Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa

First opened in 1988, this Sandals stands out from others on the island for its stellar setting along the beautiful Seven Mile Beach. Both older and younger couples (no singles or kids allowed here) come here for the extensive all-inclusive program, spacious rooms, and variety of facilities that often keep guests on-site their whole stay. After a renovation in 2015, many of the public spaces and rooms received an update, exchanging classically elegant decor for modern furnishings. The overall look is elegant yet relaxed, as seen in the lobby's hanging benches overlooking the main pool, chic soft-tone room palette, and beachfront terraces with cozy couches and fire pits. The atmosphere is similarly laid-back, with loud entertainment kept to a minimum, though expect to see games of bingo taking place in the pool -- we saw many couples participating. However, some past guests have complained of noise reaching their rooms. Open-air spaces and ample windows allow for great views of the beach and well-manicured grounds. This is a great pick for couples seeking an all-inclusive getaway along the beach, but travelers wanting a more intimate, boutique experience should consider Skylark Negril Resort. It's worth comparing rates with the similar Couples Negril. 

With large signs right on the busy Norman Manley Boulevard, Sandals Negril is easy to spot, and is a bit removed from the main strip of hotels and cottages along the beach. While the property is tucked away from the road and is built right along the water, it’s still a short drive away (about 15 minutes) from popular attractions like Rick’s Cafe and the cliffs, as well as a wide variety of downtown restaurants, bars, clubs, shops, and craft fairs. The main highway can be dangerous for pedestrians, but the beach is safe to walk on to access vendors and local musicians by the other hotels, and the concierge and tour desks can provide guests with transportation to nearby attractions. Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay is about a 90-minute drive away, and free nonstop airport transfers are included in the rate.

With everything from standard units to swim-up suites with butler service, travelers have a wide variety of rooms to choose from. Because the property stretches along the beach, every room is a short walk to the water, and they're furnished terraces either overlook the garden or ocean. Room decor also varies, from classically elegant colonial-style with mahogany wood furniture, to chic and contemporary with modern fittings. Regardless, all rooms are spacious and come with king-size beds, air-conditioning, coffeemakers, minibars with free beer and wine, flat-screen TVs, and sitting areas. Free Wi-Fi, ironing facilities, safes, luxe toiletries, and hairdryers also come standard.Lower-category bathrooms are a bit of a letdown, as they're only equipped with rainfall showers, while upgrades include separate whirlpool tubs. Other higher-category units come with swim-out access, multiple floors, and/or private pools. For guests who want a truly luxurious experience, generously sized butler suites are also available, providing guests with a private butler that can assist with almost anything they may require. Note that some past guests have complained of thin room walls.

The all-inclusive package covers all meals, snacks, and drinks at the hotel. Seven restaurant options include the main open-air buffet restaurant (a la carte for dinner), casual pizzeria, Beach Bistro, and Jamaican a la carte eatery. The Italian Cucina Romana and Japanese Teppanyaki Kimonos are both dinner-only and require reservations. Guests have unlimited access to all dining options, while room service is only free for certain room categories. Food receives positive reviews across the board.Five bars include a swim-up bar, piano and sports bar, and beach bar, with varying opening times. Unlimited premium liquor is covered, and due to a partnership, Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks wines are also free. 

The resort houses three pools and three whirlpools, all with lovely ocean vistas. The main pool has a swim-up bar, activities such as bingo, and lively music, while the other two are quieter. As the hotel occupies the longest private stretch of the famous Seven Mile Beach, guests have ample space to lounge by the ocean, although it can be narrow in parts. Umbrellas and sunbeds are free, while cabanas can be rented. and a large entertainment area. A wide variety of water and land sports are available, including snorkeling, sailing, paddleboarding, beach volleyball, tennis, croquet, and billiards. Scuba lessons are offered, and divers that are already certified can dive for free. The Red Lane Spa features a modern fitness center and a wide assortment of treatments, and guests can also have their massages on the beach. Hot and cold plunge pools outside the spa, saunas, and steam rooms are free for everyone to use. A stage and entertainment area host a variety of events, including talent shows, live music, cocktail parties, and theme nights, as well as a popular Chocolate Evening. The wedding lounge attendants can help guests plan their special day or anniversary events, and there are several gazebos and ceremony sites sprinkled throughout the property. Like many properties in the area, the hotel may host more than one wedding per day. The resort also offers laundry and dry cleaning services, photographers, gift shops, money exchanges, and rentable beach cabanas. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.