On Jamaica’s quieter, soul-stirring south coast, a beloved Caribbean hideaway has entered a new chapter. Jakes Hotel has unveiled six newly reimagined oceanfront bungalows—artful, immersive spaces that blur the line between design, nature, and experience.
Set along the shores of Treasure Beach, the refreshed Octopussy and Seapuss Bungalows embody the hotel’s long-standing ethos: handmade beauty, local craftsmanship, and a deep connection to place.
A Creative Reawakening on the Caribbean Coast
The relaunch comes just months after the hotel reopened following restoration work after Hurricane Melissa in late 2025. Now, with these six redesigned bungalows, Jakes reaffirms its place as one of the Caribbean’s most distinctive stays.
Originally founded by artist and designer Sally Henzell, the property has always leaned into a philosophy of building with local hands and celebrating the imperfect beauty of handcrafted design. That spirit carries through every inch of the new spaces.
Each bungalow feels deeply personal—less like a hotel room and more like a lived-in piece of art.
Where Design Meets the Sea
Inside, the bungalows draw directly from their surroundings. Think turquoise tones echoing the sea, coral textures, and earthy greens that mirror the palms just outside.
No two spaces are alike. Handmade headboards are inlaid with fragments of stained glass, casting jewel-toned light across sculpted plaster walls. Batik and African-print textiles bring warmth and depth, layered against crisp white linens and airy mosquito netting.
The result is both tactile and transportive—perfectly suited to travelers seeking something more meaningful than a standard beach stay.
Outdoor Living, Elevated
At Jakes, the outdoors isn’t an amenity—it’s the experience.
Each bungalow features an open-air shower set within colorful stucco walls, opening directly toward the sea. Rainfall showerheads, ocean views, and thoughtful details—like conch shells embedded in plaster—turn a simple rinse into something almost ritualistic.
The Octopussy Bungalows take it further with private rooftop terraces—ideal for sunset views, stargazing, or the kind of moonlit gatherings Jakes has become known for.
Thoughtful Comforts, Effortlessly Delivered
While the aesthetic leans artistic and organic, modern comforts are seamlessly integrated. Each bungalow includes air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, a mini fridge, coffee and tea facilities, Bluetooth speakers, and a digital safe—ensuring guests stay connected while feeling completely unplugged.
Beyond the Bungalows: The Rhythm of Treasure Beach
Though it’s tempting to linger all day in your private seaside sanctuary, the surrounding region offers a rich, slow-paced rhythm worth exploring.
Days here might begin with sunrise yoga and a traditional Jamaican breakfast, followed by a visit to YS Falls or a bike ride to scenic coastal viewpoints like Lover’s Leap. Evenings unfold with beach bar crawls, outdoor film screenings, or a laid-back drink under the stars.
Back at Jakes, the vibe is effortlessly social—whether over fresh seafood at Jack Sprat or during one of the hotel’s signature cultural gatherings.
A Stay Rooted in Community
Jakes isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a cornerstone of the local community. Through initiatives like BREDS, the Treasure Beach Foundation, the hotel supports education, sustainability, and local development across the region.
This connection adds another layer to the guest experience: staying here feels less like visiting and more like becoming part of something.
Why It Matters Now
In an era where travelers are increasingly seeking authenticity, creativity, and meaningful connection, Jakes Hotel stands apart. These reimagined bungalows aren’t about luxury in the traditional sense—they’re about atmosphere, artistry, and a deeper way of experiencing the Caribbean.
For romantics, creatives, and anyone craving a slower, more soulful escape, this is one of Jamaica’s most compelling stays right now.
Explore more unique stays and inspiring destinations in the latest issue of DRIFT Travel Magazine.
