What Makes Sandals Dunn’s River Unique: The Only Sandals Dunn’s River Review You Need To Read
Sandals Dunn’s River is one of Sandals Resorts newest concepts in all-inclusive vacations. Sandals Dunn’s River resort is one that you absolutely have to put on your travel list. Today I am sharing my Sandals Dunn’s River review by covering 7 unique features this resort offers.
Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a destination wedding, or a much-needed tropical escape, Sandals Dunn’s River will sweep you off your feet. As someone who travels to Sandals Resorts for our personal vacations, I can’t recommend this resort enough!

Shoreline Journeys participates in affiliate marketing programs. I may receive a small commission from any purchases you make through links on this blog. Please see my full disclosure policy for more information.
Before I dig into the Sandals Dunn’s River review, let’s talk about some of the frequently asked questions I get as a travel agent about the resort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sandals Dunn’s River
12 specialty restaurants, from Mediterranean to Jamaican jerk.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
Bottomless top-shelf spirits.
Nine bars, including our new rum club
In-room minibars stocked with wines and local beers.
Unlimited Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks® wine.
Sandals Dunn’s River is about a 90-minute drive from both Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay and Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston. Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) is a 30-minute drive from the resort.
Yes! Complimentary transfer to and from the resort is part of your all-inclusive vacation.
Top Vacation Essentials For Sandals Dunn’s River
- SHOWKOO Luggage Sets Expandable PC+ABS Durable Suitcase Double Wheels TSA Lock 3pcs Black
- Travel Luggage Scale
- Surge Protector Power Strip – 8 Outlets with 4 USB (2 USB C) Charging Ports, Multi Plug Outlet Extender
- TRIPPED Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes for Travel
Today I am sharing 7 things that make Sandals Dunn’s River unique to the brand. In short, some of the best food, some unique touches that left me not wanting to leave, and more. Let’s get into this honest Sandals Dunn’s River review from someone who loves the resort.

Sandals Dunn’s River Review: Let’s Start With The Unique Energy
What makes Sandals Dunn’s River stand out? For me, it’s how the resort beautifully weaves together modern, luxurious touches with the soul of Jamaica. Inspired by the nearby Dunn’s River Falls, the resort’s design brings the spirit of the island into every space.
Here, waterfalls trickle into serene pools, breezy lounges open to the Caribbean Sea, and every corner invites you to slow down and savor paradise. When we went to the resort in 2023, my husband and I were recovering from a really heavy year where we lost a lot of family members.
The energy of this resort is like no other, you get rest & relaxation mixed with party & fun, and it absolutely renergerizes you.
The All-New Coyaba Villa and SKY Rondovals
While I didn’t stay in one of these, I couldn’t skip talking about them in this Sandals Dunn’s River review and why it makes this resort unique. These accommodations at Sandals Dunn’s River are the exclusive Coyaba Villa Swim-up Rondoval Butler Suite w/ Private Pool Sanctuary and Coyaba Sky Villa Swim-up Rondoval Butler Suite w/ Private Pool Sanctuary. These luxurious, circular villas are truly next level.
- Coyaba Sky Rondovals with Telescope:
Picture yourself on your private rooftop deck, telescope in hand, stargazing under the Caribbean sky. It’s these magical touches that make your stay unforgettable. - Plunge Pools and Modern Interiors:
Each rondoval has its own plunge pool, a sumptuous king bed, and a spa-style bathroom. The décor is the perfect blend of crisp modern style with a calming, tropical ambiance.
For couples seeking ultimate privacy and romance, these villas deliver. One thing to know is that these rooms fill out really fast, so make sure you contact me to get booked so you don’t miss out.
The Coffee Culture: Blum Coffee Shop & the Coffee Bike In This Dunn’s River Resort Review
As a coffee lover, I was thrilled to find that Sandals Dunn’s River has elevated its coffee game.
The Blum Coffee Shop quickly became my go-to spot for Blue Mountain coffee and fresh pastries. The café has a laid-back yet stylish vibe that’s perfect for lingering over your morning latte. The ladies at the coffee shop are amazing, and they knew my drink order after just one or two visits.

One of the things I loved about the coffee shop was the surrounding grounds. It was such a peaceful place to relax before the day got busy, and I could probably write even more about it in this Sandals Dunn’s River review, but I have a lot more to cover.

The Coffee Bike:
I loved spotting the charming coffee bike roaming the resort grounds. There’s something special about grabbing a fresh brew while lounging poolside or wandering through the gardens. Most mornings it was set up near the main pool and it was a natural place to stop during my morning walk.

Raise a Glass at Dunn’s Rum Club & More
For those who enjoy a good cocktail (like I do!), the Dunn’s Rum Club is a must-visit. This cozy, candle-lit bar serves an impressive array of Caribbean rums and craft cocktails. The bartenders are passionate about what they do, and the rum tastings here were one of my favorite experiences.
I can’t say enough about the staff at the Rum Club. As HUGE football fans, we were on resort when our team was playing Monday Night Football. In the game room, they had all the TVs tuned in to the various games, and were constantly bringing us food and drinks. It was such an enjoyable time and we met some new friends too!
And there are plenty of other fantastic spots to sip and relax:
- Ocarina Rooftop Bar – Perfect for sunset drinks with sweeping ocean views.
- Lapidus Lounge – A stylish bar with some amazing specialty drinks.
- Laughing Waters Bar – A poolside favorite, ideal for lazy afternoons with a tropical drink in hand. The seating above the bar affords a comfy place to take in the scenery.
- Lobby Bar-enjoy a drink from the lobby bar and then wander over for the piano music.
No matter where I wandered, I always found the perfect setting for a refreshing cocktail. The Lapidus Lounge was such a unique offering, and I am so glad we had time to wander in and try some of the signature cocktails.

A Destination Wedding Paradise Awaits You
When it comes to weddings or vow renewals, Sandals Dunn’s River is beyond dreamy. I loved exploring the variety of venues on-site, each more beautiful than the last.
- The Overwater Gazebo: A stunning spot to exchange vows over the crystal-clear Caribbean waters.
- The Sky Terrace: Elevated ocean views make this location simply breathtaking.
- The Garden Gazebo: Surrounded by lush tropical blooms and greenery, it’s a romantic hidden gem.

With expert wedding planners and customizable packages, couples can create the day of their dreams right here. As a travel agent that is certified in Sandals & Beaches weddings, I can help you plan your destination wedding in paradise. Once you arrive at the resort, the Weddings Team will take over and handle every detail! Your luxury honeymoon at Sandals Dunn’s River will be one that you will never forget.
This Ultimate Sandals Dunn’s River Review Isn’t Complete Without Mentioning The Gourmet Dining
Dining at Sandals Dunn’s River is like taking a global culinary tour, and every meal felt like a special occasion. Being all-inclusive, you can grab appetizers at one restaurant, enjoy dinner at another, and finish at yet another for dessert!
- Zuka: Latin fusion dishes bursting with bold flavors. {HINT: This was my favorite meal on resort}
- Hanami: My go-to for fresh sushi and Japanese specialties.
- L’Amande: A romantic French dining experience paired with fine wines.
- Galene: Coastal Mediterranean dishes with the freshest seafood.
- Dunn’s Rum Club: Yes, they also serve late-night bites alongside those fabulous cocktails.
- The Jerk Shack: A Jamaican classic—and a cool twist here is that you can book a special dinner experience with reservations. It felt like an upscale take on a beloved island tradition.
Other must-tries include Cascata for rich Italian fare, Saltaire for a beachy breakfast vibe, and Edessa, which serves Greek cuisine steps from the ocean. My husband always loves Italian and Cascata did not disappoint. Sandals Dunn’s River dining experiences make this resort a step above the others.

Live Performers at Breakfast Make This A Unique Location
One of the most delightful surprises for me was enjoying live performers at breakfast by the pool. Whether it was a soloist or a steel drum duo, the music created the perfect island atmosphere to start each day. There was nothing like sitting at Saltaire listening to the violinist or sax player.
Talk about elevating your resort experience to the next level. I never would have expected that during my resort vacation, so I was absolutely blown away by the Sandals Dunn’s River live performers. I would eagerly look forward to each morning so I could enjoy them.
A Sandals Dunn’s River Review Of The Activities
There’s no shortage of fun and excitement at Sandals Dunn’s River. From land to sea, the resort is packed with activities to suit every interest. While the resort is smaller, it is absolutely packed with things to do.
Land Activities:
- State-of-the-art fitness center with fitness classes.
- Amazing Red Lane® Spa for the ultimate in indulgence!
- Tennis courts and beach volleyball.
- Lawn chess for some friendly competition.
- Unlimited green fees at the nearby Upton Estate Golf & Country Club.

Water Activities:
- Snorkeling and scuba diving with PADI-certified instructors.
- Kayaking, paddleboarding, and Hobie Cats to explore the calm Caribbean waters.
- Glass-bottom boat tours to view colorful marine life.
- Aqua trikes and hydrobikes for a fun twist on exploring the ocean.
- Tubing is offered daily. My husband and I enjoyed watching from our TUFA Skypool suite each afternoon.
I loved how there was something for every mood—whether I wanted an adrenaline rush or a quiet afternoon in the water. No matter what you are looking for, you will find it here at Sandals Dunn’s River
Why I Love Sandals Dunn’s River: Final Thoughts On The Ultimate Sandals Dunn’s River Review
Here’s why I think Sandals Dunn’s River is truly unforgettable and why you have to book a trip there:
- Exclusive Coyaba Rondovals and Coyaba SKY Rondovals with rooftop telescopes.
- A fantastic coffee scene with Blum Coffee Shop and the fun coffee bike.
- The atmospheric Dunn’s Rum Club and eight other diverse bars.
- Picture-perfect wedding and vow renewal venues.
- 12 unique restaurants, each offering a culinary journey.
- Daily live music and performers that brighten every morning.
- A long list of included land and water activities.
If you’re dreaming of a Jamaican escape that blends luxury with authentic island charm, this resort is for you.
Ready To Book Your Vacation To The Sandals Resorts In Jamaica?
Are you convinced? Ready to experience this for yourself? As a travel agent, I would love to help you plan your next vacation. Simply fill out this contact form or send me an email and I will be in touch with you shortly!
And I understand that you may not be ready to use a travel agent, and that’s okay. You can still book your vacation on your own through this link. Sandals Resorts will know that you found out about the resort through my website, but you will have full control of your booking. Just know that I can’t help if anything comes up, so booking with me is the absolute best way to go!
More Posts About Sandals Resorts In Jamaica
- Experiencing The Reading Road Trip Excursion With Island Routes
- Tipping Policy At Sandals Resorts: What You Need To Know
- Sandals Resorts Check-In: What To Expect Once You Arrive On Resort
- The Value Of A Sandals Resorts Vacation: So Many Fabulous Inclusions Make It A Smart Choice
- The Benefits Of Being A Sandals Select Member: Why You Need To Join Before Your Sandals Resorts Vacation
Fabulous Travel Essentials For Your Vacation At Sandals Resorts
- K.Y.S.S. Locking Bag or Backpack
- Sum Bum Suntan Lotion
- Fun Towel Clips For Sun Loungers
- Go Pro Hero 13 Creators Edition
- Aqua 4-in-1 Monterey Hammock Pool Float & Water Hammocks
What Others Are Saying About Sandals Resorts
- Sandals Ochi Review
- Paradise Found at Sandals LaSource, Grenada
- What It’s Really Like Staying at Sandals Resorts
That looks amazing!
One of my favorite resorts right now! Can’t wait to get back there!!
We’ve only ever been on 2 package holidays because the flight and hotel packages were good prices, but we only used the hotel as a base and for breakfast and hired a car for our stay to explore further afield. The longest I’ve been able to stay pool or beach side is two days max as I get bored too easily. Thanks for linking with #pocolo
Yeah, each person definitely has their own rhythm on vacation. I am always on the go, so being able to sit and do nothing is my favorite! Thanks for stopping in!