Romantic Retreat at Excellence Oyster Bay, Jamaica

If you're dreaming of a romantic escape, Excellence Oyster Bay (EOB) in Jamaica might just be the perfect spot. Nestled just 30 minutes from Montego Bay, this adult-only, all-inclusive resort opened its doors in June 2018 and offers a blend of luxury and relaxation.

**Resort Overview**  

EOB boasts 173 regular suites and 147 club-level suites, alongside 10 restaurants, 11 bars, and 5 pools. With daily activities and nightly shows included, there's never a dull moment here. We visited for five nights in May 2024, making it our second trip to Jamaica but our first at EOB. 

**Location & Ambiance**  

Located on a secluded peninsula, the resort feels private, with no pesky beach vendors—except for the charming “Happy.” While the beaches are smaller than some other Jamaican spots, they're perfect for a romantic stroll or a peaceful afternoon of snorkeling. The expansive grounds are well-maintained, ensuring you can find your own cozy corner to unwind. **Rating: 8/10**

**Accommodations**  

We stayed in Beach House 5, a club-level suite featuring a king bed, a comfy sofa, two TVs, and a jacuzzi tub. The outdoor patio, complete with a lounge bed and plunge pool, was a lovely touch. However, we did encounter some issues with cleanliness—the plunge pool wasn’t properly maintained, and the mini bar glasses were dirty upon arrival. A bit disappointing for a luxury resort. **Rating: 4/10**

**Dining Experience**  

Breakfast options include a buffet, the Aroma café for coffee and pastries, or room service. For lunch, we enjoyed the Jerk Hut and poolside bites. Dinner was a culinary adventure with choices like Lobster House and The Grill, but sadly, our experience at The Grill fell flat—the steaks were undercooked and the food was cold. The other restaurants delivered good quality, though! **Rating: 7/10**

**Entertainment & Activities**  

EOB offers a gym for fitness enthusiasts, a spa for those seeking relaxation, and a variety of daytime activities like pool volleyball and water sports. The evening shows—like a lively Michael Jackson tribute and a Reggae show—added to the experience, making for enjoyable nights. Afterward, there's dancing with a DJ or fun karaoke sessions. **Rating: 8/10**

**Service Quality**  

While we were prepared for the famously laid-back Jamaican service, we found it inconsistent. Some staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, while others made us feel like an inconvenience. It was a mixed bag that detracted from our overall experience. **Rating: 5/10**

**Final Thoughts**  

Overall, our stay at Excellence Oyster Bay was just okay. Despite its beautiful setting and potential, a few missteps left us feeling a bit let down, especially compared to other Excellence properties we've visited. If you're seeking a romantic getaway, you might find better food and service at similar resorts in Jamaica. **Overall Rating: 6/10**