stay.
Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall
About the hotel
Hyatt Ziva is one of the all-inclusive 5-star hotels in Montego Bay that offer a Jamaican retreat for travelers who desire to have a calendar full of activities such as pool volleyball and snorkeling. The wide array of international foods makes your holiday memorable.
Hyatt Ziva Butler Suite.Photo by Daniel Gillaspia. Flickr
Location
Along Rose Hall Road, Montego Bay
Pros
Has special discounts for family vacations and kids enjoy the facilities free
There are several beach sports and fun activities you can enjoy
It is one of the few hotels in Jamaica where Babysittingservices are offered
Cons
Their hotel facilities are not worth the price of the accommodation
Poor customer relations
Who is it best for?
The entire family, including young kids
Amenities
Outdoor pools
Caribbean Beachfront
Gym
24-hour concierge
Bar/Lounge
Conference facility
Price
Prices begin from $ 420 to $1250 based on average rates for a standard room.
Reviews/What people are saying
The suites at the corners have double balconies which give an excellent view of the pool. You also get to watch the sunset in the evening. The employees are friendly and responsive.
Hotels in Ocho Rios Reviews
Sandals Royal Plantation
About the hotel
Sandals Royal Plantation is an all-suite intimate private resort which houses over 74 ocean views located within a coral bluff. The resort prides itself of having a magnificent pool with a beach butler right outside. Additionally, there is a country club where one can spend time at a lazy afternoon.
Sandals Royal Plantation. Photo by Richard Kelly. Flickr.
Location
Main Street, Ocho Rios
Pros
There are professional English butlers.
Complimentary transfer between resorts managed by sandals
Two private beaches available
Offers both international (French) and local Caribbean cuisines
Airport transports
Cons
Bathrooms are very basic
Who is it best for?
Entire family
Solo travelers
Amenities
Gym
Bar/lounge
Spa
Business center with free Wi-Fi
Golf course
Conference facilities
Banquet rooms
Price
Price per person ranges from $570 and $1440 per person per night depending on the average rates of a standard room
Reviews/What people are saying
The service delivery is excellent and at par with other hotels in Ocho Rios of the same caliber. Apart from that, the beaches are also well maintained, and there are efficient shuttle services between the properties. However, some visitors had a problem with the butlers who made a deliberate effort to mention the fact that the company had relaxed its' policy regarding receiving of tips from guests.
Jamaica Inn
About the hotel
For over 70 years, Jamaica Inn prides itself in offering the simple joys of living, which is hard to find these days in many hotels in Ocho Rios. The 4.5-star accommodation property has 48 Jamaica cottages which overlook the sea. You can, therefore, get a chance to relax and enjoy the sea breeze on the 700-foot premier private beach, or even go for a swim.
Jamaica Inn. Photo by tommypatto. Flickr.
Location
Main Street, Ocho Rios
Pros
Airport transfers
Free parking
Free internet
Laundry services are offered
Cons
The meals are relatively expensive
Limited beach time
Who is it best for?
The entire family or even solo travelers
Amenities
Spa
Gym facilities
Outdoor pools
Beachfront
Outdoor pools
Price
The price ranges from $300 to $1000 depending on the type of accommodation.
Reviews/What people are saying
The resort is located in a serene environment adjacent to a beach. The tranquility of the accommodation facility enhanced further by the cozy rooms and excellent service from staff; they are very welcoming.
Moon Palace Jamaica
About the hotel
Moon Palace is ranked among some of the top resorts in Jamaica. That is because it has over 700 ultra-modern and luxurious rooms and well-maintained facilities. In addition to that, dining at the resort is blissful as you can choose to switch between traditional and contemporary dishes.
Moon Palace, Jamaica. Photo by Raymond. Flickr.
Location
Main Street, Ocho Rios
Pros
Free internet
All inclusive (breakfast included)
Airport transfers
Tons of to-do activities such as snorkeling
Cons
Check-in process is slow
Staff serving breakfast can be unfriendly at times
Who is it best for?
Couples on vacation
Children
Business associates
Solo travelers
Amenities
Business center
Conference facilities
Gym
Spa
Concierge
Meeting rooms
Outdoor pools
Price
Booking accommodation starts at $360 to $1200 depending on the type of accommodation.
Reviews/What people are saying
Most visitors pointed out that their expectations were met at the resort. There are little to complain about considering that their employees are friendly and knowledgeable. Additionally, the rooms are spacious and well maintained.
Hotels in Kingston Reviews
The Spanish Court Hotel
About the hotel
The Spanish court hotel is one of the 4.5-star hotels in Kingston. It is all-inclusive and caters for all visitors irrespective of whether they are business people, families or couples on a romantic gateway. It is also strategically located at the heart of Kingston, which makes it an all-time favorite hotel in Jamaica.
The infinity pool – Spanish Court Hotel, Kingston. Photo by Sidless. Flickr
Location
1st Lucia Avenue, Kingston
Pros
All inclusive weekend spa packages
Free internet
Airport transfers
Cost effective accommodations
Cons
There are no activities to do in the immediate area
Who is it best for?
Business persons
Individuals on a vacation
Family gateways
Amenities
Fitness center with Gym equipment and workout rooms
Spa
Outdoor pools
Conference facilities
Pool bar
Price
Prices start from $207 to $310 based on the average rates for standard rooms.
Reviews/What people are saying
Their employees are professionally dressed and well trained. They usually go out of their way to ensure that your experience is as delightful as possible. The hotel menu selection is broad with a wide variety of dishes which are tasty.
The Courtleigh Hotel and Suites
About the hotel
The Courtleigh Hotel is a 4-star accommodation facility strategically located within the heart of Kingston. It prides itself of being centrally located making it relatively easy to access several shipping centers, and visit several attraction sites such as Port Royal, Bob Marley Museum, the Blue mountains,and Lime Cay. It also has customized and personalized services to meet the needs of each guest.
The Courtleigh Hotel and Suites.
Location
85 Knutsford Blvd, Kingston, Jamaica.
Pros
Personalized services
Direct dial telephone
Breakfast included in the package
Airport transfers
Self-serve laundry
Relatively cheap
Cons
Their internet connection has down-times
Who is it best for?
Couple on a vacation
Solo travelers
Amenities
Gym facilities
Spa
Bar/lounge
Outdoor pool
Meeting rooms
Conference facilities
Price
Prices start from $230 depending on your booking specifications
Reviews/What people are saying
Most visitors agree to the fact that the rooms are modern and well maintained in terms of cleanliness. The serene environment makes it a perfect location to unwind after a long day’s work. Overall all staff from housekeeping, security services, and receptionists at the front desk is very welcoming and friendly, which gives a very good first impression. Visitors who have had bad experiences in different hotels in Kingston should definitely try the Courtleigh Hotel and Suites
Terra Nova All Suite Hotel
Terra Nova Hotel Front Desk
About the hotel
For over 70 years, Terra Nova All Suites Hotel has proved to be the top accommodation facility in Jamaica. It is simple yet unique in many aspects which make it give an air of friendly warmth to its guests. It is worth noting that it has an AAA 4-Diamond rating and has also received several awards including the 2018 Wine Bar of the year.
Location
17 Waterloo Road, Kingston.
Pros
Free parking
Free high-speed internet access
Breakfast is included in the package
Cons
The noise levels from the Bar on Fridays are high.
Their booking system at times is problematic.
Who is it best for?
Families on a vacation
Friends on a get-together
Amenities
Mini-bar
Golf course
Meeting and conference rooms
Banquet room
Fitness center (Gym and workout rooms)
Price
The price range is between $220 and $260. However, it is important to note that the cost varies depending on the specific booking requirements and the website deals being offered at the moment.
Reviews/What people are saying
The level of customer interaction with the staff creates exceptional memories and nostalgic feeling even long after you have checked out from the hotel. Additionally, most of the visitors who get to taste their food agree that it is delicious and their desserts are amazing. However, some visitors argued that the rooms were not suites as they had been described in the website.
Hotels in Negril Reviews
Rockhouse Hotel
About the hotel
Rockhouse Hotel is a cherished traveling destination which is nested in eight-acre garden on the cliffs of the pristine cove. The 4-star hotel has elegantly designed villas with grass thatched roofing, which gives a real and holistic indigenous Jamaican experience. Some activities that you can enjoy in the facility include snorkeling and rafting.
Rooms at Rockhouse Hotel. Photo by Joanna Wiebe. Flickr.
Location
West End Road, Negril
Pros
Free airport transportation
Many discounts are available from time to time
Free shuttle bus services
Their staff consists of multilingual personnel
Cons
It has only 34 rooms. Therefore it may not serve a large group of travelers.
Who is it best for?
Family on vacations
Solo travelers
Couples on romantic holidays
Business associates.
Amenities
Mini bar and lounge
Outdoor swimming pool
Spa
Price
The cost of booking a room ranges from $180 to $370 depending on the average rates for a standard room.
Reviews/What people are saying
Spending time at Rockhouse hotel leaves you with a nostalgic feeling. Additionally, most of the visitors pointed out that there are many activities which you can do while in the facility which includes a pool bar, snorkeling,and board games. While most people may overlook this simple fact, having board game gives Rockhouse hotel an advantage over many hotels in Negril. It is also worth noting that the food served is splendid and the staff will go an extra mile to ensure that you are enjoying your stay.
Grand Lido Negril Au Naturel Resort
About the hotel
Grand Lido Resort is one of the very few resorts which have proved that the privacy of its guests can be guaranteed. It is an all-inclusive facility that is only open to adults only, with the minimum age requirement being 21years. The serene atmosphere and scenery from different vantage points makes it a resort that all visitors can go for a liberated weekend off, be it singles or even couples.
Grand Lido Negril. Photo by Botanica Jamaica.
Location
Norman Manley Blvd A1, Negril.
Pros
Free shuttle services
Watersport activities
Free Wi-Fi
Discounted vacation packages
Cons
A lot of time is spent during booking
Children are not allowed in the resort
Who is it best for?
Adults (above 21 years) both singles and couples
Amenities
Outdoor pool
Meeting rooms
Bar/lounge
Swimming pool
Private beach area
Fitness center
Spa
Price
The price starts from $420 to $1870 depending on the number of people and other accommodation preferences.
Reviews/What people are saying
The rooms are clean, modern and spacious. The penthouse gives a particularly impressive view of the bay. Additionally, the staff is accommodative, and the buffet they served incredibly. The place is also peaceful since there are no children around. However, the choice of meals offered at the restaurants was quite limited.
The Cliff Hotel
About the hotel
The Cliff Hotel is a hideaway boutique located at the heart of Negril. It is nested in a 5-acre piece of land which borders the Caribbean Sea. It has only 4 private villas and 22 suites which makes it excellent for intimate or quiet moments. The cottages are stylish, modern and give a direct view of the sea. Solo travelers who want to have a nice quiet time to reconnect should definitely choose The Cliff hotel as their preferred hotel in Negril.
Aerial Photograph of The Cliff Hotel. Photo by David Oppenheimer.
Location
West End Road, Negril.
Pros
Free airport transportation
Free high-speed internet
Arrival cocktail
Free shuttle bus services
Cons
none
Who is it best for?
Families
Business partners
Couples on romantic vacations
Amenities
Outdoor swimming pools
Fitness center
Beauty parlor
Saltwater pool
Yoga pavilion
Spa
Price
Booking rooms start at $250. However, the rates depend on the size of rooms, location,and maximum occupancy.
Reviews/What people are saying
The ultra modern rooms are stunning and spacious. The facility has a direct view of the Caribbean Sea which gives it a picturesque view and an excellent background for photo shoots. Other guests recommended the resort since it is located away from the busy town life, therefore offered a conducive environment to reconnect and reflect.
Hotels in Port Antonio Reviews
Geejam
About the hotel
A combination of the island landscape and all the comforts you can expect of an international 5-star restaurant makes Geejam one of the few signature trademark hotels in Jamaica. It is located on a 6-acre land which extends to the waterfront, where there is a private beach and near Frenchman’s Cove. It is also worth noting that it is one of the very first accommodation facilities to ever have its own recording studio.
Geejam.Photo by Diego Cobo. Flickr.
Location
122 Skippers Blvd West Indies, Port Antonio
Pros
Breakfast included in the package
Free airport transportation
There is multi-lingual staff
Strategically located close to tourist attraction sites
Cons
It is relatively expensive as compared with other accommodation facilities.
The kitchen closes at 10pm
The facility is understaffed.
Who is it best for?
Couples
Families
Solo travelers
Amenities
Spa
Bar/lounge
Outdoor swimming pool
Restaurants
Fitness center
Price
Their rates range between $510 and $2000, based on average rates of a standard room.
Reviews/What people are saying
Geejam has many amenities which are all inclusive,and the top of the line studio sets it apart from many hotels in Port Antonio. Most people who have stayed in Rum and Bass recommend it since the staff members working in those accommodations are particularly friendly. However, some of their rooms such as rocksteady room were quite small for a couple.
The Trident Hotel
About the hotel
Designs from 1940’s inspired the architectural design of the thirteen unique ocean front villas of the Trident Hotel. The layout of the accommodation facility gives it a residential feel, making it simple yet elegant. Additionally, there are private terraces with pools and an aesthetic appeal that makes it an ideal home away from home hotel.
The Trident Hotel.
Location
Anchovy, Port Antonio.
Pros
Cell phone with 20 minute free local and international calls
Cable TV and online movie achieve available
Free Wi-Fi with extensive coverage (both indoors and outdoors).
Babysitting services are offered.
Cons
It has few rooms, only 13.
Who is it best for?
Adults
Children
Amenities
Cinema rooms
Spa
Bar/Lounge
Fitness center/gym
Beachfront
Banquet room
The outdoor swimming pool which spills to the Caribbean Sea
Price
The lowest price is $500, and the higher end is $1500, based on the average rates of a standard room.
Reviews/What people are saying
Despite the hotel being relatively small, it is worthy of afive-star rating. The rooms are spacious and modern with exquisite furnishings. Apart from that, there are private swimming pools and an outdoor pool which extends to the sea. The services offered in the facility are one of the best you can ever get within the Caribbean.
Villa Juanita
About the hotel
Villa Juanita is a luxurious 19-bedroom property perched on hill slopes of the North East coast. While on the hotel, you get an unobstructed panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea, as you have a taste of their excellently seasoned foods from their organic farm. It is perfect for those who fancy watching the sunset from the comfort of their balconies.
Beachfront, Villa Juanita.
Location
Happy Grove, Port Antonio.
Pros
It is relatively cheaper as compared to other hotels and accommodation facilities in the region.
Free high-speed internet
Airport transportation services are available.
Self-service laundry
Cons
It lacks amenities such as outdoor swimming pools and fitness facilities/gym
Who is it best for?
Business people
Couples
Solo travelers
Amenities
Conference facilities
Meeting rooms
Restaurant
Concierge
Price
Price ranges between $82 and $3300 based on the average rates of a single room.
Reviews/What people are saying
For visitors looking for comfortable rooms and tasty meals while on a budget, this is the place to be. The hotel has a breathtaking view that you will enjoy during your entire stay. Apart from that, the employees are kind and friendly. They work tirelessly to ensure that all your needs are met. Lastly, the manager is known to give free random complementary gifts to the visitors. Which other hotels in Port Antonio can make you feel so alive and significant?
Final Thought
After all is said and done, you cannot ignore the fact that getting suitable hotels in Jamaica may still be a challenge. If you find yourself in such a situation, you can consider using a reputable Jamaica travel agency to assist you in finding suitable accommodation without much of a hassle. It is for this reason that Tropical Trips Jamaica has become a go-to travel agency. They have several vacation packages inclusive of hotel and many other perks.
- To learn more, you can Contact Tropical Trips Jamaica or call / skype us at 1 (876) 518-2364 to schedule a free no obligation trip planning consultation.