seeking a memorable and inclusive vacation experience in ocho rios, jamaica? this guide explores some of the best options, focusing on resorts and villas known for their stunning locations, luxurious amenities, and welcoming atmosphere for gay travelers.
all-inclusive luxury at moon palace jamaica grande
moon palace jamaica grande offers a comprehensive all-inclusive experience, perfect for couples and families alike.
rooms boast either full or partial ocean views, ensuring a picturesque backdrop for your vacation. amenities include satellite tv, air conditioning, a minibar, and a coffee machine, ensuring your comfort and convenience. upon arrival, guests are greeted with a complimentary bottle of red wine, a thoughtful touch to start your jamaican adventure.
free wifi access keeps you connected, while the private bathrooms are equipped with both a shower and bathrobes, enhancing your relaxation.
the all-inclusive package at moon palace jamaica grande allows you to indulge in unlimited gourmet dining and snacks at the resort's diverse restaurants.
enjoy 24-hour access to snacks, catering to your cravings at any time of day.
beyond the culinary delights, the resort offers a range of activities, including a tennis court, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and various water sports facilities. nestled in the scenic surroundings of ocho rios, moon palace boasts luxurious accommodations with breathtaking oceanfront and partial ocean views of the caribbean sea.
additional perks include around-the-clock room service, complimentary wifi, chi-branded amenities for added pampering, and free calls to the continental us and canada, ensuring a seamless and stress-free stay.
renowned for its over-the-top all-inclusive offerings, moon palace jamaica grande features unlimited gourmet dining options, top-shelf drinks, a thrilling flowrider® double wave simulator, a cutting-edge playroom for kids, a lounge specifically designed for teens, and world-class entertainment and nightlife, guaranteeing a vacation that caters to every member of the family.
the resort is also home to the largest spa in jamaica, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. with everything you need right at your fingertips, moon palace aims to provide an unforgettable experience.
a personal perspective on moon palace
one reviewer shared their experience, comparing it to a previous all-inclusive stay in riviera maya, mexico.
they noted that while some aspects were superior, others fell short. the resort property was considered relatively small, allowing easy access to the beach and food options within minutes. although the beach area was small, it was consistently clean, and finding available chairs was generally not an issue.
the reviewer praised the food's exceptional flavor and variety, particularly highlighting the curried goat at pier 8, the duck at momo, and the diverse breakfast selections.
a planned excursion to konoko falls was enjoyable, though the reviewer expressed frustration with the lengthy wait time before boarding the bus.
the ocean-facing room offered a beautiful view, but the bathroom was notably small. however, the reviewer appreciated the provided chi products, including a hairdryer and straightener.
overall, the reviewer's experience was overwhelmingly positive.
they enjoyed jamaica and felt generally comfortable as a gay couple. however, there were a few uncomfortable interactions with staff who made assumptions about their relationship. when the couple clarified that they were married, an awkward silence ensued. despite this, the staff remained respectful afterward.
as self-proclaimed foodies, the reviewer and their partner were delighted with the exceptional culinary offerings.
they specifically commended chef sherman, who oversees special events like the jerk pan by the beach, large groups, and private dinners on balconies. chef sherman prepared delicious homemade jamaican beef patties and shared a jar of their flavorful jerk sauce, leaving a lasting impression.
la gondola italian restaurant: a culinary highlight
la gondola italian restaurant stood out as a culinary highlight, with multiple dinners enjoyed at the venue.
executive chef josé and chef jason crafted a special dinner, complemented by wine selections from jason malachi. the attentive service was provided by judy-gay and orlando, under the supervision of managers charmaine and elvis.
the meal began with a unique take on a caprese salad, featuring a mozzarella ball coated in tomato paste to resemble a tomato.
truffle-infused tortellini in clarified butter followed, along with a rich and creamy beet soup with beef tenderloin. the dinner concluded with a creamy panna cotta. another memorable meal included a garden salad, smoked tomato soup, jamaican snapper, and a special dessert creation by chef josé, described as delicate and light with grated strawberries in ricotta cheese, meringue, and dried strawberries with foam.
the excellent service was provided by jamie and brian, while jason's pinot noir pairing complemented the fish perfectly.
a fresh fish tank showcasing the seafood options added to the ambiance. a personalized, handwritten note from server richard welcoming the guests added a thoughtful touch.
other dishes enjoyed included tuna tartar, calamari, a petite filet cooked to perfection, salad, and an apple swan.
hermosa cove: a boutique villa experience
for a more intimate and secluded experience, hermosa cove offers caribbean-style boutique luxury villas with swimming pools, free wi-fi, and complimentary continental breakfast.
unlike the all-inclusive experience of moon palace, hermosa cove offers a more personalized and private setting.
these artfully designed villas provide ceiling fans, seating areas, flat-screen tvs, and terraces with garden views, all just steps from the beach.
the bathrooms include showers, and the kitchens are fully equipped for guests to prepare their own meals. the property can arrange a variety of activities, including duty-free shopping, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, horseback riding, and golfing.
guests can also partake in biking eco-tours and helicopter tours, offering unique perspectives on the island's beauty.
the luxurious, art-filled interiors open onto tropical gardens with sparkling plunge pools. many villas feature spectacular ocean views, and all are within a short walk to the water.
the staff at hermosa cove is dedicated to helping guests arrange personalized adventures, even offering to accompany them as tour guides, enhancing the sense of personalized service.
a slice of paradise: personal reflections on hermosa cove
hermosa cove is often described as a slice of paradise, offering a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation.
every detail is designed to appeal to the senses and spark the imagination. the food is a delightful blend of local flavors with artistic presentation. the villas themselves are a joy, making guests wish their stay could be extended indefinitely.
the staff is attentive yet unobtrusive, ensuring a comfortable and private experience.
the grounds are meticulously maintained, showcasing lush landscaping that highlights the beautiful water views. numerous winding paths lead to hidden seating areas, a hummingbird garden, and whimsical artistic touches crafted from driftwood, shells, and sea glass.
this tranquil setting is a stark contrast to typical tourist hotels, with their crowded rows of identical chairs and bustling noise.
hermosa cove's grounds are designed with countless private seating areas to enjoy the pools, beach, or gardens, providing ample options for both shade and sun. the view from the cascading pools down to the ocean is simply breathtaking. snorkelers can explore the vibrant reef just offshore.
hermosa cove fosters an atmosphere of peace and quiet, where guests can relax on a lounge chair, listen to the waves and birds, and soak in the stunning views.
the menu offers a diverse range of options to suit different tastes, with everything prepared deliciously and presented beautifully. the prices for food and drinks are surprisingly reasonable, and the service is consistently excellent.
guests can also take advantage of the option to have food delivered to their villa, with prompt service and delicious jamaican flavors.
the villas are kept spotlessly clean throughout the stay, with tropical decor and comfortable furnishings. the private pool and outdoor dining area at pimento hall are popular features, providing a perfect setting for relaxing with family.
the full kitchens allow for preparing simple meals, though the reasonable restaurant prices often encourage guests to dine out.
the beds are notably comfortable, contributing to a restful stay. the only downside mentioned by many guests is having to leave this magical place.
hermosa cove is highly recommended for anyone seeking a top-notch, stress-free vacation in jamaica.
each villa offers free wi-fi, a ceiling fan, a seating area, a flat-screen tv, and a terrace with sea views. the full bathroom includes a shower, and the kitchen is fully equipped with a coffee maker, ensuring all the comforts of home.
beyond resorts: exploring ocho rios and jamaican culture
while the resorts offer a wealth of amenities, it's worth venturing beyond the grounds to experience the broader culture and natural beauty of jamaica.
ocho rios itself offers various attractions and activities, from exploring local markets to visiting dunn's river falls. consider taking a day trip to nearby locations to further immerse yourself in the island's charm.
the capital city, kingston, provides a different perspective on jamaica, showcasing the urban environment and rich cultural heritage.
visiting the bob marley museum offers a profound experience, allowing you to connect with the legacy of the reggae legend. the blue mountains offer a refreshing escape with cooler temperatures and lush landscapes, famous for producing some of the world's most sought-after coffee.
exploring beyond the resorts and embracing the local culture will undoubtedly enrich your jamaican vacation, creating lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the island's unique spirit.
whether you choose the all-inclusive luxury of moon palace jamaica grande or the intimate seclusion of hermosa cove, your trip to ocho rios promises an unforgettable experience.