Fresh Luxury: Oil Nut Bay Resort Adds New Villas And Spa In The BVI
The just opened overwater spa in the water surrounding the British Virgin Islands Resort Oil Nut Bay.
Oil Nut Bay
On the eastern end of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, located on 400 acres of land surrounded on three sides by turquoise water, Oil Nut Bay has been a tranquil respite since its opening a decade ago. The only thing it was missing was a spa, particularly noticeable as wellness travel began to zoom in travelers' interests the last few years. So this year, enter Sundara Spa + Studio, a center of healing and restorative experiences situated for extra relaxation, overwater.
The new six bedroom hilltop estate Wings on sale for $32.5 million but available to rent by the week.
Oil Nut Bay
Being located in the British Virgin Islands also helps. This group of 50 islands with consistent trade winds has long been known as a sailors' paradise, lending a laid back overall tone. There are top level resorts but not to a point of overdevelopment and several of those resorts are on private islands: Richard Branson's Necker and Moskito, Peter Island, Guana Island. And even though these islands are not that far away, they've never been that easy to get to directly from the U.S.; instead a network of small planes, ferries and charters were required. (The addition of a flight from Miami to Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on Beef Island, the country's main air gateway in 2023 has certainly helped, though. Oil Nut Bay owners and guests can also reserve NetJets charters from any U.S. airport to Beef Island at the same rate as a NetJets member.)
The dining area of the five bedroom Maronti Villa.
Oil Nut Bay
Within this overall environment, Oil Nut Bay fits right in, designed not as a large, internationally branded hotel with buzzing activity but as a low density expanse of luxury homes and villas. There are 51 overall with 31 available to rent ranging from cliffside suites to seven-bedroom estates such as the new 9.513 square foot Wings which is on the market for $32.5 million but also available to rent by the week and has six freestanding bedrooms each with its own plunge pool.
The interior of the villa Casino Royale.
Oil Nut Bay
Other homes hitting the rental market for the first time this season are the newly constructed 4,154 square foot, five bedroom Quintessa and the six bedroom, waterfront Casino Royale. (Other home sites and villas are still available to buy with prices ranging from $1.95 million to Wings' $32.5 million.) Half of the property's 400 acres is still devoted to green space, though, so it's hardly overcrowded.
The recently redesigned Beach Club with three pools and a restaurant.
Tanveer Badal Photography / TANV
There are also significant facilities. Bordering the mile long beach, the recently redesigned beach club has three pools, an open air restaurant and a swim up bar; the fitness center has a top-of-the-line gym, pickleball and tennis courts; younger family members have their own Kids Club and interactive nature center. Adjacent to the full service 101 slip marina, Marina Village contains the overwater restaurant Nova serving Caribbean cuisine, seafood and sushi, a pool with day beds and boutique and the Deep Bay watersports center for kiteboarding, windsurfing, snorkeling plus Hobie cat sailing and waterskiing lessons.
The lounge attached to the restaurant Nova at Marina Village.
Oil Nut Bay
The opening of the Sundara Spa + Studio this month obviously adds to the options. Treatments include massages utilizing a mixture of orange, clove, ginger and seaweed, or emulating the movements of the sea to relieve muscular tension; a seaweed leaf wrap to soften and nourish the skin and skin renewal facials. Wellness rituals include yoga and sound healing. Starting in October, a four-day ritual will become part of the treatment menu including body wraps, massages and skin renewal facials all involving seaweed. The intended results: returning the guest to the real world in a state of relaxation, even more than the resort would produce on its own.
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CNET
29 minutes ago
- CNET
Beyond Anti-Aging: 10 Surprising Benefits of Red Light Therapy
An emerging health and skincare practice, red light therapy has exploded in popularity. You've likely seen social media influencers swearing by those glowing, scary-looking, at-home face mask devices. Many wellness centers and gyms have started adding red light therapy treatments to their list of services. But is this trend truly as magical as it seems? Though more clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness, evidence supports using red light therapy for skin treatments and other health conditions -- but it largely depends on the type of device and red light used. Learn how red light therapy works and whether it's right for you. What is red light therapy? Red and infrared light naturally occur as part of the sun's electromagnetic spectrum, particularly at sunrise and sunset -- but many of us don't get enough of it. "In the conveniences of today's modern life, it is very easy, and practically the norm, to sleep in and not be outside with the rising sun," said Allison Beardsley, founder of Red Light Method, in the company's introductory video. "Because of these conveniences, we are light-starved as a people. We spend so much time indoors -- in front of the computer, in temperature-controlled climates -- that we're no longer physiologically receiving the benefits of red and near-infrared light." The sun naturally emits red and infrared light when it's lower in the sky, around sunrise and light therapy (also known as photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy) uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light that penetrate the skin and stimulate our cells. 'Red light targets the mitochondria, better known as the 'powerhouses' of cells, and it boosts adenosine triphosphate production, fueling cellular repair and optimal function,' said Dr. Joel Kahn, MD, cardiologist and Sunlighten advisory board member. More energy means our cells can work more effectively to repair the skin and boost new cell growth. 'With over 100 trillion mitochondria in the human body, red light therapy helps energize cells, supporting heart health, skin repair and overall vitality. Additionally, it enhances circulation, helps the body recover more efficiently and reduces inflammation,' Kahn explained. Benefits of red light therapy The results of red light therapy depend on the device used and the specific wavelengths of light it emits. These 10 benefits go hand-in-hand with one another. Here's how: 1. Cellular health As Kahn explained, red light therapy stimulates the mitochondria, which are responsible for energy production. As the mitochondria are exposed to and soak up the light, they're energized and can function more effectively, working to repair cellular damage and boost cellular regeneration. The more ATP your cells have, the quicker healing and recovery occurs. 2. Wound healing The mitochondria of our cells also produce nitric oxide, which plays a role in healing wounds and burns. Red light therapy can help reduce inflammation and increase blood flow, which supports the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to injured areas that need repairing. Light therapy originated when NASA scientists began using red and blue LED lights for growing plants in space. The astronauts noticed that abrasions on their hands seemed to heal quicker than usual while working underneath the LED lights. Researchers have since continued studying the effects of high-intensity red and near-infrared lights with promising results -- one such study with US Navy Seals found a 50% faster healing time for lacerations compared to control groups. 3. Skin health Nasha Addarich Martínez, managing editor of CNET's wellness team, uses the HigherDOSE LED face mask and loves it. Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Arguably, its most well-known benefit is for improving our skin. When you think of red light therapy, you likely picture one of the glowing LED face masks or wands. These increasingly popular devices are said to enhance skin appearance by promoting collagen and elastin production and reducing inflammation and redness. These functions, in turn, help to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, acne, age spots and scars. Studies have shown that red light therapy may also help with conditions such as rosacea and eczema, given its anti-inflammatory properties. 4. Detoxification Another benefit of red light therapy is that it's said to aid in detoxification. We are exposed to countless toxins daily, from air pollution to free radicals to chemicals in household products and cosmetics. As Kahn explained, red light therapy and infrared light can help your body sweat out toxins, including some microplastics -- which is becoming an increasing concern as recent studies report a sharp rise in human microplastic and nanoplastic consumption. Read more: 10 Foods With Microplastics and Ways to Reduce Exposure It's important to note that sweating's primary function is to regulate your body temperature, not to flush out toxins. Sweat is mostly comprised of water and a small amount of sodium, chloride and other substances, while detoxification predominantly happens in the liver and kidneys. 5. Improved circulation In the same vein as wound healing benefits, the release of nitric oxide widens blood vessels and capillaries, allowing for better circulation. Good circulation is crucial for properly functioning organs and reduces cardiovascular risks such as heart disease and stroke. It's also essential for our brains and cognitive functioning. 6. Heart health As I mentioned, more clinical studies are needed to fully confirm the effectiveness of red light therapy as a treatment for certain conditions, but emerging research has shown that its anti-inflammatory properties could also benefit heart health. Dr. Kahn has advocated for infrared and red light therapy since the early 2000s, calling it a 'major breakthrough in some vascular patients.' By boosting circulation, it has the potential to improve our overall cardiovascular functioning. Infrared and red light therapy may promote myocardial angiogenesis, a fancy term for when new blood vessels form in the heart muscle. This is especially important after events like heart attacks, as it encourages blood flow and oxygen delivery to damaged areas. After years of testing, Kahn recommends infrared and red light therapy for patients, specifically crediting the Sunlighten brand as 'the only infrared saunas clinically shown to temporarily lower blood pressure and reduce belly fat, contributing to a healthy heart.' 7. Pain relief and recovery We've discussed red light therapy's ability to decrease inflammation, which often causes pain. Improved blood flow helps provide essential nutrients and oxygen to our tissues, promoting healing and cellular regeneration. It can encourage faster muscle recovery after intense workouts, reducing fatigue and soreness. Red light therapy may promote faster healing from injuries or intense physical also suggest that red light therapy can reduce pain associated with certain types of arthritis, tendonitis, joint or muscle pain and possibly even headaches or migraines. 8. Boosts your mood Red light therapy also shows promise for our mental health. It can help us relax, reducing our cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and encouraging a sense of calm. It may also help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression by stimulating our feel-good neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. 9. Hair growth There are many possible causes of hair loss, so red light therapy may not stimulate hair growth for everyone. However, some studies have shown that it can be an effective, noninvasive treatment for those with hereditary or hormonal hair loss or alopecia, as it stimulates the hair follicles. 10. Sleep The research shows that red light therapy can promote better sleep. You probably already know that health experts advise avoiding screens before bed. This is because they emit blue light that suppresses melatonin production, which is a natural hormone your body produces to make you sleepy. Conversely, red light therapy may encourage sleep by stimulating melatonin production, making it much less disruptive to your circadian rhythm than blue light exposure. Read more: I Took a Sleep Test and Was Shocked by My Out-Of-Whack Hormones How can I get red light therapy? Face masks You've probably seen social media videos of users wearing those LED face masks that emit a red glow. You can buy these devices online for at-home use, but dermatologists warn that some masks may not be powerful enough or emit the right wavelength of red light to achieve your desired results. The wavelength used directly affects how deep the light penetrates your skin. Red light therapy devices used at medical and skincare offices may be more powerful than many at-home devices you can buy online. Pads and wraps Many wellness centers and fitness clinics now also offer red light therapy sessions, which can look different depending on the facility. One method is wrapping your body in red and near-infrared light wraps or pads, which target not only your skin but are intended to help relieve pain from injuries or arthritis. The facility I visited for red light therapy treatment uses FDA-cleared medical-grade wraps (pictured hanging on the wall beside the face mask). Aly Lopez/CNET Panels Another medium for red light therapy is panels, such as the standing Red Light Therapy Panel by Sunlighten. They're often incorporated as a therapeutic addition to fitness routines and spaces, and some include apps or programs to adjust the light and intensity. Saunas Saunas with infrared and red light therapy are becoming increasingly popular in wellness centers and gyms and are available for at-home purchase. A facility near my home offers infrared saunas with workout machines inside -- you can ride a stationary bike, do yoga or use a rowing machine while detoxing with the infrared rays. The difference between infrared and red light Infrared and red light have different wavelengths, offering different benefits. Infrared light has longer wavelengths ranging from 700 nanometers (nm) to 1 mm. Infrared light can be further specified based on its wavelength by near-infrared, mid-infrared and far-infrared. Infrared light penetrates deeper into your tissue than red light, which has a shorter wavelength between 630 and 700 nm. Infrared light (invisible to the human eye) generates heat and is commonly used in saunas, heat lamps and medical devices. Red light therapy (visible to our eyes) is often used in smaller devices, such as LED panels, wands and face masks. In general, infrared light is used more for pain relief, muscle relaxation, detoxification and improved circulation. Red light therapy is typically used for surface-level treatments such as skin rejuvenation, acne treatment and wound healing. Infrared saunas are becoming an increasingly popular holistic health remedy in spas, gyms and are the possible risks of red light therapy? If you're thinking of buying an at-home red light therapy device, it's best to get one that's FDA-approved, such as the CNET-tested and approved Omnilux Contour Face Mask. Countless red light products are on the market, and many don't meet FDA standards -- or are counterfeit and gimmicky and will offer no real benefits. Eye damage Red light therapy itself isn't necessarily harmful to our eyes, but the brightness of some devices may cause discomfort or sensitivity. Wearing eye protection such as goggles is recommended, especially if the red light is directed toward your face. Photosensitivity Red light therapy may increase your skin sensitivity to sunlight, so it's best to protect your skin from excessive UV exposure while outdoors. Some medications may also increase your sensitivity, so it's important to check with your doctor before using red light therapy. Learn more: Best Mineral Sunscreen of 2025 Skin irritation You should also proceed with caution if you have sensitive skin or certain conditions. "Overall, red light therapy is considered low risk, but some might experience mild skin irritation,' Kahn said. Though rare, other possible side effects may include headaches or irritability. Kahn advised that, "anyone prone to fainting or with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) should proceed with caution. People with eczema or other skin conditions should check with their dermatologist and pregnant women should run it by their doctor." The final verdict Red light therapy is an emerging treatment that shows promise in many areas, from treating skin conditions to improving cardiovascular health to overall well-being. It's nontoxic, noninvasive and doesn't use ultraviolet light (known to cause cancer). Experts consider red light therapy safe when used appropriately and as directed. It's important to note that the effects of long-term red light therapy use are not yet fully known. More research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm the claims. "With science continuing to evolve, red light therapy will likely become an even more integral part of longevity, recovery and overall health routines," Kahn said. Whatever your desired results are with starting red light therapy, it's always best to consult your health care provider or dermatologist first. My personal experience Red Light Method is a boutique wellness facility that offers 25-minute medical-grade red light therapy treatments with FDA-cleared Contour Light devices. It's recently exploded in popularity, with three open locations and 55 more signed nationwide. Its founder, Allison Beardsley, aims to make high-end red light therapy treatments more affordable and accessible so everyone can reap the benefits. I signed up for a session to see what the hype was about. I entered the private spa room and got comfy on the massage table. A staff member wrapped my body in medical-grade red and near-infrared contouring wraps -- one for each leg and arm, one beneath my spine on the table, one placed over my stomach and a large red light mask over my face and head. Aly Lopez/CNET With noise-canceling headphones on, I closed my eyes and listened to the calming introductory meditation that slowly explained the benefits of red light therapy. The wraps were pleasantly warm but not hot. I felt no burning or tingling sensations, quickly reaching a comfortable and meditative state. Before I knew it, the session had come to an end. To feel the benefits of red light therapy treatment, you have to attend the sessions frequently, so I can't say just how effective it is yet. Regardless, I left the facility feeling relaxed yet energized, and my skin (particularly on my face) felt rejuvenated. 'Red and near-infrared light therapy is so good for our cellular health. Our cellular health is the foundation of all health -- it's like changing from the inside out. It takes time, consistency and discipline, just like all health endeavors do,' Beardsley said. The team at Red Light Method has received countless testimonials from its members who frequently undergo the red light sessions. Their results have included fat loss, reduced arthritic and sciatic pain, more energy and better sleep. If you've been considering trying red light therapy or an infrared sauna, I'd say it's worth a shot -- just be sure to consult with your doctor beforehand.
Entrepreneur
an hour ago
- Entrepreneur
I Scaled a 500-Person Company on Hustle — But Wellness Made It Sustainable (and More Profitable)
This CEO's mindset shift reveals how daily wellness habits can fuel better leadership, stronger teams and lasting business growth. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. I recently came across a job ad from a boutique U.S. agency that read: "If you prefer a clock-in, clock-out mentality, we're not a good fit," and"Specific work hours don't matter when you're hungry to grow." I've been around the block enough to know what that really means: long hours, weekend emails and a blurred line between work and everything else. We like to believe we've moved past hustle culture and into the era of workplace wellness. But job postings like this prove many employers are still selling burnout, just wrapped in the language of "ambition." I've lived both versions of the founder journey: the always-on grind and the wellness-first rebuild. I know exactly what the hustle takes from you — and how small, intentional changes can help you feel better, lead better and build a business that doesn't burn you out. Related: Don't Underestimate The Importance of Employee Well-being. Your Business Will Suffer The Most When hustle becomes your identity And why is that a problem? Startup culture glorifies the idea that more hours equals more achievement. And sure, early wins feel good — that dopamine hit keeps us grinding. Until one day, the hustle is your identity. In the early days of my company, I lived by this mantra: "If you're heading home and your competitor's lights are still on — turn around." It worked. We scaled from three scrappy founders to a global team of 500. But eventually, I realized: if I didn't put my team's wellbeing first, we wouldn't last. Playing the long game takes more than stamina — it takes sustainability. The data backs this up. In a recent survey of 138 startup founders, over half reported experiencing burnout in the past year. Two-thirds had seriously considered walking away from the very companies they built. That's not grit — it's a system failure. Even high-profile success stories aren't immune. Take Loom co-founder Vinay Hiremath. After helping scale the company to a near-billion-dollar exit, he admitted: "I am rich and I have no idea what to do with my life." His solution? Jump back into hustle culture — because it's the only thing he knows. Burnout is a silent epidemic. The World Health Organization formally recognized it as an "occupational phenomenon" in 2019. It rarely makes headlines, but it robs us of focus, clear decisions, and, ultimately, the longevity of the businesses we're building. Related: 5 Leadership Strategies That Actually Prevent Employee Burnout What I did to break the cycle Health fuels performance — and it starts with you. When leaders are well-rested and engaged, everything works better: decision-making, team morale, product velocity. And it's not just a feel-good theory. A 2024 Gallup study of 183,000 businesses across 90 countries found that prioritizing employee wellbeing is a business advantage. Here's what they found: 78% less absenteeism Up to 51% lower employee turnover 32% fewer errors and defects Up to 20% higher productivity 23% greater profitability These results aren't magic — they're the compounding effect of cultural choices. And those choices start at the top. For me, the turning point was simple: I got tired of being tired. I shifted from obsessing over hustle to building a rhythm that supported performance and wellbeing. Here's how that looked: I set hard boundaries on work hours. I used to wear 14–16 hour days like a badge of honor. But after 8 p.m., I'd spend twice as long on basic tasks. Now, I aim to wrap by 6:30 p.m., which forces better focus— and leaves energy for life outside work. I used to wear 14–16 hour days like a badge of honor. But after 8 p.m., I'd spend twice as long on basic tasks. Now, I aim to wrap by 6:30 p.m., which forces better focus— and leaves energy for life outside work. I prioritized consistency over hacks. No detoxes or cold plunges. Just a steady rhythm of short breaks between meetings to stretch, breathe, and reset. It keeps mental fatigue from building. No detoxes or cold plunges. Just a steady rhythm of short breaks between meetings to stretch, breathe, and reset. It keeps mental fatigue from building. I moved my body instead of chugging coffee. Short workouts replaced endless caffeine. Even a five-minute break helps reset my energy and cognition. Trying new sports also improved my mental flexibility in surprising ways. Short workouts replaced endless caffeine. Even a five-minute break helps reset my energy and cognition. Trying new sports also improved my mental flexibility in surprising ways. I let my mind wander on purpose. Some of my best ideas show up when I'm doing nothing—walking, meditating, or scribbling thoughts in a notebook. Some of my best ideas show up when I'm doing nothing—walking, meditating, or scribbling thoughts in a notebook. I protected my attention like it was my most valuable resource. Two hours of deep focus every day—no meetings, no multitasking — lets me explore ideas, shape strategy, and think long-term without working late. And it wasn't just about me. I brought wellness into our team culture with walking meetings, breathwork breaks and light-hearted wellness challenges. Because a business is only as healthy as the people building it — not just the founder. Related: Why Being 'Always On' Is Killing Your Innovation, and How to Truly Disconnect If you do just one thing — do this Give yourself permission to fully disconnect. When you log off, really log off. No weekend emails. No late-night Slack messages. Don't say you have "limited access" in your out-of-office message. Say you're offline — and mean it. That's how you build a culture where rest is respected, not resented. The truth is, I still struggle to fully clock out sometimes. When you're building something you care about, it's hard to let go. But if you want what you're building to last, you have to protect the person building it — you. Wellness isn't a retreat. It's not a reward. It's your foundation. And if we want a new era of work, it starts with building companies where people thrive, not just survive.
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Travel + Leisure
2 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
This Caribbean Island Is Famous For Beautiful Beaches and All-inclusive Resorts—and It's the Birthplace of Reggae and Jerk Cooking
For over 70 years, Half Moon has been one of the most iconic resorts in the Caribbean, exuding a refined elegance that stands the test of time. From Doctor's Cave Beach in Montego Bay to hidden stretches of sand at the far reaches of the island, there's a beach for every occasion in Jamaica. Head to the hillside near Ocho Rios for a family-run, farm-to-table dining experience at Stush in the Bush, getting to the heart of Jamaica's tropical bounty with authentic island flavors. Visit the sprawling estates of the island's interior to sip some of the world's best coffee amidst the untouched expanses of the Blue Mountains. Less-visited Port Antonio feels remote and removed, hiding some of the island's best beaches and surprisingly cool accommodations in a destination that is nothing short of a tropical paradise. Amidst a sea of indistinguishable beaches and impersonal all-inclusive resorts, only a lucky few Caribbean-bound travelers dive deeper to explore the profound depths and unbridled richness of what the region has to offer. However, even the casual observer can sense that one island breaks the mold of all the others. Jamaica conjures captivating images all its own: the rhythms of reggae, jerk chicken best served beachside, and a shoreline punctuated by stretches of sand spanning every shade from white to glimmering gold. Even so, any local or seasoned Jamaica traveler who has gone further than the resort strip of Montego Bay can tell you that the island has still more to explore and experience. "Adventure-seekers can go cliff-jumping or hike the Blue Mountains. Foodies can try the best of jerk cuisine and fresh seafood. If you're looking for wellness, find peaceful resorts that offer yoga, luxurious spas, Ital cuisine, and excursions to natural springs and waterfalls," says Shernette Crichton, general manager at the historic Half Moon in Montego Bay. It's that profound abundance of appeal that has, for decades, made Jamaica one of the most perennially popular and captivating destinations in the Caribbean, drawing return visitors year after year. More than just the sum of its stereotypes, Jamaica is a force all its own, "an island that truly meets you where you're at," she muses. Courtesy of Sandals Resorts One of the most iconic resorts in the Caribbean, Half Moon has spread gracefully across the white sands of Montego Bay for more than 70 years. 400 seaside acres hide a championship golf course, multiple award-winning restaurants, an equestrian center, and an expansive spa and wellness space. But Half Moon is much more than its amenities; its most defining feature is how it effortlessly wears its decades of elegance while seamlessly integrating modern luxuries in a way that has kept it at the cutting edge. Choose from accommodations within the historic Founder's Cove or more modern rooms, suites, and residences at Eclipse by Half Moon. Coming soon, the refreshed Villas at Half Moon will offer getaways with space for the whole family. Nestled between a championship golf course and the shimmering expanses of the Caribbean Sea, The Tryall Club is a collection of 74 private villas that, in many ways, is far from a classic Caribbean resort experience. Each villa at this 2,200-acre seaside property outside of Montego Bay has its dedicated staff, including a butler, chef, housekeeper, and more, giving it a home-away-from-home feel. Escape to the new spa or the Great House for gatherings with fellow guests. The brand-new Ooshan Bar and Restaurant is another highlight, featuring a modern twist on classic Jamaican flavors for lunch and dinner, though sunset hour cocktails with views over the water are hard to beat. Clinging to the cliffside in Negril, Tensing Pen is a historic boutique hotel so special that it was chosen by Travel + Leisure readers as one of the best hotels in the world last year. Natural materials like local stone and wood used throughout the property's design make it meld into the island's rocky, rugged coastline, while amenities like a spa, yoga studio, and culinary experiences highlighting colorful Caribbean cuisine lend it a refinement that has long made it a stand-out place to stay. Its boutique size and tucked-away feel make it a romantic destination perfect for a reclusive vacation. Celebrity guests like the Rolling Stones and Bob Marley have been plunging from the cliffs at Rockhouse Hotel & Spa in Negril since the 1970s, a storied past that lends an impossibly cool air to this 40-room property considered among the island's best boutique hotels. There are a number of different room styles to choose from here, though the thatched-roof villas made with hewn stone that dot the cliffside are breathtaking with their ocean views. Amidst so many other highlights, the culinary experience deserves attention, with menus at both restaurants that read like love letters to the island with ingredients from the oversized hydroponic greenhouse. Jamaica didn't invent the all-inclusive vacation, but it certainly perfected it. Emerging from a top-to-toe transformation, Sandals Dunn's River is one of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica. The property is newly foodie-focused with more than a dozen restaurants, and it feels deeply rooted in place with local art and design. 260 rooms come in 14 different categories, lending the property the unique ability to cater to every style of traveler and size of group. Still to come? The stretch of sand next door to this Ocho Rios institution is set to be transformed into Sandals Royal Dunn's River. Rafting in Martha Brae River. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure It's impossible to overstate the beachy beauty of Jamaica. Make Doctor's Cave Beach in Montego Bay your first stop before escaping to the world-famous Seven Mile Beach near Negril for, you guessed it, seven pristine miles of blissfully white sand. For more untouched shores, Frenchman's Cove in Portland is just as renowned for its natural feel as for the jerk chicken stands that set up shop nearby. South coast beaches, barely visited, feel like one of the best-kept secrets in the Caribbean. There are a million and one reasons to venture into the verdant, rainforest-coated interior of Jamaica, but if we have to pick just one, we will choose rafting down the Martha Brae River outside of Montego Bay every single time. This is a rafting experience without a rapid in sight. Instead, slink slowly down the gentle river on a flat bamboo raft, drifting beneath tropical foliage. It's just as dreamy as it sounds, though it's best to avoid days when cruise ships are in port, as the river can feel busy. The Bob Marley Museum, housed within the musician's former Kingston home, is an obligatory stop in Jamaica for any music lover. Pair the experience of an hour-long guided visit with a musical salute to the star by stopping at some of the island's most beloved reggae venues: Dubwise in the capital, Roots Bamboo in Negril, or the famous Pier 1 in Montego Bay. Diehard fans will want to plan their entire visit around Reggae Sumfest in July or Rebel Salute in January, with unforgettable shows that feature the homegrown and internationally renowned stars of reggae. Travelers tend to flock to the stunning ultramarine sinkhole known as the Blue Hole in Ocho Rios, but we recommend skipping it in favor of the Blue Lagoon instead. Far fewer visitors make it to this stunning natural attraction, known for its impenetrably turquoise water, so mesmerizing that it was once thought to be bottomless. Visitors can paddle across its still surface on flat bamboo rafts or swim out to nearby monkey-less Monkey Island and spend the afternoon relaxing on its beautiful beach. Grown in just a sliver of the high altitudes of the Blue and John Crow Mountain ranges, Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is highly coveted, offering a unique flavor experience that coffee fans can't miss. Try it straight from the source at the historic Craighton Estate overlooking Kingston, or sign up for a tour that includes hiking and biking across multiple spots in the mountains. Spend the night at nearby Strawberry Hill, a boutique mountain property owned by Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, to get the full Blue Mountain experience. A Jamaican curry dish. from_my_point_of_view/Getty Images A winding route out of Ocho Rios through the immense lushness of the island's interior leads to Stush in the Bush, a vegan farm-to-table dining experience lovingly curated by Chris and Lisa Binns. This creative couple champions Ital cuisine, a plant-based culinary movement particular to Jamaica, welcoming visitors into their world with a farm tour and thoughtful dinner of handcrafted, locally-grown delights. Make sure to book ahead; this dining experience and mountainside destination is so beloved it made our list of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean. Tucked into the mountainside that starts just meters from the sand, Half Moon's famed Sugar Mill is one of the most celebrated restaurants in the Caribbean. It offers a white tablecloth fine dining experience inside an 18th-century sugar mill surrounded by magical gardens illuminated by hanging lights. The menu calls on beloved Caribbean flavors and staple ingredients for highlights ranging from pumpkin soup to jerk-seasoned grilled short ribs and fresh fish. When it comes to fine dining in Jamaica, it is only potentially upstaged by Half Moon's newer Delmare restaurant, where Italian influences meet local flavors for inspirational dishes like Blue Mountain coffee-infused pasta. "Scotchies is iconic for a reason–make sure to try the jerk chicken and pork," says Crichton of this Montego Bay institution, which many argue is the best jerk on the island. The rustic setup under thatched roofs is all part of the appeal as diners await large portions of expertly grilled and seasoned meats with rice and beans best enjoyed with a crisp, cold Red Stripe. "For a more romantic setting, try The HouseBoat Grill, a floating restaurant in a marina that is great for seafood lovers," says Crichton. Just as its name implies, this oversized two-story vessel sits moored in the tranquil waters of Montego Bay, serving an extensive menu of mostly seafood dishes, but with a little something for every diner. A small ship ferries locals and visitors alike across the waves for lunch and dinner service, though sunset is the best time to enjoy. A person enjoying a beach near Montego Bay. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure Montego Bay is the undisputed beach capital of the island, with hotels and resorts of every shape and size lining its powdery fine sands. This is the ultimate destination for travelers looking for a convenient and quick fly-and-flop style getaway, though there are still quite a number of things to see and do in the area. Visit Martha Brae River and enjoy ziplining and hiking in the hillsides, or visit Rose Hall Great House for a look into the island's history. The coastline of Negril, located on the west side of the island, feels impossibly varied, ranging from beautiful stretches of sand to craggy cliffs that plunge dramatically into the sea. Stay at Tensing Pen or Rockhouse Hotel & Spa for the raw beauty of the rocky shoreline, or something more classically Caribbean like Beaches Negril for a family-friendly stay along a white-sand beach. Ocho Rios feels like a getaway within a getaway, home to an impressive number of resorts and hotels yet removed and relaxed enough for some serious R&R. Make sure to swim in the Blue Hole and hike to nearby Dunn's River Falls, or head to Mystic Mountain for ziplining and jungle bobsledding. Fans of 007 rejoice: Ocho Rios is also home to GoldenEye, where Ian Fleming wrote the original James Bond stories, and James Bond Beach, where Dr. No was filmed in 1962. Even if you're itching to hit the beach, don't skip Kingston. There is plenty to see and do in Jamaica's vibrant capital city, from the must-visit Bob Marley Museum and the National Gallery of Jamaica to award-winning restaurants and buzzing dance halls. Cap your visit to the city with a stop at Devon House, part monument and part gastronomic destination, where visitors can chow down on everything from lobster-stuffed patties and jerk chicken to Jamaican stout-flavored ice cream. On Jamaica's less-visited eastern side, Port Antonio feels utterly tranquil and untouched compared to some of the island's more sizeable seaside towns. Come here for surfing, hidden cove beaches, and delicious local food at the foot of the Blue Mountains. Starting this year, guests can even stay at Diplo's house, one of the most hotly anticipated new properties in the Caribbean, for sweeping views overlooking the mountainside and ocean. People on a Jamaica beach during sunset. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure The best time to visit Jamaica is between December and April, when crystal-clear skies and slightly cooler temps make for gorgeous stretches of weeks on end that seem tailor-made for a trip to the beach. Such dreamy weather draws visitors escaping snow and ice back home, so expect beaches to be busier and prices higher during this season. May provides a small window where visitors can enjoy nice weather with smaller crowds and lower prices, but with the start of the Atlantic hurricane season in June comes an increased likelihood of warmer, wetter weather. Hurricane season lasts through November, but travelers who don't mind a higher risk of rainy skies will quickly find that Jamaica can be a beautiful destination year-round. "For a cultural high, plan to visit around Carnival in April," advises Kenton Jones, managing director of The Tryall Club. Jamaica's Carnival celebrations are some of the biggest and most boisterous in the Caribbean, complete with parades, parties, and over-the-top costumes made for getting down to calypso and soca music. Music lovers will want to plan a trip to Montego Bay's annual Reggae Sumfest, which draws a lineup of the biggest names in reggae for parties that last from dawn to dusk. Jamaica has two primary international airports: Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay and Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston. For travelers headed to the beach, flying into Montego Bay tends to be the best option, offering decent proximity and shorter travel times to popular destinations on the north and west coasts, like Ocho Rios and Negril. Kingston is the best choice for travelers sticking to the city or headed to destinations like the Blue Mountains and Port Antonio on the east side of the island. Whether flying through Montego Bay or Kingston, travelers should have no problem finding convenient flights; these airports are among the busiest and best-served in the Caribbean. Aerial over Falmouth port in Jamaica. You may be just as surprised as I was to learn that driving around the entire island of Jamaica can take up to 16 hours. Distances here are further than expected, so leave plenty of travel time in your itinerary if you plan to crisscross the island. "Renting a car is an option if you like flexibility and do not mind driving Jamaican-style," says Jones, though drivers should be aware that traffic flows on the left side of the road, a vestige of British rule. For those who'd prefer to leave navigating island roads to the more experienced, "I'd recommend hiring a private driver to get around the island," says Crichton. "It makes day trips easier and allows you to have flexibility while customizing your own tour of Jamaica." Or, for a more budget-friendly option, consider Knutsford Express for reliable and air-conditioned coach service. For local trips, travelers can rely on taxis. While rideshare apps like Uber exist in major cities in Jamaica, driver shortages can make rides expensive. Uber has also faced pushback from local leaders, making upcoming changes in usage and fees likely.
