Guest User
March 10, 2024
I am WELL-TRAVELED all over beautiful Jamaica and have stayed at more than a half dozen Negril hotels (once on the Cliffs, the rest beachfront). Sandy Haven is now “mi yardi” ( my home in Jamaican patois). This trip I stayed just 5 nights because I spent 4 nights at a professional conference in Montego Bay at a supposedly 4.5 star all- inclusive resort that was AWFUL. I had been to Sandy Haven 2 years prior so already knew I was returning to one of the best Negril Beachfront Hotels. Despite some chillier than usual nights, everything was as good or better! Aside from impeccably clean rooms and a great location on 7 mile beach, I was remembered and happily greeted by 5 staff members. Had gotten close to Miss Sinclair 2 years ago but didn’t expect POPS, and front desk Michelle to remember me as did 2 others. I also made new friends too…other guests and staff. I’ve stayed all over Jamaica. In Negril I’ve stayed at one of the most expensive all-inclusive (hated it), at one of the crummiest cheap places, and many in-between all with pluses and minuses. Sandy Haven is a bit more upscale than most other small hotels and WOW I enjoyed the beachfront view with soaking tub (an upgrade). Felt 100% perfectly safe at Sandy Haven at the hotel, by neighboring hotels and restaurants, and off the beach to spots along the main road. I really enjoyed my daily breakfast overlooking the beach and watching the Negril Sunset up close. Plenty of chaise lounges in sun or shade and a positively inviting, happy bar with bartenders happy to serve me up ice water, sometimes with melon (I’m not a drinker but the drinks looked good). Nobody carries money except maybe to tip as you can sign it all to your room. Sandy Haven is open and accepting to ALL, though it’s not the place for kids under 16. Nothing illicit or weird going on-it’s just a place for people who want a break from little ones as there are so many other family/child focused and/or swim up drunken party resorts. At age 60, I’m well-past hanging at a swim up bar getting hammered. I like the peace, serenity, warmth and genuine Jamaican hospitality and friendliness of Sandy Haven. If I was with kids, I’d stay directly next door at a perfectly adequate (not as updated) family focused place so I could still hang at Sandy Haven. Last point, but important-I had some unexpected health challenges during my trip and got all the assistance needed! Sorry I can’t remember the name of the wonderful front desk gentleman, the sweet young bartender, and this other guy who had me cracking up each day. I can’t wait to return!