The 12 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Jamaica To Book This Year (2024)

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Terry Ward, Contributor

Forbes Vetted

The best all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica wrap everything into one reasonable rate, including gourmet cuisine, refreshing co*cktails, live entertainment and water sports. A visit to singer Bob Marley’s homeland brings with it swimming in crystal clear Caribbean waters, sampling fresh lobster and perfectly spiced jerk chicken and swaying to reggae beats with your toes in the sand. Better yet, Jamaica is known for having some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, as well as being one of the most affordable islands to visit.

If you’re planning a Jamaica vacation for sun, sand and zero stress, there are plenty of excellent all-inclusive options to choose from. Our top picks range from Sandals Dunn's River, which offers a wide variety of activities for couples to enjoy together, to our favorite boutique resort, The Caves, situated on a quiet stretch of beach near a lighthouse. For a luxurious stay with high-end amenities, Excellence Oyster Bay is hard to beat, while families will love the pirate-themed waterpark at Beaches Negril. Below, the best all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica for 2024, based on multiple trips and stays.

Best High-End All-Inclusive Resort In Jamaica: Excellence Oyster Bay

Excellence Oyster Bay

Who Will Love It: Adults looking for a luxurious tropical escape
All-Star Amenities: Private pool and beach at the Excellence Club’s VIP area; five swimming pools; spa
What Not To Miss: Proper tea service after a spa treatment at Miilé Spa
Location: North Coast
Address: Oyster Bay Peninsula Coopers Pen, Falmouth, Jamaica

Excellence Oyster Bay on Jamaica’s North Coast makes the case for the uber luxury all-inclusive resort. Accommodations—private beachfront villas with infinity pools or oceanfront suites with rooftop terraces and plunge pools—are indulgent, with five swimming pools, a gorgeously manicured garden, fitness classes, cooking lessons and activities like snorkeling and archery. The resort is also home to the lush Miilé Spa, where ancient wellness traditions and botanical ingredients are used in decadent treatments like the Nourishing Cocoon Ritual or standard Swedish massage. The property’s elegant included dining options include lobster vol au vent at oceanfront Magna, steaks and jerk meats at Caribbean Grove and homemade pasta at Oregano. Don’t miss the resort’s expertly curated evening activities, including beach barbecues, dance parties under the stars and late-night karaoke sessions.

Best Boutique All-Inclusive Resort In Jamaica: The Caves

The Caves

Who Will Love It: The tropical hipster who loves to swim
All-Star Amenities: A rum bar inside a limestone cave lapped by the sea; kayaks; cabanas; Aveda spa
What Not To Miss: Candlelit private dining experience by the water’s edge
Location: Negril’s West End
Address: Lighthouse Road, West End, Negril, Jamaica

The chic and sophisticated Caves feels like a secret. This adults-only, all-inclusive resort clings to a cliffside and has 12 thatched roof accommodations. Guests can stroll barefoot down to the sapphire sea for a swim or kayaking excursion, sidle up to the rustic-chic Sands Bar for a frosty Red Stripe or book an outdoor treatment at one of the shaded cabanas at the property’s Aveda spa.

The resort’s dining options are casually elegant and atmospheric. Slink down a staircase carved into the limestone rocks for a nightcap at the Blackwell Rum Bar or pair watermelon juice with some spicy jerk chicken at the open-air Gazebo cafe. Splurging on a private five-course dinner inside the resort’s romantic candlelit cave is a must for couples.

Best Beachfront All-Inclusive Resort In Jamaica: Sandals Negril

Sandals Negril

Who Will Love It: Couples who can’t get enough beach and party time
All-Star Amenities: Swim-up beachfront suites overlooking Seven Mile Beach; eight restaurants; live entertainment; beach parties
What Not To Miss: Waterskiing and wakeboarding along Jamaica’s most famous beach
Location: Seven Mile Beach
Address: Norman Manley Blvd, Negril, Jamaica

Sandals Negril, an adults-only, all-inclusive resort on Jamaica’s famous Seven Mile Beach, has intimate, hammock-strung spaces to explore as well as poolside party zones. These offerings add up to the ideal retreat for travelers looking to let loose and enjoy the sun. Guests can spend their days sipping something stiff and frosty while wading in clear turquoise waters, wakeboarding behind a speed boat or heading out on a scuba diving or snorkeling trip. All of these activities are included in the all-inclusive rate.

The resort’s dining options bring something for all tastes to the table, with Japanese teppanyaki at Kimonos, fresh Caribbean fish and lobster at Barefoot By the Sea and Spanish tapas at Brava. Energetic staff lead poolside games throughout the day, so the party never quite seems to end. In the evening, resort-goers can see live shows, go to the piano bar or attend Jamaican-themed beach parties that will continue into the wee morning hours.

Best All-Inclusive Resort For Families In Jamaica: Beaches Negril

Beaches Negril

Who Will Love It: Families who love to stay busy by the beach
All-Star Amenities: Kids and teens clubs; childcare; in-room bars; 13 eateries
What Not To Miss: The pirate-themed water park and lazy river
Location: Seven Mile Beach
Address: 8M77+H2C Long Bay, Norman Manley Blvd, Negril, Jamaica

Right on Negril’s Seven Mile Beach, the sprawling Beaches Negril wows travelers of all ages with its access to soft sand and calm waters and an enormous pirate-themed water park. Little ones stay entertained all day at the park with two slides, a lazy river for tubing, toddler slides and a splash zone. When tweens and teens want a change of pace, they can towel off and go to the game room with its Xbox lounge, air hockey, pool tables and basketball hoop. Certified nannies can look after newborns at the kids camp, which offers activities that range from scavenger hunts and arts and crafts to a private nightclub for teens.

There are too many amenities wrapped into the resort’s all-inclusive rate to count, but they include over a dozen restaurants, cafes, and bars (there’s a fully-stocked bar in-room as well), scuba diving and snorkeling excursions and unlimited access to water gear like Hobie Cats, kayaks and paddleboards. The dreaded word “bored” will never be uttered.

Best All-Inclusive Resort For Golfers In Jamaica: Hilton Rose Hall Resort And Spa

Hilton Rose Hall Resort And Spa

Who Will Love It: Die-hard golfers
All-Star Amenities: Access to three championship golf courses; waterpark; clubs for kids and teens
What Not To Miss: Eating pasta diavolo while overlooking Cinnamon Hill golf course
Location: Montego Bay
Address: Rose Hall, Main Road, Montego Bay, Jamaica

Home to many of the Caribbean’s most beautiful golf courses, Jamaica is a must-visit destination for avid golfers. A stay at the Hilton Rose Hall Resort and Spa offers golfers nirvana with enviable access to three of the island’s most iconic courses: the on-site 18-hole Cinnamon Hill course and the nearby greens at White Witch and Half Moon. Guests can and should dine at Three Palms restaurant, where specialities like crispy calamari and pasta diavolo are even more divine paired with views of Cinnamon Hill’s manicured fairways.

Water lovers will find plenty to enjoy at both the private beach and the on-site waterpark, one of the largest in Jamaica. The aqua playground features a 280-foot-long waterslide, waterfalls, two sprawling pools and a lazy river. The all-inclusive rates cover kids and teens clubs, tennis, and non-motorized water sports like kayaking and catamarans. Whether you choose a rum co*cktail and jerk chicken at the Rum Factory, artisanal pizza at Moonstone or a daiquiri at the swim-up bar, you will never go hungry or thirsty.

Best All-Inclusive Resort In Jamaica For Couples: Sandals Dunn's River

Sandals Dunn's River

Who Will Love It: Groups and couples seeking a variety of activities
All-Star Amenities: 12 restaurants; 9 bars; Egyptian cotton bedding; non-stop airport transfers; five pools; fitness center; complimentary green fees for all resort guests
What Not To Miss: One of the resort’s luxurious suites with a private soaking tub; scuba diving lessons with a professional instructor
Location: Ocho Rios
Address: Mammee Bay Rd, Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Ideal for couples looking to unwind, Sandals Dunn's River offers everything from white-sand beaches to waterskiing and complimentary golf clinics. The Sandals brand has the largest water sports operation in the Caribbean, with professional instructors ready to guide you through the pristine waters and renowned reefs. If you prefer activities on land, enjoy a round of golf at the Upton Estate Golf & Country Club, which boasts breathtaking views of the nearby mountains and turquoise water, or a lively game of croquet or lawn tennis before heading to dinner.

When it comes to the dining scene, there are plentiful options for travelers who want to sample the local delicacies and flavors of Jamaica. Galene, the seaside grill, serves the catch of the day right by the ocean, while Saltaire, a vibrant open-air restaurant, offers breakfast and lunch classics plus co*cktails. If you’re looking to celebrate a special anniversary or milestone with your partner, the resort’s suites offer soaking tubs, sprawling ocean views from a private balcony, room service and more.

Best All-Inclusive Resort On The South Coast In Jamaica: Sandals South Coast

Sandals South Coast

Who Will Love It: Couples who like a mix of mingling and quiet time
All-Star Amenities: Overwater bar; nine restaurants; live music; suite and villa accommodations
What Not To Miss: Staying in an overwater bungalow
Location: South Coast
Address: White House, Jamaica

All Jamaican vacations are dreamy, but for something truly unforgettable, book an overwater bungalow at Sandals South Coast. The all-inclusive resort is just one and a half hours south of Montego Bay on the island’s quiet South Coast. You’ll never tire of strolling under the stars across a footbridge to reach your room with glass floors and over-the-water hammock.

With three beachfront pools, two miles of pristine beachfront, a swim-up bar and nine fine dining restaurants highlighting everything from Caribbean to French cuisine, each day offers a new adventure. Active travelers can stay busy scuba diving and snorkeling in offshore reefs, waterskiing and wakeboarding and playing tennis and pickleball. When the sun sets, the resort keeps things lively with live music and shows.

All-Inclusive Resort With The Best Amenities In Jamaica: Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort And Spa

Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort And Spa

Who Will Love It: The vacationer who doesn’t want to lift a finger
All-Star Amenities: The 30,000-square-foot Grande Spa, inspired by an Italian villa; a postcard perfect beach
What Not To Miss: Relaxing to the sound of the sea in a private beachside cabana
Location: Montego Bay
Address: Rose Hall Main Road, Montego Bay, Jamaica

Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort and Spa offers the kind of white glove service and amenities that turn a vacation into a real escape. Just a 15-minute ride from Montego Bay’s airport, the resort wraps guests in a true tropical oasis with two swimming pools and private beachside cabanas overlooking sea and sand with a beach concierge on standby to retrieve co*cktails and snacks. Room options range from ocean view suites to three-bedroom villas to sprawling penthouses with dazzling views that stretch on for miles.

Restaurants include Jamaican, Mexican, Japanese and Mediterranean. There’s even a juice bar and gorgeous little swim-up bar, Rum Runner, where you can order refreshing rum drinks. Steal away to the hotel’s Grande Spa for a Jamaican skincare remedy or massage inside an Italian villa-inspired building surrounded by tropical gardens. Save time for a soak in the spa’s oceanfront mineral pools after your treatment.

Best All-Inclusive For Foodies In Jamaica: S Hotel Montego Bay

S Hotel Montego Bay

Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for a boutique resort with local flavor
All-Star Amenities: Five restaurants; free-standing soaking tubs; underground spa with a hydrotherapy circuit; beachfront yoga classes; a reggae and dancehall-themed nightclub
What Not To Miss: The curried shrimp at the Rocksteady Restaurant
Location: Montego Bay
Address: 7 Jimmy Cliff Ave, Montego Bay, Jamaica

If your dream vacation includes feasting on home-style Jamaican classics like ackee and saltfish and jerk chicken that doesn’t skimp on flavor, look no further than S Hotel Montego Bay. This adults-only resort sits on Montego Bay’s famed Doctor’s Cave Beach, less than a 10-minute drive from the Montego Bay airport, making it a great choice for those seeking a quick and delicious getaway. With 120 light-filled rooms (some with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea and private cabanas), the resort has a charming, boutique atmosphere. This extends to the food and beverage program, which spotlights locally sourced ingredients and innovative recipes with Jamaican flair.

You’ll want to make dinner reservations at each of the restaurants as soon as you arrive since they book up quickly. On the Sky Deck, Jam Rock pairs breathtaking views of the sea with grilled classics like racks of lamb, cuts of steak and wild-caught salmon served on hot stones. At Roots Rock, you’ll find elevated local dishes like braised oxtail and curried tofu served in a vibrant space designed by Jamaican artist Rohan Blair. Blue Mountain coffee, top-shelf liquors and local rums flow all day—grab a Bob Marley punch and relax poolside or join one of the on-site activities, from rum tastings to cooking classes to mixology workshops.

Best Spa and Wellness All-Inclusive Resort In Jamaica: Couples Sans Souci

Couples Sans Souci

Who Will Love It: Couples looking for a tropical and holistic vacation
All-Star Amenities: Private clothing-optional beach for sunbathing au naturel; tennis; fitness classes; meditation
What Not To Miss: A soak in the resort’s spring-fed pool
Location: Ocho Rios
Address: 103 Ocho Rios, Saint Mary, Jamaica

The soothing landscape surrounding Couples Sans Souci—the property is backed by emerald green mountains and fronted by a sublime stretch of soft sand—inspires even the most skeptical wellness seekers to relax. Your suitcase should be light; plan to be barefoot and in a bathing suit most of the time. The resort has three swimming pools, three jacuzzis, and a private beach and pool where you can sunbathe in the nude. For extra relaxation, treatments at Couples Sans Souci’s spa are designed to melt away stress, like the Aromatherapy Massage with essential oils and a full-body wrap with peppermint and freshly harvested seaweed that improves circulation and purifies the skin.

The resort’s six restaurants specialize in healthy yet flavorful dishes using island-grown produce and locally sourced seafood. Spending time in the resort’s mineral grotto and pool, carved into the rocks and shaded by lush tropical plants, is a must. Filled with waters from one of the resort’s natural springs, it is said to have powerful healing powers.

Best Value All-Inclusive Resort In Jamaica: Sunset At The Palms

Sunset At The Palms

Who Will Love It: Boho vacationers who prefer to go barefoot
All-Star Amenities: Tree house-style accommodations surrounded by lush gardens; watersports center; swim-up pool bar and beach bar
What Not To Miss: The resort’s fun island cooking and mixology classes
Location: Negril
Address: Norman Manley Blvd, Negril, Jamaica

There’s a real back-to-nature feel at the adults-only Sunset at the Palms, a surprisingly affordable all-inclusive resort surrounded by lush gardens right across the street from one of Negril’s prettiest beaches. The private, tree house-style accommodations set the scene for romance and have comfortable outdoor lounge areas on their shaded patios where guests can snuggle up with a book or co*cktail.

The crescent-shaped beach—right across the street—makes it easy to set up for the day on the sand alongside a grill restaurant and watersports center stocked with kayaks, SUPs, pedal boats and snorkeling gear (all included in the all-inclusive rate). Dining is mostly casual and open-air with a swim-up pool bar, beach bar, open-air buffet and a special Chef’s Showcase dinner several nights a week starring produce grown in the hotel’s garden.

Best All-Inclusive Resort For Groups In Jamaica: Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall

Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall

Who Will Love It: Groups of travelers looking for luxury and plenty of amenities
All-Star Amenities: Multiple dining options; room service; fitness center with daily workout classes; spa and pool; free breakfast; 24-hour concierge service; nightly entertainment; oceanside fire pits
What Not To Miss: Beachside yoga
Location: Montego Bay
Address: Rose Hall Road, Montego Bay, Jamaica

Guests staying at the Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall are sure to be impressed by the many amenities offered at this adults-only, all-inclusive property. The property’s 344 tropical-themed rooms are decorated in bold, bright colors and boast private terraces, plush bathrobes and slippers, a fully stocked minibar and 24-hour room service. Among them are swim-up rooms and butler suites ideal for travelers looking for an ultra-pampered stay.

Beyond the room amenities, travelers can take advantage of the fitness center, which has daily classes ranging from boot camp cardio to beachside yoga, or the aqua gym for low-impact pool workouts. Lovebirds can enjoy the couples’ spa treatments or horseback riding along the white sand beach at sunset. Whether you choose to spend your time trying the resort’s many activities or just lounging by the water, the property is an excellent choice for groups with a wide range of interests.

What Is The Most Luxurious All-Inclusive In Jamaica?

The most luxurious all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica include Excellence Oyster Bay, known for its private beachfront villas with infinity pools, as well as The Caves, an elegant and atmospheric adults-only cliffside resort in Negril.

What Is The Best Side Of Jamaica To Stay On?

For beach lovers, the northwest coast of Jamaica is famed for its white-sand shores and crystal clear waters. We recommend the picturesque Seven Mile Beach in Negril for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and Montego Bay for snorkeling and scuba diving.

What Is The Best Area In Jamaica For First-Time Visitors?

With its pristine Seven Mile Beach and laid-back town, Negril is one of the best destinations in Jamaica for first-timers. If you’re looking to fill your itinerary with outdoor adventures like climbing waterfalls and zip lining, try the North Coast, which boasts thrilling attractions such as Dunn’s River Falls, the Blue Hole and Mystic Mountain.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

  • The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe.
  • The travel section is overseen by Vetted’s senior travel editor, Astrid Taran, a 7-year industry veteran who’s visited over 35 countries and has spent time in Jamaica.
  • The writer of each of our hotel roundups is handpicked based on their area of expertise, whether they are area locals or avid travelers who have visited the destination frequently—and all have bylines in other reputable travel publications. The author of this story, Terry Ward, is a regular contributor to Forbes Vetted and has over 20 years of experience as a journalist. She has visited Jamaica multiple times and stayed at many of these resorts.
  • This story is regularly checked to ensure that all prices and information are as current as possible. It was last updated in June 2024 by travel writer and regular Forbes Vetted contributor Julia Eskins.

About Terry Ward, Your Jamaica Guide

I've dedicated my career to covering travel as a freelance writer since 2000 when I quit my first (and only) desk job to travel the world. I visited Indonesia, Fiji and Australia as a budget backpacker, and I have lived in Sydney, Southern France, coastal New Zealand and my current home, Florida. I have explored all corners of the U.S. and the Caribbean including the island of Jamaica, which is one of my favorite destinations. You'll find me reporting on such diverse travel topics as scuba diving, educational vacations and cultural trends in publications like CNN, National Geographic, The Washington Post, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, AARP and many others.

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The 12 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Jamaica To Book This Year (2024)

FAQs

What is the most luxurious all-inclusive in Jamaica? ›

Top 10 Most Luxurious All-Inclusive Resorts in Jamaica
  • The Caves Hotel, Negril. ...
  • Sunset at the Palms, Negril. ...
  • Sandals Caribbean Resort & Private Island, Montego Bay. ...
  • Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, Montego Bay. ...
  • Round Hill Hotel and Villas, Montego Bay. ...
  • Bluefields Bay Jamaican Seaside Villas, Bluefields Bay.

What is the safest resort in Jamaica? ›

The top spot where you can feel confident of your comfort and safety at all times is in the Jamaican resort of Excellence Oyster Bay. This All Inclusive escape for adults only is located on its own private peninsula, giving you pristine exclusivity, and security throughout your stay.

What is the best side of Jamaica to stay on? ›

1. Negril: the best area to stay in Jamaica for first-time visitors
  • The marvel of Seven-Mile Beach: Some of the best beaches in Jamaica are located in Negril, including Seven Mile Beach. ...
  • Beaches Negril: If you've got your heart set on Negril, Beaches Negril offers exciting possibilities.
Apr 3, 2024

Where is the best place to go in Jamaica for the first time? ›

Montego Bay is a fine choice for a first visit.

Each has its own charm and advantages; for example, the sunsets in Negril are truly spectacular, while Ocho Rios is a bit quieter, more family-orientated, and close to attractions like Dunn's River Falls.

What is the most expensive month to travel to Jamaica? ›

Mid December all the way through January, February and March to mid April is peak season, when prices rise, and places will get very busy, particularly at Christmas, but the weather is at its dry, balmy best.

Where do the rich go in Jamaica? ›

Where Do the Richest People in Jamaica Live?
  • Norbrook: Norbrook is one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in Kingston, known for its large, upscale homes and well-manicured lawns. ...
  • Cherry Gardens: Cherry Gardens is another elite neighborhood in Kingston, famous for its spacious properties and high-end residences.
May 28, 2024

What areas to stay away from in Jamaica? ›

Be cautious when travelling to or within:
  • West Kingston.
  • Grants Pen.
  • August Town.
  • Harbour View.
  • Spanish Town.
  • parts of Montego Bay, including Flankers, Barrett Town, Norwood, Glendevon, Rose Heights and Mount Salem.

What is the best month to vacation in Jamaica? ›

Best Times to Visit for Good Weather

Jamaica enjoys the best weather from December through March when even the passing shower is infrequent. Warm Caribbean temperatures are the norm, with less humidity than the island experiences throughout the rest of the year.

What not to do when traveling to Jamaica? ›

If you decide to travel to Jamaica:
  1. Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition. ...
  2. Avoid walking or driving at night.
  3. Avoid public buses.
  4. Avoid secluded places or situations.
  5. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
  6. Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.
Jan 23, 2024

What is the cheapest month to visit Jamaica? ›

There is no bad time to go to Jamaica as every season has its own advantages. Visit in July for a roasting-hot beach vacation, or in December for a much-needed winter escape. September and October are the cheapest months to visit Jamaica and still offer sunshine despite the chance of rain.

Is Negril nicer than Montego Bay? ›

Winner: Negril

Negril and Montego Bay both have lovely beaches. But if you're looking for a stop-you-in-your-tracks-beautiful kind of beach, head to Negril. Negril's Seven Mile Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Jamaica, renowned for its beauty and tranquility.

Where do celebrities stay when they go to Jamaica? ›

Rose Hall, Montego Bay, Jamaica

Half Moon is Montego Bay's home to the stars, especially when Reggae Sumfest rolls around. Lil Wayne stayed when he performed at Reggae Sumfest in 2007, and apparently 50 Cent and LL Cool J liked the resort so much they brought back their mom and kids, respectively.

Does Jamaica have luxury shopping? ›

From unique crafts to luxury goods and designer apparel, shopping in Jamaica is a unique cultural immersion that will stay with you long after you've returned home.

Is Jamaica a luxury destination? ›

Luxury Resorts nearby destinations

You're on island time the moment you set foot in Jamaica. Ocho Rios, a port of call for many cruise lines, also boasts some of the most luxe resorts and spas in the Caribbean.

What is the difference between Hyatt Ziva and Zilara Jamaica? ›

Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara are two different brands of all-inclusive resorts operated by Hyatt Hotels Corporation. The Hyatt Ziva brand caters to those who are looking for a family-friendly getaway, while the Hyatt Zilara brand is an adults-only resort.

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