by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 6/3/2025
In our humble opinion, Beaches Negril is one of the most enjoyable places we've ever visited; SCUBA diving, catamaran sailing, family events every evening, snorkeling, tennis, several gyms, great beach, water slides, lazy river, good restaurants and even better bars! One of the best banana daiquiris I've ever had, and they are made fresh every time you order one!
This is an all-inclusive resort and yes there are several speciality restaurants, but we found the food at the included restaurants to be so good, that we have never wanted to eat anywhere else.
It is easy to walk around Negril Bay from the Beaches at Negril Resort to the city of Negril, and you will pass by a number of resorts of all types. Be prepared to walk, because Negril is approximately 5 miles from the resort and along the way, the beach becomes narrow in various locations - in some places you will be walking in the Caribbean Sea!
Typical beach scene at Beaches Negril - everyone comes to the beach chair areas, or grabs a beach chair or lounge under the palm trees.
And I guess I failed to mention that Beaches has a very nice gym, and there is hardly ever anybody there!
The beach had huts where you could escape the sun, maybe enjoy a cold drink or ponder your next adventure in the water.
I also forgot to mention beach volleyball. In fact, the staff there are always organizing fun somewhere!
Jeremy and buddies either watching (or playing) Foosball, or just hanging out plotting their next adventure. There are a number of ways to amuse yourself here, and they are almost never crowded.
Racks of surfboards just waiting for a guest to come along and use one - they have just about every possible water recreation toy known to exist here!
Images 1 & 2 above are of the main pool, where there was always something going on during the day. The pool area is big enough for everyone to be playing some type of game, or swimming, at the same time. If one was to get tired of water activities, there is also a swim-up bar.
Image # 3 above was the view from our Beaches at Negril suite, beautiful eh? The weather was nice enough to leave the windows open at night and you could hear the surf pounding the shore. A very pleasant way to sleep!
Celeste and I are savoring yet another breathtaking Jamaican sunset. It’s a moment of pure magic that never seems to grow old. Almost every evening, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors — fiery oranges, deep purples, and soft pinks blending together over the Caribbean Sea. It became our cherished routine to head down to the beach after dinner, drawn by nature’s spectacular show. The warmth of the sand beneath our feet, the soothing rhythm of the waves, and the tranquil beauty of the setting sun made each evening feel like a celebration of life in paradise. Truly, there’s nothing quite like the simple joy of witnessing these stunning sunsets that define the charm and allure of Jamaica.
The resort offers an impressive array of water recreation options to suit every preference and skill level. Whether you’re looking to paddle, snorkel, or sail, you’ll find just about every type and size of watercraft imaginable. One of our favorite activities was sailing in the mornings, taking full advantage of the refreshing offshore breeze. There’s something truly exhilarating about gliding across the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, guided by nothing but the wind.
For those unfamiliar with sailing or captaining a catamaran, there’s no need to worry — lessons are readily available! Experienced instructors can teach you the ropes, ensuring you’re confident and comfortable navigating the waters.
If diving is more your style, you’re in luck. The resort has PADI-certified instructors who offer SCUBA lessons for beginners. They’ll walk you through the basics of using the equipment, safety protocols, and techniques before taking you on an unforgettable introductory dive. Exploring the vibrant underwater world of coral reefs and marine life is an experience you won’t want to miss.
The food served there was consistently quite good, plentiful and always on time. The dinners are served "buffet style" where you walk past the offerings and select whatever you want. Non-alcoholic drinks are available in the buffet area, or you can order other drinks from the service staff.
The Mill Restaurant invites guests to embark on a culinary journey that seamlessly blends Caribbean flavors with international flair. This dining gem exudes a warm and welcoming ambiance, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and gentle ocean breezes. The Mill is renowned for its diverse menu, featuring a delectable array of dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a genuine taste of Jamaican cuisine.
Like I was just saying, sunsets are always more magical at the beach. There’s something about the way the sun dips into the horizon, casting fiery reflections over the water, that makes it feel like nature’s grand finale for the day. Now, imagine sitting on the soft sands of 7 Mile Beach every evening, a refreshing banana daiquiri in hand, soaking in that perfect blend of golden light and salty breeze. It’s a moment of pure bliss — the kind that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left.
But 7 Mile Beach is more than just a visual masterpiece; it’s a playground for adventure and relaxation alike. The crystal-clear waters invite you to explore the vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling or dive into the thrill of jet skiing and paddleboarding. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, catamaran cruises along the coast offer the perfect vantage point to admire the beach’s beauty from the sea.
As day turns to dusk, sunset strolls along the shoreline become enchanting experiences. The sky shifts from soft pastels to bold oranges and purples, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for romantic walks or quiet reflection. The beachfront bars and restaurants come alive with the sounds of reggae music, serving up local delicacies like jerk chicken, fresh seafood, and tropical cocktails.
This legendary stretch of beach embodies everything you dream of in a Caribbean escape — a place where sun, sea, and sand converge to create unforgettable moments. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply savoring the slower pace of island life, 7 Mile Beach offers a feast for the senses, leaving you refreshed, relaxed, and longing to return.
You never know who will show up at a Beaches at Negril luau, and Big Bird was perhaps the very last person we thought we'd see there! I'd be willing to bet that Big Bird came for either the luau dinner or perhaps the after-dinner dancing! Big Bird later showed off his dance moves !
Beaches Negril transforms evenings into enchanting Caribbean celebrations with its captivating Beach Luaus. Nestled along the shores of the pristine Negril beach, these luaus are vibrant spectacles of Jamaican culture, offering guests a sensory journey through music, dance, and delectable island cuisine. The rhythmic beats of reggae and the swaying palm trees create an authentic tropical ambiance, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.
Chelsea and Dad pondering whether to join the "how low can you go" limbo people, or whether to just hang out and watch.
The guys in uniform were a band that had been invited to play for the guests, after their performance they were invited to have dinner with all of us as well.
Chelsea & Jeremy mugging about on the beach after the luau.
This may have been a case of everyone trying to work off their dinner, or it may have been a case of exuberance over the good times we were having at the resort.
Jeremy took a SCUBA introduction class held by PADI Certified Divers at the Resort. You can see by his expression, that he enjoyed it! The Resort Diving Team is very highly qualified & trained, and were as good (or better) than any other group I have ever dived with.
At Beaches Negril, the thrill of underwater exploration takes center stage with their exceptional scuba diving programs. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned diver, the resort offers an unparalleled opportunity to dive into the vibrant underwater world of the Caribbean.
For newcomers, Beaches Negril provides a comprehensive and engaging introduction to scuba diving. Their programs are designed to make learning fun and accessible, ensuring even first-timers feel confident as they embark on this underwater adventure. Under the guidance of highly trained and PADI-certified (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) instructors, guests learn the essential skills needed for a safe and enjoyable dive.
The training begins with a thorough orientation and hands-on practice in shallow water, allowing participants to get comfortable with the equipment and techniques. Once ready, divers venture into the open water, where the magic truly begins. With crystal-clear visibility and an abundance of marine life, the waters around Negril provide an ideal setting to explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter tropical fish, and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the sea.
For experienced divers, Beaches Negril offers advanced diving opportunities and excursions that highlight the area’s most stunning underwater landscapes. Whether it’s a shipwreck dive, a deep reef exploration, or a drift dive along the currents, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
Beaches Negril’s commitment to safety, combined with their passion for creating unforgettable experiences, ensures that every guest feels at ease and inspired. The resort’s PADI-certified instructors not only provide expert training but also share their enthusiasm for the ocean, sparking a lifelong love for scuba diving in many participants.
This is the drill where you sink to the bottom of the pool, you remove all of your equipment including the mouthpiece and then you put all your gear back on. This drill demonstrates to the students how to manage an equipment emergency while underwater.
And at the conclusion of the pool SCUBA introduction drills, we all surface! This was probably more to insure that everyone had been properly breathing while underwater.
It should be noted that the SCUBA instructors and dive masters here at Beaches, are all PADI certified and are very competent with safety being their number one focus. I dove with these guys on a number of trips we took here, and have nothing but the highest regard & respect for them.
While staying at Beaches Negril, we joined a sailing excursion to the iconic Rick’s Café — a legendary cliffside bar perched high above the Caribbean Sea. Known worldwide for its adrenaline-pumping cliff diving and vibrant sunset scene, Rick’s is a place where thrill-seekers and spectators collide. When we arrived, the crowd was lively, and we watched in amazement as people leapt from platforms ranging from 8 to 40 feet high. Some had clearly enjoyed a few drinks too many before launching themselves off the ledge — equal parts impressive and terrifying. I would’ve given it a try myself, but I was still recovering from rotator cuff surgery and wearing a sling at the time. That didn’t stop us from swimming into the cave and climbing the ladder to the top — not an easy task, especially while trying to keep my arm dry! It was wild, memorable, and pure Negril.
Meanwhile, back in Sarasota, our Christmas Dog "Casey" was glad to see us come back home, so she wore her "happy hat" to greet us! And she decided that her job was to rest near the Christmas tree so that nobody would be able to sneak anything past her!
But then Casey decided that she wanted the hat off, so she is trying to get our attention.
How do I get to Negril?
Negril is best reached by flying into Montego Bay (Sangster International Airport), followed by a resort shuttle, private transfer, or domestic flight. The main airfield in Negril, Jamaica, is known as Negril Aerodrome. It's primarily used by smaller charter aircraft and private planes due to its relatively short runway. The planes that typically operate there are usually small, with most having no more than 6 or 8 seats including the pilot.
Flights are available from Kingston to Negril in Jamaica and they depart from Tinson Pen Aerodrome (KTP). While there are flights available, you may need to consider charter options like TimAir as scheduled air service might not be available. You will have to do some research based upon your timeframe to determine where you want to fly into. We have always used the Montego Bay Airport and have never had any issues.
Driving a rental car is not recommended due to challenging road conditions and unfamiliar local driving norms.
Once you’ve arrived, Negril offers a laid-back atmosphere and plenty to explore. If you're looking to enhance your beach time with a bit of adventure, consider a guided experience like the one below.
NOTE: It is 76 kilometers from Sangster International Airport to Beaches at Negril and it is 243 kilometers from the Kingston Airport to Negril. We have never flown into Kingston, but we have flown into Montego Bay and taken the Beaches at Negril van shuttle. The roads are narrow, rough and it is a long drive. We would urge you to consider taking the small plane method rather than the shuttle van - it is faster & just about as comfortable.
Where Should I stay at Negril?
Negril isn’t just a destination — it’s a vibe. From the powdery sands of Seven Mile Beach to the laid-back cliffs of the West End, where you stay in Negril can shape your entire experience. Whether you're drawn to all-inclusive luxury resorts, boutique beachfront hideaways, or rustic cliffside cottages with unforgettable sunset views, Negril offers something for every kind of traveler. The key is choosing the location and style that matches the kind of tropical escape you're after.
To help you narrow it down, here are five of the most popular and highly rated hotels to stay at along Seven Mile Beach, based on Google Reviews (as of 6/3/2025):
All Inclusive Resorts in Negril
The above list was for hotels in Negril, however there are a number of "all inclusive" resorts in the Negril and 7 Mile Beach area. For your research, here is a link to a Search Results list for "all inclusive resorts" in Negril.
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