Which Sandals Resort in Ocho Rios is Right for You? A Complete Comparison

Ocho Rios, Jamaica, is home to three incredible Sandals Resorts, each offering a unique experience. Whether you're seeking modern luxury, boutique elegance, or a vibrant social scene, there’s a perfect match for you. In this guide, we’ll compare Sandals Dunn’s River, Sandals Royal Plantation, and Sandals Ochi to help you choose the best resort based on service, price, amenities, food, beach quality, nightlife, and overall vibe.

Sandals Dunn’s River – Modern Luxury & Exclusivity

Best For: Honeymooners, luxury travelers, couples who want brand-new, high-end accommodations.

Overview: Recently fully renovated in 2023, Sandals Dunn’s River reviews consistently praise this resort for its modern, high-end suites, stunning ocean views, and luxurious feel. It is one of the newest and most exclusive Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, offering elevated service and top-tier amenities. If you’re searching for the best Sandals resort in Jamaica for a honeymoon, this is one of my top choices as it's my favorite resort!

Pros & Highlights:

✔ Brand-new, ultra-modern suites with high-end finishes
✔ Luxury room categories, including Skypool Suites, Swim-Up Suites, and Coyaba Rondoval Villas
✔ 12 high-end restaurants, including L’Amande (French-Jamaican fusion), Edessa (Greek cuisine), and Banyu (Asian fusion)
✔ Top-tier service with Butler and Club Level accommodations (there are also luxury level but with a few added perks)
✔ Beautiful, long beach with soft white sand and calm turquoise water
✔ Relaxed, romantic vibe – ideal for honeymooners and couples

Cons:

❌ Most expensive Sandals in Ocho Rios – but worth it for those seeking luxury
❌ More laid-back atmosphere – not the best for partygoers
❌ Smaller property footprint – fewer pools and nightlife options than Sandals Ochi

💲 Price Range: $$$-$$$$ (Most Expensive in Ocho Rios)
🏖 Beach Quality: Excellent – soft white sand, clear blue waters
🍽 Food Quality: Excellent – high-end dining options
🎉 Activity Level: Low to Moderate – relaxed and romantic
🛎 Service Level: Butler, Club and Luxury
🏨 Renovations: Fully renovated in 2023 – newest of the Sandals resorts in Jamaica

Check out my in-depth review of Sandals Dunn's River here.

Sandals Royal Plantation – Intimate, All-Butler Boutique Experience.

Best For: Couples seeking seclusion and personalized service.

Overview: For those comparing Sandals Royal Plantation vs. Sandals Ochi, the main difference is that Royal Plantation is a quiet, boutique-style resort with all-butler service, while Ochi is lively and social. With just 74 oceanfront suites, my review of Sandals Royal Plantation would highlight its exclusivity, attention to detail, and relaxing atmosphere. This is the ideal choice for couples looking for a peaceful, all-inclusive resort in Jamaica with butler service.

Pros & Highlights:

✔ Every suite comes with butler service – highly personalized experience
✔ Quiet, private, and romantic – perfect for those who prefer a laid-back setting
✔ All suites have ocean views
✔ Guests have exchange privileges at Sandals Ochi for nightlife, more restaurants, and activities (and Dunn’s for dinner)
✔ Two private beaches with calm waters

Cons:

❌ Smallest Sandals resort – fewer pools and entertainment options
❌ Only three restaurants on-site, although it touts five, the other two are more beverage-focused with lighter bites
❌ Limited nightlife – not ideal for those looking for a lively, social atmosphere

💲 Price Range: $$$ (Mid-to-High Pricing)
🏖 Beach Quality: Very good – small, private beaches with calm waters
🍽 Food Quality: Very good– gourmet dining, very personalized service
🎉 Activity Level: Low – quiet and relaxed
🛎 Service Level: Luxury – All Butler Suites
🏨 Renovations: Some suites refreshed, maintains traditional Caribbean/European elegance

Sandals Ochi – Lively, Social, and Budget-Friendly

Best For: Couples looking for a fun, vibrant atmosphere with plenty of dining and entertainment at a more affordable price.

Overview: If you’re looking for the most affordable Sandals resort in Jamaica, Sandals Ochi feedback from client reviews consistently highlight its value, lively atmosphere, and great dining options. Many travelers also search for “Is Sandals Ochi a party resort?”, and while it does have the most active nightlife of all Sandals properties, it’s still an elegant, couples-only resort that is more budget-conscious. With 16 restaurants, multiple pools, and a beach club, it’s perfect for couples who love a fun, social all-inclusive experience.

Pros & Highlights:

✔ Most affordable Sandals in Ocho Rios – great for budget-conscious travelers
✔ Lively social scene – best for couples who love nightlife, entertainment, and mingling
✔ 16 restaurants – the most of any Sandals resort in Jamaica
✔ Lots of pools, swim-up bars, and entertainment options

Cons:

❌ Not all rooms are recently renovated – some entry-level rooms are dated
❌ Large resort layout – can require a lot of walking or shuttle rides
❌ Smaller beach compared to Sandals Dunn’s River
❌ Louder, more energetic atmosphere – not ideal for those seeking peace and quiet

💲 Price Range: $$ (Most Affordable in Ocho Rios)
🏖 Beach Quality: Fair – smaller beach with areas that feel crowded
🍽 Food Quality: Good – lots of variety, but quality varies
🎉 Activity Level: High – most lively and social resort
🛎 Service Level: Luxury – Luxury, Club, & Butler Level
🏨 Renovations: Some rooms updated, but others remain dated

Ready to Book Your Sandals Vacation? Still unsure which resort is best for you? As a Preferred Sandals Agency and a Sandals Certified Gold Specialist, I can help match you with the perfect resort, room category, and get you exclusive promotions to make your trip unforgettable. Contact Me today for a personalized Sandals consultation, and feel free to follow along on my Instagram account for exclusive room tours!

Jen Morrison Arvin  |  Travel SpecialistView Bio