Island Outpost reports Jamaica properties operational following Hurricane Melissa

Island Outpost has issued an update on its Jamaica properties following Hurricane Melissa, stating that while some communities in the island's western and southern parishes were significantly impacted, many regions experienced minimal effects.

The company emphasized that much of the concern among travellers stems from misinformation and images circulating online that do not reflect conditions in the majority of Jamaica. 

The island is large and diverse, and many regions, including those where Island Outpost properties are located, experienced only minimal effects. 

Even areas more heavily affected, like Jake's in Treasure Beach, will be reopening before the festive season.

All Island Outpost properties are outside deeply impacted areas, are fully operational, welcoming guests and continuing to offer their regular Jamaican experiences.

All international airports are open and operating commercial flights.

Kingston—home to more than 90% of Jamaica's population—is fully functioning, with hotels, restaurants, attractions, businesses, hospitals and cultural sites open as normal. 

Major roads, attractions, and tourism infrastructure across Ocho Rios, Oracabessa, Portland and the Blue Mountains are open and accessible. 

Cruise ships have resumed calls, and attractions such as Dunn's River Falls, Mystic Mountain, Yaaman Adventure Park, rafting tours and coffee plantations are open.

"Jamaica is a big, resilient country," Island Outpost CEO Marika Kessler said. 

"Some communities are rebuilding, and our hearts are with them. But the island's tourism hubs, infrastructure, and daily life—from Kingston to the North Coast—are open, safe and functioning. Our properties were largely untouched, and our teams are ready to welcome guests with the warmth and hospitality Jamaica is known for."

Island Outpost property update

GoldenEye — Oracabessa / Ocho Rios: GoldenEye is fully open with all amenities, dining and experiences available. Roads into Oracabessa and Ocho Rios are clear and operating normally. Area attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, Yaaman Adventures, Mystic Mountain and local craft markets, are open. Restaurants such as Miss T's Kitchen, Scotchies, Ciao Bella and the historic courthouse restaurant are open and welcoming visitors.

Strawberry Hill — Blue Mountains / Kingston: Strawberry Hill and its surrounding communities in the Blue Mountains remain accessible. Roads to the property and nearby attractions—including Craighton Estate Coffee Plantation, Gordon Town Trail and Blue Mountain hikes—are open. Electricity, piped water and Wi-Fi remain operational. The Irish Town area's cafés and restaurants (Café Blue, Crystal Edge) are open. Kingston is operating normally across restaurants, hotels, shops, museums (including the Bob Marley Museum and Devon House), banks, government offices and entertainment venues.

The Caves — Negril: The Caves remains fully operational with all services and amenities available. While parts of the far southwestern coast faced challenges, Negril and the area around The Caves were spared significant impact and continue to welcome visitors.

Jake's in Treasure Beach is also making progress: Restaurant Jack Sprat has reopened. 

Approximately 75% of rooms will be fully operational by December 18.

"Jamaica has always been defined by its heart. The island faced a powerful storm, but our spirit never wavered," said Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Outpost. 

"Our teams across GoldenEye, Strawberry Hill and The Caves showed extraordinary care and resilience. Today, the sun is shining, the music is playing and Jamaica is ready to welcome travellers with open arms."

While Island Outpost's properties were spared significant damage, the company is donating US$1 per room night to ongoing recovery efforts through the GoldenEye Foundation, which directly supports impacted communities. 

Travellers who wish to contribute may donate via the GoldenEye Foundation; additional information about national relief efforts can be found through SupportJamaica.

"Whether through your visit or your generosity, your support helps Jamaica rise stronger than before," said Kessler.

Black Friday offer

Island Outpost is offering a Black Friday promotion: 30% off stays of three nights or more at GoldenEye, Strawberry Hill and The Caves. 

The offer is available for bookings made through December 1, 2025, valid for travel January 5 through October 15, 2026.

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