Where to Stay in Jamaica: The Best Luxury Hotels for Every Type of Traveler
Jamaica is one of those places that just hit differently. The minute you step off the plane, you’re wrapped in the island’s warmth, both from the sun and the people.
Whether you’re here for a honeymoon, a girls’ getaway, or just some much-needed “me time,” choosing the right luxury hotel can make or break your trip.
I’ve been to Jamaica more times than I can count, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that where you stay and the best neighborhood you stay in matters just as much as what you do.
The island is full of stunning resorts, but not every hotel fits every traveler. Hopefully, your spouse isn’t like mine and thinks all hotels are created equal, and we only need somewhere to lay our heads for a few hours.
That’s why I’m breaking it all down: whether you want an all-inclusive escape in Montego Bay, a private villa in Ocho Rios, or an ultra-boutique hideaway in Negril.
What’s the Best Part of Jamaica to Stay In?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Each area has its own vibe, and choosing the wrong one can leave you feeling like you packed the wrong pair of shoes for your vacation.
- Montego Bay: Perfect for first-time visitors, honeymooners, and anyone who loves an all-inclusive resort experience with easy access to the airport. Think Sandals, Half Moon, and Secrets Wild Orchid.
- Negril: Home to the famous Seven Mile Beach, this is the spot for laid-back luxury, boutique hotels, and incredible sunsets. Resorts like The Caves and Rockhouse Hotel bring a whole different level of relaxation.
- Ocho Rios: If you’re all about adventure (waterfalls, river tubing, zip-lining), this is the place for you. Plus, some of Jamaica’s best private villas and five-star resorts, like Jamaica Inn, are right here.
- Port Antonio: The quiet, untouched side of Jamaica. If you want off-the-beaten-path luxury with breathtaking scenery, check out Geejam or Trident Hotel.
No matter where you decide to stay, the one thing I can guarantee? You’ll leave feeling like you need just one more beach day before heading home.
Here are some of the best luxury resorts in Jamaica that are guaranteed to provide you with a truly unforgettable vacation.
Passports and Grub have identified the top boutique hotels and Jamaica luxury resorts for your next vacation. Boutique hotels provide guests with a more personalized experience vs the cookie-cutter vacation you might experience with some of the other resorts. Here is our list of the top 25 best boutique hotels and luxury resorts in Jamaica. Situated along the island’s northeast coast, Port Antonio has been dubbed the ‘Jamaican Riviera’ for its natural glamour and rich history. From exceptional cuisine and culture to a prized array of scenic nirvanas, the Port Antonio experience combines authentic Jamaicanroots with a modern Caribbean lifestyle. The area’s eighty-kilometer shoreline features some of the world’s moststunning beaches, waterfalls, caves and rainforests. Click Here to Book the Trident Hotel You’re across the street from the ocean at this adults-only boutique in Negril, but after spending the night in one of the hotel's atmospheric treehouse-style guest houses, you’ll hardly mind the short walk to its private oceanfront beach club on Bloody Bay. The hotel is set on 10 acres thick with palm trees and tropical flowers, and you’ll have mountain or garden views (hummingbirds are everywhere!) from your private porch. Click Here to Book Sunset at the Palms A 15-minute drive east of Montego Bay, this classy Hyatt feels less like a cookie-cutter all-inclusive and more like a boutique luxury property. Set alongside sister property Hyatt Ziva, the adults-only Zilara fronts a sugar-white beach and boasts a lively swim-up bar where the party starts early every day. Upgrade to one of the swim-up suites and you'll get the choice of either a semi-private pool or direct ocean view. Click Here to Book Hyatt Zilara Welcome to Excellence Oyster Bay, where warm Jamaican hospitality meets modern luxury and the unparalleled beauty of Montego Bay. Located on a private peninsula surrounded by stunning turquoise waters and mangrove lagoons, this Victorian-style paradise sets a new standard for All Inclusive resorts in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Click Here to Book Excellence Resort Steeped in rich history, timeless elegance and true understated luxury, Round Hill Hotel and Villas welcomes you with genuine Jamaican hospitality while captivating you at every turn. We invite you to our 110-acre private enclave of luxury villas, boutique oceanfront rooms, award-winning seaside dining and an exquisite spa that lies nestled in a lush tropical hillside along a private bay of turquoise waters. Here, guests become family, paradise is found, and experiences become lasting memories. Click Here to Book Round Hill Resort GoldenEye is not an ordinary hotel, but a collection of private villas, cottages and beach huts. Each is set amid tropical gardens, private beaches and secluded coves—a Jamaica home away from home. GoldenEye is a place. A mindset. A far-reaching myth in the collective imagination. And yet, GoldenEye couldn’t exist anywhere in the world—except, of course, exactly where it is… Click Here to Book GoldenEye Resort Our most intimate resort, Couples Negril is located on 18 acres on the island’s sun-kissed west coast. Lively and low-key, this oceanfront adult resort in Jamaica is a favorite among all-inclusive vacation resorts, offering fresh, modern guest rooms, a treehouse spa and a host of guest get-togethers for mixing and mingling. Click Here to Book Couples Resort The all-new Sandals South Coast is the perfect combination of European civility in an all-beachfront all-inclusive resort. From all-new Over-the-Water Bungalows, an overwater bar, and a romantic Over-the-Water Chapel, Sandals South Coast brings guests closer than ever to the water. Set on a 2-mile stretch of Jamaica's south coast's most pristine white-sand beach and nestled within a 500-acre nature preserve, this spectacular seaside oasis features three distinctive European Villages. Click Here to Book Sandals South Coast The very first Sandals has been masterfully reimagined to be the most modern, open-concept, 5-Star Luxury Included® beach resort. Innovative and luxurious, Sandals Montego Bay is adults-only and nestled along the unending shoreline of the most exclusive, private white-sand beach in Jamaica, where offshore reefs create the calmest waters for leisure swims. Discover a chic and casual oasis, mere steps from the water, evoking a carefree spirit of romance and luxury. Click Here to Book Sandals Montego Bay Understated elegance and exquisitely private, this is Sandals Royal Plantation - an intimate all-butler beach resort of just 74 ocean view suites tucked into a magnificent coral bluff. You can spend your days lazing by the pool with cool libations delivered right to you by a beach butler. Tee off at nearby Sandals Golf & Country Club, followed by a spot of afternoon tea on the terrace. Click Here to Book Sandals Royal Plantation The AZUL Beach Resort is designed to allow couples, groups, wedding parties, families, and friends from all generations to re-connect under the sun. The highlights of the hotel are the Adults-Only sections with romantic Honeymoon Suites. The property also features a separate area with accommodations for families up to two adults and three children. Click Here to book AZUL Beach Resort A kaleidoscope of cultures from Britain to Bali awaits you at Sandals Royal Caribbean. The resort’s decidedly British heritage begins with the Majestic Georgian-style Great House, surrounded by manicured gardens and roaming peacocks - all complemented with well-heeled traditions like afternoon tea and a rousing game of croquet Click Here to Book Sandals Royal Caribbean Welcome to the home of legends. For generations the world’s biggest and brightest have retreated here for our soft sophistication and gracious service. Unwind in antique-appointed, yet recently modernized, accommodations. Savor exquisite island-fresh cuisine. Drink in the magnificence of the glistening Caribbean Sea along our private Jamaica beach. Come Here to Book Jamaica Inn. With its blissful ambience of laid-back cool and uninhibited revelry, Sandals all-inclusive resort in Negril epitomizes the free-spirited personality that has long made Negril the exotic playground of choice for fun-loving pleasure seekers. Here on sands of pure white kissed by a sea of aquamarine, this decadently carefree Caribbean beach resort is nestled within lushly landscaped acres along the island's legendary Seven-Mile Beach. Click Here to Book Sandals Negril The Caves is a handcrafted utopia that combines all the natural glamour of Negril, Jamaica with a modern, metropolitan attitude. This natural preserve turned traveler’s nirvana is located just minutes from Negril’s stunning 7mile white sand beachfront where adventure and enchantment are yours for the taking. Blending authentic island charm with laidback luxury, The Caves is the ultimate getaway for relaxation, revitalization and pure romance. Click Here to Book The Cave Our magical mountain village is set sublimely high in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains. To ensure privacy, each unique and exquisite cottage nestles within the mountain’s contours. The verandas are angled to capture their own ravishing view. In the evening, relax and lively up yourself with a rum punch in our snug, wood-paneled Bar. Savor the succulent, modern Caribbean flavors served in our veranda restaurant, aglow with candles and starlight. Click Here to Book Strawberry Hill Geejam Hotel is an intriguing local haven for culturalists and creative instigators. A private oasis for discerning adventurists. A destination that celebrates the duality of natural beauty and modern convenience. With its rich tradition of attracting creative and free spirits seeking illuminating, melodic experiences this hotel has played host to a loyal celebrity and artist following. Click Here to Book GeeJam Hotel Jakes is the type of place where folks come to unplug and reap the benefits of fresh air, a slow pace, and rustic comfort with a view. Colorful, funky cottages line the rocky cliffside, sporting bright interiors with high ceilings, wood floors, and artful accents like glass bulbs embedded in concrete. An enchanting saltwater pool, adobe-style spa area, and open-air yoga studio add to the overall charm of the property. Click Here To Book Jakes Treasure Beach Nestled within five acres of lush tranquillity overlooking the Caribbean Sea, this exclusive hotel is a quintessential blend of authentic With only 22 suites and 4 private villas, it’s small enough to be intimate, yet large enough to provide all the five-star amenities, you’d expect from a luxury, island resort. With a world-class restaurant, yoga pavilion, fitness center, beauty salon, saltwater pool, and Spa. Click Here to Book The Cliff Hotel Nestled amongst eight acres of lush tropical gardens and perched high atop the cliffs of Negril’s West End, the Rockhouse property is comprised of forty rooms with all the comforts of a boutique hotel. Each room is built from timber, stone and thatch and designed to exist in harmony with the fossilized rock and jungle-like landscape. Click Here to Book RockHouse Hotel & SpaBest Boutique Hotels and Luxury Resorts in Jamaica
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BEST AREAS IN JAMAICA & NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE
If you’re planning a trip to Jamaica, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is where to stay. To help you make the best choice, I’ve compiled this comprehensive neighborhood guide to the best areas in Jamaica.
I’ve got you covered whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or to make a hotel in the city your home. So, please sit back and let me take you on a tour of the best neighborhoods in Jamaica!
Kingston
Kingston, the capital city of Jamaica, is one of the most popular destinations on the island. Known for its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and vibrant nightlife, Kingston is a great place to stay and explore.
Montego Bay
If you’re looking for clubs and fun nightlife, Montego Bay should be on your list. Located on the island’s northwest coast, Montego Bay is one of Jamaica’s top tourist destinations, with plenty of activities and attractions.
The famous Hip Strip in Montego Bay is popular for shopping, dining, and entertainment. There are plenty of restaurants and bars along the strip, souvenir shops and craft markets where you can pick up unique Jamaican souvenirs.
Negril
Located on the westernmost tip of Jamaica, Negril is a laid-back beach town perfect for anyone looking for a tropical paradise.
Known for its stunning seven-mile-long white sand beach and crystal clear water, Negril is a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike.
In addition to lounging on the beach, visitors can partake in various water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling. Negril is also famous for its nightlife, with many bars and clubs along the beachfront.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is the perfect neighborhood if you’re looking for a blend of adventure and relaxation. This charming town is located on Jamaica’s north coast and boasts breathtaking waterfalls, lush botanical gardens, and scenic beaches.
One of the must-see attractions in Ocho Rios is Dunn’s River Falls, a magnificent cascade of water that you can climb to the top.
If you’re looking for more laid-back activity, head to Shaw Park Gardens, a botanical garden with tropical flowers, rare birds, and sweeping sea views.
Port Antonio
Located on the northeastern coast of Jamaica, Port Antonio is a quaint town known for its stunning beaches and tranquil waters.
It’s a popular destination among honeymooners and those looking for a peaceful vacation away from the hustle and bustle of busy cities.
The most famous beach in Port Antonio is the Blue Lagoon, a crystal-clear water body surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can dip in the refreshing waters or take a boat ride to explore the surroundings.
Mandeville
Mandeville is the largest town in Manchester Parish and is often called the “heart of Jamaica.” Located in the island’s central region, Mandeville is surrounded by lush hills and green valleys.
It’s known for its excellent and refreshing climate, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals.
One of the top attractions in Mandeville is the Manchester Club, which offers a unique blend of history and entertainment.
The club dates back to 1868 and has been a popular spot for locals to relax and socialize. You can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains while sipping on a cold drink.
Spanish Town
In Jamaica’s south-central region, Spanish Town is one of the island’s oldest towns. It was founded by the Spanish in 1534 and later became the capital of Jamaica under British rule.
Spanish Town is home to numerous historic sites, including the Spanish Town Cathedral, the oldest Anglican church in the Caribbean. The town also has a bustling market that offers a variety of goods and produce.
Saint Ann’s Bay
Located on Jamaica’s northern coast, Saint Ann’s Bay is a small but vibrant town that offers visitors a taste of Jamaican culture and history.
The city was originally the site of a Taino village and later became an essential port for Spanish and English colonialists.
One of the top attractions in Saint Ann’s Bay is the Seville Great House and Heritage Park, a beautifully restored plantation home from the 18th century.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about Jamaica’s colonial history and the lives of the people who lived and worked on the plantation.
Another popular attraction is the Dunn’s River Falls, a spectacular waterfall cascading down terraced steps and pools. You can climb the falls with the help of a guide and cool off in the refreshing water.
Treasure Beach
Treasure Beach is a hidden gem on the southwestern coast of Jamaica for travelers looking for a more laid-back and less touristy area.
This sleepy fishing village boasts pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, making it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation.
In addition to its stunning beaches, Treasure Beach is known for its unique local culture and hospitality. The area is home to a tight-knit community of farmers, fishers, and artists who welcome visitors with open arms and warm smiles.
While there, sample some delicious fresh seafood and other local delicacies.
Conclusion of the Best Luxury Hotels and Boutique Resorts in Jamaica
While there’s certainly no shortage of luxury hotels in Jamaica to choose from, I am sharing the best of the best for luxury hotels and boutique resorts in Jamaica.
If you’re looking for an opulent getaway, consider creating memories at one of these luxurious island accommodations…
This is particularly true on an island that boasts as many world-class luxury hotels and resorts as Jamaica.
The lush Caribbean jewel stretches 146 miles long and 51 miles wide and is dotted with accommodations that will take your breath away.
Seemingly endless white sand beaches, dreamy infinity pools, ocean view rooms — these hotels and resorts genuinely have it all…
Ready to pack? Grab my FREE Packing Guide to help you plan it in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show!
ADDITIONAL ARTICLES FOR WHERE TO STAY IN JAMAICA
When Will Latin and the Caribbean Reopen Post Covid
Best Sandals Resorts in the Caribbean
Sandals South Coast Review 2025
Have you been to Jamaica? What are your favorite luxury hotels or boutique resorts?
I would love to hear your thoughts on traveling to Jamaica and whether you stay at one of these beautiful hotels, so leave me a comment on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
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