Jamaica after Melissa: Post-Hurricane Resort Updates for Travel Advisors (part 2)

This is the second part of our coverage from the Jamaica Tourist Board’s hurricane recovery media trip that took place on December 3-8. In part two of this piece, we provide on overview of Montego Bay and Negril, along with advice on how travel advisors can stay up-to-date on resort re-openings and more.

Montego Bay

Of Jamaica’s resort areas, Montego Bay was hit hardest by Hurricane Melissa. Although the damage we observed was mostly limited to less sturdy structures (wooden buildings in particular), there were more downed trees, missing roofs, and debris than in Ocho Rios. Several hotels that withstood the storm have already reopened, while those that suffered more extensive damage are rebuilding, and others are extending closures to renovate and enhance their guest offerings.

S Hotel

Part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the all-inclusive S Hotel is located just over a mile from the MBJ airport. The resort remained open during the hurricane, operating at 100% capacity as all guests chose to stay. Thanks to a comprehensive hurricane plan and dedicated task force, the property was fully secured, and staff remained onsite during the storm to ensure guest safety and to handle any immediate repairs. Their preparedness paid off, and the resort suffered little damage. During our visit, the hotel was at full capacity. It was also supporting community recovery efforts by donating rooms to charity partners and housing relief workers.

S Hotel has 120 rooms, ranging from entry-level mini king to deluxe rooms and suites with balconies. At the top end, the 1,250-square-foot Presidential suite features 20-foot ceilings and wraparound ocean views. Rooms and suites are furnished with contemporary decor, stocked minibars, and coffee and tea-making facilities. Many accommodations face Doctor’s Cave Beach, where resort guests enjoy exclusive access to a private section. Throughout the resort, Jamaica-themed artwork created by local artists brings the island’s culture to life.

All meals and beverages are included with a stay, and guests can choose from casual venues like the Marketplace buffet, the S Café, and the Vibes Pool Bar & Grill, to formal restaurants for dinner: Jamrock (Italian), Rocksteady (seafood), or Roots Rock (Jamaican).

Other resort amenities include a 24-hour fitness center, the Irie Spa, pools on the main level and rooftop, and Doctor’s Cave Beach with beach butler service. The hotel also accommodates meetings and incentive groups, weddings, and honeymoon parties.

S Hotel is an adults-only resort, with a minimum guest age of 16.

Negril

Situated on the western tip of Jamaica, Negril only experienced storm-force winds and rain during Hurricane Melissa. Aside from downed trees, the area suffered little damage, and most hotels and resorts are open.

The Cliff Hotel & Spa

Set on five acres at the western tip of Jamaica in Negril, The Cliff Hotel & Spa offers an intimate, exclusive experience with just 33 suites and villas. The resort delivers luxury through spacious accommodations, expansive grounds, and a staff-to-guest ratio exceeding 1:1, ensuring personal attention.

Entry-level Junior Suites range from 480 to 600 square feet, while one-bedroom suites measure 720 square feet. All feature a large marble bath, walk-in closets, a refrigerator, a Nespresso machine, bottled water, and private verandahs with seating, hammocks, and pool and ocean views. Twice-daily housekeeping, including turndown service, and complimentary Wi-Fi are included.

The resort also offers four standalone villas, with one, four, and five bedrooms ranging from 1,050 to 5,000 square feet, accommodating up to 10 guests. Guests booking one-bedroom suites and villas receive butler service, complimentary VIP meet-and-greet at MBJ, and beginning in 2026, transfers via BMW i7 electric sedans (VIP airport services and transfers are available for an additional fee for Junior Suite bookings).

Dining at Zest Restaurant blends international flavors with Jamaican favorites, featuring locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine indoors or al fresco, overlooking the Caribbean Sea and sunsets. Room service is available, as is private dining in the secluded oceanfront grotto, a special spot for proposals. The resort also offers three bars, including a swim-up bar at the main pool. All meals and beverages are priced à la carte, with customizable meal and beverage plans for added convenience. 

Although the property lacks a traditional beach due to its location on a coral outcrop, there is direct entry to the ocean for swimming, and a seawater infinity pool is carved into the rock. Sunbathing platforms with lounge chairs and umbrellas extend out to the water’s edge. Wellness amenities include KiYara Spa, a beauty salon, fitness center, and yoga classes.

The Cliff’s existing power, water, and satellite backup systems allowed the property to remain open during the hurricane. After the storm, the team has been providing internet, phone, and charging services to those in need, as well as meals for staff and contractors. Planned initiatives to further enhance its dedication to the community include the installation of a solar garden to neutralize energy consumption, hydroponic farming, free-range egg production, and the elimination of unnecessary plastics. During our stay, instead of plastic keycards, we received a wooden bead bracelet crafted by local artisans with a chip inside programmed to open our room door. We loved that the understated beads can be worn as jewelry long after our stay.

Tips for Travel Advisors

The Visit Jamaica website has a Travel Alerts page that lists the opening status of hotels and attractions by resort area, along with an FAQ page. Since re-openings are ongoing, the page is updated daily. A live chat is also available Monday to Friday, 7 am – 6 pm, where advisors and clients can ask questions. Advisors can also contact their local Jamaica Tourist Board office for sales support. 

To encourage visitors, many hotels and resorts are offering promotions or temporarily waiving minimum stay requirements. Check with the individual property or tour operator for the current pricing. Some may also extend reduced rates for travel advisors.