Inside Hedonism II: Parties, Play, and What Really Happens

Joe Stuart

Alright, so today we're diving into Hedonism II, or Hedo, as just about everyone calls it. If this is your first time hearing about it—man, buckle up. It’s an adults-only, all-inclusive resort in Negril, Jamaica. But I mean, the “adults-only” part? It’s not just a technicality here. This place is for people who want to let loose, relax, and maybe, y’know, get a little wild with it. The whole place sits right on this white-sand stretch, and it's been around since, what—late '70s? Became Hedonism in the early '80s. And, fun fact, there was never a Hedonism I. I always laugh about that because it just confuses everybody.

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Yeah, I think I definitely Googled that at some point—like, “Wait, did I miss the first one?” But what really struck me when I first researched the place is how it’s got kind of a split personality. On one hand, you can have a peaceful day lounging by the pool or in the spa, and on the other, there are these wild theme nights and parties. It’s clothing-optional almost everywhere except for the lobby, restaurants, stuff like that. The rooms have been totally renovated in the last few years, and there’s, like, a wine bar now, upgraded spa, and that remodeled piano bar—so you’re not roughing it. At least as far as amenities go.

Joe Stuart

For sure. Actually, my first trip there—I’m not even gonna lie—I was nervous about that nude beach. Like, I thought I’d feel super awkward or out of place. But the weirdest part was how quickly I got over it. You walk down to the nude side and... it's just this total mix of people. Every body type, every background, all ages. And everyone’s just hanging out, chatting, almost like they’ve known each other forever. That’s what really hooked me. I talked to newbies, repeat offenders—uh, repeat guests, sorry—and it’s just... you make friends fast. There’s no sense of, “Oh, you don’t belong here.” It’s all, “Hey, want a drink? Pull up a chair.”

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And I hear it can get very social, very fast. No pretenses. The “you’re either a newbie or a repeater,” thing? I get that vibe just from reading trip reports. Even for someone like me—I mean, I’m not the most extroverted in a crowd—it sounds so easy to just slip into those conversations by the pool or at the bar. Not always the case at other resorts.

Joe Stuart

Yeah, that’s spot on. And the whole setup is, like, all about personal choice. The nude beach and the nude pool—nudity is required there. You can’t just be that “gawker” with clothes on, you know? But everywhere else? Totally up to you. Clothing-optional means exactly that. You’ll see folks in everything from full beachwear to, well, nothing at all. And usually, some crazy costumes at night.

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Right! I kept reading about these theme nights. There’s, like, a different one every night—lingerie, toga, masks, leather, glow-in-the-dark stuff, you name it. But I appreciate that you don’t have to go full throttle. Some people just dress up and dance or do karaoke at that piano bar. Others just people-watch, which, honestly, sounds pretty fun in itself.

Joe Stuart

Totally. Nobody’s walking around with a clipboard saying, “Hey, you have to participate.” I know couples who just love the costumes—like, they go all out for the contests, but when it comes to, uh, let’s say adult playrooms or the Rendezvous Lounge, they’re just curious or pop in for a drink and that’s it. You see a lot of different comfort levels. Honestly, the only thing that’s “mandatory” is just being open-minded and respectful. You’ll get the wild vibe mostly around the nude pool at night, or certain groups amping it up, but if you wanna just chill out with your drink, float in the pool—it’s your call.

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That’s so reassuring. I mean, I know Hedo has this rep for being, like, non-stop wild. But really, participation in the craziness is never expected. You can come for the party, stay on the sidelines, or just soak in the atmosphere. I love that freedom. And karaoke in the piano bar? Count me in for that over a playroom tour, at least for starters!

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So, switching gears a bit—I wanna talk about the food, because, let’s be honest, that's a big part of any vacation for me. Hedo is all-inclusive, right? That means all your drinks, snacks, meals, pretty much everything. But, like, don’t expect five-star dining. It’s more “you won’t go hungry or thirsty,” which is honestly fine by me. There are three main restaurants, beach grills—one of them’s famous for jerk chicken, which I’ve read people basically line up for—and you even have late-night pizza, which sounds like a lifesaver after those theme parties.

Joe Stuart

Yeah, the jerk chicken is legit. And they’ve upped their private dinner game, too—like candle-lit, on the beach, under the stars. That’s a nice twist if you want to flip from party to romance. Spa days are huge—get a massage, use the upgraded space—or you can hit the water: sailing, snorkeling, even SCUBA is included. That’s actually rare for all-inclusives.

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Okay, confession: I’ve always wanted to check out Rick’s Cafe in Negril. It’s like the classic sunset spot, right? Everyone raves about it, but some say it’s kind of overrated. Still, for a first timer like me, taking a taxi out, sampling the local bars, or even the craft markets across from the resort just sounds fun. Do you have any tips for planning a food or adventure tour out of Hedo?

Joe Stuart

Oh for sure. Rick’s is worth seeing once—maybe not for the food, but the view and the cliff divers are cool. But if you want real local flavor, try a sunset cruise right from the resort or hit a spot like Cosmo’s for grilled seafood. Honestly—if you’re planning any off-site adventure, just ask at the front desk or tour desk. They know what’s worth your time and what’s changed lately. But definitely try the jerk chicken for lunch before you go anywhere!

Joe Stuart

So, let’s get into what everyone’s really wondering—what’s it like, actually being a guest at Hedo? The stories you’ll hear, they run the gamut. I’ve met people who just wanted a super chill, no-kids getaway. Couples who dip a toe into the “lifestyle.” Folks who go all out, and others who just hang back and enjoy the party from a distance. The main thing is, you gotta go in open-minded and talk honestly with your travel partner, right? Communication is everything with this place. Decide your comfort zones—there’s a spot for every traveler, from the mild to the wild side.

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Yeah, and that’s echoed in, like, every review or story online. Talk about what you want out of it, whether you’re curious or have zero interest in the swinger scene. It’s not actually a “swingers-only” resort. There is that vibe, yeah, but nobody’s forcing anything on you. People really get to choose how social or private they want to be. And for practical tips—pack for both sun and surprises. Bring your fun outfits for theme nights, maybe some extra hangers, a plastic cup you can tie to your wrist—I swear people keep talking about that exact hack!

Joe Stuart

The cup thing—yeah, seriously. Lose track of your bar cup at Hedo and you’re going thirsty, for sure. Also, if you want a lounge chair by the pool, get there early. Sunscreen, flashlight, maybe a poncho for those five-minute rain bursts. And book early if you want those terrace rooms with the hot tubs—those go fast. Best times to go? High season’s January through April, also July and November. Want cheap and quiet? Late August through September.

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And just to wrap it up... Hedo isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for a spot that mixes relaxation, wild parties, a little romance and a lot of laughter? It’s hard to beat. Be upfront with yourself (and your partner, if you’re traveling as a couple) about what you want. Respect everyone’s comfort zone, don’t feel pressure to join what you’re not into, and you’ll have an unforgettable trip—whether you go all-in or just vacation from the sidelines. Joe, I appreciate you breaking it all down for me. Seriously, I’m way less nervous and way more curious now.