Sandals Confirms Guests Safe, Begins Jamaica Assessments
Key points
- Sandals confirms all guests and team members in Jamaica are safe
- Resort-by-resort damage assessments and clean-up are underway
- Flexible options offered for guests with reservations in the next two weeks
- Sandals Foundation encourages donations to support recovery
- Hurricane Melissa has weakened to Category 2 as it nears Bermuda on October 30, 2025
Impact
- Near-Term Trips
- If you are due to arrive within two weeks, watch for proactive outreach from Sandals or contact 1-800-SANDALS for options
- On-Property Experience
- Expect temporary closures of some amenities while clean-up and inspections proceed
- Airport & Flight Plans
- Confirm flight status and connection times as Jamaica's operations normalize in phases
- Trip Insurance
- Review policy language for natural-disaster coverage and change benefits
- Community Support
- Donate to the Sandals Foundation to aid local relief and rebuilding
Sandals Resorts says all guests and team members at its Jamaica properties are safe following Hurricane Melissa's Category 5 landfall earlier this week. The company has begun resort-by-resort inspections and clean-up, and is prioritizing outreach to travelers holding reservations in the next two weeks with flexible options to adjust plans. As national authorities continue damage assessments and utilities work toward restoration, travelers should verify flight status and on-property amenities before departure.
Sandals' update and guest options
In a statement published Wednesday, Sandals said safety remains its highest priority and confirmed that on-site teams have started comprehensive assessments across Jamaica. The company noted it will proactively contact guests with near-term reservations to discuss rescheduling choices given storm disruption and staffing demands on call centers. Guests can also reach customer service at 1-800-SANDALS, while allowing extra time for responses due to high call volumes.
Properties affected and current portfolio
Sandals operates seven adults-only resorts in Jamaica, including Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean, Sandals Negril, Sandals Dunn's River, Sandals Ochi, Sandals Royal Plantation, and Sandals South Coast. The company's family brand currently has one resort in Jamaica, Beaches Negril, following the closure of Beaches Ocho Rios on May 31, 2025. Initial images circulating on social platforms indicate debris and some roof impacts at select properties, though there are no reports of catastrophic structural failures at this time. Specific facility reopenings will depend on site inspections and utilities.
Melissa's track and travel timeline
Hurricane Melissa weakened to Category 2 strength as it moved away from Jamaica and Cuba and is forecast to pass near Bermuda on Thursday, October 30, bringing damaging winds and dangerous seas. Travelers should anticipate residual schedule changes as airlines and airports adjust, even as Jamaica's aviation operations reopen in phases. Check airline alerts and airport notices frequently and allow more time for connections.
How to help: Sandals Foundation
Sandals' philanthropic arm has activated relief efforts to support affected communities in Jamaica, directing donations toward immediate needs and early rebuilding. Travelers and industry partners who wish to contribute can donate through the Sandals Foundation's official channels.
Background
Sandals Resorts International is one of the Caribbean's largest hospitality employers and a significant driver of Jamaica's tourism economy. Following major storms, hotel groups typically prioritize life safety, restore utilities, clear debris, and then phase back amenities such as pools, restaurants, and watersports. Families considering Beaches should note that, as of mid-2025, Beaches operates in Negril and Turks and Caicos, with the Ocho Rios property closed. Confirm room readiness and activity availability with your resort before travel.
Final thoughts
Sandals' confirmation that guests and staff are safe, combined with active inspections and flexible booking options, offers clarity for travelers considering upcoming Jamaica vacations. As Hurricane Melissa continues toward Bermuda, monitor official advisories and your airline and resort communications for the latest status.