If you’ve come here, then it only means one thing: you’re interested in learning at least a bit more about one of the newest Sandals resorts, and one that is making waves in Jamaica. Sandals Dunn's River, launched in 2023, is known by many as Sandals 2.0. Just like the sequel of a blockbuster video game, this new resort has significantly improved in terms of restaurants, layout, and even the rooms available for you to choose from. The best part? Rooms here aren’t even that expensive, at least not when compared to Sandals Saint Vincent or other Sandals resorts. Sure, it’s pricier than Sandals Ochi and most Sandals resorts in Jamaica, but staying here is well worth it.
So, what makes this resort special? Well, we could simply say that it’s new, and who doesn’t love rooms that still smell of fresh paint, right? We could also mention that this resort is just a few minutes away from Dunn's River Falls, one of the best excursions in all of Jamaica. However, I’d say this resort is special for two main reasons: its restaurants and a modern design that makes everything feel close by while still managing to never feel crowded.
Keep in mind that we can assist you in booking one of the finest Sandals Resorts available. Simply click the Request a Quote button, and we will be delighted to help you every step of the way. Contacting us is free of charge, and we’re here to discuss dining options, activities, accommodations, and everything else you need to make your stay at Dunn’s River truly unforgettable.
There are 12 restaurants at Sandals Dunn's River, and most of them are brand new to the Sandals brand. Yes, Sandals typically features a few classic restaurants that appear at many of their resorts, like Kimonos and Neptune’s, but the restaurants at Dunn's River are mostly exclusive to this location. Sure, you still have The Jerk Shack, but there are also some amazing new options, including a sushi bar called Hanami and the Italian restaurant Cascata. The best part? Most of these restaurants are excellent, and guests generally agree they are a step above those at other Sandals resorts.
The layout is also amazing. This is a new resort that attracts many guests, yet it never feels too crowded. It’s not overly spread out, although it isn’t as compact as something like Sandals Royal Plantation. If you look at the map posted above, you’ll notice that everything looks cozy, with all the major swimming pools located right in front of the beach and most of the main buildings and rooms surrounded by swim-up pools. Everything is connected by well-maintained walkways, making it easy to get anywhere quickly. Thumbs up!
Sandals Dunn's River also offers several new types of rooms typically found at the newest Sandals resorts, including the Rondoval suites, which come with private swimming pools. Some of these rooms also feature a terrace with a pool, which might be a first for Sandals. These new Butler Elite suites start at $530 per guest, per night, comparable to some of the more upscale butler suites at resorts like Sandals Royal Plantation. A standard luxury room, however, starts at $310, which is slightly more than other Sandals resorts in Jamaica, like Sandals Negril ($210) and Sandals Ochi ($190). Still, it's cheaper than other recent Sandals resorts, such as Sandals Saint Vincent ($440) and Sandals Royal Barbados ($350).
So, we love that this place is new, has great restaurants, and an amazing layout. What are the cons, then? Not many, honestly. I think the beach is good. It’s not the largest, but it’s spacious enough and has beautiful white sand. However, it can get windy, which isn’t ideal for some water activities, and there might be some rocks, so be cautious.
I also wish there were more unique activities specific to this resort, like parties or similar events. While the entertainment options on-site are somewhat limited, there is a golf course just 15 minutes away for those who enjoy golfing.
Another drawback is that it takes a while to reach the resort, which is a common complaint about resorts in Ocho Rios. Sandals does offer a free transfer from the airport to Dunn's River, but it still takes about 90 minutes to get there. At least the trip isn’t too bad, and the roads aren’t as winding as those in Saint Lucia.
Reviews of Sandals Dunn’s River
The Good
New & fresh: Sandals Dunn's River launched in 2023, so you know what that means, right? The rooms are new, the buildings look fresh, and the staff is newly trained, eager to impress. We love everything that’s new - usually meaning updated layouts, modern technology, improvements on past issues, and more. If you're looking for a resort with a modern vibe rather than a classic one, Dunn's River is the perfect choice.
Sandals 2.0: This resort is known as Sandals 2.0, and it certainly lives up to the name. It offers brand-new restaurants you won’t find at any other Sandals, with buildings featuring a fresh design and new room options. The layout also makes it easier to get around. We’d love to see future Sandals resorts build on and expand this concept, especially when it comes to offering more dining options. If you’re a fan of Sandals and want to experience a new take on the classic formula, you should definitely visit this resort.
Dining options: Sandals Dunn's River might be one of the best Sandals resorts for those who want to enjoy great dining, especially for guests interested in exploring what Sandals has to offer in terms of food. There are 12 complimentary options to choose from, and most of the restaurants are exclusive to Dunn's River. The food receives excellent reviews online, not only for the variety - ranging from Latin cuisine to Japanese and even Greek - but also for its consistently high quality.
Layout: I particularly love the design of this resort. Everything is conveniently close, even though the resort isn’t small. Nothing feels too spread out, and walkways connect all areas, from the main restaurants to the primary buildings and rooms. The beach is right next to the main swimming pools and bars, with several rooms located at the back of the resort, surrounded by swim-up pools and away from most of the noise and crowds. While this resort can get busy, it never feels overcrowded or claustrophobic.
Golf: I'm no Tiger Woods. In fact, my knowledge of golf mostly comes from playing Mario Golf on my Nintendo 64. But what I do know is that Sandals Dunn’s River is a fantastic destination for golf enthusiasts. Just 15 minutes away from the resort, you'll find golf courses with complimentary transportation provided. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, there are courses available for all skill levels.
All inclusive: As is the case with Sandals and Beaches Resorts, Sandals Dunn’s River is also all-inclusive. This means that almost every activity is free for you to enjoy, and every restaurant at your disposal is also free. Even tips are included in your package (although you can tip your butler if you are staying in a Butler Elite Suite). Want to save money? You can't go wrong with Sandals.
The Bad
Getting there: Reaching Sandals Dunn's River isn’t as complicated as getting to the resorts in Sandals Saint Lucia, but it can still be a bit… boring? I’m not sure if that’s the right word, but let’s go with it. The main issue is that Sandals resorts in Ocho Rios are about 90 minutes away from the airport, so it takes a while to get there. Customs at the airport can also consume valuable time, so it might be a good idea to check our section on Club MoBay if you want to speed up the process.
How to get to Sandals Dunn’s River?
Flying to Sandals Dunn’s River
When you fly into Jamaica, you will likely land in Montego Bay at Sangster International Airport (MBJ). Guests of Sandals Dunn’s River also have the option to arrive at Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) or Norman Manley International Airport (KIN).
Jamaica is located south of Florida. A flight from Miami to Jamaica takes about 1 hour and 55 minutes, while a flight from California takes about 6 hours.
Most guests visiting Sandals Dunn’s River report arriving at Sangster International Airport (MBJ). There is a free transfer from the airport to the resort, and the entire trip takes about 90 min-2 hours. This can feel long, especially after spending hours on a plane. However, the journey to the resort is beautiful, offering plenty of opportunities for great photos.
Club MoBay
Did you know that Montego Bay airport offers a service similar to Disney's Lightning Lane? Yeah, sounds crazy, but let me explain.
For around $35 per passenger, you can access a faster line that eases the immigration process. Many people complain that the immigration queues at Montego Bay are long, and this is a quick solution to avoid the wait. You can also buy a bundle for $85 that includes this expedited service as well as access to a VIP lounge with free food and drinks, allowing you to relax a little and kick off your vacation in Jamaica.
Most people online love this service and highly recommend it. Just Google forums specializing in vacations in Jamaica or visit Reddit, where you'll find many people talking about MoBay. For more information about this service, make sure to visit the Montego Bay website or contact us.
Transportation Options to Sandals Dunn’s River
Once you've completed immigration, look for the small Sandals kiosk nearby and introduce yourself. Remember, transportation from the airport to the resort is included in your stay! You'll board an air-conditioned bus for the journey to your resort. The bus drivers are from a third-party service, and it's okay to tip them if you wish.
Where is Sandals Dunn’s River?
Sandals Dunn's River is located almost 57 miles away from MBJ. That means that you are going to take around 90 min-2 hours from the airport to your final destination, where you are welcomed by the staff and then taken to your private room. If you're staying in a Sandals Cub room, you have access to a private check in and they even give you a bottle of champagne.
If you need a specific address, Sandals Dunn’s River is located in Mammee Bay Rd, Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Jamaica is the third largest Caribbean island and the largest English-speaking island in the Caribbean Sea.
Staying at Sandals Dunn’s River
We are glad to say that Sandals Dunn’s River offers several different room types, including brand-new Butler Elite Suites that you won’t find at any other Sandals resorts. These suites feature amenities like a sky terrace pool, swim-up pools right in front of your patio, and more. Another great perk is that Dunn’s River launched in 2023, so any room you book will be essentially brand new and fresh, which is always appreciated.
Rooms are separated into three distinct levels: Luxury, Club Sandals and Butler Elite. Luxury is actually the budget option, while Club Sandals tends to bring more upscale rooms and a few additional perks to guests, like a private check-in, a private lounge and a mini-bar with more items. The Butler Elite rooms offer guests their own private butler, who can make reservations for couples, bring meals to their rooms, and assist them in various ways during their stay.
Sandals Dunn’s River is more expensive than most Sandals, but that is quite expected since this is a brand new resort. Luxury Rooms start at $310, which is quite a contrast to Sandals Ochi, with prices starting at $180. Let’s remind you, however, that Sandals Ochi is one of the oldest Sandals in Jamaica, and has a more rustic feel, so it makes sense that it’s one of the most affordable Sandals ever.
Butler Elite Suites at Sandals Dunn’s River start at $460, while the new Tufa Terrace rooms with a private pool begin at $530. To put this into perspective, Butler Elite Suites at Sandals Royal Plantation - just 15 minutes away - start at $300.
Dining at Sandals Dunn’s River
Now things get even better! Sandals Dunn’s River is fantastic for those who want to enjoy delicious meals. If you’re a Sandals veteran, you’ll know that many restaurants are staples within the brand, such as Soy Sushi Bar, Kimonos, and Neptune’s. However, Sandals Dunn’s River introduces brand-new restaurants and dishes you may have never tried before. While there are some beloved Sandals favorites like The Jerk Shack, most of the dining options are unique and original.
Here's a sneak peek of the restaurants available at Sandals Dunn’s River, along with the types of food they offer.
- Saltaire (International)
- Edessa (Greek)
- Cascata (Italian)
- L’Amande (French)
- Hanami (Sushi)
- Banyu (Asian)
- Zuka (Latin)
- Dunn’s Rum Club (Rum Bar)
- Blum (Coffee)
- Galene (Seaside Grill)
- Isola Pizzeria (Pizza)
- The Jerk Shack (Caribbean)
The L’Amanda restaurant requires both Resort Evening Attire and advance reservations. All other restaurants have a Resort Casual dress code and do not require reservations.
Activities at Sandals Dunn’s River
There are some cool activities to enjoy at Sandals Dunn’s River, ranging from classic snorkeling and scuba diving for certified divers to kayaking, golfing, and even a glass-bottom boat ride suitable for families. You also have access to the Red Lane Fitness Center, equipped with various machines to support your healthy lifestyle during your vacation. I, uhhh, don’t know what that is so I can’t comment on that.
Here is a list of what you can find at Sandals Dunn’s River:
- Golf
- Scuba Diving
- Kayaks
- Windsurfing
- Hydrobikes
- Snorkeling
- Paddle Boarding
- Land Sports (Beach Volleyball, table tennis and pool tables)
- 24-hour Fitness Center
- Spa
Golf
One of the main reasons guests decide to stay at Sandals Dunn’s River is to relax and play golf. According to their official website, “complimentary green fees and round-trip transfers are included for everyone at our very own Upton Estate Golf & Country Club, awarded four-stars by Golf Digest”. The golf courses are located only 15 minutes away from the main resort.
All guests at Sandals Dunn’s River in Jamaica receive complimentary green fees, but you'll need to pay for golf club rentals, a caddy, and a golf cart. Check out our guide on activities at Sandals Ochi for more information about golfing.
Dunn’s River Falls
River Falls is truly amazing. This natural park is just 6 minutes away from Sandals Dunn’s River, and you can easily arrange a private cab to visit this beautiful location or go there through one of the many optional excursions offered. River Falls offers a unique blend of lush green vegetation, waterfalls, and stunning beaches. Whether you're looking to enjoy a picnic, try the zipline, or simply have a romantic evening by the waterfalls, this park has something special to offer.
Sandals Dunn’s River Weather Guide
Good news, friends. Like most tropical destinations in the Caribbean, temperatures remain fairly high throughout the year in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. While there are both dry and rainy seasons, as expected, there's a good chance you'll be greeted by bright sunshine when you visit this gorgeous beach resort.
The best weather is during December to March, with sunny days and very low chances of rain.
January has the lowest chances of rain in the year, while October has the highest chances of rain in Ocho Rios.
July is the hottest month of the year, with daily highs of 90°F and lows of 80°F. February is the coolest month, with average highs of 86°F and lows of 75°F. As you can see, it's never scorching hot nor too cold.
Best Times to visit Sandals Dunn’s River
February, March and April are great months to take the perfect spring break getaway for families with younger kids. These months offer the best combination of weather and availability, with very low chances of rain. Those are also some of the most expensive months.
December to mid-April is considered the peak season in Ocho Rios. During this time, prices tend to be higher than usual, and the resort is typically more crowded. December is particularly busy, not only due to the holidays but also because many people seek to escape winter and enjoy the cozy weather in Jamaica.
Late August, September, October, and early November typically offer the lowest accommodation and activity rates in Sandals Ochi, and it’s not rare to see the resort at only 60-70% capacity. If you're seeking peace and quiet, along with the possibility of special deals, planning a visit during this time frame is advisable. However, it's important to note that these months also coincide with the highest chance of rain.
If we had to pick the perfect months to visit, we’d probably go with February-April.
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Packing list for Sandals Dunn’s River
Packing for a beach resort isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. While you’ll need several swimsuits, don’t forget to pack at least a few nice outfits for romantic evenings, formal events, or special dinners with the love of your life.
Also, bring essentials like sunscreen and bug repellent from home, as these items are usually much more expensive on-site. It’s always wise to come prepared and bring all the essentials with you instead of waiting to buy them at the resort. Your wallet will thank you later.
We will separate this list into essentials to bring on your beach resort trip and a few nice-to-haves.
Essentials
At least 3-4 swimsuits: Since you're going to a beach resort, swimsuits are essential. Think of it like going to Alaska without a warm coat. For a week-long trip, bring at least three swimsuits so you can change styles daily and have an extra in case one gets lost. They also will not dry hung up overnight, so make sure to bring more than two.
3-4 swim cover-ups: For the ladies, swim cover-ups are incredibly useful at a beach resort. They are great for transitioning from the beach to a nearby restaurant and provide warmth against the chilly wind after a swim.
Rash guard: It protects from the sun. It doesn’t let you burn. You do the simple math and quickly realize it’s a very good item to bring to a beach vacation.
Shorts & t-shirts/skirts & casual dresses: Especially for the guys, shorts and t-shirts are essential. You'll wear them frequently, even pairing khaki shorts with a cozy shirt for dinner. This combo ensures comfort and relaxation during your beach stay.
Flip flops/comfortable sandals: Since you'll be walking a lot on sand and exploring the beach, sandals or flip flops are a must. Let your feet breathe and enjoy the feel of the beautiful, warm sands.
Nice outfits: Bring at least two to three elegant outfits, such as trousers paired with a dress shirt and dress shoes, or an elegant dress. This will also give you a great reason to dress up and enjoy the night parties.
Sun hat: you know those big hats that almost make you look like a Samurai? Yeah, you are probably going to need one of those in a beach resort. They look stylish and they really protect from the sun. Remember, at a beach resort, the sun will be like a new member of your party for the duration of your vacation.
Beach bag: remember to pack a beach bag to take to the… uh… beach. They’re simple, lightweight and perfect for you to throw it on the sand without feeling bad for it. Put all you need inside and you are good to go.
Sunglasses: they protect your eyes from the sun. You only have two eyes, and you should love them, so keep them safe since you will be under the sun for a long time.
Sunscreen: Don't forget to pack your sunscreen! Bring your favorite one, and consider bringing more than one since you'll be using it a lot. While sunscreen is available on-site, it's much more expensive than what you're used to.
Lip balm: sunscreen and lip balm are a perfect pair. Unfortunately you can’t slather sunscreen on your mouth (or maybe you can, I don't know) so it’s a good idea to pack a Lip balm to protect against cracked lips. They’re not expensive, they are very small and won’t occupy a lot of space, so let’s put them into the essential list.
After-sun lotion: Since you'll be spending days under the sun, it's important to take care of your skin. These lotions are perfect for moisturizing your skin after sun exposure and soothing any redness or inflammation.
Some cash: there is a very good chance you won’t ever need cash during your vacation, but it’s always good to bring something in case you need to tip an additional service like a spa treatment, your butler or your bus driver. Cash is also used for transportation outside the beach resort. Better to be safe than sorry!
Nice-to-haves
Bug Spray: this can be a lifesaver against those pesky mosquitoes, though in some beach resorts, it may feel like insects don't exist. Mosquitoes can be particularly bothersome during rainy seasons when humidity rises. It's usually a good idea to bring one along if you have space in your luggage.
Laundry detergent: if you plan on doing laundry during your vacation, you should bring your own detergent. Don’t pack a lot, tough. While some of the most expensive rooms may have washing machines, many do not, and using them often incurs additional charges. For shorter vacations, I’d recommend packing more shirts and skipping laundry, but the choice is yours.
Water shoes: If you plan to walk near the water, especially around rocks and corals, water shoes are essential. They protect your feet and provide added stability while exploring.
Waterproof portable speaker: Planning to enjoy Taylor Swift by the beach? Portable speakers can add to the fun. Just remember to keep the volume at a considerate level, as not everyone may share your love for “Shake it Off” at full blast.
Portable charger: we just know that some of us will spend 25h a day on our cellphones, taking pictures for Instagram in front of the most beautiful vistas in the world. It might be a good idea to pack a portable charger if you plan on using your cellphone a lot while you are out at the beach or just exploring.
Should I go to Sandals Dunn’s River?
You should already have an idea if this beach resort is for you. You will have a great time in Sandals Dunn’s River if:
- You want a place that is new and fresh
- You want a lot of different and unique restaurant options
- You like playing golf
- You don’t mind spending a little bit more than usual in a beach resort
One of the most important things to know is that Sandals is geared towards adults and couples. This is an adults-only resort, so children are not allowed. If you're planning a vacation with children or your entire family, you'll have a better experience at sister brand Beaches Resorts. Oh, you know what? We also have in-depth guides for every Beaches Resort available!
Book your dream vacation at Sandals Dunn’s River!
Now that you know a lot about Sandals Dunn’s River… why not learn even more!? Yeah, our guides do not end here. We have guides about almost anything you can think of. How about the room options at Sandals Dunn’s River? Or the list of restaurants you can find there? We have those too. Wait, now you want to know about the specific pH levels of the water during June on a rainy night? We don't have that guide yet, but don't tempt us!
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