Sandals Dunn’s River Review
Reviewed by Nicole Rosania | Updated on June 27, 2024
Are you dreaming of a tropical paradise for your honeymoon? Look no further than Sandals Dunn’s River, an iconic resort that recently reopened with a complete renovation. Nestled in the heart of Ocho Rios, Jamaica, this resort encapsulates the essence of the island’s natural wonders, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking an unforgettable honeymoon experience. With its magnificent beach, delectable dining options, stunning pools, and unique features, Sandals Dunn’s River promises to be a haven for romance and relaxation.
For couples seeking an idyllic honeymoon getaway, Sandals Dunn’s River delivers on all fronts. With its stunning beach, sumptuous dining options, inviting pools, and unique features, this resort creates an unforgettable backdrop for your love story.
Embrace the natural wonders of Jamaica and celebrate your union in true Caribbean style at Sandals Dunn’s River. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, this resort offers the perfect blend for an enchanting and unforgettable honeymoon experience.
Recommended Accommodations
Here are our recommended rooms for each of Sandals room categories.
Tufa Terrace One Bedroom Skypool Butler Suite w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub
At the Butler level, we recommend you explore the idea of staying in the lavish Tufa Terrace building, where the luxury Butler suites have a private SkyPool and signature Tranquility Soaking Tub for two on the balcony overlooking the ocean.
On the inside, the spacious bedroom features a king-size bed, HD Smart TV, modern living room, and spa-inspired bathroom. The bathroom includes a second Tranquility Soaking Tub, walk-in shower, and double sink with a vanity. This suite also includes a fully stocked bar with premium liquors, a personal butler, and 24/7 in-room dining.
Mammee Bay Oceanview Club Level Room w/ Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub
Located in the Mammee Bay building, the Mammee Bay Oceanview Club level room has an intimate balcony, with a bistro dining set and Tranquility Soaking Tub for two. Additionally, the space has stylish furnishings including a king-size bed, walk-in shower, and a double-sink vanity. Club Sandals concierge services are available for honeymooners to take advantage of and include private check-in, 24/7 in-room dining, and exclusive access to the Club Sandals Lounge.
Travertine Luxury Room w/ Tranquility Soaking Tub
Overlooking the Tropical Garden below, the Travertine Luxury Room has a balcony with a bistro dining set for two. The interior features a king-size bed, a Smart TV, and indoor Tranquility Soaking Tub for two with a separate full bath and walk-in shower. The room also includes a refrigerator fully stocked with bottled water, juices, sodas, and local beers and wines.
Restaurants at Sandals Dunn’s River
Honeymooners can enjoy 12 specialty restaurants at Sandals Dunn’s River.
Saltaire
Set right by the ocean, this open-air eatery offers a wide variety of options for honeymooners to enjoy at breakfast and lunch. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Edessa
Breakfast and dinner are served here daily. Enjoy Greek-inspired flavors in a warm and relaxed setting overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Cascata
Italian restaurant open daily for dinner from 6 – 9:30 pm. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
L’Amande
Upscale French restaurant serving classic cuisine with ingredients sourced from the heart of Jamaica Open daily for dinner from 6 – 9:30 pm. Dress code is Resort Evening Attire and reservations are required.
Banyu
The ultimate Asian dining experience. From Thailand to Japan, this dinner restaurant offers it all. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Zuka
Enjoy Latin American culinary traditions and flavors inside (or outside!) a tropical environment. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Dunn’s Rum Club
Indulge in a Jamaican craft cocktail curated from Sandals list of rums. Play at the pool tables and try your luck at Jamaican dominoes. Open daily from 5 pm – 2 am. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Galene Seaside Grill
Enjoy grilled delights and savor the island’s daily catches on your honeymoon daily from 11 am – 6 pm. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Pizzeria Isola
Enjoy pizza by the sea daily from 11 am – 6 pm. Dresscode is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Blum Jamaican Coffee
Savor a selection of artisan coffees, traditional pastries filled with Jamaican chocolate and spices, and espresso drinks. Open daily from 6 am – 10 pm. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Hanami
Enjoy sushi made with the finest ingredients for dinner, served daily from 6 – 9:30 pm. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Jerk Shack
It wouldn’t be a honeymoon in Jamaica without some jerk cooking! Lunch is served here daily from 11 am – 5 pm, and dinner from 6 – 8 pm. Dress code is Resort Casual and reservations are not required.
Activities at Sandals Dunn’s River
Honeymooners can scuba dive through some of the world’s most renowned reefs through Sandals comprehensive scuba diving program — and it’s all included!
Additional water sports that include top-of-the-line equipment and professional instruction include kayaks, waterskiing, tubing, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kneeboarding. On land, guests can enjoy access to a state-of-the-art fitness center and activities such as table tennis, shuffleboard, bocce ball, lawn chess, and cricket.
Guests can also golf at Upton Estate Golf & Country Club, where green fees are included. Golf Digest gave this Par-72 course a 4-star rating, so don’t miss it! Sandals Dunn River offers complimentary transportation to and from the course.
The Best Island Route Tours at Sandals Dunn’s River
Blue Mountain Highlights & Waterfall Experience from Ocho Rios
Explore Jamaica's vast Blue Mountains on this 3 hour guided tour. Begin with a tour of a small coffee farm and then take a refreshing dip in the breathtaking waterfalls at the World Pool in Ocho Rios.
Reggae Sunset Catamaran Cruise Ocho Rios
This 3 hour catamaran cruise offers honeymooners the chance to snorkel and explore the exotic underwater sea life. This excursion also includes appetizers, cocktails, including the catamaran’s signature drink, and Reggae music! Catch sunset from above the deck on the way back.
North Coast Ultimate Adventure
This half-day tour covers the best of Jamaica’s North Coast. You can choose to explore one of Jamaica’s oldest estates solo on a Mud Buggy or on an ATV built for two. Just off the scenic route, slow down for a ride in an open-air carriage to enjoy the refreshing waters of the mystifying Secret River. The ride continues in the 1,000 acres of a beautiful, 18th century estate. On the property, enjoy a local lunch prepared right before your eyes. Later, hop back on to your ride for the day and stroll through a unique bird aviary for some tropical bird watching to end the day.Sandals Dunn’s River Packing Guide
For your honeymoon in Jamaica, the most important thing you’ll need to pack is a passport! Not only is Jamaica a Caribbean island, it is an independent country.
Also be sure to pack 3-4 dinner outfits that would fit the resort evening attire dress code at some of Sandals Dunn River restaurants. Additionally, pack essentials for several hours in the sun, including 2-3 swimsuits, a cover up, beach shorts, sunscreen, and a hat. For your excursions into the jungle, you’ll need a pair of sneakers and some athleisure clothing. Additionally, pack 5-6 t-shirts, 2 pairs of PJs, sandals, closed-toe or heeled shoes for the nicer restaurants, and finally, toiletries (although many of the Sandals bathrooms will provide the basics for honeymooners).
7 Day Itinerary at Sandals Dunn’s River
Day 1: Settle in & have your first taste of Caribbean rum
There are three international airports in Jamaica: Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica’s capital city, and the Ian Fleming International Airport in picturesque Ocho Rios. For your stay at the Sandals Dunn River, you can fly right into Ocho Rios. Sandals has airport pick up options for guests, and depending on which type of room you book, it may even be complimentary!
Enjoy a cocktail upon arrival at one of the 9 bars located throughout the property, and settle into your suite before dining at one of Sandals’ 12 on-site restaurants this evening.
Day 2: Book a massage, explore the property, and relax by the pool
Feeling sore from the travel day? Head to Red Lane Spa to book an afternoon massage or spa service. Spend the morning relaxing by one of the property’s 5 pools or one of the two flowing river pools at the resort.
Want to dine in one of the fine dining restaurants this evening or the next? Don’t forget to grab a reservation!
Day 3: Enjoy some watersports on the beach
Craving a little adventure after a day of R&R? Head down to the beach to enjoy complimentary Sandals watersports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Soak up the sun on the beach under an umbrella, and be sure to order a pina colada (or two!).
Day 4: Explore the best of Jamaica’s countryside
Head out into Jamaica’s countryside today on a full-day excursion! Our team recommended a few options above. Depending on the activity level you are looking for, there is ATVing, rafting, swimming in waterfalls, and so much more.
Day 5: Soak up the sun at Sandals
After a full-day excursion yesterday, you’re probably craving some more relaxation. The resort offers several land activities, including day & night tennis. After your morning coffee and breakfast buffet, maybe explore the beach area a bit more or relax by the pool.
Perhaps tonight you dine at one of the included restaurants that don’t require reservations, such as Saltaire.
Day 6: Explore some more
If you opted for one of the off-the-beaten path excursions earlier on during your honeymoon, now is the time to explore some more at a more relaxed pace. Consider a cooking class or sunset catamaran cruise. On the contrary, if you already enjoyed a snorkel cruise, head into the jungle!
Pro-tip: Before you leave for the excursion, swing into one of the nicer restaurants to secure an evening restaurant for your last special night. L’Amande would be our recommendation if you haven’t dined there yet!
Day 7: Travel day
Enjoy one last breakfast buffet or morning room service (complete with coffee by the pool), before enjoying a final walk around the property. Travel from Sandals to the airport for your flight home to close out your dream honeymoon.
Sandals Dunn’s River Map
Find a detailed map of Sandals Dunn’s River below. For an interactive map, click here and navigate to "MAP" in the menu.
