11 Best Hotels in Kingston, Jamaica — Luxury, Budget, and Everything In Between

best hotels kingston jamaica

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Wondering what are the best hotels in Kingston, Jamaica to stay? From luxury hotels in Kingston to affordable alternatives, here’s a round-up of some of the top hotels in Kinston, Jamaica.

Jamaica is a Caribbean paradise, where all-inclusive resorts and spectacular beaches make it the perfect place to relax and unwind. But outside of the typical oceanfront tourist destinations, lies the vibrant capital city of this beautiful country — Kingston.

Kingston is Jamaica’s epicenter of hustle and bustle and the center of government and commerce that keeps the island humming. With a population of over one million people, this lively city is the heart of the country.

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Attracting a myriad of business travelers, culture connoisseurs, and returning locals each year, Kingston boasts a plethora of sights, sounds, activities, and some pretty fabulous hotels too.

My Top Pick Of Best Hotels in Kingston, Jamaica

My personal favorite best hotel in Kingston, Jamaica.

1) ROK Hotel

best hotels kingston jamaica

Belonging to the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, The ROK Hotel is one of the best hotels in Kingston, Jamaica — a top hotel in Kingston for business travelers and culture aficionados alike.

Jenaae at Rok Hotel Kingston pool

The location: Located on the Harbor of the up-and-coming downtown district of Kingston, the ROK Hotel is just about 20 minutes from “uptown” (where many of the main attractions are located). Just a stone’s throw away from the historic Coronation Market and vigorous Downtown Kingston Market, this Kingston hotel however is conveniently situated closer to the airport than most.

The vibe: With a modern and stylish design concept, this boutique hotel is absolutely fabulous. From the chic reggae-inspired lobby to the bold red elevators that take you up to the vibrantly cozy rooms, the ROK Hotel is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a luxurious and modern ambiance.

Worry not about leaving this hotel as it has all the amenities and wonderful service you need. From the professional bellman to the charming ladies at the front desk, the accommodating housekeeper to the charismatic bartenders, the staff at the ROK Hotel really makes you feel right at home.

The amenities: The second-floor swimming pool deck overlooking the water feels like a serene luxury resort anywhere than in the center of a busy city. When you get hungry, the ROKstone Pool Bar & Grill offers light fare, burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Inside, Palate offers international and Caribbean-inspired dishes, using organic food from local growers, and a farm-to-table concept.

Good To Know: After staying here for a total of 3 nights, The ROK Hotel is now officially my favorite hotel to stay in Kingston (formally Spanish Court then the AC Hotel upon its opening). My room was small but cozy, and the deluxe room upgrade was definitely worth it — in addition to a stunning waterfront view, take in magnificent views of the sunrise over Kingston each morning. The only thing I missed in my room was body lotion.

Because in Kingston you have to drive or Taxi everywhere anyway, the small distance away from uptown wasn’t a bother for me. Additionally, being situated downtown is that it’s strongly discouraged walking on the road (besides local spots like Gloria and Ribbiz just across from the hotel on the water).

The cute cafe downstairs is a cozy place to work for the day. And as the sunsets on the city, head to the pool deck for music and vibes on designated nights.

More of My Favorite Spots — Best Hotels in Kingston Jamaica

Uptown, downtown, and everything in between.

2) AC Hotel by Marriott

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Newly built in the heart of the city, the AC Hotel by Marriott is one of the best hotels in Kinston to stay. With a sleek design concept and many dining and entertainment options nearby, this is one of the best places to stay if you’re looking for a comfortable hotel with a modern and lively ambiance.

Good To Know: Complete with a new Starbucks Coffee Shop, the AC Hotel is a trendy newcomer to the Kingston hospitality scene. Officially opening its doors to the public in 2019, the building as well as all of the amenities are brand new and modern.

Upon entering the hotel on any given day or night, you will find a buzzing lobby, restaurant, and bar with lots of visitors and tourists alike. The rooms at the AC Hotel are spacious and have a great view of the city.

3) R Hotel

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Another newcomer on the block beginning operations in December 2018, the R Hotel is another great option if you’re looking for a modern hotel in the heart of Kingston. The R Hotel is Kingston’s only extended-stay business hotel as well as Kingston’s first full-city concierge experience property.

Good To Know: Boasting luxury-infused accommodations, this gem is one of the best hotels in Kingston, Jamaica hotel for sophisticated business travelers and leisure travelers alike.

With a wide variety of services and amenities, including a fully equipped fitness center, rooftop pool, and on-site restaurant with international menu options, the R Hotel is one of the best hotels in Kingston, Jamaica to stay if you fancy convenience and comfort.

4) Spanish Court Hotel

best hotels kingston jamaica pool

If you’re looking for a nice hotel in Kingston with a long-standing reputation for comfort, privacy, great service, and fantastic food, the Spanish Court is definitely worth considering. With 125 cozy rooms and suites, guests of Spanish Court enjoy a host of amenities such as a 50-foot infinity lap pool, a full-service luxury spa, and 4 restaurants/bars to grab a delicious bite to eat.

Good To Know: This Kingston Hotel is centrally located right in the heart of New Kingston. Within walking distance of Spanish Court, you’ll find buzzing spots such as Triple Century Sports Bar and local hot spot The Deck.

5) The Liguanea Club

best hotels kingston jamaica

For the sports enthusiast, look no further than The Liguanea Club in New Kingston. Here you can work up a sweat on the court with their tennis facilities while in town for business or pleasure.

The Club boasts one of the oldest Georgian Style structures in Jamaica sharing a historical heritage with such places as Devon House (which is about 10 mins drive when you’re in the mood for world-renowned ice cream). Here you may spot an elegant Egret strutting across the lawn or the unique Jamaican Doctor Bird flapping from tree to tree.

Good to Know: In addition to eight tennis courts, this hotel also has six squash courts, a gym, a swimming pool, a badminton court, meeting rooms, a restaurant, members’ rooms, bar facilities, and a jogging and walking trail.

6) Terra Nova All Suites

best hotels kingston jamaica

For more than half a century, the classic Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel has been an unrivaled treasure in beautiful Kingston, Jamaica. Step into Terra Nova and be swept away into an era of classic elegance! Revel in the luxurious charm of a time gone by. The essence of your stay at Terra Nova is luxury amenities and award-winning service.

Good to Know: Drawing in all types of nightlife lovers, the Regency Bar & Lounge brings together a laid-back atmosphere and sophisticated design to elevate your evening. Whether you’re catching up with friends or stirring things up, it’s a destination that simultaneously energizes and relaxes!

7) The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel

best hotels kingston jamaica

Another longstanding among the best hotels in Kingston Jamaica is The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel.   If you’re snob for grandeur, The Jamaica Pegasus may be up your alley — having hosted numerous Kings, Queens, Presidents, other royalties, Heads of State, Celebrities, and Leaders of major multi-national corporations. 

Good to Know: Many events such as business conferences and weddings are held at this venue and so the lobby is often buzzing with people. Additionally, the property is exceptionally large compared with other hotels in Kingston and features an Olympic size swimming pool, a full wellness spa, two lit tennis courts, and a private jogging trail.

8) Courtyard by Marriott

best hotels kingston jamaica

If you’re looking for accommodations that are not super luxurious and not super low budget, Courtyard by Marriot is a good Kingston Hotel option. Courtyard, as you may know, is Marriott’s mid-range hotel offering, and a great value for the price. With more than 1,200 locations in over 60 countries, Courtyard by Marriot is a pretty standard as mid-range hotels go and Kingston is no exception.

Good to Know: Marriott’s reward program is an excellent way for travelers to experience the best of staying with Marriott hotels. Members can enjoy exclusive benefits such as room upgrades, special rates, and discounts, priority check-in, free Wi-Fi access, early check-in, and late check-out options, points that can be redeemed for future stays, complimentary drinks, and more.

9) Courtleigh Hotel & Suites

best hotels kingston jamaica

A charming boutique hotel located in the heart of uptown Kingston, Courtleigh offers a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Staying in Kingston for a while? The Courtleigh Hotel offers One-bedroom Suites with full kitchens and Executive Office Suites combining a fully functional office and spacious bedroom. Additionally, save with special deals when booking five nights or more.

Good to Know: Are you an American Airlines Advantage member? The Courtleigh Hotel & Suites participates in the American Airlines Frequent Flyer Program so that you can earn points here with your stay!

BONUS: Top Luxury Hotel Kingston

For the luxury aficionado Kingston traveler.

10) Strawberry Hill

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If you want to escape the city while still being close enough to the action, Strawberry Hill offers a unique experience nestled amongst the lush vegetation of Jamaica’s iconic Blue Mountains. Featured by The New York Times as one of the “1,000 Places To See Before You Die” Strawberry Hill is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a luxurious stay at one of the best hotels in Kingston (near enough).

With a collection of charming Post-Plantation cottages, vivid tropical gardens, and a magnificent infinity pool, Strawberry Hill guests can expect a truly memorable stay.

Good to Know: This hotel is about 50 mins from the Kingston International Airport and 35 mins from New Kingston. It’s a little trek outside of the city, but once you get there, Strawberry Hill is worth the trouble. With beautifully opulent rooms and some of the most breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains — guests here may also enjoy special activities such as hiking trails, yoga sessions, incredible spa treatments, and award-winning dining.

BONUS: Top Cheap Hotel Kingston

For the budget-conscious Kingston traveler.

11) Ragamuffin Hostel

best cheap kingston jamaica

If you’re traveling on a super-tight budget and need cheap accommodation in Kingston, Ragamuffin Hostel is the place for you! Centrally located in Kingston, this hostel offers dormitory sleeping arrangements, a shared kitchen, and a 24-hour front desk.  

Good to Know: Adjoined the Ragamuffin Hostel, is Raggamuffic cafe, where locals and tourists alike order delicious drinks and work remotely. Next door you will find cool spots to eat like The Dubwise Cafe which combines food, music, and atmosphere to create an experience to taste and touch the reggae movement. 

Best Hotel in Kingston Jamaica — Takeaway

There you have it wanderer — our top picks for the best hotels in Kingston, Jamaica. Although you won’t find the sprawling all-inclusive hotels in Kingston that Jamaica is known for, this lively capital city has plenty of accommodations to suit every budget and taste.

From a chic downtown hotel to a serene mountain retreat (and everything in between), there’s something for everyone in Kingston. No matter where you choose to stay, get ready for an unforgettable experience!

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