Nestled along the shores of Montego Bay, Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa offers an all-inclusive experience that blends relaxation with indulgence. From the moment we arrived, the resort exuded a sense of ease and comfort. Check-in was smooth—our bags were whisked away by the bellboy, and after a quick process at the front desk, we were chauffeured to our room via golf cart. The only hiccup? The cart couldn’t accommodate our luggage due to the busy check-in period, but our bags arrived at our room within 30 minutes. A welcome drink would have been the cherry on top, but hey, you can’t have everything!
A Foodie’s Delight (Mostly)
One of the standout aspects of my stay was the food. I never had a bad meal, which is rare at all-inclusive resorts. The hibachi restaurant was a surprise favorite—I usually find hibachi to be underwhelming, but here, the flavors were bold and the seasoning on point. I also couldn’t get enough of their mango daiquiris, a perfect tropical treat.
The breakfast buffet, located in Building C, served up made-to-order omelets and a variety of fresh options to start the day right. While the food exceeded expectations, the desserts left something to be desired. But to be fair, I’ve yet to find a resort that nails desserts to my liking.
Accommodations: Spacious & Modern
Jewel Grande is home to three main buildings and a selection of villas. I stayed in the Sentry Tower (Building C), where all the rooms have been recently remodeled. The Oceanfront Junior Suite was more than spacious—boasting over 800 sq. ft. of modern decor, a comfortable sitting area, and a balcony with breathtaking views. The resort also offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites, making it a great option for groups and families.
A quick heads-up for light sleepers: The pool near Building C can get lively in the evenings with music and entertainment. However, the festivities wrap up by 9:30 PM, so it’s never an all-night affair.
Beach & Pools: A Little Slice of Paradise
The beach at Jewel Grande is a charming small cove, partially enclosed by rocks. If you love long walks along an expansive shoreline, this might not be your ideal spot. However, the rock formations help keep the waters calm, making it perfect for swimming.
For those who prefer pools, the resort has two to choose from—both active but never overwhelming. The all-inclusive package also includes unlimited non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, wind sailing, and small sailboats.
Things to Do: Relaxed but Never Boring
Jewel Grande leans toward relaxation over high-energy activities, but there’s still plenty to keep you entertained. The two pools offer concierge service, a swim-up bar, and a social atmosphere. If you’re into wellness, you can enjoy fitness classes, including yoga in an overwater gazebo.
One of the highlights of the resort is the 30,000 sq. ft. spa, offering world-class treatments and hydrotherapy pools. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love the Kids Club & Teen Lounge, complete with table tennis, video games, beachfront play areas, a splash pad, and more.
Evening Entertainment & Nightlife
Evenings at Jewel Grande feature live performances and themed events, making for a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. However, things quiet down by 9:30 PM. If you’re craving more nightlife, Montego Bay’s Hip Strip is just a 15-minute taxi ride away, offering bars, clubs, and local entertainment.
Art & Impact: The Jewel Grande Art Gallery Showcase
The Art Gallery Showcase at Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa offers guests an immersive experience into Jamaican art and culture. Every three months, the Clubhouse Lobby is transformed into a dynamic gallery, spotlighting the works of a new local artist. This rotating exhibit provides a platform for talented Jamaican creators to share their artistry, giving visitors a chance to appreciate and purchase unique, locally inspired pieces. More than just a visual experience, the showcase also contributes to the Jewel Grande Community & Care Program, with 10% of proceeds from every sale supporting charitable and community initiatives. It’s a meaningful way to take home a piece of Jamaica while giving back to the local community.
Final Thoughts
Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa strikes a balance between luxury, relaxation, and fun. The food was exceptional, the accommodations spacious and modern, and the service consistently top-notch. While the entertainment winds down early and the beach isn’t vast, these are minor trade-offs for the resort’s intimate, laid-back elegance. If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway with great food, attentive service, and stunning ocean views, Jewel Grande is well worth considering.
Would I return? Absolutely—especially for that hibachi experience and mango daiquiris!