Couples Negril vs. Couples Swept Away – Which One Is The Best Couples Resort For You In Negril, Jamaica

Couples Resort is a brand of four all-inclusive, couples-only and ocean-front resorts: Couples Negril, Couples Swept Away, Couples Tower Isle, and Couples Sans Souci situated in the west of the beautiful and enchanting Jamaica. It is known for its long beach, calm and turquoise waters, and rich underwater flora and fauna which makes it a popular site for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Being all-inclusive, they give you everything you love and need within the resort complex. Whether it’s another round of golf, a soothing massage session, a beautiful dinner by the beach, an afternoon of fun with all the recreational activities, gourmet dining, a session or two of scuba diving, an extra splash of rum, or a longer sunset sail, Couples Resort guarantees to meet all and even go beyond your expectations.

The founder, Mr. Abe Issa, understood the importance of creating a luxurious resort in Jamaica which doesn’t compromise authenticity. Through this mindset, he was able to intertwine local Caribbean culture, spectacular natural settings, and first-rate amenities.

Up to the present, it is still very much a family business. Couples Resorts is led by Abe’s son, Lee, and other members of the Issa family. Together with their dedicated team of management and staff, they make sure that Abbe’s vision is still pioneered in every single day of your stay– genuine, intimate, authentic, and most of all, worth it.

COUPLES NEGRIL VS COUPLES SWEPT AWAY– WHICH ONE IS THE BEST FOR YOU IF YOU’RE STAYING IN NEGRIL, JAMAICA?

Couples Negril is their most intimate and centralized resort. It is a beachfront jewel which has a treehouse spa which is very lovely and a laid-back island vibe. They have 234 Rooms & Suites, 5 Restaurants, 5 Bars, 2 Pools, 4 Jacuzzis, Au Naturel Beach & Jacuzzi, Spa.

Couples Swept Away, on the other hand, is their largest resort which delights guests with a massive fitness complex and prime location on Seven Mile Beach. They have 312 Suites, 6 Restaurants, 8 Bars, 3 Pools, 5 Jacuzzis, and a Spa.

Although both are owned by Couples Resorts, there are some differences that make one unique and entirely different from the other. Both are very lovely, but we have to make a choice here, so I’ll discuss the things that I noticed and took note of while we were there:

The Beach

While the ocean is equally beautiful, the shoreline in Couples Swept Away is bigger and more beautiful than that of Couples Negril. Since the shoreline is bigger and more tourists are around, expect a lot of vendors to be around the area trying to sell you things (but rest assured you won’t be bothered as the resort is well-secured). Couples Negril is close to the ‘Walmart of Negril’ where souvenirs and local stuff are sold, so only a few vendors attempt to approach tourists.

Au Naturel Sunbathing

If you want to get that even tan all over your body without any tan lines whatsoever, then Couples Negril is the best property for you! They have this small, semi-private beach designated especially for au naturel sunbathing. Tucked just off the main beach, this camera-free area offers privacy and relaxation. Here, you can definitely get that perfect tan.

The Crowd

Couples Swept Away has a younger crowd compared to Couples Negril, so if you’re in the younger age bracket and you want to meet couples your age, then you know where to go 🙂

Live Performances

Couples Swept Away has live band performances so if you want to party, then this is the place to be! If you want a quiet and relaxing time, Couples Negril has the best pianist who will certainly relax and entice your soul.

The Pool/Jacuzzis

Couples Negril has two outdoor pools which include the sun-splashed Main Pool overlooking the beach as well as four open-air jacuzzis. If you want a more relaxed swim, take a dip in the smaller pool by the Tree House. Couples Swept Away, on the other hand, has three swimming pools, including the sun-splashed Main Pool overlooking the beach and the Cabana Grill pool, where tropical cocktails at the swim-up bar await and the lap pool, as well as five open-air jacuzzis.

Massage Class

One of the best ways to spend a day on your vacation is to learn a new skill. Couples Swept Away has a “hands-on” massage class that you can take home for free and for a lifetime. Your partner will definitely love this!

Courts

Couples Swept Away has two air-conditioned squash courts and two air-conditioned racquetball courts. Couples Negril has none! So if you’re into this kind of sport, then you definitely should stay at Couples Swept Away. They also have a massive fitness complex!

Bars And Restaurants

Both have in-house bars and restaurants which offer exquisite cuisine from Asia all the way to the Caribbean as well as premium alcohols. All restaurants offer an intimate atmosphere and relaxing ambiance. Both are exceptional when it comes to service.

The only difference is that Couples Swept Away has 8 bars and eight restaurants while Couples Negril has 5 and six respectively. If you have a big appetite, then your stomach will definitely tell you where to stay.

WHAT MAKES THEM BOTH SPECIAL

Remember that they are still owned by the same Couples Resort, so they made sure that they have this unique and special touch and amenities common to all resorts. Here are some of them:

The Rooms

The rooms in both resorts are pretty much the same– beautiful, comfortable, plenty of natural light, nice ocean or garden view,  and lots of wood panels to complete the Caribbean feel. Every room enjoys air conditioning, Satellite TV (except Couples Swept Away Atrium Suite and Beachfront Suite);  iPod/MP3 docking stations, iron, and iron board; room safe, hair dryers. A mini-bar stocked on arrival with two each of Pepsi and Diet Pepsi; Ting; Ginger Ale and Beer.

The Drinks

Guests can order House Gin, Vodka, Whisky, Rum; Juices: Orange, Pineapple, Tomato, Cranberry as well as Sprite or Seven Up, Tonic water, Soda Water, Sparkling wine and red and white wine. And it’s all for free!!

Watersports

Both of them has watersports which you can enjoy: Kayaking, Hobie Cat, Paddle Board, Snorkeling, Paddle Boarding, Water Skiing, and Windsurfing– name it you’ll get it, and it’s all for free! This is the perfect way to explore the Caribbean 🙂

Dance Classes

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’re welcome to join dance classes held throughout the resort. Choose from salsa to soca to reggae, move to the rhythm, and have loads of fun with your partner!

Fitness/Sports

A great way to shed all those pounds from the all-inclusive gourmet food is to hit the gym and/or do sports. Both have Fully Equipped Gym with state-of-the-art equipment and certified trainers– they have free yoga, pilates, and aquacise Classes too. Couples Negril have special kickboxing while Couples Swept Away added aerobics on their sweat list. Both also have a Golf Course which includes green fees and transfers, Indoor Game Room, and Tennis Courts with Free Lessons.

Scuba Diving

All Couples Resorts properties offer free scuba diving with use of all of their PADI certified equipment. They also offer a resort course and introductory dive—all complimentary. Don’t forget your diver certification cards to enjoy full diving privileges.

Spa and Wellness

Both have an indulgent menu of services which include massage, body wraps, and body scrubs—all using local ingredients such as ginger, lemongrass, and sugarcane. Praised as the “Best Spa in the Caribbean” by Travel+Leisure, the Oasis Spa at Couples Negril fully embraces its idyllic setting by having the exclusive treatments in organic therapy rooms, an open-air thatched hut on the beach, or in the tucked away from the intimacy of the Tree House. It’s very lovely! The Spa at Couples Swept Away is both calming, relaxing, and intimate. They have eight private treatment rooms, a long Buddha plunge pool, and a Eucalyptus Sauna Room.

Off-Property Excursions

This is our most favorite part! They have a free Catamaran Tour, Complimentary Off-Site Excursions, Glass Bottom Boat Ride, Shopping Shuttle, Trip to Margaritaville, and Trip to the Sunset Bar. They also have a Tour Desk especially made to cater to your desire to see Jamaica outside of the resort’s property.

Transportation

Round trip transfers to Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay is included for all properties.

OUR VERDICT

Both resorts are equally beautiful, and we loved both of them. But since we still have our own preferences, we’re here to help you decide!

Choose Couples Swept Away– If you love to experience the 7-mile beach, have a big appetite, and are into squash and racquetball (and if you think you really have the time to play it), or if you’re staying longer than five nights. This is also the perfect place for you if you’re a young couple if you want to go party, have fun, and mingle with other couples.

Choose Couples Negril– If you just want to relax and spend intimate moments with your partner, if you love soothing music, and a beautiful spa treatment. You’ll also like it when you love looking or buying souvenirs as it is close to the ‘Walmart of Negril.’

You might notice that Couples Negril has fewer facilities than Couples Swept Away but honestly, we didn’t feel like it lacked in any way especially that we only stayed for three nights each. Both are absolutely perfect, and the staff is so nice and courteous. It’s a high-end resort, but you’ll certainly get what you’ll pay for and so much more. We think you’ll never go wrong with whatever you choose. We’ve met so many couples in both resorts who have been there for so many times already. They make it a point to come back once or even thrice a year– that’s how promising this resort is ♡

FUN FAQS:

1) What is the weather like in Jamaica?

The average daytime temperature is 82°F (28°C) while an average nighttime temperature is 72°F (22°C). February is the coolest month, while July and August are warmest.

2) Can I drink tap water in Jamaica?

No worries! It’s safe to drink.

3) Can I have my wedding or renewal of vows in Couples Resort?

Definitely! Couples Resort is built especially for couples, and I think it’s a perfect place to say your “I do’s!”. They have Wedding Packages and Expert Wedding Planners who will ensure it will be well-organized and memorable.

4) Can we have a private dinner at the beach and under the stars?

Definitely! For just an additional fee of $ 170, you’ll get a candle-lit dinner complete with a bottle of Couples private label wine, three delectable courses of Caribbean-inspired cuisine and the soothing sounds of the waves and the stars above your head which will all be prepared by their talented culinary team.

5) Can I stay at this resort even if I’m single?

No unless you are traveling as part of a contracted group. In such event, single occupancy rooms may be requested, subject to availability, with the implicit understanding that there is no rate reduction or discount. Double occupancy rates will apply.

6) I don’t think we can afford this! Is there any way to get it at a lesser price?

Couples Love Away Plan allows you to pay $100/month until 45 days prior your trip and you can look forward to your dream Couples Resorts vacation with no-risk, layaway payments. Did I say it’s interest-free as well?

7) Are kids allowed in the property?

No. Couples Resort wants to make everything intimate for couples.

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these!