Plan an escape to seaside luxury at Half Moon resort in Jamaica

It was just midday and I was ready for what my winter-chilled soul had been dreaming of most about my trip to Half Moon (www.halfmoon.com/) in Jamaica: A beachfront lounge chair, ice cold Red Stripe and warm, soothing sunshine.

That’s what I found at a spot where nearly 70 years ago a group of American, British and Bermudian business people purchased 35 acres of land hugging the coast of Jamaica’s Half Moon Bay to create an upscale seaside escape.

Their 17 cottages still stand – updated but true to their original look – the anchor of what now is a 400-plus acre escape that is Half Moon Jamaica. Through the gates you’ll find villas, those cottages, beaches, racquet sports, a top-rated golf course, one of the most sublime spas you may ever enter.

But most of all you’ll find a setting that weaves Jamaican culture, lush and well-tended flora, the backdrop of crashing waves, and smiles; everywhere the smiles.

I set up on my lounge chair and breathed deep.

Next to me, a couple in love was toasting with champagne. In front of me, a mom frolicked with her toddler as her husband snapped photos. At a beachside table, a couple in golf attire dined post-round. At the shore, a group of young adults stared out at the sea, perhaps planning their evening escapades.

Half Moon is luxurious, to be sure. My seaside villa featured a sweeping green lawn up to the sea, a little mini beach should I want more privacy, a huge bath and plenty of space. I found myself spending time on my patio, savoring a perfect room service breakfast as the day brightened over the sea.

Half Moon is just seven miles from the Montego Bay Airport which means you can push your vacation right up to the finish line with very little worry. And yet it feels far from Jamaica proper. The crescent shaped shoreline creates its own little world.

I know there’s more Jamaica out there (and Half Moon can set up all kinds of excursions) but for me? All I could ever want was there, an easy walk or bike ride away (cute blue beach cruiser bikes of all sizes dot the property for you to grab and go and leave from any place; any time), and golf cart shuttles are always asking if you need a lift.

I filled five full days, and could have easily filled 10 more. I never saw a pool or beach area overcrowded, and in time, the other guests began to become familiar.

Because I equally love lounging, noshing and activity, I blended my time. Half Moon’s concierge is great about setting things up, and honestly, I found the bellmen and housekeeping staff to be super helpful as well.

Let’s talk about the food: Guests can choose varied meal plans; I suggest investing in them. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes and an excellent morning breakfast buffet.  I found healthy choices, like the egg white omelets with fresh veggies for breakfast one day; the catch of the day Red Snapper with a Jamaican kick made for a low carb dinner. I treated myself too, like the rum tasting at Lester’s that came with a terrific lesson about the island’s rum, or the Jamaican patties and “festivals” I had served beachside one lovely lunchtime (Okay, two.)

One morning I took a one-hour pickleball lesson that truly elevated my game. I headed over to the golf course for a lesson and some driving range time. The next day I played a lovely and somewhat forgiving 18 holes. The resort offers a free golf clinic (with clubs) each Friday.

And then there was my spa day. Fern Tree, a Salamander Spa, is a destination in itself. Private pool areas, plunges, steam rooms and saunas and a juice bar surround beautiful treatment rooms. I loved my massage using locally sourced products, and the private outdoor soaking bath post massage? You must partake.

When I checked in, I was told they were at near capacity. Hearing that and thinking back on other beach resort trips I’d taken, I immediately visualized hordes of people rushing down to the beach or pools at sunrise to claim their lounge chairs (a pet peeve of mine) as well as being stuck because I didn’t make dining reservations way ahead of time.

Not here. Even at near capacity, Half Moon spreads things out. Never once did I feel crowded; every time I wanted a meal there was room for me.

When I checked in late January, the staffer studied my reservation and said, “This says check out January 2026. Could that be correct?”

If only.

Catching the sunset from the Half Moon shoreline as a cruise ship passes by. (Photo Moira McCarthy)
An over-water bungalow spa at Half Moon in Jamaica. (Photo courtesy Half Moon)

 

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