Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort

From the outside, the Jewel Runaway Bay's somewhat bland appearance might lead guests to concluded it's an unremarkable resort. But those that look beyond its underwhelming first impression will find a resort that's focused on offering a wide variety of activities to suit a range of guests. The resort itself is a series of yellow and white buildings surrounding a green courtyard with grass and palm trees. Pagodas, lounge areas, and pools are located throughout the property. There's a spacious, airy lobby, offering a front desk and concierge station, as well as couches and chairs made of carved wood, and upholstered in red-and-gold patterned fabric. Overall, the look is far from chic, but it's casual and comfortable. Many parts of this resort, from the brightly-colored waterslide to the Kid's Center with its blue and red plastic Little Tikes pedal cars, scream "family fun time." But other more adult features, like two poolside swim-up bars, sway the atmosphere to a slightly more mature place. 

Located along a stretch of Cardiff Hall Beach in Runaway Bay, the Jewel Runaway Bay is situated in a region full of neighboring resorts. Golfers will appreciate that the property is next door to the Runaway Bay Golf Club an 18-hole, championship course. But most guests remain on the grounds or by the beach, as there's little in walking distance and even the nearest pharmacy and grocery store require a five-minute drive. There are a few other attractions in driving distance, including duty-free shopping in the town of Ocho Rios and the Coyaba Botanical Gardens, both about a 30-minute drive away. And Dunn's River Falls, a spot for river cruises, is a 20-minute drive. Music fans can tour Bob Marley's final resting place, an hour's drive away. But the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston is a full 2-hour drive away. Montego Bay Airport is about an hour away by car.

In general, guest rooms are tidy and simply furnished with dark-wood headboards, desks, and end tables. White-tile floors, matching walls, and white bedspreads with patterned bedrunners create a bright, comfortable space. Bathrooms are generally spacious, with wide granite countertops, wall-mounted pump toiletries, and walk-in glass showers. All rooms and suites include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with cable, radios, CD players, coffeemakers, phones, free Wi-Fi, and furnished private balconies. While some rooms have direct ocean views, many overlook pools or gardens. Those staying in suites will enjoy many extra amenities, such as extended porches with small private plunge pools and evening concierge services. Butler suites have minibars, bathrobes, 24-hour room service, and personal butler services. Turndown services are also available for all guests staying in suites. Marble-tiled showers with separate jetted tubs distinguish suite bathrooms from ones in standard rooms. 

As an all-inclusive resort, the Jewel Runaway Bay Beach and Golf Resort, offers numerous activities and perks, most of which are included in the room rate. All meals, plus snacks and drinks (including alcoholic beverages) are covered, and can be accessed at any of the resort's six restaurants and four bars that serve gourmet Italian, Asian, casual American fare, and other cuisine. In-room dining is available to everyone. 

The property features three freeform swimming pools, one with an infinity edge overlooking the ocean. Loads of loungers and shaded daybeds surround the pools, and two poolside swim-up bars serve drinks. There's also a hot tub. 

Just beyond, the white-sand beach offers plenty of blue fabric loungers for lolling, along with various activities. Kayaking, snorkeling, boating, and other non-motorized water sports are available through the resort at no extra charge. However, those wishing to access the diving certification program or certain off-site tours of local attractions, depending on which tour they schedule, may need to pay extra fees. Other on-site activities include the Red Ruby Ranch, which has laser tag, archery, and horses. (Though these horses aren't for riding, horseback tours along the beach can be scheduled through the resort.) A newly added water park, a supervised Kid's Center with blue and red plastic Little Tikes pedal cars, and outdoor play spaces at the Red Ruby Ranch give plenty of diversions for children.

Guests can keep active at the on-site fitness center, which offers both cardio equipment and free weights. Those who enjoy more competitive sports can take advantage of tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts. Located next door, the Runaway Bay Golf Club is free for guests of the resort.  

For additional fees, guests can select from a menu of skin care treatments, body scrubs, and massage services at the resort's Radiant Spa. 

Live music, entertainment shows, poolside movies, and weekly bonfire parties are included in the room rate. The staff will help arrange tours and daytrips to local attractions. Free airport transfers are also available to those traveling via Montego Bay Sangster International Airport. Wi-Fi is free, and accessible throughout the resort.