The Caribbean - Negril, Jamaica

Started this thread simply as an informational gathering one. Really, no direct questions. I'll be there for 8 days in mid-October. Never been before. Staying along 7 mile beach (or whatever it's called).

So, what can I expect overall? Things to do... What's negril like, etc, etc, etc?

Thanks in advance, everyone.

I was there about 20 years ago, and then again last fall, and was really shocked by all of the changes. First, it should be quiet in October. The season really does not begin until around Thanksgiving. The crowd is largely USA East Coast, Canadian, and some Europeans.(mainly German).
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No need to rent a car. There are shuttles from the airport at Montego Bay that will take you directly to your hotel in Negril (around $10 –15 dollars/each way). Getting around Negril by taxi is very inexpensive.

7 mile beach - Hurricanes have really taken their toll on Negril’s beaches. The beach’s sand use to be very wide, probably exceeding 50 yards. Today, the beach is very poor until you get about 2+ miles out of the town of Negril. The closer you can get to the larger all-inclusive resorts (Sandals, Couples or Hedonism), the better the beach.

Nightlife - The big reggae club in Negril is on the beach. I think it was called Alfred’s.

The “best” restaurants are on the west end (on the cliffs), but don’t expect gourmet dining. The cliffs are much more the older funky part of Negril. The beachfront is more upscale.

There is a good grocery store in Negril for miscellaneous provisions, and I believe a Burger King.

Most of the hotels get their TV cable from Puerto Rico, so you will find staying in touch (news, sports) very easy.

I did not find the area at all dangerous, and walked all over the town, beachfront and cliffs without any concern except for the excessive speeding of Jamaican drivers.

Can anyone comment on these two hotels: Coral Seas Beach and Coral Seas Cliff? It seems like the Coral Seas Beach has a new name as Im having trouble finding more information on it. Any recent experiences or help would be appreciated!