Moxons Beach Club

This small property occupies the setting of a restaurant from the '70s through '90s built by Timothy Moxon. In its heyday, the eatery lured celebs and well-heeled travelers, including the likes of Dean Martin, Elizabeth Taylor, and Mick Jagger. Eventually it was sold off and became rundown, leading the current owner, a Canadian woman, to buy it in 2005 and build a hotel from scratch. It's built in a maze-like fashion, with a series of terraces and staircases sloping down to the ocean. There's not a ton on-site, aside from a small pool, two piers, and a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. However, that's precisely why many come here, as it offers a tranquil alternative to the large all-inclusive resorts that dot Jamaica's coast. Rooms have homey decor, while common areas are a mix of rustic-chic wooden tables topped with seashells and banquettes with blue-and-white upholstery. Most travelers are older couples, plus groups here for weddings, retreats, or corporate gatherings. You can see some past guests in framed photos lining one wall of the breakfast room. 

Moxons Beach Club is in a quiet area near a few resorts and restaurants, about a 15-minute drive east of Ocho Rios. Guests will likely want a car if they intend on exploring the area, or prepare to pay for taxis or tour groups. On-site parking is free. The famous Dunn's River Falls and Park is a 20-minute drive away, while the Blue Hole is about 25 minutes. Sangster International Airport is a two-hour drive west in Montego Bay, and the hotel can help arrange shuttle transportation. Additionally, travelers can book a 15-minute flight from Montego Bay to the Ian Fleming International Airport, which is less than a five-minute drive away.

Decorated in homey, earth-tone furnishings, rooms are comfy and mostly contemporary. All have tile floors and some of the owner's own furniture can be found throughout, such as a black-leather curved sofa in one unit. Rooms range from affordable units with mediocre courtyard views to spacious options with ocean-facing terraces, though the latter are far more pricey. Regardless, all have coffeemakers, powerful air-conditioning units, ceiling fans, mini-fridges, closets, and desks. Old-school safes are provided, and keys can be picked up from reception. Most rooms have flat-screen TVs, but some have old tube-style units. Some rooms add sofas and dining tables. Compact bathrooms have showers with just bars of soap. 

Although a small property, all the basic amenities are covered, except for a spa or gym. Though small, a sandy beach area is flanked by two piers topped by loungers. If they aren't already put out, old lounger cushions are found in a covered area one level up from the beach. The water here isn't as clear or turquoise as other Jamaican properties, but it's sufficient for a dip. While the hotel claims to have snorkeling gear, there was only one set of goggles during our visit. Travelers that prefer a pool to saltwater can use the small pool with a shaded covering and gorgeous ocean views. Loungers and dining sets fill various surrounding terraces.

Off to the right is the restaurant, which is open all day and serves delicious fare. Breakfasts include American options such as pancakes and bacon, as well as Jamaican specialties like the national dish of ackee (a fruit) and saltfish. Dinner dishes include jerk chicken, vegetable rundown, and pepper pot soup. Outside is a full bar, while indoors is a breakfast room with a pool table and TV. Another tiki-style bar is located on the other side of the pool, though it's only open during the high season. 

The reception area also sells sundries and souvenirs. Staff can help arrange weddings and other events, as they've hosted many ceremonies, yoga retreats, and corporate groups. Wi-Fi is free and reliable throughout the property.