Jamaica boasts a diverse range of accommodations, from beach resorts in Negril to all-inclusive in Ocho Rios and boutique hotels in Port Antonio. Whether you prefer remote jungle lodges, laid-back beach bungalows, or blockbuster all-inclusive, Jamaica has it all.
The major beach resorts, historic luxury hotels, and vibrant nightlife are concentrated around Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. Negril, on the west coast, offers a more relaxed atmosphere with cliffs and the stunning Seven Mile Beach. Port Antonio, in the northeast, features boutique hotels in a lush, rainforest-covered setting.
Here are the top hotels in Jamaica:
1. **Sandals Royal Plantation, Ocho Rios:**
The smartest of the Sandals resorts, Royal Plantation offers suites with private butlers. Guests can enjoy traditional service, elegant interiors, and access to the amenities of Sandals Ochi next door.
2. **Jakes, Treasure Beach:**
A laid-back, bohemian hotel, Jakes is a family-run institution with whimsical cottages, locally sourced ingredients in the restaurant, and a rum bar.
3. **Kanopi House, Port Antonio:**
Locally designed treehouses hidden in the rainforest canopy, Kanopi House offers sustainable accommodation with direct access to the Blue Lagoon.
4. **Trident Villas, Port Antonio:**
A sleek, minimalist villa-only hotel, Trident Villas features 11 villas in seafront gardens with infinity pools and contemporary design.
5. **The Caves, Negril:**
With 12 clifftop cottages, The Caves offers a colorful, all-inclusive experience close to Negril’s action. Private dining in caves and a rum bar create a casual, laid-back atmosphere.
6. **Sandals Royal Caribbean, Montego Bay:**
Sandals Royal Caribbean, the first to introduce overwater villas to the Caribbean, offers an adult-only all-inclusive experience. The resort boasts nine restaurants and a private island with various activities.
7. **Half Moon, Montego Bay:**
An all-inclusive with a twist, Half Moon features rooms, villas, and private pools in different areas. With a Children’s Village, golf course, and Fern Tree Spa, it provides a sophisticated experience.
8. **Round Hill, Montego Bay:**
A classic since the 1950s, Round Hill attracts Hollywood heavyweights. Sea-facing rooms by Ralph Lauren and secluded villas dot the manicured grounds, offering a lovely spa, tennis courts, and a club for children and teens.
9. **GoldenEye, Oracabessa:**
Set in Ian Fleming’s former villa, GoldenEye is a celebrity favorite with beach villas, cottages, and beach huts along a private golden beach. Owned by Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records, the vibe is low-key and laid-back.
10. **Jamaica Inn, Ocho Rios:**
A glamorous destination since the 1950s, Jamaica Inn in Ocho Rios continues to exude Caribbean charm. Marilyn Monroe, Alfred Hitchcock, and the Kennedys were drawn to its easy glamour, offering suites, cottages, and a private beach.
11. **Geejam, Port Antonio:**
Nestled in the rainforest above Port Antonio, GeeJam offers a laid-back stay with wooden cabins, stylish rooms, and luxury villas. The onsite recording studio has attracted musicians like Snoop Dogg and Rihanna.