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Princess Senses The Mangrove FULL Review: Adults-Only Escape in Jamaica

Nestled in the tranquil embrace of Green Island, Jamaica, Princess Senses The Mangrove offers an adults-only sanctuary where luxury meets the laid-back island vibe. 

Whether you’re seeking romantic seclusion, gourmet adventures, or vibrant activities, this resort promises an unforgettable escape.

What Is Princess Senses The Mangrove?

Princess Senses The Mangrove is a 5-star, adults-only, all-inclusive resort that opened in late 2023 in Green Island, Hanover Parish, Jamaica.

The property is operated by the Princess Hotels & Resorts group and sits next to its sister property, the family-friendly Princess Jamaica Family Club.

This resort is purpose-built for guests aged 18 and up, offering an elevated vacation experience that blends modern luxury with Jamaican culture and eco-conscious design.

princess senses the mangrove review

📍 Location & Accessibility

Located approximately 40 minutes from Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay, the resort is far enough from the crowds to feel secluded, but close enough for easy access.

Most guests arrange roundtrip transfers either through the resort, third-party providers like Next Level Tours, or bundled into flight packages via Expedia and similar platforms.

🏝️ Layout & Atmosphere

The sprawling 5-star resort includes 401 suites14 overwater villas3 expansive pool areas, and multiple bars, restaurants, and activity zones.

The property is organized into several buildings (with Room Blocks 2 and 3 being fan favorites for views and accessibility). Sidewalks connect each zone, and there are shaded walkways for comfort during the sunny hours.

You’ll notice a clear effort to blend nature with luxury: mangrove preservation, landscaped gardens, and eco-modern design elements define the grounds.

Expect a polished, tropical vibe—think sleek wood paneling, open-air lobbies, and breezy linens.

🧘 Who It’s Perfect For

Whether you’re a couple celebrating a honeymoon, a group of friends chasing the perfect beach cocktail, or a solo traveler in need of rejuvenation, this resort offers a curated mix of tranquility, entertainment, and personalized service.

It’s not rowdy or overly romantic—just the right balance of peaceful and social.

princess senses the mangrove review

Accommodations: Where Style Meets Comfort

At Princess Senses The Mangrove, your room isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s your private haven.

Whether you’re looking for swim-out luxury, ocean views, or overwater indulgence, the resort offers thoughtfully designed suites to suit every taste and budget.

All rooms share one thing: a commitment to style, cleanliness, and comfort.

🛏️ Suite Categories Overview

1. Deluxe Junior Suite
These are the resort’s standard rooms, but they feel far from basic.

  • Double sinks and double rain showers
  • Furnished balconies or terraces (many with pool or garden views)
  • Plush king or double beds
  • Smart TV, robes, slippers
  • Mini-fridge with complimentary beer, soda, and water
    Perfect for couples or friends on a mid-range budget.

2. Platinum Junior Suite
Want exclusive perks? Go Platinum.

  • Private check-in and check-out
  • Priority restaurant reservations
  • Access to the Platinum lounge, beach club, and pool
  • Enhanced minibar with snacks and liquor
  • Upgraded bathroom amenities and a Nespresso machine
    This option is ideal for travelers who want VIP treatment.

3. Swim-Out Junior Suite
Slide open your patio door and step into a semi-private pool shared with neighboring suites.

  • Same interior as Deluxe, with direct pool access
  • Great for poolside lounging, morning swims, or a little social flair
  • Highly requested—book early

4. Pleasure Junior Suite
Tailored for romance and sensual relaxation.

  • Round beds with plush headboards
  • Romantic lighting and mirrored décor
  • Signature bathtubs with garden or partial ocean views
  • Located in quieter zones for privacy

5. Overwater Villas
For the ultimate luxury getaway.

  • Set apart on a private dock with infinity ocean views
  • Glass floor panels to see the water beneath
  • Private infinity pool and Bali bed
  • Personal butler service
  • Ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, or splurging just because

🧳 What’s Standard in Every Room:

  • Daily housekeeping & turndown service
  • High-speed Wi-Fi
  • Air conditioning & ceiling fan
  • In-room safe, iron/ironing board
  • Spacious closets and drawer storage

💡 Guest Tips:

  • Building 3, second floor, offers stunning views of both the Euphoria Pool and the ocean.
  • Fridge restocking is on request—don’t hesitate to call if you’re running low.
  • No steamers provided, so pack one if you’re dressing up for dinner.
princess senses the mangrove review

Dining at The Mangrove: A Foodie’s Paradise

Food is half the fun of an all-inclusive vacation—and Princess Senses The Mangrove does not disappoint.

With 10 restaurants, 3 buffets, multiple food trucks, and 14 bars, you’ll never run out of options.

Whether you’re craving sushi, steak, tacos, or a midnight snack, the resort keeps your taste buds busy from sunup to 4 a.m.

🍽️ Buffet Bliss

Food Market and Food Market Jamaica offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet-style.

While the selection does rotate slightly, the staples are crowd-pleasers:

  • Breakfast: Omelet station, fresh fruit, crepes made to order, local ackee and saltfish, pastries
  • Lunch: Jerk chicken, salads, pasta, fresh grilled veggies
  • Dinner: Stir fry station, pasta bar, lamb chops, steak, grilled fish, and themed nights (e.g., Jamaican night)

Yes, some guests find the options a bit repetitive—but most agree the flavors are solid and the variety suits all appetites.

🍝 À La Carte Restaurants

For a more curated dinner, try one of the resort’s themed spots.

Tip: Reservations are required—Platinum guests get first dibs.

  • El Delirio: Modern Mexican cuisine with flavorful sauces, tender carnitas, and margaritas that pack a punch
  • Il Palazzo: Italian trattoria vibes—try the risotto or house-made gnocchi
  • KA Teppanyaki & Umani: Sushi and teppan grilled meats, plus a fun, interactive chef show
  • Jamrock: Traditional Jamaican fare like oxtail, curry goat, and festivals
  • Robert’s Flame: A premium steakhouse with grilled-to-order cuts (lamb, ribeye, tenderloin)
  • Fusion 360: Asian fusion with Thai curries, satay skewers, and creative cocktails
  • The Pearl: Fresh seafood in an upscale beachfront setting

🍔 Quick Eats & Snacks

Sometimes you just need something between pool dips. The resort has you covered:

  • Snack Bar near Euphoria Pool: Wings, burgers, fries, tuna sandwiches, pasta
  • 24/7 Coffee Shop: Crepes made to order, pastries, sandwiches, and soft-serve ice cream (note: the freezer was down for part of one guest’s stay—expect occasional hiccups)
  • Food Trucks: Casual bites like tacos and jerk chicken scattered around the property

🍹 Drinks & Bars

With 14 bars, you’re never more than a few steps from your next cocktail. Favorites include:

  • MVP Sports Bar (open until 4 a.m.): Great music, bar bites, and a fun atmosphere
  • Euphoria Swim-Up Bar: The social hotspot during the day
  • Platinum Lounge Bar: Exclusive drinks and a quieter vibe
  • Lobby Bar & Theater Bar: Perfect pre- or post-dinner drink stops

Whether you’re a daiquiri devotee or a Red Stripe fan, you’ll find your pour here.


Activities & Entertainment: Something for Everyone

Whether you’re an early bird looking for beach yoga or a night owl dancing at the club, Princess Senses The Mangrove offers a full schedule of activities that are both energizing and enriching.

You can participate as much—or as little—as you like.

🧘‍♀️ Daytime Activities

Start your day with wellness or jump right into fun:

  • Yoga, Pilates & Abs Classes: Held beachside or on the pool deck—perfect with the sound of waves nearby
  • Water Aerobics & Aqua Zumba: High-energy classes at the Euphoria Pool
  • Pool Games & Volleyball: Led by the activities team (especially fun after a drink or two!)
  • Scavenger Hunts & Trivia: Casual competitions that help you connect with other guests
  • Soca Dance Lessons: Learn local moves and let loose with the entertainment crew

🍹 Cultural Immersion

For travelers interested in Jamaican culture, the resort offers rotating daily experiences:

  • Jamaican Patois Language Class: Learn a few fun local phrases
  • Rum Tasting Experience: Sample the island’s most famous export
  • Cooking Demonstrations: Try your hand at jerk seasoning and plantain frying
  • Live Steel Drum Music: Sets the tone during cocktail hour on select nights

🌙 Evening Entertainment

Each night brings a new show at the resort’s open-air theater. While reviews are mixed on the performances, the themes are fun and the music is lively.

Expect:

  • Caribbean-themed dance shows
  • Live bands and DJ sets
  • Karaoke nights (especially popular at MVP Bar)
  • Fire dancing or acrobatic performances (occasionally scheduled)

🕺 Nightlife & Club Scene

For those who like to party after dark:

  • On-Site Nightclub: Open late, playing current hits and dancehall
  • MVP Sports Bar: Casual, social, and perfect for a bite and a laugh
  • Theme Nights: White Parties, Glow Nights, and Tiki Events—watch the daily schedule!

🧍 Prefer a Quieter Stay?

Don’t worry—you’re not forced into any activity.

The quiet pools and spa areas offer peaceful alternatives, and you can always unwind with a book under a shaded lounger.


princess senses the mangrove review

Spa & Wellness: Rejuvenation in Paradise

If you came to Jamaica to relax, then you’re in luck—the Senses Spa & Wellness Center is a 19,000+ sq ft sanctuary of calm.

Open daily and offering a wide menu of treatments, it’s the perfect place to reset after your flight, soothe sun-kissed skin, or simply escape for a while.

💆 Signature Treatments

  • Swedish Massage
  • Deep Tissue & Sports Recovery
  • Aromatherapy Journeys
  • Hot Stone Therapy
  • Couples Massages (book early for sunset slots!)

Facials, body scrubs, and after-sun hydration rituals are also on offer, using high-end spa products tailored for tropical climates.

💧 Hydrotherapy Ritual

Included in many spa packages and free for Platinum guests once per week, this guided circuit includes:

  • Sauna
  • Steam room
  • Indoor hydro pool with pressure jets
  • Cold plunge
  • Outdoor relaxation areas with tea service

It’s incredibly popular, especially in the afternoons—book early to reserve a spot.

🏋️ Fitness Center

The on-site gym is open daily and includes:

  • Free weights and cardio machines
  • Resistance training equipment
  • Yoga mats and floor space for stretching
  • Views of the pool or gardens

Personal trainers may be available upon request (check with the spa desk).

Beach & Pools: Where to Soak in the Sun

If you’re dreaming of postcard-perfect beaches, this section is important to read.

While Princess Senses The Mangrove boasts beautiful coastal views and easy access to the water, the beach experience here isn’t the resort’s strongest suit—especially when compared to more famous stretches like Seven Mile Beach.

🏖️ Beach Details

The beach on-site is smaller and more natural in appearance, bordered by mangroves and trees. Some pros and cons based on real guest feedback:

Pros:

  • Peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds
  • Soft white sand to lay out or stroll on
  • Beach beds, loungers, and towel service available
  • Kayaks and paddleboards sometimes available via activities staff

Cons:

  • Rocky shoreline in the water—some guests recommend water shoes
  • Murky water due to seagrass and natural debris
  • Occasional seaweed buildup depending on the season

Guests noted they’d take a quick dip but preferred lounging poolside or booking excursions to more vibrant beaches like Seven Mile.

🏊‍♀️ Pools to the Rescue

The pool scene is where this resort shines. Multiple options ensure everyone finds their spot in the sun:

  • Euphoria Pool: The largest and most social, featuring a swim-up bar and daytime games
  • Quiet Pools: Ideal for reading, napping, or a relaxed float
  • Swim-Out Pools: Direct access from select suite categories—semi-private and serene
  • Platinum-Only Pool: Reserved for upgraded guests with butler drink service

Umbrellas, palm-shaded beds, and waiter service are available at all pool areas, though some guests mention slower service during peak hours.

Whether you’re pool-hopping or beachcombing, there’s always a spot to soak up Jamaica’s legendary sunshine.


Staff & Service: The People Who Make It Special

One of the standout features of Princess Senses The Mangrove is its warm and welcoming staff. 

While service levels can vary slightly by department, the overall impression is overwhelmingly positive—especially when it comes to hospitality and friendliness.

😊 Guest Impressions

From bartenders who remember your favorite drink to front desk agents who greet you by name, staff go above and beyond to make guests feel seen and appreciated.

Common compliments include:

  • “Everyone was genuinely kind and eager to help.”
  • “After a few days, they knew our names and asked how our day was.”
  • “They made us drinks during check-in and tried to make a long line enjoyable.”

⚠️ Minor Service Notes

While most experiences are seamless, here are a few realistic expectations to note:

  • Mini-fridge restocking isn’t always automatic. Just call the front desk—staff are happy to help.
  • Poolside drink service can be slow when it’s busy, especially at the Euphoria Pool.
  • Turn-down service is limited, but daily cleaning is consistent and professional.

💼 Platinum Difference

Upgrading to Platinum Service adds a layer of polish, including:

  • Private check-in/check-out
  • Dedicated concierge
  • Reserved beach/pool areas
  • Butlers who offer more personalized touches (like helping with restaurant bookings)

Bottom line: the staff are a huge part of what makes this resort feel personal, and most guests leave feeling taken care of.


Excursions & Off-Resort Adventures

While Princess Senses The Mangrove offers plenty of fun within its gates, exploring beyond the resort adds even more dimension to your Jamaican vacation.

Luckily, the area around Green Island offers rich culture, adventure, and iconic natural beauty.

🚐 Getting There & Back

Many guests recommend Next Level Tours for airport transfers and excursions—reviewers noted the drivers were friendly, safe, and professional.

Booking through the resort is also an option, but may be a bit more expensive.

Pro Tip: If you’re worried about safety or logistics, don’t be—most guests reported feeling very safe and comfortabletraveling off-property.

🏝️ Popular Day Trips

Seven Mile Beach (Negril):

  • About 35–40 minutes away
  • Crystal-clear water and long, walkable coastline
  • Loungers and restaurants available for day visitors
  • Great for photos, swimming, and sunbathing

Rick’s Cafe (Negril):

  • Famous cliff-jumping bar with live music and unbeatable sunset views
  • Drinks are pricey but the vibe is iconic

Roaring River Caves:

  • A lesser-known gem—natural limestone caves with underground pools
  • Guided tours explain local legends and geology
  • Combine with a countryside stop for a cultural twist

Catamaran Cruises & Waterfall Visits:

  • Available through tour desks or online booking platforms
  • May include snorkeling, rum punch, and music

Whether you’re looking for laid-back beach bliss or cultural immersion, venturing off-resort adds unforgettable experiences to your trip.

Insider Tips & FAQs

Sometimes it’s the little details that can make or break your trip.

These insider tips—gathered from real traveler reviews and personal insights—can help you plan smarter and enjoy your stay even more.

🧳 What to Pack

  • Water shoes (especially if you plan to enter the ocean)
  • steamer—rooms don’t have irons or steamers, and dinner dress codes lean toward upscale casual
  • Reusable cups to keep drinks cold longer (a favorite among pool-goers)
  • Cash for tipping—it’s appreciated, though not required

🧘 Room Tips

  • Building 3 is a top pick: close to restaurants and the pool, with partial ocean views
  • For quiet relaxation, ask for a room away from Euphoria Pool or the main activity area
  • Swim-out rooms are great, but can get less sun depending on their location

🥂 Dining FAQ

  • Do I need reservations? Yes, for à la carte restaurants—Platinum guests get priority
  • Is there a dress code? Yes, some restaurants require long pants and closed-toe shoes for men at dinner
  • Is late-night food available? Yes! MVP Sports Bar serves food until 4 a.m.

💡 Helpful Tips

  • The mini fridge is not auto-restocked—just ask, and it will be refilled
  • Shaded loungers go fast at peak hours, so claim your spot early
  • The coffee shop’s ice cream machine may be temporarily down, so check early if that’s a deal-breaker

These tips can help you avoid small hiccups and focus on soaking up every minute of your vacation.


Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, is Princess Senses The Mangrove worth your time and travel dollars?

For many travelers, the answer is a resounding yes.

This resort combines the perks of a newly built property—modern design, smart amenities, fresh dining concepts—with the warmth and energy of Jamaican culture.

The food options are broad and consistently tasty, the staff goes out of their way to make you feel special, and the activities offer something for every travel style.

Yes, the beach isn’t picture-perfect, and the entertainment might not rival a Vegas show, but these are minor trade-offs when the resort excels at what matters most: relaxation, connection, and fun.

Guests who’ve stayed here rave about:

  • The clean, comfortable, and stylish rooms
  • Social yet relaxing atmosphere
  • Wide range of dining and drinking options
  • Welcoming, attentive service

Ideal For:

  • Couples
  • Groups of friends
  • Solo travelers looking for a safe, all-inclusive escape
  • Travelers who want a balance of chill time and activity options

If you’re the type who enjoys luxury without pretension, wants variety without chaos, and prefers adults-only tranquility with just a dash of party—this place is for you.


Booking & Planning Tips

✈️ Booking

You can book directly via the official Princess website or through trusted platforms like Booking.com for a discount. Many travelers bundle flights + resort for better deals (e.g., ~$4800 for two adults, 8 nights, roundtrip air).

📅 Best Time to Visit

  • December to April: Peak season—great weather, more crowds
  • May to June: Fewer people, lower prices, occasional rain
  • July to October: Hotter, with hurricane season risks but better deals

🎒 Quick Tips

  • Arrange transportation before arrival (Next Level Tours is highly rated)
  • Check spa and restaurant availability in advance for special nights
  • Bring proof of travel insurance (some excursions require it)

Plan ahead, pack smart, and you’re all set for an unforgettable trip to paradise.