I went to RIU Negril in early October 2026 with my son.
Accommodation:
We were allocated a room on the second floor of block 1, with a side sea view from the balcony. No lifts (elevators), so we managed to get our steps in! ;-)
If you have any walking difficulties or problems with stairs, request a low floor apartment nearer reception.
Location:
The hotel is ideally situated on Bloody Bay Beach with access to water sports, fitness facilities, a gym/spa, several pools (including a children’s area and a “quiet” pool).
It is a short walk to the nearest ATM, though if you ask, it is generally suggested to get an Über. It isn’t much further to walk to 7-mile beach, but you can also get an Über there, or the free bus in the morning.
Entertainment:
Entertainment is supplied throughout the day, but excellent in the evening, where the regular team put on spectacular, professional performances. These are generally themed, and go on until the DJ takes over and dancing continues until late.
Drinks:
There is a minibar in the room with mixers (Coca cola, orange, & tonic water, water, and Red Stripe), renewed every two days, and 4 optics (rum, vodka, whisky, & gin) all included in the AI package.
Various bars around the resort mix cocktails, have soft drinks, water, and beer available.
Food:
The buffet (Green Island) has a variety of local and non-local foods covering every taste.
Pepe’s Place is great for lunchtime, though you have to avoid leaving any food while you go for drinks, as the thieving blackbirds and egrets will steal from your plate!
The Mandalay restaurant is buffet style Asian and is also very good.
There are three specialty restaurants that need to be booked in advance:
Luigi’s Italian restaurant, The Steakhouse, and Kulinarium (posh - the only one where you can’t wear shorts). These are difficult to book even via the app, as seats are snapped up early morning the day before. You have a 48 hour window and I suspect most bookings are made before 9am!
TIP: If you are awake after midnight, it is probably best to book one then!
Note: we preferred the steaks at Luigi’s to the Steakhouse ones.
The Beach:
Bloody Bay is a lovely, calm, white-sand cove with clear water, interesting fishes, pelicans, and features glass-bottom boats, hobby-catamarans, fishing boats and other water sports. The beach has several market stalls set up, offering souvenirs, tee shirts, carvings, and other local goods (ganja is legal here). It is a smaller version of 7-mile beach, a short walk, boat- or taxi ride away.
Local lobsters are on offer here at various food stalls.
In summary:
The RIU Negril is a great place to holiday, whether using it as a place to relax, a basis for Island Tours & Excursions, or to celebrate a major life event. Weddings & Honeymoons/Blessings can also be arranged in the grounds.
