Hotel Riu Montego Bay is the mid-range all-inclusive for adults who want a social, upbeat holiday with the airport close at hand. It stands on its own white-sand beach at Mahoe Bay in Ironshore, only about 2.7 kilometres from Sangster International Airport, so you can be in the pool within half an hour of landing. Everything is included around the clock: a buffet with live cooking stations, themed restaurants, a beach barbecue, four bars and 24-hour drinks and snacks. There are five swimming pools, one with a swim-up bar, plus the Splash Water World water park, which adults here use as enthusiastically as children elsewhere. The Renova Spa offers massages and treatments for an extra fee, and RIU Fit classes and water sports keep the days busy. Rooms run from standard doubles to sea-view suites. Expedia rates it 8.6 out of 10 from more than 5,000 reviews, and guests are clear that the mood is lively rather than tranquil. Its quieter neighbour, Riu Palace Jamaica, is closed for renovation until December 2026.
Location and getting around: Mahoe Bay is on the coast between the airport and the Rose Hall resorts, about ten to fifteen minutes from the terminal by car. The Hip Strip and Rose Hall Great House are both a short taxi ride, and most tour operators collect from the lobby. There is little to walk to outside the resort, so plan on taxis or tours for exploring.
The rooms: categories include standard doubles, doubles with side or full sea views, family rooms and sea-view suites. Ask for a room away from the main pool and entertainment area if you want to sleep early.
Who it suits: couples and groups of friends who want an adults-only, good-value all-inclusive with music, pool games and a party feel. Travellers looking for peace and quiet will prefer S Hotel or Half Moon.
Good to know: reviews are mixed on food and service, so set expectations at a mid-range level. Check-in is from 3pm and check-out at noon, and spa treatments cost extra.
Why stay here
- ✓24-hour all-inclusive
- ✓Adults only
- ✓Five pools with swim-up bar
- ✓Splash Water World water park
- ✓Renova Spa
- ✓Themed restaurants and buffet
- ✓Four bars
- ✓Close to the airport
Good questions
Is Hotel Riu Montego Bay adults only?+
Yes, it is an adults-only, 24-hour all-inclusive. Families should look at Iberostar Selection Rose Hall Suites instead.
How close is it to the airport?+
It is about 2.7 kilometres from Sangster International Airport, roughly ten to fifteen minutes by car.
Is the resort quiet?+
Not really, because it has a lively, party atmosphere with music and pool games. Ask for a room away from the main pool if you want quieter nights.
