Welcome to Sandals' newest gem, Dunn's River Resort, where indulgence meets natural beauty in perfect harmony! I got lucky enough to experience this resort firsthand and I’m in love! In fact, I’ve loved it so much, I moved this blog to the top of my list to write and share with you. This resort has dethroned all the others as my favorite and we aren’t even halfway through our stay here as I sit writing this in its adorable coffee shop, Blum. And I can confidently say this as I have now been to every resort in the Sandals’ portfolio, and many other non-Sandals properties.
This resort is nestled along the pristine shores of Ocho Rios, Jamaica. A haven of luxury and tranquility awaits discerning travelers here. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, an adventurous escape, or simply a rejuvenating retreat, this resort promises an unforgettable experience that exceeds all expectations.
Dunn's River Resort embodies the essence of Jamaican hospitality, seamlessly blending opulence with the island's vibrant culture. From the moment you arrive, you're greeted with warm smiles and genuine hospitality, setting the stage for an unparalleled vacation experience. The resort is stunning and perfectly integrates Ocho Rios’ lush tropical landscape with luxury. As an homage to Dunn’s River Falls, there are water features throughout the property creating an oasis of serenity and elegance, which is probably one of my favorite things about the resort.
The property was acquired and reimagined less than a year ago, so all of the accommodations are fresh and stunning. The rooms all feature sweeping views of the turquoise water or have breathtaking mountain views. Many also feature soaking tubs from your balcony and infinity sky pools as well. While the rooms range from luxury level all the way up to butler, all categories have room service here, which is a change from the normal Sandals model.
Speaking of food, one of the highlights of Sandal’s Dunn's River Resort is its unparalleled culinary experience. If you’ve read even one of my blogs before, you know I travel for food, and I can honestly say, hands down, this is the best food experience I have ever had at an all-inclusive. They put so much attention into every detail of your culinary experience which allows you to experience an array of exquisite flavors from around the globe. From Caribbean cuisine infused with local spices and fresh ingredients, to flying in a chef from Italy to curate the menu for Cascata, the resort’s Italian restaurant, every detail is purposeful. The crowning jewel for me though was Blum, the adorable coffee shop featuring Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee. Brewing and creating various coffee drinks here was an art form. The drinks, coupled with their pastries like brown sugar crusted banana bread is perfection. Whether you're dining al fresco under the stars, enjoying a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach, or savoring cappuccinos day or night, every meal is a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the art of fine dining.
Beyond its luxurious accommodations and exceptional dining options, Dunn's River Resort offers a plethora of activities and experiences to suit every preference. You can dive the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, exploring the vibrant coral reefs that are teeming with marine life or embark on an adrenaline-fueled adventure with a variety of water sports, including snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking just to name a few. For those seeking relaxation like I was on this trip, you can unwind poolside with a refreshing cocktail in hand or treat yourself to a pampering spa treatment that rejuvenates the mind, body, and soul. The Red Lane spa offers a tranquil retreat with a private plunge pool, sauna and steam room, in addition to a serenity garden with a cascading water feature. If you head over to the spa for a massage, ask for Kameisha as she gave the best massage I have ever had!
I am also a lover of nature, and another one of my favorite things about Sandals Dunn’s River is its proximity to the mountains, rainforest and abundant rivers and waterfalls. While the resort lies among Ocho Rios’ lush tropical landscape, the mountains can be seen right from your room and natural marvels like Dunn’s River Falls are a short 10-minute drive. We spent some time exploring the beautiful countryside and found our way to Blue Hole which truly exhibited the beauty of Jamaica. I highly recommend checking it out! Blue Hole!
In my opinion, the launch of “Sandals 2.0” with Dunn’s River is a true testament to luxury, elegance, and hospitality at its finest. From its stunning accommodations and world-class dining to its array of activities and personalized services, every aspect of the resort is designed to exceed your expectations and create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or romance, you can find it all at Sandals Dunn’s River! Reach out and let me help you find the ideal set of accommodations and itinerary tailored for your dream vacation!
