Jamaica's beaches are stunningly beautiful, and there are so many different types of resorts around the island that there is something for every budget and every taste. Many resorts, both luxury and inexpensive, have their own private beaches and lagoons, and the address is merely the hotel, a landmark in itself. One trait that most Jamaican resorts share is uncommonly gracious and efficient service.
On the north coast of Jamaica, Port Antonio was a favorite dock hangout for swashbuckling movie star Errol Flynn on his schooner, Zaca. The town seems to be lost in time, and the Dragon Bay Resort has retained an old-school glamour. Palapas and villas are scattered around in 55 acres of lush greenery that surrounds a beautiful bay and white sand beach. Diving, sailing and surfing are the order of the day (for a fee), and free boats are available for guests to cruise around the bay. There's a swimming pool, a volleyball net and a bar on the beach, as well as a continental open-air restaurant. This non-chain hotel is both romantic and family friendly, if a bit remote. Be sure to go into the town of Port Antonio to shop the local crafts markets. Dragon Bay does not have a website, but it's where Tom Cruise filmed "Cocktail," so there are plenty of sites through which to see pictures and get information. Room rates start at about $150 USD (as of 2010).
Dragon Bay Resort
P.O. Box 176
Port Antonio, Jamaica, West Indies
+1 (876) 993-8951
With numerous awards for service and romantic atmosphere from Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast, the Royal Plantation Ocho Rios is an upscale luxury resort with an emphasis on pampering and romance. Built in the 1950s, the Royal Plantation is all suites except for one villa that comes with its own private butler and room attendant. Suites start at about $750 USD a night (as of 2010), but that includes golf, unlimited meals at three restaurants, unlimited sparkling wine, a glass-bottom boat, complimentary use of an in-suite bar and scuba diving (if you're certified). You'll have a beach butler at your disposal and if you want extras, and you can pay for massages, moonlight picnics and private Jamaican cooking classes.
Royal Plantation Spa & Golf Resort
P.O. Box 2, Ocho Rios, St. Ann
Jamaica, West Indies
+1 (876) 974-5601
www.royalplantation.com
Half Moon is situated on two miles of soft, sandy beach that is cut up into two crescent coves that are perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, boating and water skiing. The 400-acre resort offers several all-inclusive packages, including golf, yoga, luxury and celebration. The basic Half Moon plan includes unlimited five-star dining, top-shelf bar drinks, tennis, bicycles, kayaking and airport transfers. Double rooms begin at $680 USD (as of 2010). For a little more, try the luxury package, which adds horseback riding, parasailing, windsurfing, sailing, glass-bottom boating and golfing.
Half Moon
Rose Hall
Montego Bay, Jamaica, West Indies
+1 (876) 953-2211
www.halfmoon.com
