The sun is shining once again on Jamaica, and the island is open for business. Following the widespread impact of Hurricane Melissa earlier this year, the spirit of “Out of Many, One People” has shone brightly through an incredible effort to rebuild and restore the island’s world-class hospitality sector. As we approach the crucial winter travel season, numerous all-inclusive resorts have already reopened their doors or are slated to welcome guests in the coming weeks.
While parts of the South Coast sustained significant damage, the popular tourist centers of Ocho Rios, Negril, and Trelawny proved resilient. Hoteliers and locals have worked tirelessly to get resorts back to their pristine condition, ensuring that winter travelers can still experience the warmth and vibrant culture that makes Jamaica a premier Caribbean destination.
The Resorts Ready for Your Winter Escape
For those dreaming of a winter getaway, several top-tier all-inclusive resorts are ready to host you. Here are five properties in popular areas that have reopened or are reopening for December 2025:
1. RIU Ocho Rios A family favorite, this expansive Ocho Rios resort was among the first to resume operations, reopening its doors on November 9, 2025. It is fully operational and welcoming guests with its signature all-inclusive experience.
Hotel Riu Ocho Rios receives praise from many travelers for its well-kept, spotless rooms and variety of amenities, including multiple pools and lively entertainment. The location is appreciated for its proximity to attractions like Dunn’s River Falls, though some feel it is remote from the airport. Service is generally friendly and helpful, albeit inconsistent in some areas. While some guests find the atmosphere vibrant and energetic, others warn of noise. Opinions on value are mixed, with some citing good value and others noting overpriced extras.
2. Moon Palace Jamaica: Also located in Ocho Rios, Moon Palace sustained minimal damage and is currently open, offering luxury amenities and entertainment for all ages.
Moon Palace Jamaica is nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Ocho Rios, and boasts more than 700 luxurious accommodations with oceanfront and partial ocean views of the Caribbean Sea, each with 24-hour room service, free WIFI, CHI-branded amenities, complimentary calls to Continental US and Canada, and more. Renowned for over-the-top all-inclusive amenities such as unlimited gourmet dining and snacks, top-shelf drinks, a FlowRider® Double Wave Simulator, state-of-the-art Playroom for kids, a lounge designed specifically for Teens, and world-class entertainment and nightlife, it offers the perfect vacation for families and couples alike. Also home to the largest spa in Jamaica, for some serious pampering, this warm-hearted resort has everything you need right at your fingertips.
3. Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa : Over on the western side of the island in Lucea, this large resort complex reopened on November 3, 2025, and is a fantastic option for families and couples alike.
Located right on the beach in Lucea on Jamaica’s Northwest coast, Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa promises comfort, fun, and plenty of choice. Whether it’s taking a dip in the infinity pool (with a cocktail in-hand from the swim-up bar), taking part in the range of activities on offer, or enjoying access to 4 restaurants and 9 bars, the only problem you’ll have is deciding what to treat yourself to first. The kids club and water play park are sure to be a hit with little ones, whilst adults can escape to the tranquil spa for an indulgent treatment. Retreat to your airy suite before an evening of fun, with a range of spots to enjoy a drink, and nightly entertainment at the theatre.
4. Sandals Dunn’s River: This luxury couples-only resort is preparing for its grand reopening on December 6, 2025, just in time for the peak winter travel season. The completely reimagined Sandals Dunn’s River is where nature and luxury go hand in hand.
Ideally located on the stunning north coast of Jamaica, here you will find rivers meandering through forests and cascading waterfalls. It features accommodations that have been elevated to new heights with Jamaica’s native elements present in every experience across this luxurious all-inclusive resort. Upgrade to a unique Coyaba Sky Rondoval Villa and reward yourself with an oversized swim-up pool and personal sanctuary with an open-air terrace. Sandals Dunn’s River also boasts 12 restaurants, 9 bars, 5 pools, 2 river pools, unlimited water sports, state-of-the-art fitness center, and live entertainment. Location Mammee Bay
Ocho Rios, JM.
5. Royalton Blue Waters: Situated in Trelawny, this modern resort will be operational again starting December 15, 2025, providing another excellent choice for a post-hurricane vacation.
In beautiful Montego Bay, the elegance of Royalton Blue Waters invites you on a luxurious escape, surrounded by stylish architecture, a pristine beach and a soothing tropical breeze. This new-generation all inclusive hotel offers discerning travellers a family friendly vacation experience, where guests of all ages are captivated from morning to night.
Planning Your Trip: Key Considerations
It is important for travelers to be mindful that not all resorts were as fortunate. Major properties under the Hyatt Inclusive Collection (including several Secrets, Dreams, and Hyatt Ziva/Zilara locations) and several Sandals resorts (Montego Bay, Royal Caribbean, South Coast) will not reopen until early 2026 or later, with some timelines stretching to May 2026.
Before you book, the golden rule of post-disaster travel applies: Verify your resort’s status directly.Operation timelines can be fluid. The best way to ensure a smooth vacation is to confirm your hotel is open and ready to receive guests.
By choosing to visit Jamaica this winter, you are not only treating yourself to a well-deserved vacation but also contributing directly to the island’s economic recovery, supporting the livelihoods of countless local residents and businesses.
Questions and Answers on Traveling to Jamaica This Winter
Q: Are flights to Jamaica currently operating as normal?
A: Yes, major international airports in Montego Bay (MBJ) and Kingston (KIN) are fully operational, and airlines have largely resumed their standard flight schedules.
Q: Which areas of the island are best to visit right now?
A: The areas of Ocho Rios, Negril, and Trelawny are in the best shape, with many resorts, restaurants, and local attractions already open and welcoming tourists.
Q: What is the best way to confirm my resort is open?
A: The most reliable method is to contact the hotel’s reservation department directly via phone or email, or consult with a professional travel agent who can verify the operational status for you.
Q: Will local tours and excursions be available?
A: Many popular excursions, such as Dunn’s River Falls and various river tubing and zip-lining adventures, are open. Local operators have worked hard to clear and restore sites. It’s always best to check with your resort concierge or the tour operator for the latest information.
