One of the best-rated Sandals resorts in Jamaica, Sandals Royal Plantation in Ocho Rios is unique for several reasons:
- It is the smallest Sandals with just 74 suites
- All of the suites here come with personal butler service and 24-hour in-room dining
This makes Sandals Royal Plantation quite popular for honeymoons and romantic escapes where couples want to relax and indulge. It has a very loyal following of couples who return year after year.
We have really enjoyed our visits here, but want to let you know that most of the rooms feature somewhat dated décor. The loyalists love it and don’t want any changes, but if you prefer a modern vibe, this may not be the right resort for you.
Something else to know about Sandals Royal Plantation is that guests here also get access to everything at nearby Sandals Ochi, which is the largest Sandals resort and has a lively atmosphere. This can give you the best of both worlds.
Golf is also included here, with free transportation to and green fees at a nearby 18-hole course.
Location
Sandals Royal Plantation is located about 90 minutes from the Montego Bay airport, and 20 minutes from the Ocho Rios airport. While most international flights land in Montego Bay, there is service between Miami and Ocho Rios. Airport transfers are included.
Accommodations
As we said before, everything here is a butler suite. All the suites have ocean views, though some are better than others. There are 11 different suite types, ranging from rooms with small sitting areas to one-bedroom suites with separate living rooms and large balconies to the unique Villa Plantana, which is a private 3-bedroom villa by the beach with its own pool and staff.
The entry level butler suites don’t have a walkout balcony, but they do have sliding doors that open to a French balcony so you can enjoy the ocean breeze. All the rest have private, furnished outdoor spaces.
Activities & Amenities
Sandals Royal Plantation has a great beach scene, with two small private coves of white sand with clear turquoise water and excellent beach service, as well as plenty of chairs.
The resort also has two pools and a whirlpool. They are small and quiet, but if you want more excitement and variety you can head to Sandals Ochi.
You can enjoy a range of complimentary watersports including snorkeling, kayaking, glass bottom boat rides, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and Hobie Cat sailing onsite, or go to Sandals Ochi for scuba diving.
On land there is tennis and a fitness center. As we noted before, golf is included as well. There is also a spa, which costs extra.
Nightly entertainment is also included but pretty sedate. For a livelier atmosphere, go to Sandals Ochi.
Restaurants and Bars
There are 5 restaurants at Sandals Royal Plantation, serving Caribbean, French, Italian, international, and British cuisine. You can also enjoy afternoon tea. Restaurants feature ocean views, with one being on the beach. Despite the sophisticated vibe here, no restaurants require dressy attire or reservations.
Two bars onsite include a British pub and a champagne and caviar bar.
For more options, you can go to Sandals Ochi and choose from 16 restaurants and 11 bars including 3 swim-up bars.