Sandals Resorts has announced an exciting new chapter in their Sandals 2.0 era. Three of its most beloved Jamaica resorts are unveiling a US$200 million transformation that will redefine the guest experience at Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Caribbean Cay (formerly Sandals Royal Caribbean), and Sandals South Coast.
As someone who has visited all three resorts, I am especially excited about these updates because they build on what guests already love. And, they'll be introducing new accommodations, dining concepts, and experiences that celebrate Jamaica's culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.
Curious about what Sandals Resort is right for you? Take my Resort Finder Quiz.
Sandals Montego Bay: A Fresh Take on the Original Sandals Resort
Welcoming guests starting on December 18, 2026, Sandals Montego Bay is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history.
The resort's arrival experience will be completely reimagined, with a new open-concept lobby showcasing stunning Caribbean Sea views from the moment guests arrive. A redesigned main pool will become the social heart of the resort, complemented by new swim-up accommodations and spacious oceanview suites.
Food lovers have plenty to look forward to. Fan-favorite Buccan, which debuted at Sandals Saint Vincent, will make its Jamaica debut in a spectacular waterfront setting. Guests can also enjoy Jamaica's first Scrimshaw seafood restaurant, featuring refined coastal cuisine and panoramic ocean views.
One of the resort's most beloved landmarks, the Caribbean's first-ever swim-up bar, will remain at the heart of the experience within the new Parisol Beach Club. In a thoughtful nod to the resort's history, the original engraved bricks left behind by generations of guests will be preserved.
Another standout addition is Bay Roc Rum Club, a new signature rum experience inspired by the property's origins as Bay Roc Hotel & Villas. Featuring Caribbean rum tastings, creative cocktails, and music-inspired storytelling, it promises to become a favourite gathering place.
Sandals Royal Caribbean is now Sandals Caribbean Cay
One of the biggest announcements is the renaming of Sandals Royal Caribbean to Sandals Caribbean Cay.
The new name reflects the resort's unique identity and its connection to Sandals Cay, the private offshore island that has long been one of its most distinctive features.
Open for bookings as of December 18, 2026, the reimagined resort will introduce 84 new rooms, bringing the total accommodation count to 291 rooms and suites. New room categories will include oceanview SkyPool Suites, Swim-up Suites, and Oceanview Butler Suites scheduled to debut in 2027.
The culinary experience is also receiving a major upgrade. Guests can look forward to:
- Suppa, a family-style restaurant inspired by traditional Jamaican Sunday dinners.
- Keynote Rum Bar, offering premium Caribbean rums in an intimate setting.
- Heart & Sol, featuring fresh juices, bowls, sandwiches, and healthy grab-and-go options.
The private island experience is also being enhanced with a new Parisol Beach Club, expanded dining, a swim-up bar, and additional beachfront relaxation spaces.
For guests who love wellness and fitness, a new oceanfront fitness centre and refreshed Overwater Butler Villas will round out the transformation.
Sandals South Coast Enhances Its Natural Escape
Open as of November 18, 2026, Sandals South Coast continues to lean into what makes it special: its secluded location within a 500-acre nature preserve.
The resort's pool and public spaces are being thoughtfully refreshed with lush landscaping inspired by the property's famous roaming peacocks. The design enhancements aim to create an even stronger connection between guests and the surrounding natural environment.
One of the most exciting additions is the introduction of Sandals' first-ever Beachfront Club Two Queen Junior Suites, a room category designed specifically for friends, families, and groups travelling together.
Dining enhancements include:
- BLŪM, a coffee and pastry café featuring Jamaica's renowned Blue Mountain coffee.
- Butch's Island Chop House, making its South Coast debut with an accompanying martini bar.
- A planned new rum bar that will become the fourth rum-focused venue across Sandals Jamaica resorts.
The iconic Overwater Butler Villas will also return with refreshed interiors inspired by the Caribbean Sea.
What This Means for Travellers
These renovations represent much more than cosmetic updates. Sandals is investing heavily in Jamaica while evolving the guest experience under its Sandals 2.0 vision.
The focus is not simply on adding more rooms or amenities, but on creating more authentic connections to Jamaica through food, culture, design, and local storytelling.
Whether you're considering your first Sandals vacation or returning to a favourite resort, these enhancements will bring exciting new experiences while preserving the elements that guests have loved for decades.
Thinking About Jamaica?
With reopening dates beginning in November and December 2026, now is an excellent time to start planning.
Whether you're deciding between Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Caribbean Cay, or Sandals South Coast, I can help you determine which resort is the best fit for your travel style, budget, and vacation goals.
Contact Pink Palm Travel to start planning your Jamaica getaway and experience the next chapter of Sandals 2.0.
Related Blog Posts
- Should You Book Sandals Resorts Direct or With a Travel Agent?
- Jamaica Is Ready: My Firsthand Experience at Sandals Dunn’s River & the Island’s Reopening
- All the Sandals Extras Pink Palm Travel Can Book Before You Go
Share this story