Runaway Bay Jamaica - Aerial view of a coastline with buildings and sea.
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Runaway Bay Jamaica

4.8
·31k reviews·Runaway Bay, Jamaica

Adults-only all-inclusive resort in Runaway Bay, Jamaica, known for exceptional staff hospitality, multiple pools, and diverse dining options.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Enjoy lively entertainment

CrowdMedium
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Runaway Bay Jamaica - Aerial view of a coastline with buildings and sea.

Runaway Bay Jamaica

Best Time

Evenings

Enjoy lively entertainment

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Adults-only all-inclusive resort in Runaway Bay, Jamaica, known for exceptional staff hospitality, multiple pools, and diverse dining options.

4.8
(31k reviews)

"The staff here truly go above and beyond, making every day feel special and unforgettable. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

📱 Use the Bahia Principe App

Download for initial check-in & restaurant reservations. Requires all guests' passports for full check-in.

🌟 Seek Out Staff Stars

Many guests rave about specific staff members who elevate the experience. Look for Daven, Carla Love, and Tameika Parke!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Exceptional Staff Hospitality

Exceptional Staff Hospitality

Experience genuine warmth and personalized service that makes your stay unforgettable. Staff like Daven, Carla Love, and Tameika Parke are frequently praised.

Reddit
Vibrant Poolside Activities

Vibrant Poolside Activities

Enjoy engaging aquatic exercises and games led by energetic entertainment staff like Jason and Almondo.

Reddit
Creative Cocktail Creations

Creative Cocktail Creations

Savor expertly crafted drinks from talented bartenders like Shakira, who adds fun and flavor to your evenings.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Dining

While it's an all-inclusive, popular à la carte restaurants can fill up quickly. Use the Bahia Principe app for reservations to secure your preferred dining times and avoid disappointment. Reddit

Room Renovation Status

Some guests note that rooms could use updating. If a modern aesthetic is important, inquire about renovated room options before booking to ensure your expectations are met. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Enjoy lively entertainment
Crowd
Medium
When
Mornings
Why
Quieter pool time
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay

📱 Use the Bahia Principe App

Download for initial check-in & restaurant reservations. Requires all guests' passports for full check-in. Reddit

🌟 Seek Out Staff Stars

Many guests rave about specific staff members who elevate the experience. Look for Daven, Carla Love, and Tameika Parke! Reddit

reddit.com

Bahia Principle - Fast check-in and a la carte reservation advice?

🍹 Don't Miss the Bar

Bartenders like Shakira create amazing drinks and add to the fun atmosphere. Reddit

🏊‍♀️ Pool Hours

Pools close at 7 PM, which some find early for an adult-only resort. Plan accordingly. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📱 Use the Bahia Principe App

Download for initial check-in & restaurant reservations. Requires all guests' passports for full check-in. Reddit

🌟 Seek Out Staff Stars

Many guests rave about specific staff members who elevate the experience. Look for Daven, Carla Love, and Tameika Parke! Reddit

🍹 Don't Miss the Bar

Bartenders like Shakira create amazing drinks and add to the fun atmosphere. Reddit

🏊‍♀️ Pool Hours

Pools close at 7 PM, which some find early for an adult-only resort. Plan accordingly. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(31k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Guests frequently praise the exceptional hospitality and personalized service from dedicated staff members who make stays memorable. The resort's beautiful grounds and engaging poolside activities are also highlights. However, some visitors note that rooms could benefit from renovation, and food quality can be inconsistent, with slow room service being a drawback. Reddit

"My stay at Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay was absolutely amazing! From the moment I arrived, the service and hospitality exceeded all expectations.

A huge shoutout to Daven (aka Spicy D) from guest experience. His energy, warmth, and genuine care made every day feel special. He truly goes above and beyond to make sure guests are not just taken care of but celebrated.

Rachel, our waitress, delivered excellent service with such kindness and attention to detail. She always had a smile and made sure our dining experience was perfect. Leroy, one of the servers, was equally outstanding, professional, attentive, and always willing to accommodate.

And I cannot forget Shakira, the bartender, who crafted some of the best drinks I have ever had. She brought fun and flavor to every evening with her personality and creativity.

This team made my vacation unforgettable. Because of them, I need to come back and will definitely be recommending Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay to friends and family."

Anthony Sykes

"From the moment we arrived at the resort, Carla Love made us feel truly at home. Her warm and welcoming presence set the tone for our entire stay. She went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and taken care of throughout the entire week.

What stood out most was her attentiveness, Carla checked in on us regularly, ensuring every detail of our experience was perfect. Whether it was offering assistance, answering questions, or simply making sure we were happy, she always went the extra mile with genuine care and kindness.

Carla’s professionalism, hospitality, and personal touch turned a great trip into an unforgettable one. We are so grateful for her outstanding service and would absolutely recommend her to anyone visiting the resort. She is truly a gem!"

Maite Isasi

"I recently had the pleasure of staying at Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay, and I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for the incredible experience. What truly stood out during our stay was the amazing staff. From the moment I arrived, they went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed, comfortable, and cared for. Tameika Parke, Kacey the bellman, Holly Aldridge and Dushane, their kindness, professionalism, and genuine hospitality made my trip unforgettable.
I would love the opportunity to really thank Tameika and Kacey specifically cause they absolutely went above and beyond it was my husband birthday and from the handling of our luggage to the set up of our room by Tameika to the overall genuine hospitality.
This is the kind of service that will keep us coming back. The property was absolutely beautiful but the staff made our stay there memorable.
Thank you again for such a wonderful stay.
Warm regards,
Yssenia"

yssenia keen

What People Like

Outstanding staff service
Beautiful resort grounds
Engaging poolside activities

What People Dislike

Rooms need renovation
Inconsistent food quality
Slow room service

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Runaway Bay is located on the north coast of Jamaica. The nearest major airport is Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay. From MBJ, you can arrange private transfers, taxis, or shared shuttles to Runaway Bay, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. Reddit

Within the resort, everything is accessible. For exploring outside the resort, taxis are readily available, but it's advisable to negotiate fares beforehand. Some visitors opt for rental cars for more freedom, but be aware of local driving conditions. Reddit

Many travelers recommend pre-booking a private transfer for convenience and comfort, especially after a long flight. Shared shuttles are a more budget-friendly option. Reddit

While local buses (like the Jamaica Urban Transit Company - JUTC) operate on main routes, they may not be the most convenient for direct travel to resorts in Runaway Bay. Taxis and pre-booked transfers are more common for tourists. Reddit

Runaway Bay is located west of Ocho Rios, approximately a 30-40 minute drive. This makes it convenient for day trips to attractions in Ocho Rios. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay is an all-inclusive resort, meaning your accommodation, meals, drinks, and many activities are included in your stay. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book reservations for the à la carte restaurants, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred dining times. The Bahia Principe app can be used for this. Reddit

You can perform an initial online check-in via the Bahia Principe app up to a week before arrival, but you'll need all guests' passport information. Full check-in is completed at the resort. Reddit

Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay is an adult-only resort, typically meaning guests must be 18 years or older. Reddit

The all-inclusive package generally covers all meals at buffet and à la carte restaurants, snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, non-motorized water sports, daily activities, and evening entertainment. Reddit

🎫 🏊‍♀️ Onsite Experience

The resort offers various entertainment options, including evening shows, poolside activities, and games. Some guests note inconsistency, but the entertainment team, like Andre 4000, works hard to engage guests. Reddit

As an adult-only resort, it's geared towards couples. You can enjoy romantic dinners, relax by the pools, and participate in various resort activities together. Reddit

The pools typically close at 7 PM, which some guests find to be quite early for an adult-only resort. Reddit

The resort offers a buffet restaurant and several à la carte specialty restaurants. Food quality can be a hit or miss for some, with room service being slow and limited. Reddit

Yes, there are fitness facilities, and some guests have enjoyed unique poolside aquatic exercise classes led by staff like Jason and Almondo. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Reviews on food quality are mixed. While some guests find the food and restaurants amazing, others describe it as hit or miss, with one guest reporting an undercooked burger from room service. Reddit

Room service can be slow and has a limited menu. One guest reported receiving an undercooked meal via room service. Reddit

While specific options aren't detailed in reviews, most all-inclusive resorts strive to accommodate dietary needs. It's best to inquire with the restaurant staff upon arrival or when making reservations. Reddit

Specific recommendations vary, but guests often praise the overall dining experience. Booking in advance is key to trying multiple options. Reddit

Buffet restaurants usually serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. À la carte restaurants have specific dinner hours, and reservations are often required. Pool bars and snack bars are available throughout the day. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The resort grounds, pools, and beach areas offer beautiful backdrops. Look for scenic spots around the main pool and along the coastline for memorable shots. Reddit

Many staff members are friendly and accommodating if you wish to take photos with them, especially if they've provided exceptional service. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or filming for commercial purposes might require special permission. Reddit

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing serene beach or pool scenes. Golden hour before sunset also provides beautiful lighting. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at resorts and in many tourist areas due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check the resort's specific policy before attempting to fly a drone. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Couples Seeking Romance

Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay is an adult-only resort, making it an ideal choice for couples. The ambiance is set for relaxation and romance, with opportunities for intimate dinners at the à la carte restaurants and leisurely days by the pool or on the beach. Reddit

Many guests highlight the exceptional service from staff members who contribute to a special atmosphere. Consider booking a dinner at one of the specialty restaurants and enjoy the creative cocktails crafted by the bartenders to enhance your romantic getaway. Reddit

✈️ Day-Trippers & Short Stays

While primarily an all-inclusive resort for longer stays, if you're considering a day pass or a very short visit, focus on experiencing the resort's highlights. Enjoy the pools and beach access, and perhaps try one of the specialty restaurants if your pass allows. Reddit

Be aware that the full all-inclusive experience, including the breadth of dining and activities, is best enjoyed over several days. For shorter stays, ensure your booking covers the amenities you wish to utilize most. Reddit

💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers

As an all-inclusive, Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay offers a way to manage your budget by including most expenses upfront. This can be very appealing for travelers who want to avoid unexpected costs. Reddit

To maximize value, utilize the included dining and drink options fully. Look for package deals or off-season rates. While the resort is a higher-end option, the all-inclusive nature can make it more budget-friendly than paying for meals and drinks separately at other types of accommodations. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The All-Inclusive Experience

Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay operates as a premium all-inclusive resort, aiming to provide a comprehensive vacation experience without the need for constant spending. This means your stay typically covers all meals, snacks, and a wide array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Many non-motorized water sports, daily activities, and evening entertainment are also included, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the resort's offerings. The goal is to offer a hassle-free getaway where guests can relax and enjoy their time. Reddit

However, it's worth noting that while the core offerings are extensive, some guests have pointed out areas where the experience might not meet all expectations. For instance, room service can be slow and limited, and the quality of food can be inconsistent across different dining venues. Understanding these nuances can help manage expectations and ensure a more satisfying visit. Reddit

Staff: The Heart of the Resort

A recurring theme in guest reviews is the exceptional quality of the staff at Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay. Numerous individuals are frequently singled out for their outstanding hospitality, warmth, and dedication to guest satisfaction. Names like Daven (Spicy D), Carla Love, Tameika Parke, Rachel, Leroy, and Shakira the bartender are consistently mentioned for going above and beyond. Reddit

These staff members are credited with making stays unforgettable, whether through personalized service, genuine care, or crafting memorable experiences. Their professionalism and kindness are often highlighted as the key factor that makes guests want to return and recommend the resort. This focus on human connection is a significant differentiator for the property. Reddit

Room and Resort Ambiance

The resort itself is described as beautiful, with sprawling grounds and appealing pool areas. However, a point of feedback from some visitors is that the rooms may be in need of renovation. While clean and functional, they might not offer the most modern aesthetic, which could be a consideration for travelers prioritizing updated accommodations. Reddit

Despite potential room updates needed, the overall ambiance of the adult-only resort is geared towards relaxation and enjoyment. The pools are a central hub for activity and leisure, and the beach provides a classic Caribbean setting. The lobby is noted as being quiet, and the absence of a club might be a factor for those seeking a vibrant nightlife scene within the resort itself. Reddit

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