Couples Ocho Rios: No Tan Lines

by Paris Permenter & John Bigley

When couples board the small boat that sits at the dock of Couples Ocho Rios, everyone on the beach knows where they're headed: to the nude beach just offshore. Just a short boatride away lies an offshore island dedicated to nude sunbathing. Here travelers looking for a total tan find a nude pool with a swim-up bar, sundecks, and shaded wicker swinging baskets perfect for two.

Much quieter than other clothing optional beaches such as those found at Hedonism II and Hedonism III, Couples Ocho Rios is designed more for the couple looking for a quiet getaway while pursuing the all over tan.

Relaxation continues at the property as well. At this all-inclusive resort, every room includes a CD player and a selection of romantic songs and no distractions like televisions and telephones. Atop the beds sit a heart-folded towel, topped with a native flower. Some rooms have ocean views; others look out on the lush mountains.Days at Couples revolve, predictably enough, around couples. Only couples are permitted as guests at this romantic resort; no singles or families are allowed.

Days at Couples are as carefree as the Caribbean trade winds. You and yours can enjoy Continental breakfast in bed, or head outside for the breakfast buffet. Lunch is also served buffet-style in the outdoor cafe. Any time during the day, stop at one of the four bars at try an exotic tropical drink, part of the package price. Gourmet dining takes place outside or in three specialty restaurants serving French cuisine, Continental fare or at the Bayside, a pasta bar. You can select any restaurant on any day; it's all included in your vacation price.

After breakfast, some vacationers head out for the beach loungers and a day of sun and surf. There are more activities to select from than hours in the day. Sports include tennis, squash, racquetball, paddleball, volleyball, aerobics, reggae dance classes, bicycle tours, horseback riding and golf. All fees, from greens fees to lessons with tennis pros, are included.

Watersports are some of the most popular activities here. Lessons in windsurfing, sunfish sailing, scuba diving, water-skiing, and canoeing are available daily, along with free lessons. Even landlubbers can have a look at those clear Caribbean depths without ever getting wet aboard a glass bottomed boat. And if the two of you want to work on a total tan, there's the clothing-optional beach located on an offshore island (complete with a pool and swim-up bar).

When you're ready to take a break from the sun, check the resort chalkboard for a list of changing daily activities. You can take a van to Dunn's River Falls, one of the most photographed sites in Jamaica. Here you'll form a human daisy-chain with other guests and a sure-footed Jamaican guide (who usually has a dozen cameras hung from his neck) for a cool hike up the tiered waterfalls.

Shopping in Ocho Rios is another popular activity. Plan to spend at least one afternoon in town to experience Jamaican culture firsthand and to bring home souvenirs of a getaway in paradise.

One of the best bargains at Couples are the free weddings they perform here daily. On any day you're likely to see a couple exchanging vows in the front lawn gazebo, on the beach or even on the offshore island as the sun begins to sink.

For more information, see http://www.couples.com