This Intimate Jamaican Hotel Is Set on One of the Country’s Most Beautiful Beaches

Upon arrival at the S Hotel Montego Bay, it was the Singer SM1500 roadster parked outside that first caught my attention — but I was quickly distracted. The hotel's open-air lobby was the second object of my affection, framing beautiful seaside views that gave off a few hints about the distinctive character within. The South Beach glitz was palpable, and it all made sense when I discovered that Miami-based studio MKDA crafted the design, successfully transporting a piece of the city to this island paradise.

Set in Montego Bay — a tropical paradise filled with luxury resorts that gaze out over the beautiful turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea — the adults-only S Hotel stands out. Not only does this all-inclusive beachfront destination have a rich cultural presence (It's a “Jamaican hotel in Jamaica,” says owner Christopher Issa), but it also boasts the famous Doctor’s Cave Beach right in its backyard.

From life-sized statues of Jamaican legends like Marcus Garvey and Usain Bolt to the vibrant colors of the national flag displayed throughout, the spirit of Jamaica is unmistakably woven into the experience here.

During my visit, I spent my time blissfully lounging on the fiery red chairs by the two pools and enjoying the enchanting melodies of Sade played by a live band in the evenings. I plunged into the calming waters of the sea by Doctor’s Cave Beach and relished a unique floating breakfast from the Skydeck above. To say I was eager to stay would be an understatement — the S Hotel radiated an atmosphere designed for guests to feel at home even when they’re away.

Read on for our full review of the S Hotel Montego Bay.

The Rooms

S Hotel Montego Bay has 120 rooms and suites in eight unique styles spread across six floors. My top-floor sky suite with an ocean view felt like a dream. Spacious and bright, it was adorned with a minimalist color scheme highlighted by wicker furniture and white walls. It included a king-size bed, a large bathroom complete with a freestanding bathtub, a walk-in shower, and a seating area, providing enough space for one person and then some.

As I entered my room, I was pleasantly surprised to find a snack pack of Jamaican ginger biscuits, cashew nuts, and banana chips as a thoughtful welcome gift. Each morning, I enjoyed postcard-worthy views while taking in the soothing sounds of the waves. Then, in the evening, when I craved alone time, I listened to live music drifting from the pool area from the comfort of my balcony.

Food and Drink

With six restaurants and a lobby bar, mornings kicked off at Market Place, where a generous breakfast buffet filled with Caribbean and international flavors set the tone for the day. The 24/7 S Cafe quickly became my go-to for fresh juice and ice cream, while Vibes Bar & Grill was the ideal spot to enjoy a meal by the pool after a day in the sun.

Each dining experience had its own unique charm, making it hard to resist trying everything from the hearty rice and peas with jerk chicken at Roots Rock to the delectable fresh lobster at Jamrock. While the bars and restaurants thrived with energy, Rocksteady offered a more relaxed dining experience, complete with a pianist serenading guests in a stylish, smart casual environment.

Activities and Experiences 

The hotel is home to a variety of unique experiences that allow you to immerse yourself in the essence of Jamaica without stepping off the property. You can dive into rum history by attending an expert-led tasting, engage in a hands-on cocktail-making class at the Sky Deck, get your creative juices flowing at a paint-and-sip class, or admire the colorful sky at sunset with a glass of champagne from the top floor. For breakfast with a twist, try a floating breakfast in the Sky Deck pool. If you’d rather be on a rooftop, the expansive 1,200-square-foot Sky Lounge awaits you.

At Club S, you can fall in love with the sounds of the island or enjoy live reggae music in the evenings. Coffee enthusiasts can sharpen their knowledge at a tasting focused on the multi-layered Blue Mountain coffee from Jamaica, and those looking for stimulating activities can get their heart pumping at a water aerobics class or a fun-filled volleyball game in the main pool.

The Spa

Unwind in the tranquil ambiance of the Irie Spa and Baths. With its gray stone walls and verdant surroundings reminiscent of an ancient thermae, the spa has five treatment rooms offering facials, massages, body treatments, and nail care. 

Accessibility and Sustainability

The S Hotel prioritizes both accessibility and sustainability. It features a variety of ADA-compliant accommodations and an accessible bathroom in the lobby. To promote eco-friendliness, it utilizes propane gas for heating, offers water-efficient toilets, and has implemented a recycling initiative. Guests can also contribute to energy conservation through a key card system that shuts off power when they leave the room.

Location

Nestled less than 1.5 miles from Sangster International Airport, the S Hotel is ideally located. With the nearby Hip Strip within easy walking distance, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. If you’re eager to venture out, a quick road trip of under two hours will take you to Ocho Rios, home to Dunn’s River Falls, Margaritaville, and the Blue Hole.