Our Property, Location & Staff
Where are you located?
SeaGrape is a seafront property located in Negril, Jamaica. The town is essentially divided into 3 areas: the Beach, Downtown and the West End (or Cliffs). We are located in the heart of the West End, a short walk from the famed Rick's Cafe, 5 minutes from downtown Negril and 10 minutes from the Beach via taxi.
What kind of property are you?
Sea Grape is a private gated one-acre property with 3 distinct villas and staff quarters. Each of the houses are separated by mature tropical gardens that provide unique privacy. The property was initially developed over 50 years ago and still retains its island hideaway charm of the old days with modern updates and amenities.
Are you located on a sandy beach?
SeaGrape is a seafront property, we are located on Negril's "Cliffs," an area where the sea is deep directly offshore and you enter/exit the water via a short sea ladder. Negril's famed Seven mile beach is 10 minutes from our property.
Is this area still good for sunning & swimming?
Absolutely! The deep water is always cool and refreshing. There is snorkeling directly offshore and our stone sundecks with loungers and thatched umbrellas make for great sunbathing without getting sand everywhere!
What's the weather like in Negril?
Negril has warm, sunny weather year round, though it is hotter in summer and milder in the winter months. Its climate is also divided into the "rainy" and "dry" seasons, though rainy season usually just means you may get afternoon showers (which are not uncommon in the dry season).
What staff do you have?
Christine is our full time housekeeper she is assisted by Sean and Melonie. Bentley and Tall Man are our groundskeepers. Bentley lives on the property and is our nightly watch. Melonie doubles as our in-house home chef and can prepare any meal or snack upon request during your stay. All food costs and meal preparation are paid directly to Melonie.
Is SeaGrape suitable for children?
Due to the deep water directly offshore, parents should consider their children's ages and abilities.
Do you have weddings at SeaGrape?
Yes. Over the years, we have hosted many small wedding ceremonies, elopements, and vow renewals. We do not offer wedding packages or services, but we can recommend wedding coordinators who have worked with SeaGrape in the past. For couples and small groups, our cook can prepare a special dinner, though larger parties or those looking for a more formal event would need to find another venue for the reception.
Travel & Transportation
What airport should I fly into?
Montego Bay Sangster International Airport (MBJ) is by far the most convenient. It's just over an hour drive from MBJ to SeaGrape. There are many flights a day to MBJ from the US, Canada & Europe. Kingston is a much longer (3-4 hour) and more diffcult drive from Negril, so we strongly discourage flying in there.
Do I need a passport to travel to Jamaica?
Yes. You will also be required to fill out an immigration and customs form upon arrival.
Can you arrange airport transfers?
We can recommend our trusted drivers to get you to and from the airport.
What if I want to rent a car?
There are several major rental car companies that operate at MBJ. You can reserve online before you arrive. There is parking available at SeaGrape. However, you should be aware that Jamaicans drive on the left side of the road. If you are a confident driver and plan to explore a lot of the island, a rental car is probably your most convenient option.
If I don't rent a car, how will I get around Negril?
Don't worry, the taxis will find you! They pass by frequently right outside our gate, and shared "route taxis" are very inexpensive. For private taxis, agree on a price before getting in (US $5-10 is usually sufficient for anywhere in Negril).
What about day trips and excursions?
Tour operators and drivers are always available. We would be happy to make driver recommendations.
Villa Amenities
What services are included?
The rates we quote include taxes, daily housekeeping and free high speed Wi-Fi.
Can I get a reduced rate for declining these services?
No. We do not offer this option.
What additional services/costs should I consider in planning my trip?
Airport transfers, meals prepared by our cook, drivers for tours and excursions, any laundry services and staff gratuity.
Are the villas air-conditioned?
All the bedrooms at SeaGrape are air-conditioned except for the open loft bedroom upstairs at Big Grape.
Are the villas screened?
Every villa has screened bedrooms. The common areas are open air. Our housekeeper Christine will spray the bedrooms for mosquitoes upon request, but please note the common areas are open to the outdoors so mosquitoes may still be present at times (mosquito nets are provided for guests using the beds in the open areas). You may also see a few moths and lizards in the evenings and will hear crickets, tree frogs at night, though they are out of sight. Please consider your comfort level with "nature."
Do the villas have TV?
All three houses have cable television with a variety of Jamaican and American channels.
Do you have Wi-Fi?
High speed FiOs.
Are there stereos in the villas?
Yes. Each house has a stereo with bluetooth capabilities.
Is there a pool on the property?
We do not offer a pool.
Do you provide towels and linens?
We provide 100% cotton beach and bath towels, which are plentiful. Our 100% cotton sheets are changed every 3-4 days, unless you request it to be done more or less often.
Do you provide snorkeling gear and water floats?
We have plenty of fins, snorkels and masks. Most guests prefer to bring their own masks as it is more comfortable and sanitary. If you take a boat trip to the reef, gear is usually provided by the boat operator. If you plan to snorkel frequently right off SeaGrape, you may want to bring your own. We provide some floatation devices for the sea, though some guests prefer to bring their own inflatable rafts, toys, etc.
Something in my villa isn't working. What should I do?
Notify the staff as soon as possible (you can also email us at seagrapevillasnegril@gmail.com). They will try to troubleshoot the problem and/or call the appropriate repair person. If it requires repair by an outside serviceperson, please bear with us. Unfortunately, many things still happen on "island time" in Jamaica!
Do you provide any additional tips, information, recommendations?
At the time you pay your balance, you will be sent a welcome e-mail from SeaGrap that will provide all infromation needed to make your stay wonderful.
Food & Dining
How do meals work?
Our on-site cook offers the option of having meals prepared and served right in your villa. She cooks in a separate staff kitchen so your privacy is not disturbed. Her menu has per person, per meal pricing and includes all ingredients. Please click for breakfast, lunch and dinner menus.
When do I need to order?
For dinners, you can generally just let our staff know by early afternoon the same day (though a few menu items may require a day's notice). If you want dinner prepared the night of your arrival, it's best to email seagrapevillasnegril@gmail.com your order to pass along in advance. For lunch, let the staff know at breakfast. The evening before is best.
How do I pay for meals?
You pay Melonie directly in cash. The menu is priced in US dollars, but Jamaican currency is also accepted.
I'd like to go out sometimes. Are there restaurants nearby?
There are several excellent restaurants within walking distance or a short taxi from SeaGrape.
Our welcome e-mail has the list.
I want to cook for myself. Where is the closest grocery store?
The Hi-Lo Supermarket in downtown Negril has a good selection of produce, local and imported products, and alcohol. Value Mac directly across the street from SeaGrape will have almost everything you need to stock the house.
What will I find in the kitchen?
Each house is equipped with fridge, stove, microwave, blender & coffeemaker. You will find pots and pans, serving bowls, cooking utensils, and silverware for the house. Due to the climate and humidity, it is not possible for us to keep pantry items in the kitchens, so if you plan to do serious cooking, plan to bring or buy spices, condiments, etc.
Money Matters
What is the currency in Jamaica?
The currency in Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar. US Dollars are widely accepted almost everywhere. MasterCard and Visa is the accepted credit card. American Express is rarely accepted.
Where can I exchange money?
You can withdraw money at local banks in Negril that offer ATM services.
Are there ATMs in Negril?
Yes, there are ATMs throughout Jamaica, including Montego Bay and downtown Negril. The Scotia Bank ATM by the main roundabout dispenses both US and Jamaican Dollars.
Can I pay for things with a credit card?
MasterCard and Visa is the accepted credit card. American Express is rarely accepted.
Is staff gratuity expected?
Gratuity is customary at most rental properties and small resorts. 10% on your entire stay is our suggested gratuity amount.
How much should I set aside for staff gratuity?
We suggest tipping each staff member individually and at your discretion.
Health & Safety
Can I drink the water?
Tap water and ice are safe to drink in Jamaica. We always suggest purchasing bottled water and bags of ice.
Are there mosquitoes?
Unfortunately, mosquitoes are a fact of life in the tropics. We have the entire compound fogged with natural mosquito repellant a few times a year. With our lush gardens and the openness of the villas, SeaGrape is not a mosquito-free environment. Most guests are comfortable using repellent occasionally, especially at dusk. The bedrooms are screened (some also have mosquito netting), and our housekeeper is happy to spray them daily upon request. However, if you have a high sensitivity or allergy to mosquito bites, SeaGrape may not be the appropriate accommodation for you.
Is it always safe to swim at SeaGrape?
The sea can get choppy and big storms pass through on occasion. Please consider the sea conditions and your own abilities before swimming. There is no lifeguard on duty! If the waters are too rough, the ladders will not be placed for swimming. As general precautions, we recommend never swimming alone, and swimming at night is strictly prohibited!
Where is the nearest doctor? Hospital?
The Omega Medical Center on the beach road is a brand new medical facility operated by Dr. Foster. The nearest local hospital is in Sav-la-Mar, and there is a private hospital in Montego Bay called Hospitan.
Are there pharmacies nearby?
There is a pharmacy in Sunshine Plaza and others around Negril. You should be able to find general over the counter and first aid items, though plan to bring any prescriptions you will need from home.
I've heard Jamaica is dangerous. Should I be worried?
Most of the violence associated with Jamaica occurs in the big cities and involves drug/gang activities, not tourists. Negril is generally a safe town, though we recommend taking basic precautions like not wandering around alone in the middle of the night and locking up when you go out. As for our property specifically, it is gated and our staff is vigilant about keeping non-guests out. Our groundskeeper Bentley also lives on-site and patrols at night.
Do you have safes on the property?
Safes are available for guest use in each house.
Are outside guests allowed on the property?
Outside guests are permitted and subject to our house policy. Our staff will always have outside guests wait at the gate while they confirm that you have invited them. You can then either meet your guests or they can be escorted to your villa. Any outside guests requiring an overnight stay must be registered with the staff. Additional charges may apply.
What if there is a power outage?
While the Jamaican power grid isn't as reliable as it should be, we have a massive generator and are never without power.
Reservations & Cancellations
What methods of payment do you accept?
All billing and payments are done through PayPal.
I arrived at SeaGrape and I have an issue and/or question about the house. What should I do?
Please notify our staff immediately and email us at seagrapevillas@gmail.com. Our staff is happy to assist in any way they can, and we will try to resolve any issues ASAP.