One of the coolest things in a beach resort is that you not only have access to an (almost) infinite amount of food, but there are countless activities that are available for you for free as well.
We are not only talking about the classic (and still fun) things like playing beach soccer or snorkeling, but did you know you can even go scuba diving as the resort offers you a free O2 tank? You can even try a scuba diving course for free so you are ready to explore the depths of Jamaica.
Just remember, Sandals is primarily designed for couples. Most activities are tailored with couples in mind, so single individuals visiting Sandals with hopes of meeting their soulmate might face some challenges. Is it impossible? No. There are stories online of people meeting their significant others there, sometimes as guests attending a wedding. It's rare, but it does happen.
Of course, you can always reach out to us by clicking the Request a Quote button and sending a message. It’s completely free to contact us, and we’ll be more than happy to help you plan your next vacation.
What’s Included at Sandals Ochi
Watersports & Scuba Diving
Seriously, there are way too many activities to list when it comes to water sports at Sandals Ochi. Here are some of the things you can find at Sandals Ochi:
- Kayaks
- Windsurfing
- Snorkeling
- Sailboats
- Hobie Cats
- Scuba Diving
- Paddle Boarding
- Kneeboarding
- Glass Bottom Boat
- Aquatrikes
Those are all free for you to try. Scuba diving is also free for certified divers. If you aren’t certified, you can be in a single day with the PADI Discover Scuba Diving Experience. According to the official website, “for a nominal fee (only $140 USD), you will be able to dive, in most cases, the same day as your experience, and be qualified for one open water dive during your stay (subject to availability)”.
I’ve never tried scuba diving beyond five meters underwater (hey, the ocean can be scary!), but guests online mention that you might need to rent a wetsuit if you didn’t bring your own. Apparently they are pretty cheap and cost only $10 per person, per dive. Everything else is included (O2 tanks, masks, etc). If you're passionate about diving and plan to do it more than once during your stay at Sandals, you might prefer to bring your own wetsuit.
Oh yeah, that word. Availability. This one is important. Make sure to check with your front desk and book your activities as soon as possible. This is especially important for the optional paid activities and tours that we'll discuss later on.
Land Sports
Most land sports don’t require any reservations in advance. In fact, it's rare to find people at the basketball court or playing tennis. Sandals provides balls and racquets free of charge, so you don’t need to bring your own if you don’t want to.
These are the land sports and games you can find at Sandals Ochi:
- Tennis
- Table Tennis
- Basketball
- Volleyball
- Golf
- Squash
- Billiards
- Horseshoes
- Rock-climbing wall
- Lawn Chess
- Fitness Center
Some people love to go on vacation and still hit the gym every day! Yes, they do exist. Sandals Ochi - like most Sandals resorts - features a fully equipped gym with complimentary classes every day of the week. There are kickboxing classes, abs-focused exercises (I kinda need that), stretching sessions, and much more. You can even book private lessons for a fee. The gym also offers a variety of equipment to help you stay in shape after eating a hundred tacos the night before.
Live parties
Expect a lot of shows and entertainment taking place at Sandals Ochi, especially during the evening. There is usually something happening each night at Ochi, with a weekly calendar posted in front of the main lobby listing all the parties taking place. Beach parties, talent shows, open mic nights, and more are just a part of what you can find in Ochi.
Here is an example of what you can find at Sandals Ochi. This schedule was taken from Sandals MoBay, but could also be applied to Ochi:
- Sunday: Reggae Fest
- Monday: Boonoonoonoos Beach Party
- Tuesday: Island Night
- Wednesday: Jamaica Jamboree
- Thursday: Encore
- Friday: Island Romance
- Saturday: Caribbean Night
There are Cocktail parties as well. Here is another example:
- Monday: Manager’s Cocktail Party at 5:00pm
- Tuesday: Sandals Select Guests Cocktail and Dinner Party at 6:00pm
- Friday: Club Sandals Cocktail Party at 5:30pm
The Rabbit Hole
Also known as “The Caribbean’s First Speakeasy”. The speakeasy in question is a secret bar located in the hillside area of Sandals Ochi called The Rabbit Hole. The Rabbit Hole is a lively bar open at night, featuring a live singer, jazz music, and delicious drinks. The atmosphere transports you back to the 1920s, making it a very fun place to be. You need a password to enter, so just ask any Sandals staff member, and they'll tell you.
You don’t need to dress fancy to enter The Rabbit Hole, but this is your chance to cosplay as a 1920s gangster and order a prohibition-era moonshine. Like most things in Sandals Ochi, everything is free at the Rabbit Hole.
Heated Pools & Jacuzzis in Sandals Ochi
There are hundreds of pools in Sandals Ochi. Literally. We are not kidding, I swear! There is a catch, tough. Most swimming pools are private to specific Butler Elite rooms, or are shared by two-three buildings, especially on the hillside area of the resort.
You can find 4 main pools and several jacuzzis in the entire resort, all of them heated during the Winter seasons to make you feel more relaxed and comfortable. Nobody wants to travel in December only to swim in a frigid pool, right? Most of the large pools also feature swim-up bars, allowing you to enjoy a Piña Colada while still basking in the sun and getting a tan.
All pools at Sandals Ochi close at 6pm, while the swim-up bars close one hour earlier at 5pm.
Here are the main pools you can find there:
Great House Pool: Located in the hillside area of the resort, this is considered THE pool in Sandals Ochi. It’s huge, features a swim-up bar, and showcases the classic Sandals Tower right by the pool. It’s close to several restaurants, so you can easily walk to the Jerk Shack to grab your spicy chicken before coming back for a swim.
Ochi Beach Club Pool: Located next to Neptune’s, this is a great pool for those who want to be on the beach but don’t enjoy saltwater. Positioned right by the sand, it offers great ocean views and features a swim-up bar.
Paid Activities at Sandals Ochi
The Local Adventure Tours
Prices: From $20 all the way to $335
These are the paid, optional activities at Sandals Ochi, including everything from ATV adventures to horseback riding and scuba diving at specific spots. With over 30 tours available, let’s look at some of them. Prices are for a single adult:
Discover Ocho Rios Shopping Tour: This is the cheapest tour at Sandals Ochi, costing only $20. However, there is a catch. The tour takes you to two shopping spots in Ocho Rios, so you will likely spend more than $20. These places sell Bob Marley memorabilia, clothing made from bamboo, and much more.
Luminous Lagoon Experience: The Luminous Lagoon is a classic attraction in Jamaica! This lake features shimmering blue water that almost looks alien due to microorganisms that emit a faint light when touched, giving the lake a unique glow. The tour takes place at sunset and at night, allowing you to really enjoy this experience. Prices start at $80.
Dolphin Encounter & Dunn's River Falls Experience: this tour mixes two of the greatest things on Earth: great vistas and dolphins! Everybody loves dolphins, right? They are so cute! You get to explore Dunn’s River Falls and all its natural wonders, then end your day swimming with the dolphins. It costs $227.
Taste of Jamaica Cooking Class and Estate Tour: Wait, did I say that dolphins are amongst the best things in the world? Maybe they are, but let’s also not forget about good food! This is a chill tour across the culinary world of Jamaica, where you get to learn a few recipes AND eat delicious Jamaican food. You even get to stroll inside an aviary and meet a few birds that live in the region! It costs $83.
Secret River Experience: A river with clear waters, lush vegetation, and the perfect tropical atmosphere - Sandals Ochi is all about a romantic vacation, and there is hardly anything more romantic than waterfalls and a setting that looks like it belongs in a movie. Enjoy a dip in the lakes, traverse the forest, and have a great time with your significant other. The experience costs $76.
Red Lane Spa
Prices: From $50 all the way to $500
Looking to relax, get a massage, or simply feel like you're in paradise? This is the place for you. The spa offers a wide array of treatments (almost 40 different ones, in fact), from various types of massages to comprehensive spa packages that can take hours. Prices vary significantly, with massages ranging from $90 to $500 and manicures/pedicures costing between $60 and $120. Keep in mind that tips are allowed and expected for spa services.
Private Candlelight Dinner
Price: $199
Want to have the time of your life with your significant other? This is the premier option for a romantic dinner with the love of your life. For $199, you can enjoy a four-course meal under the stars in some of the most beautiful locations on the island. You have the option to select a bottle of premium wine for your meal, although complimentary wine is also available during this intimate experience.
Make sure to book your private candlelight dinner later in the evening. Almost always, you can choose where to have your romantic dinner. I wouldn’t recommend it near the main pool on the hillside area of the resort, as there is a chance that guests might still be lingering about, and that’s not ideal for privacy. Consider asking if it's possible to have a private dinner on the beach or near one of the main decks, or just ask for a place that offers more privacy.
Guests online have mixed opinions about whether the candlelight dinner is worth it. It’s not cheap by any means, and some people prefer to use the money to get a massage. If you manage to book a quiet spot away from loud music and parties, it might be worthwhile. The menu apparently includes food from various restaurants around the resort. Here is an example.
Dunn’s River Falls
River Falls is truly amazing. This natural park is just 11 minutes away from Sandals Ochi, and you can easily arrange a private cab to visit this beautiful location or go there through one of the many optional activities 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.
Luminous Lagoon
Don't miss the chance to visit this place with your significant other. We mentioned the Luminous Lagoon before, and it's definitely worth revisiting! There are private tours available from Sandals Ochi to the Luminous Lagoon, or you can make the trip independently. Located 40 miles from Ocho Rios, the journey takes about one hour.
The Luminous Lagoon is a unique bay inhabited by over a million dinoflagellates - weird name, but they are just microscopic algae that glow at night. The lagoon is very shallow, with a maximum depth of 5 feet. While there's no admission fee for the Luminous Lagoon, tours must be booked (approximately $25 per person) for a boat ride to the glowing bay. Here, you can swim and witness the blue glow surrounding you.
Golf
Golf is included in your stay at Sandals Ochi, with complimentary transportation to the course, just 15 minutes away. The view is stunning, with mountains and the ocean in the distance. Sandals Ochi offers an 18-hole, resort-style course with three sets of tees. The course has a rating/difficulty of 70.90 and slope numbers of 120, 125, and 128.
While you can play the courses for free, there are mandatory charges. A club rental costs $75. Additionally, a cart rental for two people is $50, and the caddy service costs $25 per player (caddies are not Sandals Resorts employees, so they accept tips).
These two services are required for most holes, so golf isn't as "free" as you might have imagined. Sandals Ochi also says that “proper attire” is also required, so make sure to Google Jack Nicklaus, look at how he is dressed and get ready to score some birdies.
Private golf lessons are also available at the following rates:
- 30 minutes: $100
- 60 minutes: $180
- 90 minutes: $260
Nightlife at Sandals Ochi
There's always something to do at night in Sandals Ochi. Keep an eye on the daily schedule for entertainment options throughout the week, ranging from beach parties to karaoke nights and special cocktail parties.
The Ochi Beach Club is a prime spot for nighttime socializing at Sandals Ochi. During the day, it hosts various parties, but at night, it transforms into an outdoor lounge right by the beach. Here, restaurants continue to serve food and drinks to couples from around the world. It's common to find a DJ playing music, creating a lively atmosphere. The Ochi Beach Club is located next to Neptune’s and the Swim-up Pool Bar in the northeast part of the resort.
Another excellent option is spending a night (or two) at the Rabbit Hole, one of the most enjoyable bars at Sandals. It's a must-visit with your partner at least once.
Here is an example of a weekly schedule in Sandals Ochi according to Reddit. As you can see, there is always something new each night!
- Monday: Jamaica Day, Beach Party at the Ochi Beach Club
- Tuesday: Island Day & Reggae Night
- Wednesday: Hot White "Choc it up" Night & Chocolate Buffet at the Great House
- Thursday: "Festival of the Arts" Talent Show at the Amphitheatre
- Friday: Cultural Show at the Amphitheatre / Ochi Beach Club Pool Party
- Saturday: Caribbean Pana rhythm at the Amphitheatre
- Sunday: Island Romance and International Show at the Amphitheatre
Getting Married at Sandals Ochi
Yes, you’ve read that right. You can actually get married at Sandals, and that’s not only something that happens in the movies, or with a Kardashian. You can select the atmosphere and overall vibe for your wedding, with packages varying significantly depending on whether you want a ceremony just for the lovebirds or an event involving up to 140 guests.
Keep in mind that prices vary greatly and do not include accommodation. Prices start at $1,400 for a ceremony with just the couple and can go up to $14,000 for a ceremony with up to 140 guests.
Packages include free food, drinks, bouquets, and other essentials you would expect at a beautiful wedding. A photographer is also present, but the number of photos taken depends on your package. Your dedicated wedding planner at Sandals can provide more details.
You can also choose from several different “inspirations” for your wedding. Inspirations are all about the colors and the overall atmosphere of your wedding. This has to do with the florals, the ceremony scene and decor elements.
Sandals also offers what they call “Test Drive Your Wedding.” No, it’s not about putting you and your significant other in a closed room for a week to see if you are going to behave. This activity lets you explore wedding venues, decor, try all the cake you can and see if you like the setting for your future wedding. Prices vary, and start at $275 per night, per guest, at Sandals Ochi.
You know what's cool? Famvia has Certified Wedding Specialists to help you out with your wedding, so make sure to contact us and let's get this party started!
Additional Fees & info
Now let’s talk about additional fees that a lot of people don’t know about, and that end up increasing the cost of marrying in a beach resort by a significant sum.
- There is an Administration Fee to be paid when marrying in Jamaica which costs $250.
- There is a non-refundable deposit of $250 USD to be put towards the Marriage License & Administrative Fees
- Weddings and renewal of vow ceremonies occurring on Fridays and Saturdays attract an additional premium fee of $250 USD
- Weddings and renewal of vows ceremonies occurring at Twilight (5pm) attract an additional premium fee of $600 USD. It's not worth getting the 5pm spot. Instead, book a time at 4pm. Then, when you are already married, it will be perfect for taking pictures at 5pm during twilight – and you won't need to pay extra!
- Guests can purchase day passes to enjoy Sandals Ochi. Day passes cost $180 for daytime access, $180 for evening access, and $340 for a full-day pass.
- Sandals won’t allow you to hold your wedding there if more than half your guests stay off-site. This doesn't apply if your guests are staying in another Sandals Resort or a Beaches Resort.
- Sandals Resorts are adults-only. To have children attend your wedding at Sandals, please submit a request through your Sandals Wedding Planner.
Complimentary Wedding Package Offer
Yes, Sandals does offer a “complimentary” wedding package. I say “complimentary” because you still need to pay for taxes, and any additional item you want to include in this package you have to pay for. This includes flowers, decorations and fancier cakes.
To qualify for this special promotion, you must book a 7-night stay or longer in a Club or Butler category, and the wedding must take place between Monday and Thursday from 9am to 2pm. Renewal of vow celebrations are not eligible for this promotion.
According to Sandals, the package includes the following floral elements: one white or magenta five-stem dendrobium orchid bouquet, a single bloom white or magenta dendrobium orchid boutonniere, and a two-tiered white fondant cake with a white or magenta dendrobium orchid topper.
Guests online report that they end up paying something from $1600 to $2200 for this package, which many find reasonable for a wedding.
Venues
Over-the-water Serenity Chapel
You will basically marry on the main deck in Sandals Ochi! A good choice for those that want something different and don’t want to simply marry at the beach. The deck at Ochi is pretty long, with lots of room for many guests. This location usually has room for up to 40 guests and has an extra cost of $450.
Oceanfront Gazebo
Similar to the option above, but your gazebo is set up on the beach with a great view to the ocean. Classic and fun, you can’t go wrong with it.
Beachfront Wedding
This is probably what comes to mind when we think about a wedding at a beach resort: the chance to get married right there on the beach! In this idyllic setting, chairs are placed on the sand, and the couple gets married with the wind gently blowing against their faces. There is room for 200 guests if you decide to get married at the beach.
Renewing your vows at Sandals Ochi
Wait, there’s more. You can also renew your vows with a package that Sandals Resorts calls the “Retie the Knot Package.” This experience is similar to the wedding package but on a smaller scale. You still get free food and drinks, and can invite the same number of guests as the wedding packages. Prices start at $400, with accommodation not included.
There are photographers on site who offer snapshots - photographs taken with minimal editing, similar to what we capture with our own cameras, and you do have to pay for them. However, at least one photo print is included in your package. Your wedding planner will be able to provide more details.
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