Sandals Ochi Beach Resort Review (Ocho Rios, Jamaica) — 2026 Tips
Last updated: January 2026
If you want the most variety for the best price in the Sandals portfolio, Sandals Ochi is the move. It’s famous for its “two moods in one resort” feel: lively beach-club energy when you want it, and a more secluded garden-villa escape when you don’t.
Sandals Ochi also packs a lot into the stay: 16 restaurants, a hidden speakeasy, and included golf green fees—all while often pricing as one of the most budget-friendly Sandals options.
Quick take: who Sandals Ochi is best for
You’ll love Ochi if you want:
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A social, energetic resort with tons of dining and nightlife options
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A “big resort” with lots of pools, bars, and places to explore
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Strong value compared to other Sandals resorts
You might choose a different resort if:
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You want one long, walkable beach (Ochi is more “resort village” than “endless beach strolls”)
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You dislike shuttles inside a resort (Ochi is spread out—by design)
The layout: “two sides to paradise”
Sandals Ochi is essentially a resort with two distinct zones:
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The Beachside area (more action, beach club vibe, quicker access to beachfront restaurants/bars)
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The Hillside / Garden villa side (more secluded, romantic, and villa-focused—this is where many of the higher-end experiences live)
Sandals even highlights that the villa side sits in a 100-acre garden setting, which is a big reason the resort can feel private despite being large.
My room strategy (Addison’s real-world recommendation)
Here’s the honest truth: Sandals Ochi is one of the few Sandals resorts where upgrading can be a disproportionate win.
My booking rule for Ochi:
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If budget allows, prioritize Butler-level suites/villas here first.
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If you’re going non-Butler, be picky: choose categories that keep you close to the vibe you want (beach energy vs garden quiet).
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Don’t assume “cheapest room = best value” at Ochi. You’re paying for the resort’s variety, but your room choice still matters.
Dining at Sandals Ochi
If you’re a “let’s try everything” couple, Ochi is one of the best Sandals resorts for that. Sandals lists 16 restaurants on property, which is huge for a weeklong stay.
My simple dining game plan:
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Pick 2–3 “must-do” dinners early (the ones everyone wants at prime times)
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Fill the rest with casual favorites and repeat the spots you actually loved
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Save at least one night for a “no plan” evening—Ochi rewards spontaneity
Bars, nightlife, and the famous speakeasy
Ochi is known for having a playful nightlife edge, including a hidden speakeasy-style bar (Sandals calls it a speakeasy “if you know how to find it”).
If you like a resort that feels “alive” after dinner, Ochi is strong—without forcing the party on you 24/7 (because you can always retreat to the quieter side).
Golf and included perks
If golf matters to you, Ochi is extra attractive because green fees are included at Sandals’ Upton Estate Golf & Country Club (you’ll still want to plan tee times and consider caddies/transport details).
Airport: what to fly into (MBJ vs OCJ)
Most travelers fly into Montego Bay (MBJ), but if you can find flights that work, Ian Fleming International (OCJ) is the closer airport.
Sandals notes Ochi is about 9 miles / 14 km from OCJ and about 61 miles / 99 km from MBJ, and transfers are complimentary.
My advice: If the price difference isn’t crazy, the shorter transfer can be a quality-of-life upgrade—especially for shorter trips.
Awards / credibility
Small thing, big trust signal: Sandals Ochi is listed by World Travel Awards as a winner of the Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort.
Bottom line: should you book Sandals Ochi?
Book Ochi if you want maximum options, strong value, and a resort that can be both lively and romantic—with the understanding that the property is spread out and your room choice matters more here than at some other Sandals resorts.
