Hedonism II

The fact that this resort has "Hedonism" in its name should give some indication as to the scene here. This adults-only property draws a mostly mature crowd (couples in their 40s and 50s), including large parties (such as the Fluffernutters) of like-minded (that is to say, open-minded) guests looking to socialize, and in some cases, swing. But besides exhibitionists and swingers, and some single travelers, there are also plenty of mellow couples just looking for a little bit of raunchiness and liberation. The resort is divided into "nude" and "prude" sides to accommodate different comfort levels; on the nude side, nudity is required at the beach, pool, and hot tub.

The nude pool is the liveliest (and most PDA-centric) part of the resort during the day, while at night, the most sensual activities take place at the Romping Shop Playroom where condoms are provided and public sex is common. Mirrors above every bed and nightly themed parties (Leather and Lingerie, Toga and Foam, to name a couple) also enhance the sensual mood. There are plenty of non-sexual activities, too, including water sports and cornhole. The vibe is not only respectful but secure: Upon arrival, guests pass through security gates before reaching the circular drive and open-air lobby. Guests can walk right through the lobby to the large main buffet restaurant and dining area, which features a big stage and open doors to the rest of the resort.

Although rooms are contemporary and in mostly good condition, some areas of the resort are dated and shabby, with cracked wood, worn old-fashioned upholstery, and evident grime. Additionally, we encountered multiple spaces with unpleasant odors. However, a huge portion of guests are repeaters who don't seem to mind a little wear and tear. Keep an eye out for painted rocks spread among the grounds with couples' names and all the years they've visited Hedo. Be aware that renovations to some spaces may result in loud construction noise. Additionally, although there used to be a Hedonism III, it closed in 2010.

Located off the busy Norman Manley Boulevard, Hedonism II is tucked away from the road, on a secluded section of Negril’s beautiful Seven Mile Beach. The beach itself is a small area of land that juts out from the rest of the island, making it isolated, and the greenery and gardens provide further shelter. Although no other buildings or hotels are visible from the property, the hotel is a short drive from a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as local attractions and craft boutiques. The closest airport is Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, which is around a 90-minute drive from Hedonism II.

Rooms here are simple, albeit contemporary, outfitted with white walls and wood furniture, blue throw pillows, blue and green tropical-print bed runners, and mirrors above the beds. Travelers that prefer a quieter room should book on the less expensive “prude” side, while guests that want to party late and be close to the pools and beach should book on the livelier “nude” side. Note that guests have access to the entire resort, no matter which side they book on.

Unfortunately, not all units have outdoor spaces, while the Ocean View Au Natural Jacuzzi Suites have patios with huge hot tubs right off the beach. These are particularly popular with the exhibitionist crowd who wants to party in the comfort of their suite. Regardless, all units come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, hairdryers, air-conditioning, and coffeemakers. Upgrades add minibars, robes, slippers, and additional free toiletries. Modern bathrooms have glass showers.

For food and drink, this all-inclusive resort offers five bars, buffet and a la carte restaurants, and a nightclub. Pastafari is a popular Italian restaurant (only open for dinner), while Harrysan serves Teppanyaki cuisine by the main buffet eatery. A wine bar and espresso bar are on-site, but both of these incur charges. Pizza and burgers are served at the nude pool -- from midnight until 4 a.m. during our stay. Food largely receives positive reviews. Clothing is required at restaurants, though skimpy outfits are tolerated.

The wide assortment of nightlife options and an energetic entertainment crew are some of the main draws here. With live music, dancing, theme nights, costume parties, and shows, something is always going on at Hedonism II. The pools, hot tubs, and beach areas are also hubs of activity, and there are options on both the nude and prude sides (nudity is required within the nude side). A clothing-optional pool by the main buffet restaurant on the prude side was hardly used during our visit, while those on the nude side were packed and lively -- they can get pretty raunchy, especially at night.

Also popular at night is the Romping Shop Playroom, which is open to couples, single women, and invited single men interested in public sexual activities. Guests must be nude before entering. Day passes are available for Hedonism II, but those on day passes are not allowed access to the playroom.

There are a ton of water sports available, including scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and sailing, while on land, squash, shuffleboard, slot machines, regular tennis, and basketball are on offer. A decent spa offers a range of treatments, as well as a steam room, sauna, full salon, relaxation area with outdoor pools, and an adjacent fitness center. A gift shop sells everything from headache medicine and souvenirs to sex toys and lingerie.