A Couples' Guide to
All-Inclusive Resorts in
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
My husband and I have visited the beautiful island of Jamaica on four separate occasions and have come to love Ocho Rios (or “Ochi,” as the locals call it). Its people, laid-back culture, Bob Marley vibes, and rum punch make it a fun and relaxing vacation spot where you can truly unwind and leave your worries behind. Ochi is also where we discovered the luxury of all-inclusive resorts.
All-Inclusive Resorts
Hotel RIU Ocho Rios
Moon Palace Jamaica
Couples Tower Isle
Nestled on the white-sand shores of Mammee Bay, this vibrant beachfront all-inclusive resort features multiple pools with swim-up bars, a waterpark for kids, themed live entertainment, and a feast of international and Jamaican cuisine served across several restaurants.
A glamorous adult-only retreat just off Jamaica's coast, featuring on-site spa villas, multiple restaurants and bars, four pools and jacuzzis, private island, and all-inclusive access to watersports, golfing, tennis, and island excursions.
Things to Do:
Enjoy your all-inclusive resort
Of course, the best part about an all-inclusive resort is that you don’t have to leave the property to enjoy wonderful excursions and activities such as snorkeling, diving, catamaran cruises, private islands, bicycling, and other water activities. I love the ease of staying within an all-inclusive resort and enjoying everything it has to offer.
​
Lounge at the beach
Jamaica has some of the most beautiful crystal-clear blue waters you’ll ever see! Each of the all-inclusive resorts have gorgeous beaches for lounging, complete with resort staff ready to get you whatever you want to eat or drink. Our favorite part of Jamaica is enjoying a truly relaxing vacation.
​
Take in a show at your resort
All-inclusive resorts often offer a show or musical event on site. We especially enjoyed a steel drum band show by Silver Birds. It was energetic and incredibly entertaining—maybe a little loud for some, but we didn’t mind.
​
Dunn’s River Falls
If you must venture out of your resort, Dunn’s River Falls is a must-see in Ochi. Be prepared to hike a bit, and you will need to bring water shoes and shoes that you don't mind getting a bit muddy if it's the rainy season. I recommend going here when there is not a cruise ship in port for fewer crowds.
​
River rafting
A tradition in Jamaica, River Rafting is a fun adventure where you will float down the river on a bamboo raft pushed along by your guide. Relax and enjoy the beauty of Jamaica’s flora and sounds of nature all around you.
​
Connect with a local guide
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the Jamaican culture, I recommend connecting with a local guide to show you around. It can be great to get out and explore the local scene, complete with a trip to a village grocery store, restaurant, and/or private beach. This excursion is for those with an adventurous spirit who enjoy experiencing the culture of a country as it may be an eye-opening experience.
Restaurants On-Site
Hotel RIU Ocho Rios
-
St. Ann: Main buffet restaurant serving a wide range of international dishes, including local Jamaican specialties like curry goat and jerk chicken
-
Piacenza: Italian restaurant
-
Mandalay: Asian buffet-style restaurant
​
Moon Palace Jamaica
-
Momo: Pan-Asian restaurant
-
Pier 8: Seafood restaurant
-
Gondola: Italian restaurant
-
Buccaneer's Reef: Buffet-style restaurant
-
The Jerk Hut: Outdoor restaurant serving authentic Jamaican jerk chicken and other island favorites.
​
Couples Tower Isle
-
The Patio Restaurant: Open-air beachside restaurant
-
Eight Rivers: Gourmet restaurant offering a taste of Old Jamaica in a fine-dining setting
-
Bayside: Fine Asian restaurant located on the water
