Favourite Returns: Sunwing-Exclusive Riu Negril Back After Major Refurbishment

With new services, new restaurants and 600 renovated rooms and suites, Canadian favourite Riu Negril is officially open for business after a massive refurbishment. 

Sold exclusively in Canada by Sunwing Vacations, the all-inclusive resort was built in 2004 on Bloody Bay’s beachfront in Jamaica’s most laid-back resort area.

As well as an extensive refurbishment of all rooms and suites on site and the addition of two new conference and event spaces, the project included adding 28 swim-out rooms for guests seeking added privacy and comfort.

The property’s accommodations have adopted a bright and simple interior with furniture featured in natural and soft colour palettes. Riu Negril’s lobby is also newly renovated and features tropical accents, including lush vegetation and wood and stone elements throughout, taking inspiration from the warmth of the island and its rich landscapes.

Guests at Riu Negril can now sample cuisine from eight restaurants, three of which have been recently added including the American Country themed restaurant, Pepe’s Food and Tiki Taco, the latter offering a taste of Mexico.

The resort has refitted five swimming pools – a pool for water activities, a relaxation pool, one for general use, a kids pool and one with a swim-up bar – and has also acknowledged the rising popularity of pickleball, installing three courts. A new addition is RIU’s infamous Neon Party and White Party, which will be held every Thursday in the hotel theatre.

RIU was first established in Jamaica in 2001 with the opening of Negril’s Riu Palace Tropical Bay followed by Riu Negril, Riu Montego Bay, Riu Palace Jamaica, Riu Reggae, Riu Ocho Rios and, most recently, Riu Palace Aquarelle in 2024. 

This winter, Canadians can travel to Montego Bay with Sunwing Vacations from eight cities across the country, including Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton and Halifax.