Sandals Resorts unveils first look at “Sandals 2.0” upgrades across three Jamaica properties

Sandals Resorts International (SRI) has unveiled a first look at major new guest experiences, dining concepts, and accommodations coming to Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Caribbean Cay (formerly Sandals Royal Caribbean), and Sandals South Coast as part of a US$200 million transformation of the three Jamaica resorts.

The company says the redevelopment marks a key step in its continued investment in Jamaica, where the brand was founded. The upgrades include new room categories, expanded dining options, and refreshed resort identities focused on Jamaican culture, cuisine, and natural surroundings.

Reinforcing Sandals’ continued commitment to the island, the three properties are introducing elevated accommodations including the brand’s first-ever double queen room concept, a new moniker and identity for Sandals Royal Caribbean, and a slate of guest experiences celebrating Jamaica’s culture, cuisine and natural beauty.

Sandals Montego Bay set for December relaunch

More than 40 years after opening, Sandals Montego Bay will relaunch on December 18, 2026, with a redesigned guest experience while maintaining its status as the brand’s flagship property with 255 rooms.

A reimagined arrival experience will feature a new lobby design with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea. The main pool is being fully redesigned as a central social hub, alongside new swim-up rooms and ocean-view suites.

Food and beverage additions include Buccan, described as a waterfront dining experience serving island-style dishes cooked over open flame, and Scrimshaw, a seafood restaurant with panoramic sea views.

The resort will also retain its historic swim-up bar, now part of Parisol Beach Club, where original bricks engraved with guest names have been preserved. A new Bay Roc Rum Club will also highlight the property’s origins and Caribbean cultural influences through rum-focused experiences, murals, and cocktails.

Sandals Caribbean Cay to debut new identity and expanded rooms

Formerly Sandals Royal Caribbean, the resort will relaunch as Sandals Caribbean Cay on December 18, 2026, with a refreshed identity inspired by its offshore island setting.

The redesigned lobby will emphasize open-air views of the pool and sea. A key culinary addition is Suppa, a communal dining concept inspired by Jamaican Sunday dinners, alongside Keynote Rum Bar and Heart & Sol, which will offer lighter grab-and-go options.

The property will also add 84 new rooms, bringing the total to 291. New categories include SkyPool Suites, Swim-up Suites, and Oceanview Butler Suites scheduled to debut next June.

On the private island Sandals Cay, Parisol Beach Club will introduce new dining and leisure spaces, including a restaurant, Jerk Shack, swim-up bar, pool, and shaded beach areas. Additional developments include a new fitness center with ocean views and overwater butler villas.

Sandals South Coast to expand nature-focused experience

Set within a 500-acre nature preserve, Sandals South Coast will reopen on November 18, 2026, with updates designed to enhance its natural setting.

The resort’s pool areas will be redesigned with tropical landscaping and new lounge spaces, while the lobby and surrounding areas will incorporate design elements inspired by local wildlife.

The property’s overwater butler villas will return with updated interiors, joined by the brand’s first Beachfront Club Two Queen Junior Suites.

New dining options include BLŪM, offering Blue Mountain coffee and light fare, and Butch’s Island Chop House, which will feature a martini bar and evening social setting. A new rum bar is also in development.

“Jamaica is at the heart of the Sandals story, and these investments reflect our commitment to its future,” said Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts. “For us, dreaming bigger wasn’t about adding more. It was about creating a Sandals 2.0 experience that also feels connected to our home. Every decision and detail was shaped by that idea. From new cuisines rooted in Jamaica’s traditions to spaces designed to reflect the island’s natural beauty, this next chapter is about building on that legacy and continuing to move the guest experience forward in a way that is not only elevated but evolved.”