Sandals has some truly outstanding resorts all across Jamaica. Two popular choices amongst newlyweds and couples are the famous Sandals Montego Bay, and Sandals South Coast.
Let’s dive into the unique features of both resorts, to help you make an informed decision so you can choose which Sandals is best for you.
Our Quick Take
Sandals Montego Bay is close to the airport and is close to Sandals Royal Caribbean allowing for more dining options. Montego Bay does hear noise from the airport and the excursion activities are going to be more crowded.
Sandals South Coast has larger pools and is very spread out. While it takes a long windy drive to arrive, it provides more seclusion and feels somewhat off the beaten path. It is also more affordable than Sandals Montego Bay
Location
Whilst both resorts have a fantastic location overlooking the Caribbean Sea, they couldn’t be more different.
As the name suggests, Sandals Montego Bay is located in the city of Montego Bay, right on the oceanfront. This makes it a perfect destination for anyone who likes plenty of hustle and bustle nearby, as the city of Montego Bay has plenty on offer to see and do.
Sandals South Coast on the other hand is situated in a more remote location, which is better for those who enjoy a little peace and quiet and are looking for a tranquil escape.
Accommodations
Sandals Resorts are known worldwide for providing guests with luxurious, gorgeous, and classy accommodations, and at these resorts, it really is no different. From the standard Junior Suites to the swim-up Butler Suites, there is a huge variety of room types to choose from to help you create the perfect vacation.
The suites all boast spacious living areas, private balconies with gorgeous views, smart TVs, and even whirlpool tubs. So no matter what type of room you choose to spend your vacation in, you’ll be able to enjoy luxurious and convenient amenities.
That said, one stark difference that should be mentioned is that Sandals South Coast also offers Overwater bungalows. These can be a huge draw for many guests, who are looking for a dreamy, tranquil resort experience.
Beaches and Pools
Whether it’s relaxing on the beach or taking a dip in the pool to cool off, both of these resorts have great options when it comes to their beaches and pools.
Both boast their own gorgeous stretch of beach, easily accessible from anywhere around the resorts, with some select suites and villas granting guests direct access.
When it comes to pools, Sandals Montego Bay has 7 pools, most of them smaller than the ones at Sandals South Coast.
Sandals South Coast has 4 very large pools and 4 whirlpools.
Food & Drinks
Sandals Montego Bay boasts a fantastic selection of 12 different restaurants, plus access to a further nine restaurants over at the neighboring Sandals Royal Caribbean. The on-site options range from traditional Caribbean food over at the Jerk Shack, to tasty Pan-Asian cuisine at Tokyo Joes, with everything in between from British Pub fare to a good old-fashioned Steakhouse.
Down at Sandals South Coast, guests can choose from a selection of nine different restaurants and eateries, including a fantastic ocean-front seafood grill, delicious Caribbean food, and gorgeous Pan-Asian cuisine.
Both resorts also have great options for bars, with Sandals Montego Bay boasting 6 bars, including both swim-up and overwater bars, and Sandals South Coast boasting an amazing 7 bars, including a swim-up bar.
Overall, Sandals Montego Bay has more options, but there are enough options at Sandals South Coast to last several days without repeating.
Entertainment and Activities
When it comes to the entertainment and activities available at both Sandals Montego Bay, and Sandals South Coast, there is plenty on offer to see and do.
At both Sandals resorts, you can enjoy access to a great range of water-based activities, including PADI-Certified SCUBA diving and equipment, waterskiing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, and use of snorkeling equipment.
There’s also a great range of land activities available, including tennis facilities and access to a state-of-the-art fitness center. There’s also great entertainment on offer, day or night with regular entertainment and live shows, as well as a gorgeous spa to relax at.
Final Thoughts
Sandals Resorts always provide guests with an outstanding experience, and for this reason, both are held to an exceptionally high standard. This makes it difficult to choose, as when it comes to quality of service and the on-site amenities, there really isn’t much difference.
It’s a good idea to choose based on what you typically value more in a vacation though. If you like variety, or getting out and about and discovering new things in the city, then Sandals Montego Bay may be for you.
If you’re the kind of person who enjoys playing sports and is looking for a tranquil honeymoon in a picturesque, remote location, then Sandals South Coast might be the best choice.
In conclusion, both Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals South Coast offer an outstanding adults-only getaway, and no matter which you choose, you’ll be guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
When it comes down to it, the choice really does depend on your own personal preferences.
He is an expert travel advisor and enthusiast. He has traveled extensively in the USA, Central American, South America and Europe. He has visited every Sandals Resort and is one of a select few Diamond Elite members of the Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club.
Dan graduated from Johnson & Wales University with an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Later he graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a focus on people and culture.