As I arrived at Excellence Oyster Bay, I was instantly captivated by the beauty surrounding me.
Imagine a secluded peninsula where the vibrant turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea kiss the soft, pristine white sand beaches. This 5-star, adults-only all-inclusive resort in the heart of Falmouth, Jamaica, is a hidden gem, just a convenient 30-minute drive from the lively atmosphere of Montego Bay.
From the very first moment I stepped onto the property, I could feel the luxurious ambiance that permeates this tropical paradise. The impeccable service and world-class amenities were apparent, immersing me in an atmosphere designed for total relaxation and indulgence. Every detail here is carefully curated to ensure a tranquil experience, making it clear that this resort has mastered the art of hospitality.
In this Excellence Oyster Bay review, I’ll take you on a virtual tour of this Caribbean escape. I'll reveal the unique offerings that have made it a standout choice for travelers seeking a romantic getaway or a much-needed retreat from the daily grind. With so much to explore, Excellence Oyster Bay not only meets expectations but consistently strives to exceed them, with some drawbacks though.
Getting to the Resort
Travel Arrangements
Transportation to and from the airport is included in the resort's rate, providing a seamless arrival and departure experience.
When planning your trip to Excellence Oyster Bay, you can as well consider the various travel arrangements available. Whether you're flying into Sangster International Airport or Norman Manley International Airport, there are numerous transportation options to get you to the resort.
Arrival Experience
Upon arrival at Excellence Oyster Bay, you'll be greeted with a warm Jamaican welcome. The resort's staff is known for their friendly and accommodating nature, ensuring a smooth start to your vacation.
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Check-in Process
The check-in process at Excellence Oyster Bay is efficient and hassle-free. The front desk staff is attentive and ready to assist with any needs or inquiries you may have.
The Rooms
Junior Suite
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The most basic and affordable option, located on one of the middle-level floors. Still, it offers a delightful experience with Bvlgari toiletries, marble bathrooms and a nice view. The staff will be happy to add rose petals to the bed if you wish.
Junior Suite with Plunge Pool
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Similar to the Junior Suite but with the added luxury of a private "plunge" pool or jacuzzi on your balcony deck. The Junior Suite with Plunge Pool is a popular choice among guests.
In particular, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the ocean from the outdoor jacuzzi, which literally erases any desire to leave the place.
This suite also offers a spacious living area, and a luxurious bathroom. The room's decor is tastefully done, reflecting the tropical ambiance of the resort.
Junior Suite with Private Pool
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These ground-level rooms feature a larger private pool just steps away from your room.
Rooftop Terrace Suite with Plunge Pool
This option is oceanfront and exclusively available to Excellence Club members. Although it comes at a slightly higher price point, the experience is well worth it. Honeymooners particularly enjoy this room type with 950 square feet (88m2), upgraded amenities and ocean view.
Excellence Club Beach House with Plunge Pool
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Similar to the previous room category, these accommodations are situated in a separate, condo-style building with only a few rooms, offering a more intimate experience compared to the larger hotel structure.
Beach Villa with Private Pool
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For those seeking the ultimate luxury, these beachfront villas come with a private pool and boast nearly twice the space of other rooms at the resort. However, be prepared to invest upwards of $2,000 per night for this lavish experience.
Comparison with Other Excellence Resorts
Compared to other Excellence Resorts, Excellence Oyster Bay stands out for its unique location and exceptional service. The resort's rooms are designed with comfort and luxury in mind, ensuring a memorable stay for all guests.
The resort offers a variety of room types to suit every traveler's needs. From the spacious Junior Suite with Plunge Pool to the luxurious Excellence Club suites, each room is equipped with modern amenities.
There are balcony jacuzzis, stunning views, and direct beach access. The standard rooms are spacious and well-equipped, with in-room hot tubs and daily refreshed mini-bars.
Related: Sandals Grande St Lucian Review
8 Restaurants, Dining and Drinking
Excellence Oyster Bay boasts a variety of on-site restaurants, offering a range of cuisines from around the world. Whether you're in the mood for Italian, Asian, or local Jamaican fare, there's something to satisfy every palate.
1. The Kitchen Table
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A buffet-style breakfast restaurant, offering a variety of options, though some aspects fell short of expectations.
2. Chez Isabelle
A fine-dining French restaurant with choices like snails, duck, and liver, catering to specific tastes.
3. Oregano
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Located near the main pool area, this outdoor restaurant serves Italian dishes such as sandwiches, pizza, and pasta, making it a great spot for lunch.
4. Caribbean Grove
Offering local Caribbean flavors for both lunch and dinner, with the lunch experience being particularly enjoyable.
5. The Lobster House
Overlooking the main pool area, this restaurant features seafood and traditional American fare, though availability of lobster is seasonal.
6. Spice
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Known for its hibachi and Japanese food, with the hibachi experience standing out as excellent.
7. The Grill Steakhouse
A delightful steakhouse for dinner, offering a memorable meal and great service.
8. Jerk Hut
A poolside snack bar serving quick bites, with a word of caution about the jerk sauce's spiciness.
Recommendations
For a taste of local cuisine, be sure to try the jerk chicken at the Jamaican restaurant Caribbean Grove. If you're a fan of seafood, the lobster at the seafood restaurant is a must-try.
Activities and Entertainment
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Daytime Activities
Excellence Oyster Bay offers a wide range of activities and entertainment options to keep guests entertained throughout their stay. Here are some of the activities available.
Water Sports
Guests can enjoy a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. The crew often organizes aerobics shows in the afternoon.
Fitness Classes
The resort offers a variety of fitness classes, including yoga, Pilates, and Zumba.
Cooking Lessons
Guests can participate in cooking lessons to learn how to make local Jamaican dishes.
Swimming Pools
The resort has five swimming pools, including two for Excellence Club guests, two beachfront pools, and a rooftop pool at the sky bar.
Fat Bikes
Guests can explore the resort on fat bikes, which are available for rent.
Beach Volleyball
The resort has a beach volleyball court for guests to enjoy.
Evening Entertainment
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In the evening, the resort comes alive with a variety of entertainment options. There are Burlesque shows, Michael Jackson tributes, Motown, and even entertaining karaoke nights.
The sports bar, conveniently located next to the theater, is the ideal spot for sports enthusiasts to catch their favorite games while enjoying drinks and late-night food.
Whether you prefer live music, dance shows, or simply enjoying a cocktail by the beach, there's something for everyone.
Spa and Relaxation Options
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For those seeking relaxation, the resort's spa offers a variety of treatments and services. From massages to facials, the spa at Excellence Oyster Bay is the perfect place to unwind.
At the Mille spa, guests can indulge in a 1h30 massage and hydrotherapy treatment, a worthwhile experience even if you're not typically into facials and massages.
Potential Drawbacks of Excellence Oyster Bay Resort
While Excellence Oyster Bay is a highly-rated resort, there are some potential drawbacks to consider before booking your stay. Here are some of the most common remarks from guests.
Food Quality
Several guests have reported that the food at Excellence Oyster Bay is hit or miss. While some restaurants offer delicious meals, others fall short of expectations. Some guests have also reported that the specialty cocktails could improve.
Beach Size
While the resort is marketed as having direct beach access, some guests have found the beach to be small and crowded. Additionally, the beach is narrow, so there is not a lot of room for guests to spread out.
Service
While many guests have praised the staff at Excellence Oyster Bay for their friendly and accommodating nature, others have reported that the service can be spotty. Some guests have reported that servers forget their orders, that the service is slow, and sometimes communication issues.
Room Maintenance
A few guests have reported issues with the maintenance of their rooms. For example, one guest reported that their shower did not have a door, while another reported that their room service food was not fit to eat.
It's important to note that these complaints are not universal, and most guests have had wonderful experiences at Excellence Oyster Bay. If needed, do not hesitate to contact the establishment after booking to tell them your expectations and needs, in order to ensure a pleasant stay.
Overall Service Quality
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The overall service at Excellence Oyster Bay is top-notch. The hardworking staff goes above and beyond to ensure guests have a memorable stay. According to online reviews, customers are particularly impressed by the attentive service at the restaurants.
The staff is always ready to make recommendations and accommodate special requests.
Dress Code and Packing Tips
Dress Code Information and Packing
While the resort has a relaxed atmosphere, there are certain dress codes for the restaurants.
- Men - For dinner, men are required to wear long pants, collared shirts and closed-toe shoes.
- Women - women are asked to wear dresses, skirts, or long pants.
When packing for your trip to Excellence Oyster Bay, be sure to include a variety of clothing options. From swimwear for the beach to formal attire for dinner, it's important to be prepared for all occasions.
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Overall Recommendations
While each Excellence Resort offers a unique experience, Excellence Oyster Bay stands out for its stunning location, exceptional service, and luxurious accommodations.
Beach chairs
The beach area is beautiful but has limited seating, so early morning reservations for beach chairs are recommended.
Book a Plunge pool room
For the best experience in this establishment, it is recommended booking a room with a plunge pool. The private pool and its photogenic ocean view will add a unique and luxurious touch to your stay.
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All-Inclusive Resort Excellence Oyster Bay Review - Takeaway
Excellence Oyster Bay is a luxury adults-only property with a variety of upscale restaurants and bars, a world-class spa, and a great service.
The resort is located on a private peninsula surrounded by stunning turquoise waters and mangrove lagoons, which sets a new standard for all-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
The establishment offers an all-inclusive package that includes everything from food to drinks to room service, while spa treatments are not included. The resort also offers an Excellence Club rate that gives access to additional beach space, two more restaurants, and a few private bars.
This top-notch resort offers a unique and luxurious vacation experience for couples and honeymooners. With its stunning location, exceptional service, and a variety of dining and entertainment options, the Excellence Oyster Bay is a good choice for a memorable vacation in Jamaica.
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Excellence Oyster Bay Review: All Inclusive Resort in JAMAICA
