Idle Awhile Cliffs

After staying at the beach resort in 2024 and loving it so much we decided to come back but as we couldn't get a room in that property we decided to try the Cliffs and it is just a good as its sister property. As we went off season the Cliffs were liking having a private villa, chef and chauffeur service on a budget as we had the place to ourselves most of the time. The villa we stayed in was spacious with a fairly decent view of the sea (the trees need a trim to get a full view, unlike the other 2 seaview ones which have a full view). We made full use of the restaurant service by having breakfast each day prepared by Jason and the team. My only gripes about the menus including lunch and dinner is the lack of Jamaican food and variety (same menu as last year and for years judging by the photos online). They have such talented chefs it seems like madness not to showcase their talents, the wonderful local fresh produce and to compete with the other restaurants, especially as many are lacklustre. Jason was a pleasure and ensured all elements of our breakfast were cooked to perfection. The customer service at the Cliffs was exceptional from Nicholas, Sandra and Fabian to name but a few. This is indicative of the fantastic customer service you get from Idleawhile and it was so touching to be recognised by staff from our visit in 2024. We arrived very late at night and the security guard was there to greet us as shown us to our room. Our every need was taken care of from towels for the pool and beach, booking excursions for us (Bryan Cummings is great driver and the boat trip through Jason Stennett was fantastic) and taking us to and from the Cliffs to the Beaches (please note the shuttle needs to be booked (including at the Beaches) and leaves at the Cliffs 10.30am and returns from the Beaches at 16h. The pool is great for relaxing and is in the sun all day. As we went in rainy season the sea was not suitable for diving into as the waves were strong and high. However the soothing sound of the sea helped you drift off to sleep. I would recommend the Cliffs to families and people who are not very organised on holiday. What staying there did is force us to get into a routine as we had to be ready for the shuttle or get up for breakfast before a trip. It also gave us great flexibility by being able to choose to go between the two properties as they presented two very types of holiday vibe. Going to the Beaches was lovely for the swimming, water sports and sunbathing whereas the Cliffs is for relaxing, calmness and chilling. I think this is gen of a place and rate it highly.

The staff were friendly, and the food and drinks were excellent. View is amazing. Windows do not have glass or screens so you can hear everything from outside all night and bugs get in your room. Shutters don’t close to keep the heat humid air out. The air conditioner is right above the bed so condensation drips on you, you pillows, or the bed all the time. Pool is tiny, and the ladder for ocean access is broken and unusable. They didn’t have ANY fruit for two days along with other menus items. (I’m not talking about the seasonal items, like regular menu items) Chunks of the pool floor were breaking off and I stepped on them so I put all the pieces poolside and told the staff. The pieces stayed there three days. 3 umbrellas, only 1 stand for the umbrellas. Toilets wobbled when you sit down. Exposed wires all around the walking paths where lights should be. A little maintenance in the off season could go a long way here. I will NOT return here.

We visited for the day, as guests of the sister resort on the beach. The property is secluded and somewhat rustic. Day guests have access to the pool, which is small but appropriate for the number of guests, a full bar, a small outdoor dining patio, and a small but clean bathroom. You can get down to the sea with an 8 foot jump (or climb down the ladder) or just enjoy the pool. The staff were wonderful, and you could not ask for a more tranquil Negril experience. If you’re looking to escape the bustle of the beach, this is your place!

After leaving the sister resort on the beach, we were a little anxious to arrive on the cliffs because some people said there’s not much to it and we would be bored. Quite the contrary, if you’re looking for a quiet and reserved time. There are only a small amount of rooms, but they are wonderfully appointed for an incredible price. The staff is helpful and accommodating and honestly if given the choice, I wouldn’t go back to the beach resort. Next time I come I would just stay here the whole time.I am anticipating shedding a tear when I leave!

We were super late for check in. Someone from the hotel called us in the afternoon to check what time we'd arrive and let us know that the property closes off early so the security would give us our room key. This was super helpful because we were hungry so at that point, we stopped in Montego Bay for a meal. When we had finally arrived, the security guard was welcoming. The room was super clean and comfortable. A very homie room with a big sliding balcony door, a hammock on the balcony, terrazzo tiles, and a natural negril vibe with tree diversity, which we knew meant we'd get to see lots of birds in the morning. Had a comfortable night's sleep and a very tasty breakfast. Fruits were sweet and omelet was perfect! We ate breakfast while watching the sea and saw a pod of dolphins! Then we relaxed on the cool deck for a bit and enjoyed the sea breeze. The only draw back is that we couldn't enter the sea from this property. But you can always go down to the sister property Idle Awhile Beach for your beach day.

Nacko- the head chef at The Cliffs is an amazing culinary artist. He will make you traditional Jamaica fare that will melt in you mouth. Must have red snapper and curry shrimp and is to die for. He totally is vibe all himself. You don’t want to leave.