West End Road, Negril, Jamaica | (888) 240-8259
Deep-sea fishing and glass-bottom boat rides can be arranged
through the hotel
Meals at the on-site restaurant are included and cooked to
guests' preferences
Transportation shuttle service available
Budget-friendly rates
A rugged experience for those who like adventure
Welcoming medical (and recreational) marijuana use (a con for some)
Free Wi-Fi available
Hot water and power can be touch and go (bring a flashlight)
Wi-Fi signal can be shaky
Cliffs can pose a challenge to those with limited mobility, and a danger to children
Small parking lot can get crowded
Those
who enjoy whimsical decor and a bohemian vibe will most appreciate this budget-friendly cliff-side sanctuary in the western coastal area of Jamaica. Consisting of four non-air-conditioned cottages with small kitchens, Banana Shout is casual and communal, and although the hot water and free Wi-Fi don't always work, it's a place where guests can
nap in hammocks on their porches or climb down a cliff-side ladder to take a swim in the Caribbean. Banana Shout will likely appeal most to those not hung up
on having their vacation go a particular way, and who like to spend time
outdoors. Be aware that this is a cannabis-friendly resort, and those who are sensitive to smoke or have ethical concerns about marijuana use might not feel comfortable here.
Scene
Laid-back, casual property decorated with local arts and crafts
With its laid-back vibe and focus on natural beauty over
modern comforts, a trip to Banana Shout can feel like a visit to an artists' colony. The resort is colorful, in a literal and
metaphorical sense. Composed of four separate, brightly painted cabins, a
thatched-roof hut that serves as a restaurant, and gardens and common areas
for lounging, Banana Shout is small but memorable. Local artwork decorate the
rooms, and hand-carved sculptures of giraffes, monkeys, and bananas adorn the
grounds. Landscaping shows a preference
for letting nature have its way -- tropical plants and flowers overflow
coral-lined walkways that lead to a rocky courtyard. Tin and thatched roofs,
and shutters covering windows without glass panes contribute to the rustic,
earthy look and atmosphere. Narrow walkways and uneven paths might present a
challenge to some, but the owner is especially attentive and works to accommodate guests' needs.
Location
Within a 10-minute walk of shopping, dining, and local attractions
Banana Shout is located on the cliffs of Negril, along a busy road punctuated
by local shops and restaurants. The resort is gated, so guests should call
before they arrive to ensure the gate will be open. Restaurants are within a short walk or drive. A commercial
district with duty-free stores and large, modern shopping malls is about a 15-minute drive east on Norman Manley Boulevard. Local tourist
destinations include the Bob Marley home site and Blue Cave Caverns. Tours to
these off-site attractions will pick up Banana Shout guests. Rick's Cafe, a famous spot to watch the sunset, is next door to Banana Shout. Sangster International Airport is about an hour and a half away.
Rooms
Rustic cottages with creative flair
This resort is small and rustic, with only four cottages. Cottages are painted in bright primary colors -- blues, yellows, greens -- and they're decorated with local art. Furnishings are basic. Each cottage has two beds and ocean views, and can accommodate multiple guests. The Red Rooster House, the oldest cottage on the property, was built
in 1974; it has two levels and can hold up to six guests. The other cottages can comfortably sleep two or three. Kitchenettes in each cottage have fridges, hot plates, coffeemakers, and dishware. There are no
TVs or air-conditioning. Three of the buildings have attached
bathrooms, but the Tree House's private bathroom is separate from the cottage
itself; guests will have to walk down stairs to reach it.
Features
A focus on the outdoors and natural experiences
At Banana
Shout, the focus is on the outdoors and nature. Deep-sea fishing and glass-bottom boat rides are offered through
the resort, at an additional cost, and a bus driver is available to take guests on tours of local sights. The Dolphin Bar is a cook-to-order restaurant with no specific menu, as meals are
tailored to the preferences of each guest, with a choice of pastas,
sandwiches, Jamaican jerk cooking, fresh juices, smoothies, and wines from around the world. Food will be
delivered to the individual cottages, the garden, or wherever else guests prefer to eat. Airport transportation can be arranged through the resort for an additional fee. Parking
is free, but drivers should take care when maneuvering in and out of this
small lot. And Wi-Fi is also free, though the signal is less than reliable.