By: Pam Macintyre, Travel Agent
I had been intrigued with the look of this Adults Only property, as it had a “relaxing jungle vibe” to it. So, the question was – Did this resort have the makings of a Costa Rica, Belize or Panama feel right here in the Caribbean? So, when I was offered the chance to enjoy dinner n’ drinks at this boutique gem, I jumped at the opportunity. And, oh boy, I sure am glad we did! Having been to Belize and Costa Rica, while there is no real substitute for those countries — this resort truly did give us that hidden away feel, some travelers crave.
While this resort is not for everyone, for the right traveler it’s exactly what you’ve been looking for. So, let’s dive into what is the Sunset at the Palms to see if it’s YOUR perfect fit!
Accommodations:
These unique & luxurious Thai meets Polynesian tree house-style bungalows set within the palm trees are an experience completely opposite of your typical All-Inclusive Resort stay. There is something so simplistic yet relaxing laying on your balcony daybed for hours with the view of tropical plants, trees, flowers & birds. While at night the tree frogs will sing you to sleep. Sunset at the Palms has a romantically rustic yet modern in the right places, natural and beautiful feel. With only 85 of these air-conditioned bungalows, this is a cozy intimate place to stay.
Food:
The Sunset at the Palms puts a real focus on health & wellness while keeping in mind their guests have various preferences. A snack favorite is their Jamaica Nachos loaded with jalapeño, onions, jerk sauce, tomato salsa and cheese! While they do a daily lunch special, the one everyone waits for is the fried local snapper served with escovitch style. At their fine dining restaurant Lotus Leaf, it’s difficult to pick out a favorite speciality as every dish is well loved. A few favorites are Roasted rack of Lamb with a pesto rosemary garlic crust, the Beef and Reef a pan seared jerk beef pave topped with tiger prawns and Jerk Snapper Fillet topped with ginger and a garlic herb butter. YUMMY!
Their main buffet restaurant also takes on a different style every night from Mi Amore with romantic Italian food to their seafood extravaganza, with each night having a vegan-station inspired by the island ital food culture that all guests seem to enjoy. Ital refers to natural, organic vegetables from the earth such as cabbage, carrot, or greens/ callaloo, etc.
Beach:
I admit, my initial thought was — ok this resort is not technically on the beach, will that be a hindrance? Turns out, not at all! It’s a very quick walk across the street through a private access area with a crossing-guard assisting in your safe crossing of the road. I found it’s really no more walking than you’d have at another hotel getting to the beach basically.
The clear calm turquoise blue waters of Bloody Bay beach is absolutely BEAUTIFUL with no seaweed in sight unless, there is a bad weather … then all of Negril is usually effected. Seaweed has been a major issue overall in a lot of areas, and the fact that it’s rare here is a huge draw for travelers
Don’t be concerned about the name Bloody Bay, in the 19th-century it was an old whalers port is how the name came about. They also have a beach grill, open from 11am to 5pm. Floaties are available for purchase at the gift shop if you feel inclined to float in their uniquely calm waters. Security guards are there to help ensure you have a relaxing beach day without beach peddlers disturbing you.
Pool:
One thing that immediately stood out to me was that people were swimming at 9pm with the swim-up pool bar open! This is hot something commonly seen, so much so this was the first I’d seen it as most swim-up pool bars close between 5pm – 6pm. In fact, this resorts swim-up pool bar is open until 1am! It’s important to note: The lifeguard is only on duty until 3pm, therefore afterwards you do swim at your own risk. The pool is only 4 1/2 ft. deep.
The Staff:
Over the years, I’ve heard from my clients that the staff of a resort can really make or break their overall feeling off a property. The Sunset at the Palms is no exception, you could tell how every single staff member encountered was dedicated to ensure you have a perfect trip with their high touch level of service. You feel like family there.
It’s the only hotel in Jamaica to include VIP arrival service to fast track you through immigration and customs. I’ve experienced this and it was a top 5 experience in Jamaica!
Why Sunset at the Palms?
Years ago, I had a client whom said “The true spirit and culture of the Jamaican people lives at this resort” and I couldn’t agree more with this sentiment!
If you’re looking for a peaceful setting, quality time togetherness, romantic nature vibe with a mix of live music in the evenings with sensory magic at it’s finest for your vacation or honeymoon — this may just be the perfect hidden gem for you!
We appreciate our travel agents and thank Pam Macintyre from Travel Leaders for sharing her experience at Sunset at the Palm. Our goal is to support our travel agent community by providing your guests with the Sensory Magic at Sunset at the Palms.