A Different Side of Jamaica, Sleeping Steps from the Sea in Treasure Beach

Not all Jamaican vacations come with long white beaches and crowded pools. On the South Coast, things feel quieter, a little raw, and far more personal. Wake up here and the first thing you hear is waves breaking against rock, not music from a beach bar. Step outside, and the sea is right there, filling your entire view.

That’s the experience at Jakes Hotel, a boutique stay that has always done things differently. And now, after reopening, it’s offering a fresh way to experience that connection to the ocean.

New Oceanfront Bungalows Right on the Water

Following the impact of Hurricane Melissa in late 2025, Jakes has returned with six newly redesigned oceanfront bungalows. These include the creatively named Octopussy and Seapuss units, all sitting directly at the edge of the Caribbean Sea.

Each one is built for outdoor living. Think private decks facing the water, rooftop terraces in some units, and open-air soaking tubs in others. The idea is simple. You don’t just look at the ocean, you live alongside it.

The rebuild also gave the hotel a chance to rethink the layout, adding more space and improving how each bungalow flows between indoors and outdoors.

Design That Feels Personal, Not Polished

What makes Jakes stand out is its artistic identity. Founded by designer Sally Henzell, the property leans into handcrafted details rather than uniform luxury.

No two rooms are the same. Walls are textured and painted in bold colors. Stained glass catches the sunlight and throws it across the room. Fabrics are layered with rich patterns that reflect Caribbean and African influences.

It feels less like a hotel and more like staying in someone’s creative space.

Showers, Sunsets, and Rooftop Views

One of the most memorable features is the outdoor shower. Each bungalow includes one, framed by sculpted walls but open toward the sea. You’re standing under running water while hearing waves just beyond.

The Octopussy bungalows take things further with rooftop terraces. These spaces quickly become a favorite spot, especially at sunset. You might head up for a few minutes and end up staying for hours, watching the sky change.

It’s a simple luxury, but one that sticks with you.

What to Do Beyond the Room

Treasure Beach isn’t packed with attractions, and that’s exactly the point. The area is made up of small bays, local bars, and low-key cafés. You can walk or bike between them, discovering places at your own pace.

At Jakes, Jack Sprat is the social hub, known for casual dining and live music. Nearby spots like Smurf’s Café offer simple Jamaican breakfasts that feel authentic and unhurried.

If you want to explore further, YS Falls offers a mix of waterfalls and light adventure, while Lover’s Leap delivers dramatic coastal views.

Getting There Takes Effort but It’s Worth It

Reaching Treasure Beach requires a bit more planning. Most travelers fly into Sangster International Airport or Norman Manley International Airport, then continue by road for a couple of hours.

The drive itself is part of the experience. As you leave the busy tourist مناطق behind, the landscape opens up, and the pace slows down.

A Strong Comeback for Jamaica’s Tourism

Jakes’ reopening is part of a wider recovery across the island. Major resorts like Sandals Dunn’s River and Beaches Negril are already welcoming guests again, alongside luxury stays such as Round Hill Hotel & Villas.

Boutique properties are also back in the mix, giving travelers more variety than ever. The takeaway is clear. Jamaica is open, rebuilding, and ready.

What This Means for Travelers to Jamaica and the Caribbean

For travelers, this is a great moment to visit. You’ll find refreshed properties, competitive pricing, and a renewed focus on experience. Places like Jakes offer something different from the typical resort stay, especially if you’re looking for culture and authenticity.

It also highlights a shift across the Caribbean. More travelers are seeking unique stays and local experiences rather than all-inclusive packages alone.

If you’re looking for a quieter, more intimate side of Jamaica, Treasure Beach delivers. And with these new bungalows, Jakes makes that experience even more memorable.