With London’s weather a little temperamental, we can’t help but find ourselves island dreaming and the place that’s got our hearts this 2022 is Jamaica.
From the beautiful stretches of white sand beaches to mesmerising natural waterfalls, flavour packed jerk dishes to being the birth place of reggae, it’s the Caribbean island we’re itching to tick off our bucket list.
If you’re Caribbean dreaming too, we’ve put together a list of Jamaica’s best luxury hotels and things to do in and around the island.
Where To Stay
S Hotel Jamaica
Despite only opening in 2019, S Hotel Jamaica is quickly picking up steam, becoming one of the go-to places to stay for an authentic slice of the Caribbean lifestyle. It blends the beauty of its surroundings and culture into its interiors, offering modern rooms, excellent service and a luxury spa service complete with wellness and holistic treatments
For the sun loungers, their main pool is hard to beat. Expect rosy red umbrellas and swim-out sunbeds, as well as views over the ocean. Doctor’s Cave Beach is located just at the bottom of the main pool, with a dedicated area available for hotel guests.
7 Jimmy Cliff Boulevard Montego Bay, Jamaica
Strawberry Hill
Nestled high in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains, Strawberry Hill lets its guests live out their island dreams with views over the mountaintops. It’s all about luxury here – guests can helicopter in, lapping up the views over the surrounding areas, or drive up the 50-minute journey from the airport, exploring through Kingston and tiny mountain villages.
The hotel itself is magical. The hotel is made up of cottages, each packed with their own charm and personality, from beds draped in vivid African fabrics to antique furniture and balconies looking out over the estate.
The on-site restaurant serves up traditional Jamaican dishes, including fish stew and lamb curry, while the bar is always available for a good rum punch.
For those who love wellness, book in for one of their wellness treks and yoga experiences looking out over the mountains and exploring the local bliss greenspace.
New Castle Road B1, St. Andrew, Jamaica
The Caves
Said to be a favourite with the likes of Scarlett Johansson, Bono and billionaires alike, The Caves Resort is the luxury adults-only vacation destination to know about. Perfect for honeymooners, the hotel is charming with stunning views out over the crystal clear ocean.
The hotel sits atop the sea caves, and there’s the opportunity to book in for water sports to explore the caves and all of the natural beauty hidden within. For the rum lovers, there’s also the Blackwell Rum Bar that’s immersed inside the caves, perfect for date nights and cocktails overlooking the ocean in a really special setting.
The interiors of the hotel are colour with each room different from the next. There’s also the private villa, Calndestino, which can host groups and families.
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144 One Love Drive, Negril, Jamaica
GoldenEye
Once the private estate of novelist Ian Fleming, GoldenEye is now the breathtaking collection of private villas, cottages and beach huts. Set over fifteen acres of tropical gardens, secluded coves and private peaches, it’s the destination that you conjure up in your dreams – only it’s a reality, in Jamaica.
There’s something for everyone, from lagoon huts that make way for lagoon swimming and tropical vibes to beach lagoons that open up directly onto Low Cay Beach.
For the foodies, there are plenty of options too. The Bizot Bar is perfect for fresh salads, burgers and pastas, as well as Jamaican specialities, while the Bamboo Bar serves up jerk BBQ and grilled fish caught straight from the sea.
Oracabessa Bay, St Mary, Jamaica
The Cliff Hotel
Jamaica’s Cliff Hotel is a sight to behold. Expect endless palm trees lining the glistening pools, stylish suites and villas home to the best amenities to offer, excellent service and some of the best views over the Caribbean sea you could ask for.
It might be on the pricier end of the scale, with suites starting from $450 a night, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime hotel that’s worth it. Experience a taste of Jamaica thanks to award-winning chef Cindy Huston and partner Delius Shirley who have created the ultimate authentic dining and drinking experience, from cocktails by the pool to Jamaican cuisine in the Zest Restaurant.
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West End Road, Negril, Jamaica
What To Do
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Luminous Lagoon
Experiencing the Luminous Lagoon is a once in a lifetime opportunity. What was once the home of a wharf where large vessels from England were unloaded, the lagoon has a new pull that draws tourists to its destination each year and it’s the dinoflagellates. These are organisms that live and thrive in salt and fresh waters, creating a glowing warm water.
Best experienced at night time, dip your toes or go for an early evening swim and you’ll see the water glisten in an instant.
Martha Brae River
Situated on the north coast of Jamaica in Trelawny, the Martha Brae river is a six mile long river that’s renowned for its water rafting. Visitors are invited to explore the local area before hopping aboard a raft, where they’ll learn more about the legends of Martha Brae while drifting down the river. A true natural oasis, the river is surrounded by billowing trees, greenery and wildlife.
Bob Marley Museum
Explore the man, the myth, the legend at the Bob Marley Museum. Located on the site of the iconic reggae artists home, the house was converted into a museum by Marley’s wife, Mrs Rita Marley in 1981 and is home to an 80-seat theatre, record shop, photographic gallery and more.
Winnifred Beach
For a picture perfect palm lined beach, it’s got to be Winnifred Beach. Of course, there are many beautiful beaches dotted along the coast of Jamaica but Winnifred Beach is perfect for those looking to steer away from the crowds. Think crystal clear waters, white sands and wafts of jerk chicken cooking over coals.
Appleton Estate
For the rum lovers, a visit to a rum estate is a must. Visitors are invited to embark on a tour at Appleton Estate, learning the ins and outs of rum making, before tasting the rum made fresh in the distillery.
Dunn’s River Falls
Another water experience, this time it’s the natural waterfall springs found at Dunn’s River Falls.. One of nature’s most marvellous treasures, the 960ft falls cascades down through the river and is a sight to behold.
Once you’ve climbed the springs and bathed in its waters, experience the River Falls in a new light via a zipline. The zip line whizzes through the trees and foliage, offering a birds eye view over the falls.
