Royalton Blue Waters

Royalton Blue Waters opened in November 2016 and is a sleek, modern oceanfront property. During our winter 2017 visit, though, it was still smoothing out its new-resort kinks. Blue Waters grounds are mostly cement walkways and grassy patches with ocean and pool views in the distance. At times it almost feels like an urban oasis, with its lack of any tropical vegetation and city-inspired contemporary style. It’s important to note that Blue Waters is located next to the Royalton White Sands Resort and the two resorts share all amenities (and are hardly discernible). Taken in whole, this is a family-friendly property, and kids are just about everywhere. From the gym, to the pools, the beach, and the water park at Royalton White Sands, kids are screaming, splashing, and -- well -- just being kids. If you’re looking for a tranquil, beachy resort, the Royalton Resort properties here probably aren't the right pick. Diamond Club packages are available, but the premium splurge gets mixed reviews. Perks include a private check-in desk, exclusive lobby lounge, and a VIP section of the beach. There will be still be kids and families, but it's usually less crowded. Royalton resorts are Canadian owned, so its no surprise that most of the resort’s guests are Canadian families of all ages. 

This resort often advertises itself as being in Montego Bay, but that's not the case at all. In fact, Montego Bay is at least a 40-minute drive from here. Instead, it's located on a long, sandy stretch of beach that's a 10-minute drive from the Falmouth, a restored British colonial town with quaint Georgian architecture. Glistening Waters, a bioluminescent bay that offers nightly tours, is a three-minute drive from the resort, while Good Hope Great House, is 15 to 20 minutes away by car. Famed Dunn’s River Falls, with its series of climbable step waterfalls, is around an hour away by car, as is Ocho Rios. It's an 80-minute drive to the Blue Hole, a stunning turquoise swimming hole with waterfalls. Budget around 30 minutes to reach Sangster International Airport by car.

The air-conditioned suites at Blue Water’s are posh and modern. Neutral-toned color schemes blend white and tan hues with minimalist metal sculptures styled like waves or ocean breezes depending on your take. They also stand out with lots of tech-friendly amenities. Expect iHome Bluetooth clock radios, wall-mounted USB plugs, and huge flat-screen TVs with satellite channels and IPTV integration for booking everything from dinner reservations to spa appointments. All rooms have either king or two queen beds, plus sleeper love seats or recliners. Minibars are stocked with water, soda, and beer (all free), but no liquor, which has disappointed some past guests. There have also been complaints of lax housekeeping. Ocean-view balconies are furnished and included in every unit, and some of the swankier rooms have wraparound balconies, private plunge pools, or outdoor whirlpool tubs. Other standard features include free Wi-Fi, irons, ironing boards. safes, and coffeemakers with free coffee. Rooms have two types of bathrooms, and some will feel less private than others as the bathrooms can have a partial open plan. Either way, expect white vanities with dual sinks, illuminated beauty mirrors, whirlpool tubs, and marble-tiled stand-up showers with two rainfall shower heads. A number or toiletries and amenities are provided. All rooms also have hairdryers, robes, slippers, and scales. Cribs are available, as are connecting rooms. 

Like most all-inclusives in this part of Jamaica, features are numerous -- especially so because the amenities here are shared with Royalton White Sands next door. Royalton Blue Waters’ long sandy beach is gorgeous and lined with loungers and thatched umbrellas, though sea grass and beach upkeep can be issues. There's also a beach volleyball court. Non-motorized water sports are free and include kayaks, Hobie Cats, and paddle boats. There's a private Diamond Club area as well, which tends to be less busy than the main seating area. Beach vendors do prowl the sand, selling everything from massages to souvenirs.Blue Water’s two freshwater pools include an oceanfront infinity pool surrounded by plush lounge chairs. It also has a walk-up pool bar. Cabanas are available with private infinity plunge pools, flat-screen TVs, and butler service (for a fee). The other pool is a Lazy River that ambles through the resort, carrying floating guests around on rafts. There are two additional pools at White Sands, as well as a small water park with slides for kids. Things there are generally more crowded. A poolside stage is where entertainment takes place at Blue Waters. As an all-inclusive resort, all buffet and a la carte dining is included in rates, with the exception of the Chef's Table. Reservations generally aren't required (except at the Chef's Table). Gourmet Marche, the tasty buffet restaurant, serves a mix of Jamaican and international fare. Other on-site options include Mediterranean. Blue Water’s sister property has additional restaurants available including a jerk station, Asian, Italian, and Tex-Mex cuisines. There’s no shortage of bars at Blue Waters, and they’re scattered throughout the resort -- decent liquors are included, though there have been complaints about some absent top-shelf brands. Diamond Club guests receive breakfast at Opa!, away from the rest of the crowds.The resort’s gym is stocked with cardio machines, resistance equipment, and free weights. There are also two faux-grass rooftop tennis courts, and rackets and tennis balls are free to borrow. Fitness classes are also offered, including TRX and yoga. The Royal Spa has a sauna and steam room, and offers standard massages and treatments as well. Beachfront massage cabanas are also available. Children between the ages of 4 and 12 can use the kids' club that's loaded with video game systems and has a big playground. Its free and open late. The resort also has a boutique, a gift shop, and ATM plus a tour desk. Laundry service and babysitting are available for a fee. There’s free parking, and calls to North America and most of Europe are free. Fast and free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the property.