My recent Sandals Royal Caribbean Stay: a Romantic and Relaxing Escape in Jamaica
After a short 15 minute ride from the Montego Bay Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in my Sandals complimentary transportation, I arrived at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica and knew I found somewhere special. The vibe here is distinctly different from other Sandals resorts.
Sandals Royal Caribbean is an adults only All Inclusive resort located in beautiful Montego Bay, Jamaica and it feels like you have stepped into a serene, romantic oasis. This Sandals resort balances luxury and budget-friendly options for couples seeking an all-inclusive Jamaican retreat.
It is a perfect resort if you are looking for a resort that is close to the airport, and is a quieter, more intimate resort with shared access to the lively Sandals Montego Bay, this is the perfect resort choice.
On my last trip, I really enjoyed spending several days at Sandals Royal Caribbean and here is why I think it is a must-visit for couples dreaming of a Jamaica getaway, and a few of my highlights from that stay:
Serene Mornings to start my day in Jamaica
Every morning, I’d wake up and step out onto my ocean front balcony, greeted by an incredible Jamaican ocean breeze. From my building, I could see the sunrise and a bit of the sunset from my balcony, and it was really the BEST way to start a day.
Some mornings, I would sip (my absolute favorite coffee in the world) local Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee on my private ocean view balcony to set the tone for a day, but most mornings I grabbed my coffee and went downstairs to watch the sunrise with my toes in the sand- because there is just something very special about watching first light and a sunrise from the beach.
The resort kitties were usually with me watching the sunrise, but if cats aren’t your thing, don’t worry! These resort cats are respectful and won’t come to you unless you invite them over. I’m a big animal person, so I didn’t just simply give head scratches, but engaged in a whole sunrise cuddlefest!
After sunrise, I usually needed to get a little work done, so I ordered breakfast to my room as I worked on my laptop for a bit. But I definitely enjoyed breakfast at the restaurant overlooking the ocean with made-to-order omelets, local specialties, and of course even more of that heavenly Blue Mountain coffee!
Where Tranquility Meets Adventure
One of the things I loved most about Sandals Royal Caribbean was its laid-back, romantic atmosphere. Whether I was lounging on the beach, enjoying a peaceful morning coffee watching the sunrise from the beach (or balcony), enjoying the incredible sunset, or listening to the love entertainment at night, there was always a sense of calm.
For couples who love options, this resort is a gem. You can spend your days relaxing enjoying all of Royal Caribbean amenities, or you can take advantage of the “Stay at One, Play at Two” perk, which gives you full access to Sandals Montego Bay just a short 5-10 minute ride away. I absolutely love the flexibility of having 2 resorts to spend my time, as this means double the restaurants, pools, and entertainment, all while having a quieter place to return to at night!
One of the other standout features at Sandals Royal Caribbean is the thoughtful layout and variety of experiences within the resort itself. Whether you are relaxing by the quiet pool with a book in hand, enjoying an entertaining evening show, or unwinding in one of the whirlpool tubs nestled in tropical gardens, there’s always something to discover here.
A private island at Sandals Royal Caribbean
One of the most unique features of Sandals Royal Caribbean is its private offshore island, just a short boat ride from the resort. This secluded paradise features a quieter beach, a swim-up bar, and an authentic Thai restaurant, Royal Thai, where I had one of the best meals of my trip!
Something to note: there is another portion of the island that is discreetly blocked from view where you can *ahem* even out your tan lines. But you will not find this area unless you are looking for it! I chose not to explore this area, as tan lines are just fine with me!
An authentic yellow dragon boat will ferry you easily between the resort and the private island for access to the Overwater Villas, swim-up bar and Royal Thai restaurant on the island.
Finding the perfect room at Sandals Royal Caribbean
The perfect room will vary for each couple, but for this trip I stayed in a Club level Oceanview room, because I knew I would be working a bit, so having room service and a beautiful view (and sounds) of the ocean was important to me.
Now, I’d like to share a bit about the accommodations because Sandals Royal Caribbean caters to a variety of budgets and styles:
- Luxury Level: The most budget-friendly option at Sandals Royal Caribbean, these rooms still feel elegant and comfortable, with tropical garden views and easy access to pools and beaches – perfect for couples who want to experience Sandals without splurging too much.
- Club Level: Offers a step up in exclusivity, Club level was perfect for this trip because I love the little extras, like turn-down service, in-room dining service and having my in-room bar stocked with premium drinks. It feels like an elevated stay without being over the top.
- Butler Level: This is where my heart truly lies, ha! This level of service is for those celebrating something special, or who simply want to be spoiled a bit (or a lot). Sandals Butler level rooms are incredible, and my absolute favorite way to experience Sandals. Most of these options have a private pool, and your butler will make sure every detail of your day is effortless, from reserving beach spots with your favorite drinks in the cooler, arranging dinner reservations and so much more. I have to warn you though, you might be ruined forever once you stay in a Butler level room!
While still Butler, the overwater bungalows are the pinnacle of romance, that really should get their own category with glass floor panels for marine life viewing, private infinity pools, and outdoor soaking tubs with stunning ocean views. These beautiful rooms do have a minimum 3 night stay requirement; but we can always do a split stay to surprise your sweetie!
Sandals Royal Caribbean has a LOT of room options and each level has its charm, so the choices may feel overwhelming. Don’t worry, this is why you have Mom Approved Travel! It is our pleasure to help you match you to your perfect Sandals Resort vacation style and needs!
Excursions and Exploration
One of the things that makes Sandals Royal Caribbean so desirable is its proximity to Montego Bay and the MBJ Airport. This prime location is also convenient to the iconic YS Falls and Appleton Estate where you can have a little adventure and a tour of a rum factory, ride on a Catamaran, or even participate in on e of my favorites, a Sandals Foundation experience, which allows you to immerse in the culture and understand why Jamaica is so special, and maybe you will love it as much as I do!
These off resort experiences add adventure and depth to your trip and will help you feel connected to Jamaica’s people and its natural beauty. We love helping our clients choose their excursions through our trusted partners to really experience Jamaica!
Why Sandals Royal Caribbean has a special place in my heart
When it was time to leave the Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort, I pouted a bit, because this resort captures the casual romantic side of Jamaica so well and the sunrises here so incredibly spectacular. My clients love that this resort offers luxury and budget-conscious accommodations, and the ability to visit Sandals Montego Bay, offering a great vibe with a nice value.
If you’re ready to explore the magic of Sandals Royal Caribbean at one of the best resorts near Montego Bay Airport with your person or a group of friends, let’s start a conversation by filling out our short Mom Approved Travel Information Request Form!
Whether you want to dive into those iconic Caribbean blue waters, relax in your overwater villa, or simply play under the Jamaican sun, this resort has it all, and your Mom Approved Travel Advisors can’t wait to help you experience it for yourself!
