Sandals Royal Plantation

Before giving my description of this resort specifically, let’s summarize what is true about all Sandals resorts.  All Sandals resorts are located on English speaking islands in the Caribbean.  They’re adults only and couples only (no kids and no singles).  Sandals resorts are all inclusive and include more amenities than any other resort chain.  All Sandals resorts have at least 7 dining options up to 22 depending on which resort you choose.  Sandals resorts are smaller and roomier than most all-inclusive resorts (the average in Mexico or the Dominican Republic is 700 rooms with three restaurants).  The majority of Sandals Resorts are 250-350 rooms, with the largest being 505 rooms (with 15 restaurants).    Sandals serves top shelf liquor and partners with Beringer for their house wines.

Sandals resorts are social!  They cater to honeymooners and a younger demographic.  There is a full activity program including sports games (volleyball, ping pong, tennis clinics, free throw shooting contests, etc.), silly couples games (water balloon toss, three legged race, belly flop competition), and live music every night.  All non-motorized watersports are included (Hobie Cats, water trikes, sea kayaks, stand up paddleboards, wind surfing, and more).  SCUBA (if you’re certified) and snorkeling trips are included as well.

Sandals Royal Plantation is located on two scalloped beaches in Jamaica’s tourist capitol, Ocho Rios (90 minutes from the Montego Bay Airport).  Royal Plantation is an intimate resort with 74 butler serviced suites.  Unlike most Sandals resorts, Royal Plantation attracts an older, quieter crowd, but you have full exchange privileges at Sandals Grande Riviera (5 minute drive).  Guests at Sandals Grande Riviera do not receive reciprocal exchange privileges at Sandals Royal Plantation.  There are 3 restaurants with an additional 15 restaurants at Sandals Grande St Lucian.  Complimentary green fees and transportation is included to Sandals Country Club, an 18 hole Par 72 championship golf course (caddy, cart, and club rental additional).

The suites at Sandals Royal Plantation are richly appointed and elegant.  Please keep in mind that the majority of the suites have French (step out) balconies.  All suites are serviced by butlers so 24 hour full menu room service is available and there is a custom fully stocked bar in the suite.

Overall, I liked Sandals Royal Plantation, but it’s certainly not for everyone.  The quiet elegant atmosphere and older clientele sets it apart from the larger more social Sandals resorts.  This would be a good choice for guests looking to be pampered by the butler service and wants to relax with the option for activities in the surrounding tours (Dunns River Falls, Mystic Mountain, and Treasure Beach) and the exchange privileges at Sandals Grande Riviera.