Nothing else about White Sands is particularly spectacular or noteworthy: the rooms are comfortable and clean, if uninspired. The restaurant, which never seemed to be open when we were actually hungry, offers a rather bland selection of food options. The pool is clean and refreshing, but poorly located, practically hidden across the main road and in the far reaches of the resort. The beachfront bar is lively and always well attended, and the bartender will blend up a mean Dirty Banana. But with all the barstools facing away from the coastline, the main attraction at this poorly-designed space seems to be the large-screen television rather than the Caribbean Sea.
What White Sands does offer is beachfront accommodation at a fantastic price. A short walk from your sleeping room will set you smack dab in the midst of Negril's incredible Seven Mile Beach. Here, the shallow waters of the Caribbean Sea are practically transparent; the sunsets are divine. Drag yourself out of bed for an early morning jog, and you will be rewarded by nearly empty beaches and waters that are exceedingly calm and inviting.
White Sands is well located, and an easy base from which to explore the area: stroll up and down the expansive shoreline to discover the many restaurants and bars that occupy this ideal beachfront real estate. The Negril Yoga Center is a mere 20-minute walk down the road, as is the excellent Selina's cafe.
Although the restaurant staff leaves much to be desired, both management and reception are extremely kind and accommodating. The level of safety at the hotel is very good: an always-present security guard will watch over your personal belongings while you dip into the sea, and chase away hustlers if they become a nuisance.
I was much happier and more relaxed staying on Negril's West End as opposed to the beaches of Long Bay, but both areas certainly have their advantages. Thus if you are traveling on the cheap and want a prime beachfront location, White Sands is hard to beat.
-Stunning beachfront location
-Spectacular sunset views
-Swimming pool
-Pool table
-Lively bar with great cocktails and nightly drink specials
-Kind and accommodating management
-Clean
