Hyatt Closes 8 All-Inclusive Jamaica Resorts Until January 31

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As you’ve surely heard by now, Jamaica took a beating over the past week from unfortunately fatal Hurricane Melissa, the latest Caribbean storm that tourists have to keep an eye on year after year.

Thanks to an advanced warning, many locals and vacationers were able to take shelter, but that doesn’t mean there wasn’t a horrendous mess left behind.

As a result, there have been frequent travel alerts and advisories dished out faster than Costco’s free samples before, during, and after the hurricane.

Unfortunately, the latest news will be quite disappointing for many travelers scoping out their next tropical vacay for winter sunshine.

Western Jamaica was hit the hardest. This is where some of the popular island nation’s most world-renowned beach destinations are found, such as Montego Bay and Negril.

While the country still grapples with Mother Nature’s aftermath, one of Americans’ favorite names in hospitality has already decided to suspend operations well into the new year, leaving travelers wondering if they should vacation elsewhere or switch their loyalty to a competing brand.

Hyatt Suspends All Operations In Jamaica Until Late Winter

If you think it’s time to swap pumpkin spice lattes for beachside piña coladas, and grandma’s dry Thanksgiving turkey for kickin’ jerk chicken, chances are you’ve been counting down the days until an unforgetable Jamaican vacation.

Before Hurricane Melissa’s category 5 landfall, Hyatt was one of the best options for an all-inclusive beach getaway here.

In total, Hyatt operates 8 resorts across Jamaica with an exceptionally strong presence in Montego Bay.

Given the magnitude of damage and potential safety/comfort concerns for guests, Hyatt has made a tough call to close down all of their Jamaican properties.

Even though tourism is expected to be ‘fully operational’ by December 15, 2025, the following Hyatt-affiliated resorts will remain closed until January 31, 2026:

• Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa
• Zoëtry Montego Bay Jamaica
• Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
• Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall
• Secrets St. James Montego Bay
• Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay
• Dreams Rose Hall Resort & Spa
• Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa

Those who had reservations from now until January 31st will not face cancellations fees, and those who pre-paid should expect a refund within 10 business days.

According to the Caribbean Journal, bookings are available on Google Hotels from February 1st onward.

Airports Reopen To Commercial Flights, But Is It Wise To Vacation Here?

If you’ve found yourself in the midst of Instagram’s or TikTok’s weather disaster algorithm, you’ve likely seen jaw-dropping damage to Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ).

While torn-up ceilings and flooded floors won’t exactly affect flights taking off and landing, a lot more than patchwork needs to be done to have the airport fully up and running again (7 gates are currently closed).

The good news is commercial flights are now operating at each of Jamaica’s airports. Additionally, American Airlines is waiving bag fees.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Kingston, one of their recent alerts claims “Kingston’s Norman Manley International Airport is open for commercial operations”.

As for Montego Bay, a more common gateway into the country, MBJ is offering limited commercial flights.

The rushed opening was largely for the purpose of relieving stuck vacationers during the storm back home, not for incoming tourists.

However, despite unsightly debris and significant repairs ahead, there are still many hotels open and regularly scheduled flights if you do choose to vacation here. Some tours are open again too.

Travel Off Path’s Top Pick For A Jamaican Vacation Right Now

Take it from me as someone who visited Kingston in hopes to immerse in Jamaica’s vibrant, welcoming culture that this city isn’t the best alternative to Montego Bay during their recovery period.

However, one underrated resort town often outshined by ‘MoBay’ is Ocho Rios, located on Jamaica’s northeastern coast and home to some truly stunning resorts that were less impacted by Melissa.

Many other Caribbean hotspots avoided damage entirely, but if you’re dead set on visiting Jamaica, we at Travel Off Path believe Ocho Rios is best positioned given the latest updates.

While the island rightfully shut down for tourism during the storm, meaning flight schedules were constantly disrupted, Ocho Rios’ airport (OCJ) is open for business as are some of travelers’ favorite all-inclusive resorts, such as Sandals and Riu.

Sandals Ochi is accepting reservations December 1st and beyond. According to the latter, “All seven RIU hotels continue to host guests, and the atmosphere in each remains calm and positive”.

Riu adds, “Riu Ocho Rios is accommodating guests from Riu Palace Aquarelle, as well as others who voluntarily wish to move there, since it is currently the hotel offering the most complete range of services”, and also states, “activities and amenities are gradually being restored”.

Ocho Rios has one direct flight from Miami (MIA) via American Airlines. Otherwise, use aforementioned Kingston (KIN) as your springboard and enjoy the scenic journey of an approximate 90-minute drive skirting the foothills of the lush Blue Mountains.

Though, keep in mind, there are numerous reports of fuel shortages and some road closures may not be up to date yet.