Luxury Bahia Principe Runaway Bay

The Luxury Bahia Principe Runaway Bay is an upscale, adults-only alternative to its family-friendly sister property, the Grand Bahia Principe, next door. The hotel brand's Spanish origins are seen in the white-stucco architecture and red clay-tiled roofs, while interiors are done in an elegant, yet old-fashioned style of cream-wood furniture, earth-tone linens, and generic artwork. Hallways and well-manicured pathways connect the adults-only side to the Grand Bahia, which is convenient for travelers who have family or friends staying between the two, but could be a significant downside for those wanting a romantic getaway away from kids. Additionally, the spa, gym, and several restaurants are on the Grand Bahia side. 

The noise isn't just from the property next door though, most guests hang around the large pool, which can get quite lively with upbeat music, a swim-up bar, and daily activities such as volleyball. An in-pool gazebo with a sculpture at its center has a Grecian feel, while ample palm trees lend a tropical vibe. Overall, this is a suitable pick for adults that want a few more perks than what's found next door (premium liquor, for instance), but couples wanting to completely avoid children should look elsewhere. The Jewel Paradise Cove Resort & Spa Runaway Bay is a great similar alternative nearby, while Secrets St. James offers a bit more in terms of facilities and a location closer to the airport in Montego Bay.

The Luxury Bahia Principe is set along Jamaica's northern coast in the town of Runaway Bay. The water is calm here, thanks in part to a rock jetty that runs parallel to the narrow beach. A larger beach is available next door at sister property Grand Bahia Principe. Montego Bay and Sangster International Airport are about an hour away by car, while the popular tourist area of Ocho Rios is 45 minutes away in the opposite direction. There, travelers will find Dunn's River Falls and Cool Blue Hole. There are no attractions, restaurants, or shops within walking distance (outside of the resort), so travelers should expect to hire a taxi or shuttle to reach sights.

Spread across seven floors, the 525 rooms are all done in the same elegant, albeit old-fashioned style. Expect beige tile floors, cream wood furniture, orange bed runners, throw pillows, and chair cushions, wrought-iron lamps, and abstract artwork. Four-poster canopied beds are lovely, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors let in lots of light. All units have furnished balconies, and while many have gorgeous ocean views and loungers, some overlook a road. Excellent amenities consist of air-conditioning, free minibars with liquor, coffeemakers, desks, sitting areas with couches and chairs, closets with bathrobes, slippers, and electronic safes, and small flat-screen TVs. Bathrooms are lovely, featuring green-marble dual vanities, big jetted bathtubs and separate showers, an array of quality toiletries, and hairdryers. They're separated from bedrooms with peek-a-boo windows, which have shades for privacy.

Actually within the resort's grounds are a limited number of amenities, most notable being the large pool with four hot tubs and a swim-up bar. The atmosphere here varies between tranquil and bustling, depending on the time of day, activities going on (such as pool volleyball), and music volume. Plentiful loungers and umbrellas surround the deck, and more can be found at the narrow beach. The stretch of sand here is pleasant albeit small, so guests may choose to walk to the beach next door, which has a secluded adults-only nude section. 

Visitors will have to go next door for nearly everything else, except for the tennis courts and ocean-view snack bar that becomes a Brazilian a la carte eatery at night. All-inclusive rates cover all dining and drinks, and guests can visit all restaurants except for the Grand Bahia's family-friendly buffet spot. An adults-only buffet is available, as are Italian, Japanese, Asian-fusion, and Jamaican eateries. A la carte restaurants require reservations. All meals, room service, and premium liquor at participating bars is included. Food mostly receives positive reviews.

A full-service spa and well-equipped gym are located next door, as well as water sports and a theater for entertainment. Bikes to take around the property and parking are both free, as is hotel-wide Wi-Fi. Wedding services are available.