Sandals Royal Plantation

This was our first vacation post COVID and Sandals RP did not disappoint. This is an intimate all Butler property where the staff go above and beyond. A big thanks to our Butler Tamara who exceeded our expectations.

Overall, the food was very good with many options. You have full exchange privileges at Sandals Ochi, which provides over 20 dining options. Albeit, the staff at Sandals Ochi were not as friendly. Probably because it is a massive property and they don't get to know the guests as well.

The demographic at this property are professionals over the age of 40. It is not a party resort. If you are looking for excitement, this resort is not for you. If you are looking for rest and relaxation while being constantly pampered to, look no further.

The resort is situated on a cliff, which means you walk down to the beach and some of the food areas. There are no elevators in the east or main buildings. Something to consider if you have mobility requirements.

The Beach is amazing, however there are not enough umbrellas on the east beach. If you are looking for shade, you need to claim your spot early. The west beach have ample umbrellas. A big thanks to the Beach Butlers who made sure we always had a drink and snacks.

The room was clean and serviced daily by housekeeping. Like all Sandals, the property grounds were immaculate.

It is about a 2 hour transfer from the airport. For safety reasons, the driver will only stop at sanctioned rest stops. It is best to take advantage of the rest rooms before leaving the airport. The drivers are not Sandals employees, so you can tip them if appropriate. [Details]

We stayed here for our wedding moon. The wedding was fantastic, they did everything perfect for what we wanted. The food and restaurants were amazing, no complaints at all. The staff was friendly and always happy. Entertainment staff was fun and active. Our Butlers were not too impressive. We saw many other butlers on the beaches talking to their guests but ours never once came to us. We felt a bit excluded once we saw that. Although we were given a cell phone to call them we didn't feel it should be up to us but rather them to check on us like the other ones did. The butler service will be something in the future we will probably not book due to this. The grounds were gorgeous and clean. Excellent place if you want to relax and enjoy quiet. [Details]

We have been going to Sandals for the last 23 years and by now - we have been to all of them. Please don't believe any bad reviews about this place. We have been to this resort 3 times in the last 18 months and we don't want to go to any other Sandals, anymore. It's the most relaxing resort that you can ever get. The staff is amazing, the food is good and all of the suites have an ocean view. The rooms are in the older style, but everything is in a great working condition and extra clean. Staff works all the time to keep the resort clean and there was just an overhaul and all the public places have received a new furniture. There is more than enough loungers on the beach, so you never have to go in the morning to "reserve" one. It's a very quite resort and that's the beauty of it, but with a full access to the Sandals Ochi next door (a 300 meters walk - or a shuttle ride away) - you can have it all. The people who complain about that there is "nothing to do" did not do enough research, before they booked. The butlers will make almost every wish to come thru - as long as you ask them. I like a Japanese beer from the Soy restaurant at Sandals Ochi next door and my butler brought that for me. One night we had a reservation at the Papillon and I didn't really wanted to dress up and go, as I was packing for an early flight, so mu butler brought us the menu to our room and then delivered all the dishes one by one to us. Please show me a resort that will do that. We just come back and want to go again. I always cry when I leave. [Details]

This was our fourth trip to a Sandals resort. It was our first trip to SRP.

First off, if you are looking for activity, music, and lots to do...this is NOT the place for you. Situated next to the Sandals Grande Riviera in Ocho Rios, the SRP is the quiet, extremely laid back version of Sandals. The clientele tend towards 60 years in age.

ROOMS

The resort is quite old and it shows in the rooms. All rooms have juliet balconies or full balconies facing the ocean (one of the best things about the resort). The rooms are advertised as suites but are quite small - I have been on cruises with larger suites than SRP!

The age of the resort really shows in the bathrooms. Bathrooms are typically one of the areas where Sandals shines but not here - old, dull, and with wonky plumbing. I was told by management that the SRP is scheduled for a complete overhaul in the next year. It might be best to defer a visit until after.

FOOD

It was very much hit and miss. Avoid the grill for dinner - poorly done seafood. The French restaurant (Papillon) was very good. Portions were quite large so you do need to pace yourself!

The terrace was open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and was typical of most all inclusives in terms of food quality - decent but not great.

As SRP guests, we had access to the Grande Riviera and its 16 restaurants. We did get to the pizza place for lunch - surprisingly good! Our reservations for dinner at Kimonos (Teppanyaki style restaurant) were not filled and we went without supper that night. Complaints brought nothing more than an offer to rebook us in - which we declined.

BUTLER SERVICE

SRP is an all butler resort. The brochures indicate that the butlers will make your vacation memorable. In reality, unless you ask they will ignore you. After four days of nothing, we finally started asking for items and expressing concerns. It was at this point that we actually received some attention!

ACTIVITIES

None. Seriously. There are some water toys at the beach but that is about it. You can go snorkelling or on a glass bottom boat tour. The highlight of the day is the 4:00 pm English tea service. That's it.

OVERALL

SRP is pricey. We found that the value for dollar compared to other options just isn't there. It is a great resort if you want to do absolutely nothing. [Details]

Great Hotel - Very Relaxing. Not your typical resort. [Details]

It was a very relaxing vacation not a party place but that was just next door.We had great butlers Teneisha and Donard they made everything special. Our candlelight dinner was outstanding and our waiter Delgardo even sang for us , he made they evening even more special. also everything i read about the famous chocolate lava cake is true it is delicious and still thinking about it . We are already thinking about returning. every staff member on the resort was outstanding . [Details]

We were married at this resort 10 years ago and returned for our anniversary to renew our vows. We were extremely happy with our wedding at the time and are again very happy after returning from this trip. The service is outstanding. You have your own personal butler who is happy to help organize any reservations or help you in any way possible. 24 hour room service with elegant table cloths, linens and cutlery brought to your room. The food is exceptional. Our vow renewal was simple and beautiful. We will definitely be returning again and again. [Details]