Jamaica Inn

Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Virgin rating

The hotel

Whilst staying at Jamaica Inn, Winston Churchill swore the light was the best in the world for his watercolours. Jamaica Inn is one of the loveliest small luxury hotels in Jamaica. Now over 60 years old, it retains a gracious air of colonial Jamaica and attracts individuals and couples (some famous), who return on a regular basis. There is a wonderful, natural tranquility about this hotel and it has a lovely location on a private 700 ft white sand beach. Dining is on an outdoor terrace that adjoins the bar terrace. A more romantic setting is hard to imagine, and in keeping with the ‘Noel Coward’ lifestyle, there is a live band most nights. There is a cocktail terrace with a magnificent view and in step with its elegant classic approach, there is a dress code after dark. Bordered by an exquisite 700 ft-long beach, the hotel is in Ocho Rios on the tranquil North Coast of the island. All guest suites face the beach and the turquoise water. Each suite has a verandah or a balustraded balcony and many guests opt to leave the air-conditioning off and allow the sea breeze instead to do the work.

Amenities

  • Kayaking
  • Sailing
  • Snorkelling
  • Honeymoon
  • Bar
  • Fitness Centre/Gym
  • Restaurant
  • Room Service
  • Spa
  • Swimming Pool
  • Beachfront location

Where is it

Situated on the best secret stretch of beach in Ocho Rios, overlooking some of the finest water in the Caribbean, its different shades of blue and green will refresh and rejuvenate you as you unwind in this elegant retreat. Transfer time from Montego Bay airport: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Hotel information

55 suites, cottages and bungalows in various buildings with no lifts. All with air-conditioning, ceiling fan, private balcony or terrace, complimentary WiFi Internet access, telephone, mini-bar (stocked upon request) and hairdryer. Please note: there are no TVs, radios or clocks. Balcony Suites are located upstairs on the main wing and east wing with tremendous views from a large balcony across the grounds to the beach and Caribbean Sea, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

All Inclusive option: breakfast lunch and dinner daily, all beverages by the glass and Dine Around option available at four Ocho Rios restaurants (Evitas, Summer House, Passage to India and Miss T's. No more than two dine-arounds per stay, nor eat twice at the same restaurant).

Please note: not included in the all inclusive plan are bottled liquor and wines by the bottle, telephone calls, spa treatments and gift shop purchases. Not included on the Dine Around are transfers, Lobster dinners, drinks or tips.

Breakfast/Half Board options: available at a supplement. 

Deluxe Verandah Suites feature a fully furnished verandah (on the ground floor on the main wing or east wing), sleeping maximum 2 adults.

Premier Verandah Suites enjoy the same fabulous outside space as above and have settings either directly over the water or right on the sand, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

The Cowdray Suite (named after the polo legend), is upstairs in the east wing with a large bedroom, sleeping maximum 2 adults and 1 child.

The Blue Cottage is a luxurious and private one-bedroom cottage located right on the beach, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

Beach Bungalows are located on a secluded cove at the eastern side of the property, each with own living room, spacious bathroom and outdoor verandah, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

Cottage 3 and 4 are totally private with their own sea access and are situated on a bluff that overlooks the Caribbean Sea whilst being just steps away from the main hotel. Each has an outdoor shower and an infinity pool, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

The White Suite sits on its own private peninsula, has one bedroom suite with large private terrace opening onto a secluded pool surrounded, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

Cottage 7 on the edge of the property opens onto a private cove. Upstairs is one bedroom with a balcony whilst the ground floor opens onto an infinity pool and a deck cantilevered over the sea, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

Jamaica Inn 1-Bedroom Cottage with Pool sleeping maximum 2 adults.

Jamaica Inn 2-Bedroom Cottage with Pool sleeping maximum 4 adults.

  • Book by 30 September 2024  to receive up to 20% off stays between 1 May– 31 Oct '24. Terms and conditions apply. Blackout Dates apply. Applies to certain room types. 

Restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving Caribbean and International cuisine. Daily afternoon tea. Room service* (7:30am-11:00pm). Weekly beach barbecue (depending on occupancy).

A live band every night from 8:00pm–11:00pm.

Swimming pool. Holistic cliff top Ocean Spa (treatments*) and exercise room. Complimentary Sunfish sailing, paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkelling and croquet. Nearby activities include windsurfing*, diving* and tennis*.

Gift shop. Laundry Service*. Library. The hotel has a private car and driver available*. WiFi is available in guest rooms, library, cocktail terrace and main bar.

3 nights minimum stay at all times for Cottage 3, Cottage 4, White Suite and Cottage 7, Jamaica Inn 1-Bedroom Cottage and Jamaica Inn 2-Bedroom Cottage.

* Denotes local charge.

Please note: breakfast, Half Board and All Inclusive board basis are available at a supplement.

Dress code: after 7:00pm gentlemen are required to wear long trousers and a collared shirt by the main bar, cocktail terrace and dining room. Footwear is required after 7:00pm (no flip flops). Ladies dress accordingly.

Please note: children over 10 years old and over are welcome year round but will pay the adult sharing rate OR extra person cost (always on a request basis).

Please note: reservation is required for breakfast and dinner.

Rating summary

  • Location Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Sleep Quality Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Rooms Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Service Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Value Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Cleanliness Image of the Tripadvisor rating

Traveller rating

  • Excellent (1779)
  • Very good (161)
  • Average (35)
  • Poor (17)
  • Terrible (7)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Magical Stay at the Jamaica Inn: Lives Up to the Hype & Then Some!

Apr 17, 2024 og5454 Washington DC, District of Columbia

I revived a long dormant tripadvisor account specifically so that I could write this review of this really special, beautiful place. We recently stayed here for a special birthday for my husband and had the most exquisite time. This place is pure magic, from the moment you arrive. I have never been to a resort where they make a point of learning… Read more
I revived a long dormant tripadvisor account specifically so that I could write this review of this really special, beautiful place. We recently stayed here for a special birthday for my husband and had the most exquisite time. This place is pure magic, from the moment you arrive. I have never been to a resort where they make a point of learning your names and by the end of the first day, everyone calls you by your name. Makes you feel like long lost friends, which is exactly the vibe of this place. The food is great, the live music every night is wonderful (we loved Shine, Dalton and Desmond), and obviously the private beach is beautiful -- not to mention the private screenings of James Bond movies on the beach, complete with popcorn. What really sets this place apart, however, is the staff. Many of the staff have been at the Jamaica Inn for decades and this is clearly a group who love their jobs. Everyone seems passionate about what they do and really deeply committed to hospitality. Most of the people we met here were returning guests -- some of whom who had been coming every year for 20 - 30 years. Special mentions for the extraordinary Patrice, Ashalene, Patrick, William, Carter and so many more names I am forgetting! My husband and I often say that you either have the hospitality gene or you don't, and everyone here clearly has a gift. We will be back. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Perfect

Apr 15, 2024 Juboash Derbyshire

Practically perfect … loved our stay at Jamacia Inn - nothing is too much trouble. We stayed for 10 days and we were well and truly spoilt. The Balcony suite was lovely - the Balcony itself was beautifully furnished and included the mini fridge which has a generous supply of ice each day. We did try to get off site and reception offered pages… Read more
Practically perfect … loved our stay at Jamacia Inn - nothing is too much trouble. We stayed for 10 days and we were well and truly spoilt. The Balcony suite was lovely - the Balcony itself was beautifully furnished and included the mini fridge which has a generous supply of ice each day. We did try to get off site and reception offered pages of trips we could do but it was so lovely there we weren’t inclined to leave. We spent a morning shopping in Ocho Rios - guided by reception to visit on a day there were no cruises.. my hubby had a great morning fishing and we went to the market with Maurice Executive Head Chef and tasted his delicious food when we returned. Skyfall on the beach at night made a change to the excellent local band and Rose and Croquet was a hoot. The beach had plenty of loungers to choose from and is very private. When Shadow made an appearance she is great entertainment watching her play in the waves. What made this property outstanding were the team. Special shout out to Maurice, Patrick and Ash. However all in F&B, reception and housekeeping were excellent. Always a smile on their faces and conversation flowed… it feels like they are all happy top work there, which makes a huge difference. I like the 15% surcharge for gratuities - it prevented the annoying “loitering” that you get at some AI resorts - especially on the day you are leaving. You can tip extra if you want to when you leave but it feels like it is certainly not expected. We stayed Half board - Breakfast was very comprehensive - Full English / American and Evening meal was 3 course - both delicious. We didn’t really need lunch - but we did on a few days. Traditional Afternoon Tea at 4 was available to all guests - a nice touch. It wouldn’t suit everyone - it’s not “busy” - it’s exactly as it says in their brochure. Thank you Jamacia Inn for a lovely holiday. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating A Dreamy Way to Get Away From it All

Apr 4, 2024 Julie R

Ever since we left the Jamaica Inn, I find myself dreaming of returning. We spent a week there in early March and it was wonderful. We enjoyed the food, the people, the croquet, and our room which overlooked the water. The beach was beautiful!
Image of the Tripadvisor rating The best vacation spot ever.

Apr 1, 2024 Shepard S

Most beautiful getaway ever! I’ve been blessed to travel lots of places. The Jamaica Inn is spectacular. It is laidback by day and a bit more formal at night. It makes me feel like I’ve been transported back in time - in a good way. There are no TVs - just books, beaches, amazing food and drink, and the friendliest staff ever. This place is… Read more
Most beautiful getaway ever! I’ve been blessed to travel lots of places. The Jamaica Inn is spectacular. It is laidback by day and a bit more formal at night. It makes me feel like I’ve been transported back in time - in a good way. There are no TVs - just books, beaches, amazing food and drink, and the friendliest staff ever. This place is incredible and I plan to return here as often as possible for the rest of my life. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating An Unbelievably Exceptional Experience….

Apr 1, 2024 Jennifer S

If you’re looking to reset, recharge, and rejuvenate…. The Jamaica Inn will be a perfect getaway. The entire staff was warm and welcoming from the beginning of our trip to the very end. The food is AMAZING. Please don’t miss the 4 o’clock tea time or the 7-8 pm cocktail hour. You will thank me later. Our room was a walk-out to the beach. The… Read more
If you’re looking to reset, recharge, and rejuvenate…. The Jamaica Inn will be a perfect getaway. The entire staff was warm and welcoming from the beginning of our trip to the very end. The food is AMAZING. Please don’t miss the 4 o’clock tea time or the 7-8 pm cocktail hour. You will thank me later. Our room was a walk-out to the beach. The veranda is a great spot to order a little breakfast to have the well-deserved slow morning. Our room was cleaned twice per day and a sweet treat awaits you when you return from dinner. Book a spa appointment! According to my husband….THE BEST massage he’s ever had. (and he’s had quite a few). Play a game of croquet, or backgammon. Take time to read those books you’ve been wanting to catch up on. Take a paddle board or a kayak out onto the crystal clear ocean. Or just use a float and forget all of your worries. I can’t say enough about this experience. My husband and I are already looking at dates to come back here later this year. Yes! It’s THAT good. The Jamaica Inn will take you back in time and make you feel like your most amazing self. Read less