Franklyn D. Resort & Spa

With its Tuscan-style architecture, the Franklyn D carries the look of your average mid-priced resort in the area. A larger, blocky white building with high arches across the front stands out among the eight total buildings that make up this resort. One courtyard holds a small children's pool, complete with a brightly colored, mini-waterslide. Along the sides of this building, guests will find restaurants with outdoor seating almost at the water's edge, and walkways between buildings that are landscaped with palms and potted plants. A long, covered pier extends out into the water, and across from that, closer to the shore, a patio atop a rocky patch of beach holds lounge chairs for sunbathing. Perhaps the most noticeable outdoor feature of the Franklyn D is the white staircase which takes swimmers to the top of the waterslide that sits above its full-size pool. There is a small, bar-style seating area near the pool, featuring board games, and family-friendly activities.Overall, the property is a bit dated -- rooms have tired decor and facilities show wear and tear. However, the Franklyn D is a solid choice for families seeking an affordable all-inclusive vacation.

Franklyn D Resort & Spa sits on a piece of sandy beach in Runaway Bay, within a five- to 10-minute walk to island jerk joints, as well as more upscale dining. All varieties of outdoor water sports, horseback riding, and tours can be found along the beach. In fact, guests can even take advantage of the docking space at Franklyn D for immediate access to the water. Jewel Runaway Beach is next door, and open to guests of this resort. About 20 minutes east by car, travelers can reach the Dunn's River Falls and Park, a local tourist attraction where tour groups get to climb a waterfall. The Runaway Bay Golf Course, an 18-hole championship course, is across the road from the resort.

There are 78 suites at this location, with options for one-, two-, or three-bedroom accommodations. Decor is functional, though a bit dated in some suites, with sofas, chairs, and curtains carrying patterns reminiscent of the '70s and '80s. The units at Franklyn D have earth-toned or coral-colored walls, and some colorful pictures hanging on them; they look and feel like small, private homes. All suites are considered wheelchair accessible and laid out to facilitate easy use of strollers; each includes a private patio or balcony. All rooms also have free Wi-Fi access, iPod docks, air-conditioning, and satellite TV. Kitchenettes include microwaves, coffeemakers, and refrigerators pre-stocked with snacks. However, Beachfront Honeymoon Suites have only microwaves and coffeemakers. Cribs can be provided in rooms, upon request, and step stools in bathrooms help children reach the sink. The resort offers its own brand of toiletries in each bathroom, including soap, shampoo, and conditioner. Some rooms have ocean views, while others do not, but all are steps away from the beach. 

A stay at this all-inclusive resort includes many amenities, such as Wi-Fi, pools and waterslides, fitness center, parking, use of pier, and water sports docking spot. A nanny who provides private childcare services during the vacation, plus activities for kids and teens, are all included when guests pay for their rooms. Snorkeling, kayaking, and glass bottom boat rides are provided by the resort at no extra charge. On-site basketball, tennis courts, a kids' tree house, and playground areas are available for everyone to use, with no extra fees. Use of the cyber cafe, and printer if needed, is also included. Free entertainment is offered nightly here, and features live music, as well as kid-focused dance parties and shows. The resort has four on-site restaurants, offering a variety of food, from traditional Jamaican fare, to salads and sandwiches. A kids' buffet, open during evening hours, provides familiar, child-friendly food options such as spaghetti and meatballs and PB&J sandwiches. The different restaurants have varying hours; the Sea Cotton Tree Grill and Verandah Restaurant are open for all meals, but The Pier and Overproof restaurants only have evening hours. A scuba diving certification program is offered through the resort and available for both children and adults, but anticipate added charges for this amenity. The on-site spa offers massages and skincare, with rates dependent upon services provided.