The resort boasts a stunning beachfront location on Negril's iconic Seven Mile Beach, featuring soft white sand and calm, clear turquoise waters ideal for families.
The Pirates Island Waterpark, complete with thrilling waterslides, a lazy river, and splash pads, is a major highlight for children of all ages.
The highly attentive and kid-oriented staff are consistently praised for engaging positively with children and making them feel special.
An extensive range of included water sports, such as waterskiing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and PADI-certified scuba diving for certified guests, offers significant value.
The intimate and easy-to-navigate layout of the resort prevents it from feeling overcrowded, even during peak seasons.
Premium liquors and cocktails made from scratch are a notable positive aspect of the all-inclusive alcoholic beverage offerings.
The resort and common areas are consistently well-maintained and spotless, ensuring a clean and pleasant environment.
Complimentary scuba diving for certified divers, including all equipment, is frequently celebrated as a significant value-add.
Cons
Service outside of butler-serviced rooms can be inconsistent, particularly regarding meal times and housekeeping, which some attribute to 'island time'.
Food quality, especially at buffets, sometimes falls short of expectations for a premium resort, with some dishes described as 'cafeteria-quality'.
The 90-minute to two-hour transfer from Sangster International Airport (MBJ) is often described as a long, winding, and bumpy journey, challenging with children.
Some rooms have been reported as outdated, and guests have noted occasional issues like persistent ant problems.
Noise from neighboring resorts' parties can sometimes last late into the night, potentially disturbing the tranquility.
The Pirates Island Waterpark, while fun, is considered small by some, and loungers by the lazy river and smaller pool are limited.
Certain bathroom layouts are noted as odd, with the sink open to the room and light switches located inside the main room.
Excellence El Carmen
Pros
Summary
Beaches Negril Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Beaches Negril Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Excellence El Carmen is the larger property, while Excellence El Carmen has more dining venues.
