This All-Inclusive Giant Is Pouring $200 Million Into Three Jamaica Resorts — but Guests Will Have to Wait
Sandals is turning a hurricane setback into a full-scale reimagining of three flagship Jamaica properties, pushing reopenings to late 2026.
Sandals Resorts has announced a $200 million investment to reimagine three of its most iconic Jamaica properties: Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean, and Sandals South Coast. All three have been closed since Hurricane Melissa struck the island in October 2025.
Rather than simply repairing storm damage, the company is seizing the moment to execute what it calls the "Sandals 2.0" vision — a ground-up transformation of three properties that have long been among the brand's most recognizable. The expanded scope means guests who were expecting a May 2026 reopening will need to adjust their plans.
New Timeline
Sandals South Coast is now slated to reopen on November 18, 2026, while both Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Royal Caribbean will follow on December 18, 2026. The original target of May 30 for all three properties has been scrapped.
What's Changing
The renovations go well beyond cosmetic touch-ups. Each resort will receive completely redesigned entrances, new accommodation categories, reimagined pool complexes, updated lounge and social spaces, and new dining concepts. The scope suggests these properties will feel substantially different when they reopen.
Meanwhile, Sandals emphasizes that the rest of its Jamaica portfolio remains fully operational. Sandals Royal Plantation, Sandals Ochi, Sandals Dunn's River, and Sandals Negril are all open and welcoming guests in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril.
The $200 million bet signals serious long-term confidence in Jamaica's tourism market, even as other Caribbean destinations compete aggressively for all-inclusive travelers.
