Hotels in Negril

The choice and variety of lodgings in Negril are a bit bewildering, from funky and rustic to first-class and opulent; no place in the West Indies offers more bizarre accommodations than Negril.

Most visitors want a hotel or resort along Seven Mile Beach opening onto Long Bay. Here are all the famous (or infamous) all-inclusive resorts that have secured the best beachfront property, leaving the lesser resorts to fight for their own places in the sun. Many had to build across the main street as a result -- something to consider.

For the escapist, the West End's inns and small B&B-type places are the places to go, although these properties open onto rocky cliffs instead of a beach. Nevertheless, they are much preferred by independent types and are certainly more adventurous. (Note that some of these cliff-side resorts will not allow families with children under 8 to check in, for fear they might fall from the cliffs; most of the paths don't have protective rails.) West End cottages and huts are far cheaper than the resorts on Long Bay. Regrettably, they are also easy for night burglars to penetrate.

If you're seeking really rock-bottom bargains in simple rustic huts that are almost camplike, try to book one of the dozen units offered by Da Gino's, an Italian restaurant. Other dining spots that rent cheap rooms include LTU Pub and Kuyaba on the Beach.

Inexpensive -- Another low-budget option for lodging is found at Da Gino's.

All-Inclusive Resorts

All-inclusive resorts fold the cost of lodging, meals, and often extras such as drinks or sports into one price. The advantage of staying at one of these places is that you can more or less chart the cost of your vacation in advance, providing you don't spend a lot of extra money on entertainment, shopping, excursions, or transportation. Another element all-inclusives offer that most other properties, especially smaller ones, don't is security: Most of these resorts can afford to hire guards to protect the grounds 24 hours a day.

However, because you're paying for food in advance, you'll feel obligated to dine on-site every night -- and the food tends to be unremarkable at best. If you view food as an integral part of your holiday, it might be better to check into a property where you are not a part of a meal plan.