Sandals Ochi – An Unforgettable Vacation!

 

Man, what a vacation! Did you know that Sandals Ocho Rios in Jamaica is the largest Sandals resort? With over 100 swimming pools, this is your place to go if you are a pool lover.

 

The drive from Montego Bay's MBJ airport is around an hour and a half. Just like in my last blog about Beaches Ocho Rios, I suggest grabbing the throw-up bags from the plane just in case. This was our first time not taking the Sandals free transport. We were traveling with eight adults and decided to take a private transfer. I can tell you that the Sandals transports I've been on are long and driven safely as Sandals would want. Our private transfer drove like a local. It took us longer to get our private transfer due to the traffic at the airport. We left a good 30 minutes after the Sandals bus, but we ended up passing it along with a lot of other drivers! The Sandals buses I've taken have never done this. Anyway, we made it to the resort in record time and safe!

 

Due to the crazy Microsoft outages on July 19, 2024, airports were chaotic, and everything was getting delayed. Our flight was no exception. However, with any travel, you have to be ready for this and go with the flow so you don't ruin your vacation. After a few hours of delay, we were finally able to leave DFW. Because of this, our first day was spent traveling. When we got to the resort, we checked in with our amazing butlers (I could write a whole blog just on them) and then went to dinner at the Sky Terrace. My husband was thrilled to get lobster.

 

As I mentioned, this is the largest Sandals Resort, and because of that, you must take the Hop to other parts of the resort. This is a small transfer bus. We stayed on the hillside manor, and to get to the beach, you must take the Hop. It’s a short ride that requires you to cross a main road. The first stop from the hillside is the Beach Club. If you are a beach person, I wouldn't recommend this resort because the beach is small, and the sand is not soft to walk on. However, it was still pretty, and the sound of the ocean always puts me in a good mood.

 

Saturday was a day of fun, sun, and Jamaican rum! We spent the day down at Sandals Beach Club. Maxwell and Dave know how to make a drink. You can find them at the swim-up bar.

 

Restaurants

 

While there, we ate at Sky Terrace, The Southern Table, Valentinos, Soy, Tapas, Mariners, Dino’s Pizzeria, Le Gourmand, and the Jerk Shack. We ate and ate this trip! The resort has a variety of food, so everyone should be able to find something they like. I enjoyed the food every time we ate, and my favorite was the sliders from Tapas—they were amazing. Our go-to snack was the Jerk Shack or pizza. One thing we were really sad about was not getting to go to Kimonos. Even though we had reservations, they would only sit parties of 12, and we had plans for the white party, so we ended up leaving without eating. When we let our butler know, she definitely took care of it. We met with the food and beverage manager and the butler manager, and they apologized and said that shouldn't have happened and they will make sure reservations are honored in the future.

 

Fun Day of Excursions

 

Tuesday was an amazing outing. We climbed Dunn's River Falls. This was my second time; my husband and I did it back in 2013 on our honeymoon, and it brought back so many great memories. You have to be pretty fit—knee problems or back problems would make it tough. You need water shoes because you are climbing a super slippery rock waterfall. A guide helps you up, and they have a videographer that follows you around. Surprisingly, we found that $40 for the whole video and pictures was a good deal, so we bought it. Then, our tour guide took us to the Blue Hole. I didn't realize we'd be climbing another waterfall to get to the jump sites. It was so much fun. I was nervous at first about jumping, but once I did the first one, the next three were a breeze. After that, we were taken to Linda’s Café for some jerk chicken and rum punch. Lastly, we floated down the White River with two tour guides and an awesome dog named Stranger, who went down the tubing with us. He would ride in our floats, swim, or run down the side. After that, we returned to our resort. It was a great day and a fun way to spend it.

 

Paint and sip

Sandals offers a variety of exciting group activities, including Beach Olympics, bingo, cornhole, and paint and sip sessions. We opted for the paint and sip experience, which was a first for me. At Sandals, you need to purchase a bottle of wine to participate, and with that, you receive two canvases.

 

The resort brought in E. Thompson, a talented local painter who also sells his artwork. We had such an amazing time during this activity, and our paintings turned out great! Mr. Thompson guided us step by step through the process, making it easy for beginners and experienced painters alike.

 

I highly recommend this activity if it's offered during your stay. It's a fantastic way to unwind, get creative, and take home a unique souvenir from your trip.

 

Overall Experience

 

We spent most of our time in our private pool. Since we were four couples, we rented out the four-bedroom villa that came with a butler. We had the most amazing butlers, Cameka and Alshane. I recommend everyone ask for them. When we got back on Tuesday, they had a party thrown for us in our backyard. We had so much food, music, drinks, and they hung out with us. When we weren’t at our private pool, we liked to hang out at the main pool on the hillside—lots of interaction with bingo, volleyball, and name-that-tune games. It was a great time to hang out and use the swim-up bar.

 

Downfalls

 

Being the largest Sandals resort and like three resorts in one, there are some downfalls. If you stay on the hillside, it’s a long walk up. They have golf carts that come around to pick you up, but it's not on a regular basis, and sometimes you really have to flag them down. If our butler was on duty, we could call them, and they would pick us up. However, some days they got off at 8, and some days at 10, so if we were leaving later than that, we either had to flag someone down or make the long walk back up the hill. Having to wait for the Hop reminded me of the end of a day at Disney World, with everyone in line to get on the bus back to the hotel, hoping there are enough seats. This is what the Hop felt like some days. One of the couples we were with was really upset that there isn't a pastry coffee shop. There’s nowhere to get some ice cream, sweets, and a cup of coffee. But at the returning guest dinner we attended, we learned they are building one, so everyone was excited. Other than that, anything that came up wasn’t going to ruin our vacation. If you have the mindset that you’re going to enjoy your vacation no matter what, you can always have a good time.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Despite a few minor inconveniences, our stay at Sandals Ochi was nothing short of spectacular. The resort's vast array of amenities, fantastic dining options, and exceptional service made our vacation unforgettable. The excursions added an extra layer of adventure and excitement, making each day unique and memorable. Sandals Ochi's size and variety ensure there's something for everyone, whether you want to relax by the pool, explore local attractions, or indulge in gourmet cuisine. We can't wait to return to this tropical paradise and create even more wonderful memories. If you're considering a trip to Jamaica, Sandals Ochi should definitely be at the top of your list!

 

The Journey Begins: Drive to Beaches Ocho Rios

The drive from Montego Bay Airport (MBJ) to Beaches Ocho Rios is an adventure in itself. Be prepared for a somewhat bumpy ride and pack some medication if you're prone to car sickness. Grab your bag just in case. Also, don't forget to have tip money ready for the drivers.

Smooth Arrival and Check-In

Upon arrival, you'll be greeted warmly and directed to either the club level or regular check-in areas, which are conveniently located in the same lobby. The check-in process is efficient, and your bags will be taken care of, allowing you to start your vacation stress-free.

First Impressions and Dining Delights

After a long drive, we headed straight to Neptunes at the end of the pier for a delightful meal. The view of the fish swimming below made it a unique dining experience. Dinner that night was equally satisfying, setting the tone for a week of great food.

Poolside Fun and Evening Entertainment

One of the highlights was the pool, which stays open during the evening entertainment. We enjoyed various fun-filled shows, though seating can be limited. Arrive early to snag a good spot, especially for popular events like the circus and fire show. The 6:00 PM Sesame Street show was less crowded, making it easier to find a seat.

Exploring the Resort and Beach

Beaches Ocho Rios is an older resort in need of some updates, but ongoing improvements like the boat dock construction didn't disturb our stay. The beach is small and rocky near the shore, so wearing shoes until you reach the soft sand is advisable.

Thrilling Water Sports and Activities

The water sports team was fantastic! We enjoyed a variety of activities, including banana boat rides, paddleboarding, a glass-bottom boat tour, and hobie sailing. Thanks to favorable weather, we had a green flag all week, allowing us to make the most of the water activities.

Splashing Around at the Water Park

The water park caters to all ages with its range of slides. From big slides for the adventurous to smaller ones for younger kids, it offers endless fun. However, be mindful of the limited lifeguard presence, and keep an eye on your children as they play.

Beach and Pool Lounging

While finding chairs around the main pool can be a challenge due to early reservations, beach chairs were always available when we needed them. Plan accordingly if you want a prime spot by the pool.

Accommodations and Useful Tips

Our Caribbean Grand Luxe Suite with double beds was ideal for our family of five. It featured two double beds and a couch with a trundle bed, though the room was a bit hot, so packing a fan is recommended. The bathroom setup could be improved by separating the toilet area from the shower/tub for better convenience.

Accessibility and Autism Friendliness

Beaches Ocho Rios is built on a cliff/beachside, resulting in numerous stairs, but an elevator is available for those who need it. The resort is also autism-friendly, with trained staff and engaging activities for children with autism, making it a welcoming destination for all families.

Dining Options for Every Taste

No reservations are required for dinner, and casual attire is generally acceptable, except at the French restaurant. Bayside buffet became our favorite spot, offering a variety of choices to satisfy every palate.

The Importance of Club Mobay When Traveling to Jamaica

When traveling to Jamaica, having Club Mobay is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here's why:

Fast Track Through Customs

One of the major benefits of Club Mobay is the fast-track service through customs. This can save you a significant amount of time, allowing you to start your vacation sooner without the stress of long lines and delays.

VIP Lounge Experience

On your departure, Club Mobay provides access to a VIP lounge. This can be a lifesaver, especially if your flight is delayed. For instance, our flight was scheduled to leave at 12:45 PM, but it was delayed twice with a final 3:00 PM departure time. Thanks to Club Mobay we had a comfortable lounge with food, drinks, and TVs to pass the time.

Family-Friendly Amenities

The VIP lounge also features a play area for kids, making it an excellent choice for families. This allows your little ones to stay entertained while you relax and enjoy the amenities.

Overall Comfort and Convenience

Club Mobay enhances your travel experience by providing comfort, convenience, and peace of mind. Whether it's speeding through customs or enjoying the lounge's facilities during a delay, Club Mobay ensures your journey is as pleasant as possible.

In summary, always opt for Club Mobay when traveling to Jamaica. It significantly improves both your arrival and departure experiences, making your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Beaches Ocho Rios offers a memorable vacation experience. Embrace the relaxed island time, overlook the minor updates underway, and focus on creating fun and lasting memories. We had a fantastic time, and we're sure you will too!

Enjoy your stay at Beaches Ocho Rios!

 

Click to view my Canva Sandals Emerald Bay Slideshow

 

When the mundane routine of everyday life starts to wear you down, there's nothing more liberating than escaping to a slice of paradise. And that's precisely what I did when I embarked on my recent trip to Sandals Emerald Bay, accompanied by the awe-inspiring excursions provided by Robert’s Island Adventures. This adventure unfolded into an unforgettable journey filled with luxury, adventure, and the natural wonders of the Bahamas.
Sandals Emerald Bay:
As my plane touched down in Great Exuma, Bahamas, my first thought was how underdeveloped the airport is. The George Town airport has not been truly renovated in years. You are welcomed with signs saying work in progress. However, once you made it past the airport the sheer beauty of this tropical haven was evident from the moment we sat down in our taxi. Nestled on the pristine shores of Great Exuma's Emerald Bay, Sandals Emerald Bay welcomed us with open arms, and I knew I was in for a treat.

It is showing its age:
The resort itself displayed pure elegance, with its breathtaking ocean views, lush green landscapes, and luxurious accommodations. We opted for a one-bedroom Oceanview walkout butler suite. Our room located in building 5-first floor had a wonderful view to the ocean.

As much as I adored the stunning location and exceptional service at Sandals Emerald Bay, I couldn't help but notice that the rooms were in need of upgrading. While the resort's overall ambiance was delightful, the accommodations felt somewhat outdated and lacking in modern amenities. The furnishings and decor seemed worn, and I couldn't help but wish for a fresher and more contemporary look. Additionally, some of the room features, such as the bathroom fixtures and electronic appliances, appeared to be showing signs of wear and tear. Despite this, the resort staff's hospitality and the beautiful surroundings helped compensate for the room's shortcomings, making it an enjoyable stay, nonetheless. However, I believe that a refurbishment of the rooms would elevate the overall guest experience and match the greatness of the resort's spectacular setting.
Are you a foodie?
I would say that I am NOT a foodie! However, I must admit that the culinary experience at Sandals Emerald Bay left much to be desired. While the resort's ambiance and service were exceptional, the food itself was nothing to write home about. The dining options seemed limited, and the quality of the dishes fell short of my expectations. Whether it was the lack of variety in the menu or the execution of flavors that didn't quite hit the mark, I couldn't help but feel somewhat disappointed with some of the dining experience.
We did have a wonderful time at Kimonos!

It took a few days to finally get our reservations, but it was well worth it! It was the best food we had at a sit-down restaurant. We loved having our butlers bring us an afternoon snack to the beach. We normally had pizza from Dinos or nachos! To me the food was not a deal breaker. Just set your expectations for basic all-inclusive food.

Robert’s Island Adventures: Unraveling the Bahamas' Hidden Gems
I must admit the whole reason I booked the Bahamas was to swim with the pigs. After much research I couldn't resist exploring the captivating beauty of the Bahamas through Robert’s Island Adventures. This excursion company had come highly recommended, and it did not disappoint.
The first adventure on my itinerary was a visit to the famous Exuma Cays, known for its breathtaking sandbars and crystal-clear waters. As we cruised through the stunning Exuma waters, I marveled at the colors that shifted from emerald green to deep blue. Our friendly and knowledgeable guide provided fascinating insights into the area's history and ecology, enhancing the experience even further.

At the Exuma Sandbars, I experienced true bliss as I dipped my toes into the warm, shallow waters surrounded by a mesmerizing panorama. The serene atmosphere made it a perfect spot for relaxation and snapping postcard-worthy photographs.

Next on the agenda was a close encounter with the famous swimming pigs of the Bahamas. These adorable creatures, known as the 'Pig Beach,' welcomed us with playful splashes and friendly oinks. Feeding and swimming with these cute creatures was an absolute highlight of my trip, and I couldn't get enough of their charming antics.

Like I said, I chose the Bahamas for the pigs! However, they were not the highlight of our full day excursion. I must say the nurse sharks stole the spotlight! Swimming with nurse sharks during my Robert’s Island Adventures excursion was an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. As we ventured into the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas, the sight of these majestic creatures gracefully gliding beneath us left me in awe. The expert guides ensured our safety while offering fascinating insights into the behavior and conservation efforts for these gentle creatures. Interacting with nurse sharks in their natural habitat was both thrilling and humbling, providing a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty and harmony of the marine world. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will forever hold a special place in my heart.

As the day wound down, we made our way to the stunning Thunderball Grotto. This iconic spot is named after the James Bond film 'Thunderball,' which was partially filmed here. Snorkeling within the grotto's enchanting chambers revealed an underwater wonderland, brimming with colorful marine life and coral formations.

A Journey to Cherish Forever

My trip to Sandals Emerald Bay, coupled with the adventures orchestrated by Robert’s Island Adventures, was undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Great Exuma's untouched beauty, the warmth of the Bahamian people, and the seamless hospitality of Sandals Emerald Bay made this getaway an absolute dream come true.

As I bid farewell to this paradise, I carried with me memories to cherish forever. From indulging in luxury at Sandals Emerald Bay to exploring the Bahamas' hidden gems with Robert’s Island Adventures, every moment was a testament to the unparalleled allure of this Caribbean gem.

If you ever find yourself seeking a haven of luxury and adventure, look no further than the beautiful shores of Great Exuma and the impeccable service of Sandals Emerald Bay and Robert’s Island Adventures. Your heart will thank you for it.

Until next time, Bahamas!