Jamaica FAM Trip: Grand Pineapple Negril

The next stop on our whirlwind Jamaica trip was actually right up the street from Beaches Negril…Grand Pineapple Beach Negril. This resort is one of two Grand Pineapple resorts; the other is located in Antigua (my brother actually honeymooned there a few years ago). Grand Pineapple is owned by the Sandals group, but have an identity all their own. They provide an affordable all-inclusive experience to families and couples alike, allowing those who may not have the resources for a Sandals or Beaches getaway to still enjoy the Caribbean and all of its beauty.

Grand Pineapple Beach Negril is divided across Norman Manley Blvd, with security present to ensure that guests cross the road safely. Our resort tour began on the beach side, where we walked past several quaint, brightly colored cottages.

Accommodations: The cottages are free standing and house 4 rooms per cottage. Grand Pineapple does not have the various room categories like its “big brother” Sandals; the only distinction between accommodations are “Beachside” and “Gardenside”. The rooms are cozy, quaint and have a lot of personality. These resorts are not for those who wish to spend the entire day in their room; all of the cottages have quick and easy access to the beach or pool (depending on which side you are housed).

Dining: Orchid Terrace is the sole restaurant at Grand Pineapple. In order to offer variety, each night has a different theme and prepares food to coincide with said theme (FYI: Thursday is Jamaica night!). Orchid Terrace is located right on Negril’s famed Seven Mile Beach, giving guests an amazing waterfront view with every meal. There is also a full-service bar, which..of course…is all-inclusive. (Note: tipping IS allowed at Grand Pineapple properties).

Pools/Beach: There is a freshwater pool located on the Garden side of the property, complete with deck chairs. A self-service bar will soon be erected at the pool to give you access to alcohol without having to cross to the other side of the property. On the Beach side, you are able to take advantage of non-motorized water sports at no extra cost. The stretch of Seven Mile Beach that houses Grand Pineapple is public, so guests will have to opportunity to interact and mingle with locals. If you wish to try your hand at scuba diving, no problem mon! You can make arrangements with Beaches Negril or Sandals Negril to take a scuba class (nominal fee applies).

Overall Atmosphere: Grand Pineapple Beach Negril is a small resort with a lot of personality. This resort would be ideal for the person/family who is looking for an authentic beach vacation with a lot of local culture and influences at their fingertips. You can get serenaded by a musician who has set up shop on the beach that night. Negril’s famed Rick’s Cafe is only a short taxi ride away. Vacationers who want to experience Jamaica without all of the bells and whistles of a Sandals/Beaches resort stay would fall in love with Grand Pineapple!