Royalton Hotels to Reopen Negril Properties in 2026 After Hurricane Melissa Recovery: What You Need To Know

Published on December 1, 2025

Royalton Hotels & Resorts has set new reopening dates for its properties in Jamaica, following extensive recovery efforts from Hurricane Melissa. The company confirmed that Royalton Negril, Royalton Hideaway Negril, and Grand Lido Negril will reopen on 25 August 2026, while Royalton Blue Waters and Royalton Hideaway Blue Waters are set to welcome guests from 15 September 2026. This extended timeline allows the resort brand to prioritise safety, ensuring that both guests and staff return to fully restored and secure properties.

Hurricane Recovery Efforts and Impact on Operations

The delayed reopening reflects Royalton’s commitment to a “safety-first approach” in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which significantly impacted the island’s tourism infrastructure. The storm caused considerable damage to the resort properties, prompting Royalton to suspend operations while repairs and safety checks were conducted. This decision ensures that the resorts can offer guests a secure and fully operational experience upon their return.

In a statement, the company reiterated its commitment to the island’s hospitality industry and its efforts to support staff and local communities during the recovery. Royalton provided clean water through its Reverse Osmosis Plants, temporary housing for employees whose homes were damaged, and financial support for those affected by the storm. Additionally, grocery care packages were distributed to resort staff, ensuring they were supported during the recovery period.

Operational Disruptions and Flexibility for Guests

For guests who already have bookings during the closure, Royalton is offering flexible options, including penalty-free cancellations, the ability to rebook at a later date, or relocation to other properties within the Royalton portfolio. These measures ensure that visitors will not be penalised for the resort’s temporary closure, and can still enjoy their vacation at other destinations within the region.

The brand’s proactive approach to guest satisfaction is aimed at minimising disruption for travellers and ensuring a smooth transition when operations resume. Royalton’s customer service teams are working closely with affected guests to offer relocation assistance and additional support as necessary.

Recovery for Staff and Communities

In addition to the immediate relief efforts, over 200 employees remain stationed at the affected resorts to oversee ongoing maintenance and to ensure the properties are ready for the reopening in 2026. To further support the workforce, Royalton has deployed key staff to other resorts across the Caribbean, offering training and ensuring their skills are enhanced in preparation for the upcoming season. This approach helps maintain operational standards and assures that staff members will be fully prepared to deliver the high service levels Royalton is known for when the resorts reopen.

Royalton also highlighted its commitment to community support in Jamaica, noting that its recovery plan goes beyond physical repairs. The company continues to focus on employee welfare and community resilience, which helps strengthen the local economy and supports the island’s long-term tourism recovery.

Preparing for a Grand Reopening

As Royalton Negril, Royalton Hideaway Negril, and other properties gear up for their phased reopening in late 2026, the focus is on delivering an exceptional experience for returning guests. The resorts will feature refurbished rooms, enhanced amenities, and continued wellness offerings, all built around Royalton’s signature luxury all-inclusive model.

For tourism professionals, these updated timelines provide clarity for future bookings and vacation planning. The extended closure also gives time to monitor the recovery process and make adjustments where necessary, ensuring that guests have a safe and unforgettable experience upon their return.

What This Means for Jamaica’s Tourism Industry

Royalton’s reopening is a critical step in the broader recovery of Jamaica’s tourism sector. With some of the island’s most iconic resorts preparing for their return, the move is expected to help rejuvenate the local economy, create jobs, and reestablish Jamaica as a leading destination for luxury travellers. This is also a positive signal for other hotels and resorts that are working through recovery challenges in the region.

For the Caribbean tourism sector, this marks a resilient comeback after one of the region’s most challenging natural disasters. The Jamaican hospitality industry is now focused on safe reopening while maintaining the highest standards of service, sustainability, and community engagement.

A Safe Return to Luxury in Jamaica

Royalton Hotels & Resorts is preparing for a grand reopening of its Jamaican properties in 2026, after extensive recovery and repair work following Hurricane Melissa. The company’s focus on guest safety, staff support, and community resilience reflects its commitment to both the local region and its international clientele. As the resorts gear up for their return, guests and travel professionals can look forward to an enhanced experience and greater confidence in booking future vacations.

The 2026 reopening of these beloved Jamaican resorts will not only strengthen Jamaica’s tourism offerings but will also highlight the importance of recovery and preparedness in the face of challenges.