The 10 Best Resorts in Montego Bay, Jamaica — From the Perspective of Montego Bay Photographer LLC Founder, Kevin Wright
- Montego Bay Photographer Jamaica
- Aug 15
- 4 min read
As the founder of Montego Bay Photographer LLC, I’ve filmed weddings, styled shoots, and events at many elite resorts across Montego Bay. The following list is informed exclusively by TripAdvisor guest reviews, giving you a blend of credible feedback and my firsthand insights.
1. Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island
Guest feedback:
“We stayed in the over water bungalows… It was amazing, so clean and upkept! Everyone was so nice, service was excellent. Our butler Shenetta and Hugh went above and beyond… surprise lunch on the beach… special blue champagne.”— Read full review Tripadvisor
“The overwater bungalow experience is out of this world… The food, the service, the attention to detail… truly unforgettable!”— Read full review Tripadvisor
Why it shines: Overwater bungalows with stellar service offer exceptional cinematic potential—ideal for dreamy wedding and editorial footage.
2. Secrets St. James Montego Bay
Guest reflections:
“This without a doubt one of the best resorts I’ve vacationed to. Staff was amazing, Food/Drinks was delicious everywhere. Overall experience was excellent. Can’t wait to come back.”— Read full review Tripadvisor
“My family and I stayed at Secrets… it exceeded my expectations. The food and the service were phenomenal! I had the best oxtails of my life… Definitely going to be a repeat offender!”— Read full review Tripadvisor
Why it performs: Stylish, adults-only luxury with outstanding food and gracious service—an excellent match for romantic or high-end event filming.
3. Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
Guest insight: Often highlighted among top-tier adults-only resorts with exceptional ratings for service and ambiance.— TripAdvisor listing ranking The Times
Why I recommend it: Quiet, refined, and romantic—perfect for capturing poised, intimate visuals for couples or wedding stories.
4. Riu Palace Jamaica
Guest sentiment: Noted for its value, vibrant ambiance, and excellent buffet options.— TripAdvisor listing ranking The Times
Why I choose it: Energetic and family-friendly—great for filming joyful, lively moments and group gatherings.
5. Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall
Guest praise: Recognized for family-focused features and comprehensive resort facilities.— TripAdvisor listing ranking The Times
Why it's ideal: Perfect for shooting multi-generational events—dynamic, structured, and film-friendly settings.
6. Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa
Guest feedback: Frequently mentioned among upscale resorts for romantic views and all-inclusive luxury.— TripAdvisor Spanish-language listing The Times
Why filmmakers love it: Spacious and elegant—ideal for cinematic storytelling and high-end style shoots.
7. S Hotel Montego Bay
Guest comment: Praised as a romantic boutique hotel with a rooftop vibe.— TripAdvisor listing The Times
Why choose it: Sleek and modern—for intimate, artful shoots with a contemporary feel.
8. Round Hill Hotel & Villas
Guest acclaim: Known for colonial-era charm and luxury.— TripAdvisor listing The Times
Why it’s timeless: Classic architecture and elite atmosphere make it perfect for heritage-inspired storytelling.
9. Excellence Oyster Bay (mention via Reddit guest review)
“Excellence Oyster bay is beautiful and on its own peninsula… very relaxed vibe.”— Read user comment Reddit
Why it appeals: Tranquil and secluded—great for emotional and serene visual storytelling away from crowds.
10. Half Moon Resort
Guest recognition: Frequently lauded for its lush grounds and elegant ambiance.— TripAdvisor listing The Times
Why it’s exceptional: Grand and versatile, offering a cinematic canvas for weddings and large productions.
Visual Power by Resort
These 10 best resorts in Montego Bay, Jamaica, are highly rated by actual guests on TripAdvisor. From my perspective behind the lens, each offers unique visual storytelling opportunities—whether for weddings, family shoots, or creative productions.
Let me know if you'd like more on ideal filming spots within each property or tips for working with resort teams to execute successful shoots.
Also Note:
Pool & Foam Party Highlights at Montego Bay Resorts
Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa
Foam Party: Yes—though execution may vary.
A guest review describes:
“They brought in DJs for the foam party and I have to say the foam party is fun, but it’s more of an advertising ploy than anything else.”— Read full review Tripadvisor
Pool Parties: The resort is often highlighted for its party vibe. A guest on Reddit noted:
“Breathless Montego Bay is the place to go! Lots of day and night parties, DJs… it seems to be the party place 24/7 lol”— Read full comment Reddit
Riu Montego Bay – Adults Only
Themed Pool/Night Parties: Guests report themed pool parties and nightclub-style days, such as:
“White party on the sand by the outside bar with DJ… nightclub open 11–2.”— Read full feature TripadvisorTripadvisor
Sandals Montego Bay
Pool Parties: Known for casual beach and pool side entertainment:
“Adults-only resort… brings the party with its lively beach parties, live music, and themed nights.”— See summary HeyJamaicaMy-Island-Jamaica.com
Foam Parties: Rare and more anecdotal. A Reddit user mentioned DJ parties, but noted these are not the norm for a honeymoon-focused stay:
“I have seen foam parties and DJs next to the pool…”— Read comment Reddit
Pool Parties: Yes—guests speak of lively activities:
“Activities at the pools during the day and lively house band… at 10:30 pm there is piano sing‑a‑long.”— Read guest answer Tripadvisor
Foam Parties: None mentioned.
Quick Summary Table
If you’re planning a shoot or event and want to highlight resort party experiences visually, Breathless Montego Bay and Riu Montego Bay offer the most party-specific footage opportunities. If you're after more understated or traditional resort scenes, Sandals and Secrets deliver pleasant pool atmospheres without the foam.
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