The Jamaica Inn

• Price Guidance:
• $$$$$

The Jamaica Inn is all about old-world charm, flaunting its colonial past like a proud, but sometimes tired, peacock with one of the best private hotel beaches in Jamaica.

I have to be honest and tell you this was not my favorite Jamaica hotel… they have a lot of good things going on here, but I’m a stickler for great design and to me, details really matter, and this place has perpetrated some serious design crimes. With that said, the place has an intensely loyal following, and a laid back vibe. It’s hard to argue with loyal folks who have been here 30 years in a row.

This iconic and historic hotel sets its own pace, subtly insisting that time moves slower here. The beach is a long stretch of golden sand, where the only intruders you’ll find are the gentle sea breezes and the occasional pelican diving for its dinner, but I could have done without the plastic beach loungers.

The rooms themselves can feel a bit tired, but come here for each room’s fabulous veranda, each as big, and even more nicely furnished, than the room itself; save the room for sleeping. From the garden suites surrounded by tropical gardens to the beachfront bungalows with great Caribbean views – there’s a large variety of rooms to choose from. We recommended the beach wing for the best experience. But if you want more privacy, opt for the other wing that’s built out, over the water (but you’ll have to look at the mammoth Sandals resort down the beach).

In terms of food, you have the option of the tired open-air dining terrace serving typical Caribbean bites that also comes with a dress code (I’m serious). Instead, I’d go for the laid-back beach barbecue joint with its toe-in-the-sand allure.

We are recommending this place because of its loyal following – and mind you this place isn’t for everyone – especially if you like more modern design… but beyond the very good service, and nice rooms, it’s the vibe of Jamaica Inn that’s special. Think sophistication without pretense, relaxation without inertia, and luxury without ostentation.

Highs:

• The beach
• The beach-side restaurant
• The large verandahs

Lows:

• Tired rooms with cheaply done bathrooms and worn out furniture
• Disappointing pool
• The overly formal main dining room

Half Moon Resort

• Price Guidance:
• $$$$$

The Half Moon Resort is outside Montego Bay, where the old-school charm of the original resort meets the swanky new Eclipse addition. It’s where presidents, queens, and Harry and Meghan stay when they come to Jamaica.

This is a story of two resorts in one. The original resort, built in the 50s, has charming bungalows and that old world Jamaica feeling, and a wonderful, family-friendly beach that makes you feel like it’s 1955.

Then there’s the new part of the resort called Eclipse… and I have to say – this is more my speed: sleek tropical architecture in a beautiful setting, and a world-class spa.

Half Moon Resort

When it comes to food, Half Moon has got you covered with quite a few dining options and regardless of what side you are staying on, you can eat at all of the resort’s restaurants.

The best part? Half Moon Resort is just 15 minutes away from Montego Bay Airport, so you won’t have to wait long to start enjoying your vacation. Plus, they’ve got different accommodation options from hotel rooms, to individual bungalows and palatial mansions.

Highs:

• The beaches
• The Eclipse pool
• 400 acres of beautiful grounds

Lows:

• The cost
• The crowd can feel a bit stuffy
• Parts of the original resort can feel a bit tired