Budget friendly Hotels in Negril

CocoLaPalm Seaside is a stunning beachside resort with a location ready to wow unsuspecting visitors. But before the beach, groups of palm trees opens up to a figure 8 swimming pool at the centre of the property. The rooms around the pool are what you’ll find in any budget hotel. That’s until you look up to find high vaulted octagon-shaped ceilings made entirely of stained wood.

Warm wooden accents are everywhere and some rooms come with an expansive view of the beach. The others have private little garden nooks. Unlike most on this list, CocoLaPalm is family-friendly with lots of outdoorsy things to do. Follow the checkered brick alley to the hot tub, open-air restaurant, and beachfront massage hut. The great outdoors is your friend at this resort. It encourages you to go out and do more with your vacation, whether on or off the property.

Charela Inn is a charming little spot you’ll find stretching along the unmatched Seven Mile Beach. As soon as you walk in it feels like a breath of fresh air. The pathways lined with tropical foliage are beautifully converted into well-manicured gardens. From the courtyard, the gentle sway of the palm trees, bougainvillea, and hibiscus plants is a dead giveaway of the beach ahead.

Beyond that  is the glorious beach area and even more palm trees. For a budget-friendly hotel, this is a big plus. This beachfront is one of the nicer ones in Negril that many wouldn’t mind paying for at an expensive resort. The rooms surrounding the courtyard overlooks a swimming pool. They exude a homey vibe with stained wood accents, private balconies, and canopy beds; all accessible to the physically impaired.

Charela manages to feel away from the crowd, yet is only a few metres from the many attractions and water sports in the area. Anything that’s not offered on the property can be found nearby if not right there on the beach, which is why their guests keep going back.

From the West End main road, you would not guess that there’s a hiatus beyond these walls. Enter, and the lovely bed and breakfast, Oasis Resort, is a respite from the concrete jungle. The resort leads into a manicured tropical miniature version of same. Like most of the others on this list, nature lovers will love the palm trees and all manner of native fauna along the pathway and surrounding the swimming pool. The warmth of the landscape is reflected in the reception from the staff. It’s naturally the kind of energy they exude.

The rooms form a sort of hacienda-style around the pool area. They are very comfortable and modern with cedar accents and furnishings, and splashes of beachy colours to compliment the muted palette. Lined with cabanas and recliners, the pool area is perfect for a leisurely afternoon read or jump in the pool for a few laps.

You could also spend the afternoon picnicking in the gardens and indulge in delicious organic recipes from the on-site farm. The best part is excursions off the property can be easily arranged by the hotel. Popular attractions including the must-try Rick’s Café and the beach, is an easy 3-15 minute drive away.

Well, what do you know, resorts with all-inclusive features don’t all have to be expensive. Merril’s Beach Resorts are prime examples, providing three affordable hotels for budget travelers. These resorts get the job done, and they’re Jamaican owned so you’ll be supporting a locally owned business as well. The rooms are basic, but comfortable. Even more so because they’re steps away from prime Seven Mile Beach real estate.

Being on the stretch will also give you access to several other entertainment and dining options, and activities. Except for the lovely gardens, rooms, and outdoor pool area, there’s not much else to do. So this budget hotel is the perfect place to stay if you want a few all-inclusive options but plan on spending most of your days off the property.

Lush garden grounds give an exclusive vibe to this beachfront property. Rondel Village Hotel followed the budget blueprint and engulfed the space in a beautiful, manicured tropical haven. The 56 room hotel has come a long way from their three-villa property back in 1985. Now, the light, clean, minimalist accommodations with two pools, hot tubs, and even a spa definitely raised the stakes.

Yes, we are still talking about a budget hotel, in case the amenities seem unlikely. But as good as they sound the modifications did sacrifice some space and privacy. The rooms are somewhat snug, and garden-facing entrances and terraces can feel a little exposed. Add a small bar and restaurant, and it could feel cramped during peak season. I recommend going off-season to really experience this gem. Whichever way, the amenities are not the regular run of the mill budget-friendly.

The expansion also transformed the hotel into a dual-section property. One section faces the beach and the other across busy Norman Manley boulevard. Luckily, a crosswalk with traffic lights takes you safely between them. It also leads to some of Negril’s famous attractions and restaurants along the strip.

Finding a decent oceanfront hotel on a budget in Negril isn’t easy, but Le Mirage defy the odds. This peaceful hideaway has many discreet nooks to get rid of tan lines. If you’re feeling frisky, jump off the natural cliffs next to the pool into the crystal, clear sea. The hotel is very modest but well-maintained. You’ll be pleasantly surprised it has some all-inclusive features like fresh, complimentary breakfast and daily housekeeping.

The spacious rooms have walk-in showers and comfortable king-sized beds. Inside, there’s a nice restaurant, a bar, and an infinity pool from where you can be dazzled by Negril’s spectacular sunset. Not surprising, your visit to Le Mirage will leave you with enough spare change to explore downtown Negril, fancier nearby restaurants, or the Seven Mile Beach at sister property, Charela Inn. Taxis are easy to catch to take you anywhere. But be sure only to take licensed ones. The staff is more than happy to advise you about this and any other matter.