Family Circus
Starfish Resort is a $6 million transformation of the former Trelawny Beach and Fun Resort into a place packed with activities-- even circus trapeze. It's a big, busy kind of place.
Land Ho
My boys (12 and 9) loved the land activities (minigolf, trapeze, rock-climbing, "ice"-skating) and the pool fun: waterslide, pool tables in the pool, "power paddlers" (see pix.)
We especially liked all this non-ocean fun because during our trip in April the sea was choppy for a few days, meaning that watersports (snorkeling trips, glass-bottom boats, scuba) weren't always do-able. At Starfish, there was lots else to do.
Wee kids will enjoy a seaside playground with swings, and the gentle, sandy beach.
 They Float Through The Air...
Like a flag that says "Fun Here", Starfish's trapeze floats above the property. Those who try get lots of help-- see pix.
The rock-climbing wall is another novelty; reaching the top was a challenge for my athletic 12-year-old. (Younger climbers take an easier route.) Rock-climbing costs $3, as does trapeze with instruction ( 10-15 minute session).
More Activities
Each day, scheduled activities can range from toga theme dinners, to shopping at a nearby craft market, kick boxing workout, circus workshop, trivia contests, lots more. Evenings, a live band plays most nights near the Buffet until 10 p.m.; night-owls can disco or head to a piano bar. Babysitters available.
Windsurfing, kayaking, sailing, are free, but a motored watersport means money; a boat trip to snorkel at the coral reef costs $15/adult, $10/child. Platinum pricing includes it all.
Most activities/features are pictured in the photo tour. See also the Starfish Resorts site.
Kids' Club
The kids' club near the beach costs only $5/day, for two age groups: 6 months to 3 years, and 4 to 12. Activities run from treasure hunts to sand castles, crafts, trapeze, circus show. Video games are far from the kids' center (good!) and kids pay to play.
 Island of Calm
Starfish has a lovely small man-made island, John's Caye, just a few paces off-shore: wade over early in the day and grab a lounge chair under a palapa. This spot is especially nice at sunset.
The beach at Starfish is the fine, pale sand typical of Jamaica's north coast: great for sand-castles.
Out and About
Guests can conveniently take a number of tours: for ex., $35 to climb up Dunn's River Waterfall; $30 for Luminous Lagoon (a magical night boat ride -- and optional swim-- in a sea that sparkles with phosphorescent organisms); plantation adventure, horseback riding, lots more.
Starfish Resort: Meals
We arrived at Starfish starving after a long drive from Negril: nothing that feeds kids faster than a buffet. Though there was no special kids' area --unless you count the dessert bar-- even my finicky vegetarian found plenty to eat. Self-serve ice-cream and pop went down well, too.
 Big buffets are served at breakfast lunch, and dinner. Other dinner choices are: Guiseppe Restaurant ($6/person); Munahana, for Japanese dishes ($15/person); and the adults-only Casablanca, with surcharges on some items. The poolside Seashell Grill serves jerk pork/chicken, hamburgers, etc.
Gotta say, though, that pina-colada on tap is a concept that takes convenience (vs. quality) a bit too far.
Starfish Resort: Rooms
Rooms are designed for three people, but a crib or bunk bed can be added for families with small kids. (Ask about this when making a reservation, as online pricing may not show this option.) A maximum of four people can stay in a room; larger families would either add an adjoining room, or move to a cottage which sleeps up to five.
Like many rooms, ours overlooked the entertainment stage near the star-jacuzzi pool, where live music was played at night. I couldn't shut out the noise of the band; if you're traveling with baby, request a quiet spot.
Swing low, sweet pricing
Starfish's not-quite-everything-included price keeps rates affordable: after all, not everyone wants to do rock-climbing. It makes sense to charge less per guest, and let gung-ho types either pay-as-they-go for extras or choose the Platinum Plan which is modest anyway.
In the words of one manager: Starfish wants to "assist the client in every way possible in saving money." Check rates and specials, or call 1-800-659-5436.
Finally: like many all-inclusives, Starfish has a no-tipping policy.
Continue to Starfish Resort photos and tips: grounds, room, meals, beach, pools, activities.
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• landlubber fun: minigolf, trapeze, rock-climbing 