Sandals Ochi, is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. We visited Sandals Ochi and enjoyed the blend of beachfront paradise and the more secluded hillside so much we returned the following year and wanted to share our review of Sandals Ochi to help you decide if this is the best Sandals Resort for you.
Our Overall Feelings of Sandals Ochi
In general, we have enjoyed both of our trips to Sandals Ochi. We loved that there are 5 large pool areas so you can find one that fits your vibe. There is a large selection of restaurants to choose from including multiple breakfast and lunch options.
When we are at the resort we always ask other guests if they are enjoying themselves and we hear two main complaints, slow service and people who like a part of the resort far from their room.
Sandals Ochi is the largest Sandals Resort and there is a shuttle running between the two areas so it can be annoying if you choose to stay on one side but want to spend your time on the other side. You can remedy this by doing your research beforehand or talking to a Sandals Certified Travel Agent (like us).
For dealing with slow service, we recommend going to dinner around 6:30 to avoid longer wait time, but to be honest we never really experienced long wait times.
For excursions, there are several nearby including Dunn’s River and the Blue Hole. We also loved relaxing by the pool, getting drinks at the swim-up bar, and grabbing a fresh pizza for lunch. Just thinking about that makes we want to go back!
Pricing at Sandals Ochi
As I mentioned before, Sandals Ochi is the cheapest Sandals Resort. Having visited every Sandals Resort, I think this is mostly because it has the majority of rooms further away from the beach and the rooms located on the beach are fairly basic. They are making improvements constantly to the resort so previously run-down rooms are now much better.
Starting at $211, I think Sandals Ochi is a great value. There are still great deals like the weekly 777 deals, last-minute deals, and seasonal discounts which you can check here.
Highlights from Online 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
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.
On our second trip to Sandals Ochi we arrived in Montego Bay and the ride to the resort was about 90 minutes on good roads.
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, you can choose from a variety of rooms and suites depending on your preferences. The biggest difference we noticed is the location of the rooms.
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.
If you want to spend more time at the beach, Butler Village is not the best choice. We stayed there for both trips but knew we would go to the other side of the resort for most days.
Manor Rooms
Also on the hillside are the Manor Rooms, which is a structure similar to what you would expect a typical resort to be like with multiple floors. These rooms are close to many different restaurants and the largest pool.
Beachside Rooms
If you want to be close to the beach, these rooms are the best choice. There are also several dining options and pools available in the area.
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.
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 compared to other Sandals Resorts, with several bars providing a wide range of drinks, from tropical cocktails to ice-cold beers.
You can go to Jamaica’s 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.
Personally, we aren’t night owls or partiers so we would stop by the speakeasy or glance over at the entertainment for a bit before going back to our room.
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.
If you have a bulter suite you also can relax in your semi private pool but to be honest we never really see anyone doing that.
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.
I am not a golfer but took the beginner lesson and enjoyed working on my swing from the driving range.
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. I think it is the best Sandals Resort to be close to fun activities.
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.
We loved going to The Blue Hole, River rafting and going down ziplines. All are available within 20 minutes of Sandals Ochi.
Weddings and Celebrations
When we have been at the resort there has always been at least one wedding going on. The resort is perfect for it since there is a wide range of prices for guests to choose from when booking a room. And since the resort is large there are rooms to accommodate large groups.
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.
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
You can even get a free wedding if you stay 7 or more nights in a club or butler level room. The Sweetheart Package, which usually costs $1000, is good for up to 10 people and also gives you a 15% discount at the spa as well as credits toward photography and videography packages. Free ceremonies are limited to Monday through Thursday, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Honeymoon and Anniversary Specials
For couples planning their honeymoons or celebrating anniversaries, Sandals Ochi Beach Resort also provides various specials and perks.
- 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.
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.