Our favorite Sandals resort in Jamaica since it opened last year, Sandals Dunn’s River is set in Ocho Rios and is part of the “Sandals 2.0” initiative that brings an enhanced elegance and quality to the brand.
To make your choice in resort easy for you, you should book this resort if
- You want the best value from a Sandals Resort
- You are looking for a modern resort
- You are looking for an area with lots of excursion options
- Want a quieter resort for relaxing
This resort features a stunning fresh design with cool water features, lush landscaping, spectacular suites, 12 restaurants, 9 bars, 7 pools, and multiple whirlpools, as well as all the usual onsite activities plus complimentary green fees at and transportation to the Upton Golf Club. Guests also get access to everything at Sandals Ochi, which is the largest Sandals resort.
We loved pretty much everything about our trip there and are happy to share our knowledge in this Sandals Dunn’s River review. The only drawback we could find is that the transfer from Montego Bay airport takes about 90 minutes, but the drive is pleasant and scenic. There’s also a closer airport in Ocho Rios, which is now getting direct flights from Miami.
Rooms and Suites
In addition to a range of luxury and club-level rooms and suites, Sandals Dunn’s River offers some truly amazing accommodations. Everything is divided into three buildings and a “village.”
Mammee Bay Building
This building was part of the previous resort and has been renovated. It offers rooms with both ocean views and garden views.
- Mammee Bay Oversized Club Level Jr. Suite w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub
- Mammee Bay Oceanview Club Level Room w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub
- Mammee Bay Oceanview One Bedroom Butler Suite w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub
- Mammee Bay Beachfront One Bedroom Butler Suite w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub
The only complaint about some of the rooms is the less-than-ideal view.
Travertine Building
Also home to the lobby, this building was renovated as well and holds a variety of room types, some with ocean views and some that have tropical garden views and are more quiet. Even the entry-level rooms are nice; all have balconies and some feature oversized soaking tubs.
- Travertine Luxury Room – Cheapest room and still a great option
- Travertine Luxury Room w/ Tranquility Soaking Tub
- Travertine Beachfront Club Level Room w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub – Best value
- Travertine Beachfront Penthouse Club Level Room w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub – not worth the extra price
Tufa Terrace Building
This brand-new building holds the incredible Skypool suites, which have a separate bedroom, a large balcony with a private infinity edge pool and an oversized soaking tub, and 24-hour in-room dining and personal butler service.
- Tufa Terrace One Bedroom Skypool Butler Suite w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub
- Tufa Terrace Swim-up One Bedroom Butler Suite w/ Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub
These are all beachfront and feature ocean views. I have stayed in both of these rooms and can’t decide which I prefer more since they are usually the same price. I think the Skypool rooms are a slight favorite because of the ocean views.
Rondoval Village
This is where you will find some of the coolest and most luxurious suites at any Sandals resort: the Coyaba Sky Rondovals.
These circular Rondoval suites have spacious interiors, swim-up access to the river pool plus private pool sanctuaries, and rooftop terraces with comfy furnishings and a Tranquility Soaking Tub. You can even get a telescope and have a guided tour of the stars.
There are also Coyaba Villa Swim-up Rondoval Butler Suites with swim-up access to the river pool and private pool sanctuaries but no rooftop terrace.
- Coyaba Sky Villa Swim-up Rondoval Butler Suite w/ Private Pool Sanctuary
- Coyaba Villa Swim-up Rondoval Butler Suite w/ Private Pool Sanctuary
The only difference with these rooms is the Sky Villa has a roof top area.
All of these come with 24-hour inroom dining and personal butler service.
Food and Drink
There are 12 restaurants at Sandals Dunn’s River, serving a range of cuisine types. Almost all of them are only found here, and we thought the food was some of the best we’ve had at any Sandals. Here is an overview of what you’ll find:
Saltaire – Serves a buffet of international dishes for breakfast and lunch. This is our go to for breakfast and a quick lunch.
Edessa– Serves an a la carte breakfast as well as authentic Greek food for dinner (we loved the lamb chops and baked feta).
Galene Grill – Located near the beach, this spot offers seafood, grilled items, salads, and sandwiches for a casual lunch or early dinner.
The Jerk Shack – Serves authentic Caribbean jerk in a great beachfront setting; open for lunch. It was once open for dinner but it stopped for a while and we are not sure if that will come back.
Hanami – This sushi restaurant is even better than one of our favorite Sandals restaurants, Soy Sushi. I had my best meal here and love being able to try so many things. A lot of people come here first for appetizers before eating at other restaurants.
Zuka – Serves Latin American fusion and was very tasty. Favorite dishes were surf and turf and the tuna appetizer.
L’Amande – Offers gourmet French and Jamaican cuisine in an elegant setting; requires the dressier “resort evening attire” and reservations.
Banyu – Serves Pan-Asian fusion dishes for dinner.
Cascata – Cozy restaurant serving Italian for dinner, and has an amazing team.
Pizzeria Isola – Serves delicious pizza by the beach for lunch or early dinner.
Dunn’s Rum Club – Although primarily a rum bar, it also has great small bites until late.
Blum Coffee Shop – We loved this coffee shop, which is a step above the ones you usually find at Sandals. It has amazing specialty coffee drinks and snacks.
The 9 bars at Sandals Dunn’s River include some that are unique to this property, such as the Rum Club, which we really enjoyed and the upscale Lapidus Lounge. There’s also the first rooftop bar in Jamaica as well as the usual Sandals swim-up bars and beach bars. We loved the craft cocktails at many of the bars, which was a little different from what you’ll often find at Sandals.
You can also visit nearby Sandals Ochi via a free shuttle and go to all the restaurants and bars there.
Activities and Amenities
Sure! Here’s your Sandals Dunn’s River review with bulleted lists added to make it easy to scan and reader-friendly:
The Beach
The beach at Sandals Dunn’s River, while not the largest, is peaceful, pretty, and well-kept. You’ll find soft golden sand and calm, clear water is perfect for wading or a gentle swim. They have full beach drink service right to your lounger. The only complaint that we hear is that it is rocky and that is true in the shallow parts of the beach.
The Pools
There are 5 pools across the resort, each with its own vibe and purpose:
• Main pool #1: Features a lively swim-up bar and is the “quiet pool” of the two main pools. We often have people ask why the pool with the swim-up bar is the quieter pool, and the reason is that the guests chose it to be. When the resort opened, more guests interested in the entertainment were at the other pool.
• Main pool #2: Hosts daily entertainment and games and have a bar right outside of the pools. This is where we usually hang out all day.
• Spa pool: Quiet, beautifully landscaped, perfect for relaxing. We love stopping by here if we want to cool down in the cold plunge pool or before or after a treatment.
• River pools: Found alongside swim-up suites, offering semi-private access. These are great pools that are usually only used by the guest staying in the swim up rooms.
The Spa
The Red Lane® Spa at Dunn’s River is truly a standout. While services cost extra, the serene setting makes it worth the splurge.
• Full menu of treatments including massages, facials, body scrubs, and wrap
• Tranquil spa pool
• Whirlpool tubs
• Lush tropical gardens
Watersports
Sandals Dunn’s River offers an impressive range of complimentary water activities, including motorized options—a rarity among all-inclusives.
• Daily snorkeling trips
• Scuba diving (for certified divers)
• Paddleboarding
• Kayaking
• Hobie Cat sailing
• Waterskiing
• Wakeboarding
• Kneeboarding
• Tubing
Land Activities
There’s plenty to do on land as well, whether you’re into sports or staying fit:
• Beach volleyball
• Shuffleboard
• Table tennis
• Pool tables
• Fitness center with modern equipment
• Golf at Upton Estate Golf & Country Club with included green fees.
Nearby Excursions (Extra Cost)
Sandals Dunn’s River is close to several must-see attractions. These excursions are available for an additional cost and can be booked on-site.
• Dunn’s River Falls – Climb Jamaica’s most famous waterfall
• Blue Hole – Swim, cliff jump, or relax in this natural wonder. (Our Favorite Excursion)
• Martha Brae River rafting – Peaceful bamboo raft tours
• Catamaran cruises – Sunset or snorkeling options
• Local culture tours – Visit craft markets, historic sites, and more
Is Sandals Dunn’s River adults only?
Yes, like all Sandals resorts, Sandals Dunn’s River is adults only. Guests must be 18 years or older.
Which Sandals resort in Jamaica is the best?
While the answer to this question depends on the type of vacation you’re looking for, we think the best Sandals resort in Jamaica is Sandals Dunn’s River. Other top-rated and popular choices are Sandals Royal Plantation, Sandals South Coast, and Sandals Negril.
What is included at Sandals Dunn’s River?
Almost everything is included at Sandals Dunn’s River. Your rate here covers all meals and snacks at all dining options; all drinks including Robert Mondavi wines and premium spirits; inroom minibars that are restocked daily; watersports including snorkeling and scuba diving; land activities including tennis and beach volleyball; a fitness center; daily and nightly entertainment; Wifi; roundtrip airport transfers; and all tips and taxes.