By Anne Taylor Hartzell, on August 25, 2013

Chic hotels in Jamaica

White sand beaches and the sound of steel drums in the Caribbean are calling my husband and I for our next romantic getaway. When we get the rare chance to sneak away for some alone time, we start our research by seeking out unique places to stay that have a little character and personality (like us). What could be better than spending our days together getting caught up in a little Caribbean romance?

In Jamaica, we dream of starting the day with an early morning dive from a sea cliff, pretending we are in a James Bond-style suite, or cozying up in a thatched roof villa overlooking the crystal blue Caribbean waters. We love all of the comforts of a luxury hotel, but prefer to skip the pomp and circumstance. If you are ready to book your Jamaican escape, here are three Jamaican posh pads to pamper the passion in style while steering clear of the crowds.

The Caves, Negril, Jamaica

Header and photos courtesy of Island Outpost and The Caves

Imagine waking up each morning in your private, thatched roof villa, and greeting the day with an early morning swim and dive off a sea cliff into deep blue Caribbean waters. With just 12 thatched roof cabins cliffside, this all-inclusive resort is the antithesis of a big chain, all-inclusive hotel. You, your partner, and no more than 24 guests have the undivided attention of the hotel’s staff. Pamper yourself in the cliffside Aveda spa or arrange a romantic meal in a private cave. With gourmet meals, a minibar with bottles of complimentary rum and mixers, and no television, you love birds may never leave your room.  

Viewfinder Tip: If air conditioning is a deal breaker, make sure to check in advance to ensure that the room has it before you book.

Photo courtesy of Jakes Hotel

Jakes Hotel, Treasure Beach, Jamaica

This rainbow-colored boutique hotel had me at barefoot bohemia meets modern luxury. I love the laid-back, eclectic style and individual personality in each of the Jakes Hotel rooms, cottages, and villas that offer something a little different than the traditional hotel stay. The vibe of the property and rooms, designed by family owner, Sally Henzell, is described as “chic sensuality with an artistic flair.” With Moroccan, Spanish, Indian, and Adobe influences, as well as eccentric names such as “Starfish and Jellyfish,” Jakes has a rich history of love and is surely a great place to get lost in your own romance.  

Jamaica Inn, Ocho Rios, Jamaica

There is something romantic about a hotel that preserves the history and tradition of its roots. The Jamaica Inn is a family-run hotel nestled on a private beach in the Ochos Rios area of Jamaica with beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea. With just 52 suites and cottages, the Jamaica Inn sits on one of the most romantic beaches in Jamaica. All the reviews of this luxury Jamaica resort tout the hotel’s relaxed atmosphere and cool 50s vibe. With no televisions, radios, and clocks, you can truly unplug at this five-star Jamaica resort in style.

What is your favorite romantic retreat in the Caribbean?