Sandals Ochi, is a luxurious adults-only, all-inclusive resort located in the beautiful Ocho Rios, Jamaica. We visited Sandals Ochi and really enjoyed the blend of beachfront paradise and the more secluded hillside.
In this article, we will delve into various reviews of Sandals Ochi, focusing on the experiences and opinions of real guests who have stayed at this picturesque, upscale resort, including our own experiences.
One of the highlights of Sandals Ochi, as mentioned by both guests and travel experts, is the serene, lush landscaping and variety of activities available within the resort grounds. This is actually the largest Sandals Resorts so there are plenty of amenities to enjoy.
This is also the cheapest resort with a large range of accommodations and things to do.
There are 5 large pool areas and dozens of private or semi-private pools and a beach broken up into 3 different areas giving guest plenty of options for relaxation spots.
Along with the gorgeous ambiance and plethora of amenities, another major aspect of a guest’s stay at Sandals Ochi is their culinary experience. The resort boasts a diverse array of restaurants and bars, catering to various tastes and preferences.
Arriving at Sandals Ochi
Located in Ocho Rios, the resort can be reached from any of the Jamaica airports. There are a few flights that go directly into Ocho Rios but since there are few, most people come into Montego Bay with a few coming into Kingston as well.
Once you arrive at the airport you either go on a Sandals shuttle or a prearranged private driver. From Montego Bay, it will be about 90 minutes. We took the shuttle from Kingston and we were surprised by the windy roads with potholes, but we were so tired we almost slept during the drive. Other reviews coming from Montego Bay say the road is in much better shape.
Starting Your Trip Off Right
Once you arrive at Sandals Ochi, one of the best benefits is knowing you can relax with most things included in your stay.
When I arrive at a Sandals Resort, I like to make dinner reservations and go to the watersports area to understand when they do scuba dives and snorkeling and how to reserve a spot.
Next is to go to Island Routes to decide if I want to take an excursion and to the spa to make any reservations there.
Accommodation Options
Guest Rooms and Suites
At Sandals Ochi, guests can choose from a variety of luxurious rooms and suites to suit their preferences. Some options provide stunning ocean views and exquisite bathrooms for ultimate relaxation. Many guest rooms feature private balconies or patios, allowing for unforgettable moments while overlooking the beautiful Caribbean surroundings.
Butler Village Villas
The Butler Village is a unique area of accommodations not found in other resorts in Jamaica. Instead of feeling like a hotel full of people, the village has villas nestled on the lush hillside of the resort.
The villas have private or shared pools with direct poolside access. Butler Village guests have access to personalized butler service, ensuring every need is catered to and elevating the vacation experience.
Beach Side & Manor Rooms
Most guests will be in the beach side area or the manor rooms. Both are really great if you want to be in the middle of the action. The beach side rooms obviously have quick access to the beach while the Manor rooms have access to the biggest and best pool area of the resort.
Dining and Entertainment
Restaurants and Cuisines
At Sandals Ocho Rios, you can experience a wide variety of dining options, with 16 restaurants available on-site. These eateries offer diverse cuisines to cater to every taste preference. A few highlights include:
- Valentino’s: An Italian restaurant offering classic pasta dishes, risotto, and delightful desserts.
- Neptune’s: A Mediterranean-inspired eatery with fresh seafood, flavorful salads, and delectable flatbreads.
- The Jerk Shack: A must-visit spot for those craving authentic Jamaican cuisine, serving up mouth-watering jerk chicken and pork, with a side of local festival bread.
- The Southern Table: My favorite place for the breakfast buffet.
- Soy: My favorite dinner spot with great sushi and the best dessert at Sandals, the fried tempura banana.
Guests with dietary restrictions, such as gluten allergies, will also appreciate that the restaurants at Sandals Ocho Rios are accommodating, providing specially prepared dishes upon request.
The resort boasts a variety of features designed to cater to vacationers’ needs. Guests can enjoy access to 16 world-class restaurants, ensuring a diverse dining experience for every palate. Additionally, Sandals Ochi offers 11 bars, including 3 swim-up bars, for guests to relax and socialize with a drink in hand.
Bars and Nightlife
Sandals Ocho Rios offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars providing a wide range of drinks, from tropical cocktails to ice-cold beers. You can go to Jamaicas only speakeasy, the Rabit Hole, which transports guests to the glamour of the 1920s with its live music, intimate atmosphere, and delicious curated cocktails. Or go to the Sandals Beach Club located near the beach.
Onsite Entertainment
The entertainment at Sandals Ocho Rios is fun. During the day, you can participate in various activities like water sports, beach volleyball, or dance classes, but most people enjoy the pools with DJs and swim-up bars with an occasional game or trivia time. At night, the resort comes alive with live performances, themed parties, and music events.
Activities and Recreation
For those seeking recreational activities, the resort’s 18-hole golf course provides a challenging and enjoyable experience. Furthermore, the Ochi Beach Club offers an atmosphere that is both trendy and private, giving guests the best of both worlds. Spacious upscale rooms with ocean views and butler service are available, providing ultimate comfort and tranquility during your stay.
Pools and Beaches
At Sandals Ocho Rios, guests can enjoy a variety of water-based activities. The resort features several pools and beautiful beaches with white sand for relaxation and fun. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters or soak up the sun on the pristine beachfront.
The largest pool is the most lively at the Manor House with a swim up bar and various activities during the day. Our favorite pool is the Riviera Pool because of the more chill vibes and the pizza restaurant nearby.
Golf and Tennis
For sports enthusiasts, Sandals Ocho Rios offers both golf and tennis amenities. The resort features a challenging golf course nearby in Montego Bay, perfect for golfers of all skill levels. Additionally, guests can practice their serves on well-maintained tennis courts within the resort, providing endless opportunities for friendly competition and exercise.
Spa and Wellness
Guests seeking relaxation can unwind at the luxurious Red Lane Spa, which offers a wide range of rejuvenating treatments and therapies. The spa uses high-quality natural ingredients, ensuring that guests leave feeling refreshed and revitalized after their experience.
Excursions and Local Attractions
Sandals Ocho Rios offers various excursions to explore the local attractions of Jamaica. One popular destination is Dunn’s River Falls, a stunning waterfall that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Additionally, guests can take advantage of the resort’s arcade and other on-site recreational facilities for entertainment and fun during their stay.
Weddings and Celebrations
Wedding Packages and Locations
Sandals Ochi Beach Resort in Ocho Rios, Jamaica is a popular choice for destination weddings. The resort offers a variety of wedding packages, suitable for various budgets and preferences. Couples can choose from several beautiful locations within the resort, including beachfront settings and secluded spots in the jungle. One guest, who got married at the resort in March 2012, shared that they had 18 wedding guests attending their wedding for a long weekend, and everyone had a great time without any complaints.
The wedding packages typically include:
- Wedding planner assistance
- On-site wedding coordinator
- Marriage license and documentation
- Ceremony and reception setup
- Floral arrangements
- Photography and videography
- Catering
- Customizable add-ons to personalize the event
Honeymoon and Anniversary Specials
For couples planning their honeymoons or celebrating anniversaries, Sandals Ochi Beach Resort also provides various specials and perks. Guests have shared positive reviews about their stays at the resort. These honeymoon and anniversary specials may include:
- Complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability)
- Romantic room decorations
- Special turndown service
- Couples spa treatments
- Private candlelit dinner
- Exclusive activities and excursions for couples
Sandals Ochi Beach Resort is known for its adults-only, all-inclusive ambiance, making it a perfect choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Whether celebrating a destination wedding, honeymoon, or anniversary, guests can expect exceptional service and a memorable experience at this Jamaican gem.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
TripAdvisor Reviews and Ratings
Sandals Ochi Beach Resort is a popular destination with many satisfied guests. On TripAdvisor, it holds a rating of 4.5 in Service, 4.2 in Location, Cleanliness, and Value. Guests frequently praise the property’s friendly staff, and some highly recommend splurging for a room with butler service.
Highlights from Guest Reviews
- Beautiful Manor pool and well-maintained surroundings
- Convenient access to Sandals Golf & Country Club with green fees included for guests
- Lively Rabbit Hole nightclub within the resort
- Immersive tropical experience due to its location amidst lush hillside gardens and nearby jungle
Key Amenities and Services
- Comfortable and luxurious accommodations, with many offering fantastic mountain and ocean views
- 105 pools and 22 whirlpools on the property
- Free Wi-Fi access for all guests
- Convenient shuttle service within the resort, including transportation to beaches and golf club
- On-site concierge for any additional requests and upgrades
While there are some mixed opinions on the dining options at Sandals Ochi, it is clear the resort’s atmosphere, accommodations, and amenities remain largely popular with guests. The proximity to nature and variety in accommodations and activities make it a go-to destination for travelers seeking a luxurious Caribbean escape.