3 Perfect Days at Sandals South Coast: Romance, Relaxation, & Rum Punch

After touching down at Montego Bay Airport, your vacation begins the moment you step into the Sandals arrival lounge—expect cool drinks, friendly smiles, and an air-conditioned transfer to the resort (about 90 minutes). The drive down the coast is scenic, passing through lush countryside and local towns—a great way to ease into island time.

Once at Sandals South Coast, check in and let the pampering begin. I recommend opting for a beachfront suite if you can—there’s nothing like falling asleep to ocean waves and waking up to a view that makes you gasp a little. After unpacking, take a walk along the two-mile beach to ground yourself. There’s something incredibly calming about feeling soft white sand underfoot and the warm sea breeze on your face.

Head over to Latitudes Overwater Bar—it’s not just a bar, it’s a vibe. Picture sipping a tropical drink while swinging in a hammock over the Caribbean Sea. It’s the perfect spot to shake off travel fatigue and truly arrive in vacation mode.

For dinner, grab a table at Bayside Restaurant. The menu offers a variety of international dishes (the snapper was excellent!), and the open-air layout gives you front-row seats to the sunset. Pro tip: order dessert and linger—the nightly entertainment usually kicks off nearby and it’s a fun way to end your first night.

Why I recommend it: This first day is all about easing into your getaway. No rushed itineraries, just beautiful views, great food, and time to breathe. It's a gentle reminder that you’re here to relax, recharge, and enjoy every moment.

Insider tips:

• Pack a swimsuit and flip-flops in your carry-on—your room might not be ready right away, and you’ll want to hit the beach ASAP.

• Bring a small crossbody bag or belt bag for exploring the property. You’ll want your hands free for rum punch, photos, and maybe a coconut or two.

• Don’t worry about making dinner reservations for Bayside—it’s first-come, first-served and they’ll usually seat you quickly.

Start your morning with a laid-back breakfast at Eleanor’s, a Caribbean-inspired restaurant just steps from the beach. I loved sitting on the shaded patio with a cup of Blue Mountain coffee and freshly made ackee and saltfish. The views—and flavors—are unmatched.

After breakfast, it’s time to take advantage of Sandals’ included water sports. Whether you’re new to kayaking or want to try paddleboarding, the calm water makes it beginner-friendly. If you're SCUBA-certified, the dive team here is top-notch and leads two free dives per day. Not certified? You can still snorkel the nearby reefs — they’re teeming with fish and sea fans.

In the afternoon, treat yourself to a massage or facial at Red Lane® Spa. I did the 90-minute Raindrop Dreams massage, and it was one of the best spa experiences I’ve ever had—soothing, aromatic, and deeply relaxing. Even if you’re not a “spa person,” this one is worth it.

Later, cool off at the swim-up pool bar (bonus points for ordering a Dirty Banana—it’s like a milkshake with a kick). Lounge chairs fill up fast, so head down earlier in the day if you want prime seating.

Tonight’s dinner is at Schooners, Sandals’ oceanfront seafood restaurant. The vibe is breezy and romantic, with soft lighting and the sound of waves just a few feet away. Try the grilled lobster tail if it’s on the menu — it’s incredible.

Why I recommend it: This is the day to explore the best of what Sandals offers — fun, food, and a little pampering. You’ll feel refreshed and reconnected, whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends.

Insider tips:

• Snag your pool chairs early if you're a sun lover—the best ones are gone by 10am.

• Book spa treatments as soon as you arrive—they fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

• Bring a waterproof pouch for your phone if you’re planning to be in and out of the water.

For your final full day, you have two great options: stay and soak up the resort atmosphere, or venture out and explore Jamaica’s wild side. I ended up doing a little of both.

If you're up for adventure, book the YS Falls + Floyd’s Pelican Bar combo tour. YS Falls is one of Jamaica’s natural wonders—tiered cascades of freshwater falls, swing ropes, and lush gardens. You can swim, take photos, and wander the grounds. Afterward, hop on a boat to Floyd’s Pelican Bar, a driftwood shack perched on a sandbar in the middle of the sea. It’s rustic, quirky, and unforgettable.

Prefer to stay put? Head to Taquiero Tacos on the Beach for lunch—it’s one of my favorite casual spots at the resort. The fish tacos are light, flavorful, and perfect with a cold Red Stripe. Grab a seat under a thatched umbrella and watch the waves roll in while you eat. This is vacation dining at its finest: barefoot, breezy, and full of flavor.

Spend the rest of the afternoon floating in the lazy river, lounging on a beach cabana, or taking in one last peaceful beach walk. Don't forget to stop by Café de Paris for an iced latte or sweet treat before dinner.

Tonight’s dinner is at Giuseppe’s, Sandals’ cozy Italian restaurant. It’s an indoor-outdoor space that feels equal parts romantic and comforting. The lasagna is rich and satisfying, and their house-made tiramisu is the perfect sweet ending.

Before calling it a night, make time for a nightcap at Latitudes Overwater Bar—the ambiance at night is pure magic, with glowing lanterns, live music nearby, and waves lapping beneath your feet.

Why I recommend it: This day gives you space to reflect and savor. Whether you're sipping cocktails at sunset or swinging into a waterfall, you’re making the kind of memories that linger long after you return home.

Insider tips:

• The Pelican Bar is cash-only for drinks and souvenirs—bring a little USD or Jamaican dollars.

• If you're sensitive to motion, bring Dramamine for the boat ride. It’s short, but can be choppy.

• Ask for extra lime on your fish tacos—trust me on this one.

• Grab a selfie on the hammock nets at Latitudes for the perfect “wish you were here” shot.