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New Sandals Resort In Jamaica Opening With Some Impressive Perks

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The popular all-inclusive resort chain Sandals will open its newest location on May 24, 2023. Sandals Dunn’s River, located in Ocho Rios on Jamaica’s north coast, will feature 260 one-of-a-kind rooms and have plenty of perks available to guests. The new resort will be the brand’s 17th location in the Caribbean and its 7th in Jamaica.

Sandals Dunn River Pool Exterior Shot
Photo courtesy of Sandals Dunn's River

The resort is not entirely new. It was first opened as the Arawak Hotel in the 1950s and, after changing hands, joined the Sandals brand in 1991. It later became Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa until 2020, when it was re-acquired, along with an adjacent waterfront property, by Sandals Resorts International for $30 million.

Sandals Dunn River Pool
Photo courtesy of Sandals Dunn's River

In a move to mimic a successful business concept at the company’s resorts in Barbados, the adjoining property that was purchased will become Sandals Royal Dunn’s River. Guests will have access to features at both resorts, but each will have its own distinct character. Sandals Royal Dunn’s River is part of a second phase of the project and is not expected to be completed until late 2023.

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An arial view of the pool and facilities of Sandals Dunn's River
Photo courtesy of Sandals Dunn's River

One-of-a-Kind Accommodation

Sandals Dunn’s River will offer some impressive accommodation options. The Tufa Terrace One Bedroom SkyPool Butler Suites feature balcony-length glass panel pools with an oceanfront view, the first of its kind in Jamaica. The pools are designed in such a way as to mimic the view of an infinite shoreline where the pool and ocean meet the eye.

a couple lounge in a balcony pool overlooking the sand and sea in jamaica
Photo courtesy of Sandals Dunn's River

The Coyaba Swim-Up Rondoval Butler Suites are even more impressive. Each of these beautifully designed standalone villas comes complete with a private pool accessible from the bedroom, an open-air rooftop sun (or stargazing) lounge, breathtaking views, and butler service. With frontage on the sprawling lazy river, the Coyaba Rondoval Suites are tranquil, intimate, and ultra-lux.

a rendering of the villas at Sandals Dunn's River
Photo courtesy of Sandals Dunn's River

Guests can choose from a range of other accommodation options, including Beachfront Suites with expansive glass balconies and Club Level rooms with private outdoor soaking tubs.  

Impressive Perks for Guests

In addition to some truly unique accommodation options, Sandals Dunn’s River also has plenty of great amenities and perks for guests. The resort will feature 12 restaurants offering cuisines inspired from around the world, including Jerk Shack’s Caribbean fare and Edessa’s Greek-inspired menu. The remarkable pool is the largest in all of Jamaica and has a design inspired by the flowing rivers in the surrounding area.

a plate of delicious Jamaican jerk chicken

All guests at Sandals Dunn’s River will have complimentary green fees at Upton Estate Golf and Country Club in Ocho Rios, one of the highest-ranked golf clubs in Jamaica. The 18-hole course has broad views of the sea and mountains and is located in picturesque hills 700 feet above sea level.

a golf course in the late afternoon sun surrounded by palm trees

Thinking of tying the knot? Guests at all Sandals Resorts are eligible for a free wedding when staying for 3 or more nights. The resort will provide wedding planning services along with the venue, bouquet, boutonniere, and cake.

Couples can personalize their special day with optional add-ons and even receive additional free wedding perks if booking rooms for guests or staying for an extended time. Love birds booking more than 5 rooms can choose from fun extras like access to a name change service, romantic tiki torches, or even a lobster dinner.

a bride and groom stand barefoot on the beach

Tranquil location

While Sandals Dunn’s River has a lot to offer within the resort, what is even more valuable is the stunning location and surrounding nature of Ocho Rios. Guests of the resort will have access to the area’s pristine beaches, and those who chose to venture out will be rewarded with unique sights and fun adventures. Popular excursions include exploring beautiful Dunn’s River Falls, horseback riding through the nearby countryside, and rafting down a lush stretch of the White River.

water cascades down Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica Ocho Rios

Easy Access Coming Soon

Early next year, access to Ocho Rios should get much easier. American Airlines was due to launch direct service from Miami to Ocho Rios this month, but that has been delayed to allow the airport time to make improvements requested by American. It is expected that the work will be completed by April 2023. Currently, visitors must fly to airports in Montego Bay or Kingston, both of which can take up to 2 hours to drive to Ocho Rios.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.


Rupert kinlock

Thursday 17th of November 2022

Awesome accommodation. We might just stop by in 2023 for my 41 anniversary