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Sandals Negril Overview
Sandals Negril is a classic when it comes to Jamaica. While many people love spending quality time at Sandals Montego Bay or the new Sandals Dunn’s River, located on the eastern side of the island, Sandals Negril is situated on the western side, in a more unique part of the country that isn’t as well known to guests. Being on the western side has many perks. The best of all is the opportunity to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world, and you also have access to Seven Mile Beach, which stretches all the way to Beaches Negril.
Sandals Negril also offers a great perk simply known as… “amazing price.” That’s right, Negril is one of the most affordable Sandals resorts in the world, with rooms starting at $210. In fact, it is often regarded as the third most affordable Sandals resort, with Sandals Ochi taking the top spot, offering rooms starting at $190. As you can see, the difference isn’t that big, making Negril a great choice for guests who want to experience a beach resort for the first time or simply want to explore another side of Jamaica.
Sandals Negril is nearly 40 years old, having opened in 1988. As a result, the resort shows its age in certain areas, with a somewhat outdated design. The layout is mostly horizontal, and it is located quite close to the main road. This can be a disadvantage for guests staying in certain rooms, especially the more affordable ones near the street. However, the resort is very safe, and I couldn’t find a single report of security issues from guests online.
The good news? The resort has undergone several updates in recent years, with new renovations completed just a few months ago. Not only were new rooms with private pools added, but brand-new restaurants as well! Sure, it's disappointing that the popular Soy Sushi Bar was removed, but Sandals Negril gained two great dining options: the Latin restaurant Perla and the Spanish restaurant Brava, where you can enjoy some great tapas. In total, Sandals Negril offers eight restaurants, all complimentary for guests. While dining may not be the strongest aspect of Sandals Negril, the restaurants certainly get the job done.
Another piece of great news? Sandals Negril is located right on the famous Seven Mile Beach, often considered the best beach in all of Jamaica. In fact, it’s ranked number one on TripAdvisor for 2024! This expansive stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters is perfect for relaxing and watching the sunset. The beach is so long that you can even walk along the shore and reach Beaches Negril if you like! Although the beach is public and you may encounter vendors selling a lot of different stuff, that’s a small price to pay for the chance to enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
The property features two main pools that are okay, though they may feel somewhat outdated. However, there are now semi-private pools available for some Club Level rooms and Butler Elite Suites. I wouldn’t consider the pools a drawback at Sandals Negril, especially since this resort emphasizes the beach, where guests will likely spend most of their time.
Oh, and remember Beaches Negril? By staying at Sandals Negril, you can visit Beaches Negril for free! You’ll have access to the beach, water parks, and restaurants at no additional cost. The two resorts are only about four minutes apart, so it's a quick trip. You might want to visit Beaches Negril to dine at the Mexican restaurant El Mariachi or enjoy Soy Sushi Bar.
So, what are the main disadvantages of this resort? I'd say the layout is one drawback, but another issue is that Sandals Negril is quite far from the airport. The resort is located about 90 minutes from Sangster International Airport (MBJ). I know we all want to get to our rooms as quickly as possible after a long flight, but you'll still need to endure a fairly lengthy bus ride. On the bright side, the roads aren't too windy, and there aren’t many hills, which is good news for anyone prone to motion sickness.
Do I recommend Sandals Negril? Yes, especially for those looking to save some money, for first-time beach resort visitors, and for fans of beautiful beaches. If you're looking for something modern and more luxurious, you might want to try Sandals Dunn’s River on the other side of Jamaica. However, if you're interested in experiencing a different side of this beautiful country and its culture, you might as well book your vacation right here in Negril.
Reviews of Sandals Negril
The Good
Price: One of the main advantages of Sandals Negril is a pretty huge one that everyone loves: the price. Sandals Negril is often regarded as the third cheapest Sandals in the world, with room prices starting at $210 per guest, per night. That’s an amazing price for those that want to try a beach resort for the first time and also experience one of the best beaches in the world. In fact, prices are so good that you can find Butler Elite Suites as low as $310 per guest, per night. That’s an excellent price to stay in a luxurious room with a private butler helping you out and bringing food to your room whenever you want.
Recent Updates: Sandals Negril recently underwent some minor updates that have improved the resort. While the renovations didn’t cover the entire property, they did help make the resort feel slightly more modern. You now have access to several new restaurants that are typically found only at the newer Sandals resorts. There are also new options for Club Sandals rooms and Butler Elite Suites, some of which feature swim-up pools or private pools. The good news is that prices remain fair, with a Club Sandals room with a swim-up pool starting at $370 per guest, per night.
The Sunset: This one truly deserves its own mention. The sunset at Sandals Negril is absolutely mesmerizing, and if you're traveling with your significant other, moments like this are what you seek. It’s considered one of the best spots to witness the sunset in Jamaica and is praised worldwide by guests. Seriously, just check out specialized forums and Reddit, and you’ll see that whenever someone talks about Negril, they also mention the stunning sunset.
The beach: Jamaica is well known for its marvelous beaches, and it's no different in Negril. The Seven Mile Beach is just perfect, and a great place for you to relax and enjoy your time. It’s not as spectacular as Grace Bay Beach in Beaches Turks & Caicos, but it’s still amazing and deserves a spot in our “The Good Stuff” list.
Beaches Negril: If you stay at Sandals Negril, you can visit Beaches Negril and enjoy their activities and restaurants at no additional cost. Beaches Negril is a family-friendly resort, which means you’ll encounter a lot of kids, but they also have some restaurants you won’t find at Sandals Negril, like Soy Sushi Bar and Yaku. Be sure to visit at least once for a nice dinner!
All inclusive: As is the case with Sandals and Beaches Resorts, Sandals Negril 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
A Bit Outdated: Sandals Negril launched in 1988, so it’s fair to say that the resort shows some signs of its age. Some of the more affordable rooms are somewhat rustic, and the layout isn’t that great. The main issue is that Sandals Negril is located right next to the main road, so some rooms can hear cars driving by not far away. If you want to avoid this problem, you might consider the new Club Sandals rooms and Butler Elite Suites.
Far from the Airport: Another issue with Sandals Negril is its distance from the airport. While Sandals offers complimentary shuttles from Sangster International Airport (MBJ) to the resort, the entire trip takes about 90 minutes. That’s a long time to spend on a bus, especially after a flight to Jamaica. Fortunately, the roads are not particularly windy, but be sure to take medication if you are prone to motion sickness.
How to get to Sandals Negril?
Flying to Sandals Negril
When you fly into Jamaica, you will likely land in Montego Bay at Sangster International Airport (MBJ). Guests of Sandals Negril 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 Negril 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. This can feel long, especially after spending hours on a plane.
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 Negril
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 Negril?
Sandals Negril is located almost 51 miles away from MBJ. That means that you are going to take around 90 min 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 Negril is located in Norman Manley Blvd, Negril, Jamaica. Jamaica is the third largest Caribbean island and the largest English-speaking island in the Caribbean Sea.
Staying at Sandals Negril
We mentioned that Sandals Negril offers some of the most affordable rooms among all Sandals resorts, making it a great option for budget-conscious guests who want to explore a new side of Jamaica. Rooms start at $210, which is excellent news for first-time Sandals visitors as well.
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.
Every room includes free airport transfers to the resort and complimentary Wi-Fi. Keep in mind that most of the Luxury Rooms are located near the main road, which can be a bit noisy. If you prefer a quieter location, consider the brand-new rooms that are less than five years old. One of these new options is the Club Sandals room called the “Bamboo Grove Club Suite w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub,” with a starting price of $270 per guest, per night.
There is also a new option called the “Bamboo Grove Swim-up Club Suite.” This is another Club Sandals room that starts at $370 per night, per guest, and provides access to a semi-private swimming pool right outside your patio.
Of course, selecting a room is a very personal choice. However, if it were up to me, I would opt for one of the new rooms that offer a more modern feel. These rooms are typically brighter and feature new amenities, such as a cozy soaking tub or, in some cases, the swim-up pool mentioned earlier. The new rooms are also situated away from the main road, so noise is generally not an issue.
Dining at Sandals Negril
The restaurants at Sandals Negril are generally okay. While I wish there were more and better options, the existing choices get the job done. There are 8 restaurants in total, all complimentary to guests.
Recent years have seen the introduction of new restaurants, including a Spanish tapas restaurant and a Latin one, but it's disappointing that Soy Sushi Bar was removed. The good news is that you can always visit Beaches Negril for free, located just four minutes away. Beaches Negril offers amazing and diverse dining options, making it perfectly reasonable to go there for a meal.
Here is a list of the restaurants you can find at Sandals Negril, alongside the type of food they offer:
- Perla (Latin)
- Brava (Spanish)
- Sundowner (Caribbean)
- Kimonos (Japanese Teppanyaki)
- Barefoot by the Sea (Seafood)
- Bayside (Brasserie)
- Bella Napoli Pizzeria (Pizza)
- Crema (Coffee & Ice Cream)
At the time of this writing, three restaurants require an advance reservation: Brava, Sundowner, and Kimonos. Make sure to book a spot as soon as you arrive at the resort, as reservations can only be made once you check in.
The good news is that not a single restaurant requires Resort Evening Attire, meaning you don’t need to dress fancy for any of them! However, it’s a good idea to pack a nice dress or shirt for a romantic night out or if you want to visit one of the top-tier restaurants at Beaches Negril.
Activities at Sandals Negril
There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Sandals Negril, ranging from classic snorkeling and scuba diving for certified divers to kayaking, windsurfing and even a glass-bottom boat ride. 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.
The good news is that there are certainly a lot of free activities at Sandals Negril, including both water activities and land sports, more so than in some of Sandals newest resorts. Here is a list of what you can find at Sandals Negril for the absolutely amazing price of… free!
- Enjoy the Seven Mile Beach
- Scuba Diving
- Kayaks
- Waterskiing
- Windsurfing
- Sailboats
- Tubing
- Snorkeling
- Glass Bottom Boats
- Land Sports (volleyball, tennis, table tennis,basketball…)
- 24-hour Fitness Center
- Spa
- Beach parties, Karaoke shows, Live shows, talent nights…
Seven Mile Beach
You can’t go wrong with a beautiful beach in Jamaica, which is, let’s be honest, every beach in Jamaica, but Seven Mile Beach feels different. This is a marvelous place to have a good time with the love of your life. The beach is large and long (tip: just look at the name), with calm waters and no seaweed or rocks in your way.
Some awesome places to visit near Sandals Negril
Rick’s Cafe
Located in Negril, Rick’s Cafe is one of the most famous bars in jamaica. Some even say that it’s the best bar in the country, and perhaps in the whole world! Only 18 minutes away from Sandals Negril, Rick’s is set on top of a small cliff, and gives you gorgeous views of the ocean and the sunset. This is also a great place to meet new people, as they even host parties from time to time, especially in the evening. Keep in mind that there is no connection between Sandals Negril and Rick’s Cafe, but this is definitely a place you should consider visiting while visiting Jamaica.
Lucea
Lucea is a beautiful city located just 45 minutes away from Sandals Negril. Many optional activities within Sandals Negril take you to this historic location, but you can also go there and explore this destination on your own. Lucea is home to many beautiful places for pictures, like Fort Charlotte, and offers a lot of activities that take you to waterfalls, zip lines and even tours focused on Bob Marley.
Sandals Negril Weather Guide
Good news, friends. Like most tropical destinations in the Caribbean, temperatures remain fairly high throughout the year in 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 all across Jamaica.
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 Negril
February, March, and April are great months for a romantic spring break getaway. These months offer the best combination of pleasant weather and availability, with very low chances of rain. However, they are also among the most expensive months to travel.
December to mid-April is considered the peak season in Jamaica. 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 Negril, and it’s not rare to see the resort at only 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.
Do you know what some great months to visit Jamaica are? From April to June, you can still enjoy a nice tan since it’s not too hot, and prices tend to decrease significantly. The resorts aren't overly crowded during this time. This great combination of pleasant weather and lower prices makes for an ideal vacation.
Packing list for Sandals Negril
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 Negril?
You should already have an idea if this beach resort is for you. You will have a great time in Sandals Negril if:
- You don’t want to spend a lot
- You have never been to a beach resort before and want to know if you like them
- You love a good beach
- You don’t mind a beach resort that might be a little outdated
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 Negril!
Now that you know a lot about Sandals Negril… 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 Negril? 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!
Feel free to message us anytime for the best deals, more information about room options, activities, or anything else you need. We'll be there for you faster than your butler reserving a chair by the pool at 4am.
