An upscale property between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, Melia Braco Village is one of Jamaica’s newest beach resorts (opened 2016) and caters well to both couples and families with modern rooms and unique activities. The fitness center is on the small side, there isn’t much in the surrounding area (it’s quite isolated and lacks hotel neighbors, a pro for many), and some features of the resort are designated for upgraded “The Level” guests only; but the property offers great food for an all-inclusive (including an excellent jerk chicken eatery near the beach), strong dining variety (six restaurants and four bars), a fresh fruit stand, a nice spa, unique key wristbands for room access (so you don’t have to carry a key card around), a mostly laid-back atmosphere, excellent overall service, and a decent beach by Jamaica standards. The state-of-the-art accommodations come with beachy whitewashed wood flooring, large flat-screen TVs, rainfall showers, comfortable bedding, and private balconies with ocean or garden views. Upgrading to “The Level” comes with extra perks such as ocean views in all rooms, exclusive lounges and dining, reserved sunbeds, welcome gifts, private check-in, and express check-out. The resort offers a few highly unique on-site activities such as motorized bicycle tours, rock climbing (the 35-foot wall is impressive), ziplining, and paintball at the Adventure Park. Other activities include horseback riding (at Braco Stables Ride and Swim, which is in the immediate vicinity), kayaking, water aerobics, Zumba classes, snorkeling, and live reggae music at night.
Complimentary COVID-19 antigen tests are offered to guests returning to the United States that stay a minimum of three nights. In the event of a positive test, affected guests can extend their stay up to 15 days at no extra charge.