Beaches Ocho Rios to close for renovation, amid Sandals $1-billion expansion
Published:Monday | April 28, 2025 | 12:05 AMJanet Silvera/Senior Gleaner Writer
Western Bureau:
Indications are that it is now a bittersweet time for Sandals Resorts International (SRI), as while Beaches Ocho Rios, the only resort in its Beaches portfolio that it doesn’t owns, will be closing its doors next month, the company is also gearing up to unveil its new Beaches Runaway property in St Ann next year.
Beaches Ocho Rios, long considered one of Jamaica’s most beloved family resorts, will close it doors on May 31 for major renovation by its third-party owners, while SRI, which is involved in a major US$1-billion expansion project, which will see the development of the new properties across the Caribbean, which includes Beaches Runaway Bay.
In outlining the philosophy behind the expansion plan, Adam Stewart, executive chairman of Beaches Resorts, said it is about creating an even more enriching experience for guests vacationing at SRI properties and expanding the company’s footprint across the region.
“As a family from the Caribbean, we have a deep love for our islands, and it’s incredibly gratifying to draw inspiration from our guests,” said Stewart. “Our growth strategy is rooted in meeting their wants, with the importance of family time being at the core of our brand’s DNA. We know that now, more than ever, families are prioritising connection and seeking enriching, multigenerational vacations.
“We are committed to not only meeting this demand but going above and beyond to wow them with new product offerings and provide unforgettable shared experiences.”
In a recent release, SRI confirmed its major expansion plans, which will see the Beaches Runaway Bay property and Beaches Exuma in The Bahamas, a new Beaches Barbados and the upcoming Treasure Beach Village at Beaches Turks & Caicos all a part of the $1-billion expansion plan.
“This is part of our ongoing commitment to offering even more exceptional experiences for our guests,” said Jeremy Jones, SRI’s regional managing director, Jamaica. “We’re truly grateful for the trust families place in us to create unforgettable memories.”
While it is not clear whether Beaches Ocho Rios will again fall under the management of SRI when its renovation is completed, considering its proximity to the new Beaches Runaway Bay property, Jones hinted that there is a possibility of a continued relationship once the upgrades are complete.
“Beaches Ocho Rios holds a special place in our hearts; our team members are our priority. Their welfare and wellbeing. We have already re-accommodated approximately 300 team members,” said Jones, referencing 300 of the over 400 staffers, who have been re-assigned to its other properties here in Jamaica and at Beaches Turks and Caicos.
“There will be employment opportunity events for team members, including resume writing and job interview skills, as well as a grand job fair,” said Jones, who noted that the resort management and HR teams are also working closely with staff to ensure a seamless and compassionate transition process.
The Beaches Runaway Bay property, which will open next year, will feature an estimated 400 expansive one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom suites and villas, designed with extended families in mind. Guests can expect dedicated wellness areas and new activities such as skateboarding, bike trails, a climbable treehouse and access to the Runaway Bay Golf Club and its par-72, 18-hole championship golf course, plus organic farm-to-table dining.