Island Exodus returns to Jamaica for its 16th edition, transforming a beachfront, all‑inclusive resort into a four‑day music retreat hosted by Gov’t Mule and Warren Haynes. The 2026 dates are Thursday to Sunday, January 15–18, at the adults‑only Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters in Trelawny, just outside Montego Bay. This new location brings expanded dining, modern rooms, Diamond Club upgrades, and soft, swimmable beaches—plus quick transfers from MBJ—wrapped around multiple sets from Mule and friends.
Dates, resort, and format
- Dates: January 15–18, 2026 (four days and nights).
- Resort: Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters, Trelawny/Montego Bay, Jamaica; adults‑only, all‑inclusive, with pools, beach, spa, and Diamond Club concierge tiers.
- Distance: Approximately 25 minutes from Sangster International Airport (MBJ) by event transfer.
The 2026 move from Runaway Bay to Trelawny upgrades amenities, restaurants, and room inventory while keeping stages walkable and the beach central to the experience.
Lineup and shows
- Hosts: Gov’t Mule, performing three two‑set shows across the event.
- Warren Haynes: Special afternoon solo set and on‑site activities/Q&A.
- Special guest: John Scofield joining Gov’t Mule for “Sco‑Mule” moments.
- Additional artists: moe. and Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, each with two shows.
Expect sunset beach sets, a late‑night flow, and the signature intimacy Island Exodus is known for, with artist sit‑ins and surprise collaborations throughout the schedule.
Packages, presales, and what’s included
- Presales: Previous attendees receive staggered presale windows ahead of the public on‑sale; 2026 windows open mid‑July.
- Public on‑sale: Opens the following day after presales.
- Inclusions: Room for the stay, event wristbands, nightly and daytime music, all‑inclusive dining and drinks, and airport transfers.
- Extras: Spa, premium wine/spirits upgrades, off‑property tours, and select add‑on activities.
Pro tip: Have roommate details and payment method ready at on‑sale—top room categories and Diamond Club tiers go first.
Rooms and how to choose
- Ocean view vs swim‑out: Swim‑outs are perfect for daytime breaks; upper floors capture breezes and quieter nights.
- Diamond Club: Concierge check‑in, lounge access, premium bar selections, and preferred locations for those who want more service.
- Noise profile: Rooms near main stages offer proximity; outer buildings offer calmer sleep between sets.
Daily rhythm at Island Exodus
- Mornings: Breakfast, coffee by the water, low‑key activities like yoga.
- Afternoons: Pool or beach performances, Warren Haynes Q&A, and artist‑hosted activities (corn hole with Kevin Scott, fan jam traditions).
- Evenings: Headliner sets under warm skies, then nightcaps around the resort.
Keep hydration steady and plan early dinners on double‑header nights to maximize music time.
Getting there and transfers
- Fly into MBJ (Montego Bay). Schedule arrivals by mid‑afternoon on January 15 to clear immigration and ride the event shuttle without rushing.
- Transfers: Included with packages, staffed by the event team in the arrivals hall; about 25 minutes to the resort.
- Documents: Passport with 6‑month validity beyond travel dates and return flight confirmation.
Food, bars, and dietary notes
- Dining: 12 restaurants and 11 bars on property, plus 24/7 room service—an upgrade in choice versus prior years.
- Dietary needs: Note allergies at check‑in and tell servers; resorts handle gluten‑free, vegetarian, and other requests well with notice.
- Beverages: All‑inclusive lists cover local and many international pours; premium upgrades available in Diamond Club zones.
What to pack
- Clothing: Breathable outfits, two swimsuits, light layers for breezy nights.
- Footwear: Cushioned sandals and supportive sneakers for long sets.
- Sun kit: Reef‑safe sunscreen, hat, shades, aloe gel.
- Tech and comfort: Portable charger, earplugs, refillable bottle, and a small crossbody bag.
Local flavor between sets
- Quick excursions: Hip Strip coffee stops, craft shopping, or a lighthouse photo run if time allows—book with licensed operators and be back well before showtime.
- On‑site culture: Tie‑dye on the beach and resort‑led tastings add Jamaican color without leaving the grounds.
Accessibility and etiquette
- Paths are flat and lit; request accessible room locations during booking if needed.
- Respect stage rail rules and rotate front‑row spots; let photographers and crew work unobstructed.
- Quiet hours apply near residential wings—walk softly after late sets.
Budget and value
- Package: Room category drives price; share rooms to lower per‑person cost.
- Flights: Price‑watch MBJ; mid‑week returns often cost less.
- Add‑ons: Budget for spa, merch, and an off‑site tour if you plan one.
Why Island Exodus 2026 stands out
A tighter transfer, upgraded rooms and dining, and a heavyweight music slate—three Mule two‑set nights, Sco‑Mule sit‑ins, a Hayes solo set, moe., and Cosmic Country—make the 2026 edition both fan‑friendly and logistically smooth. The new Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters setting delivers more comfort without losing the intimacy that defines the series.
Call to action
Set your calendar for January 15–18, 2026. Lock your package during your presale or the public on‑sale, pick a room that fits your vibe, and build an easy MBJ arrival plan. Then count down to four nights where beach light meets deep jams and a community forms between the pools and the stage.
Verified Information at a Glance
- Event: Island Exodus 16 (Gov’t Mule concert‑cation)
- Dates: January 15–18, 2026 (Thu–Sun)
- Location/Resort: Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters, Trelawny/Montego Bay, Jamaica (new location)
- Distance: About 25 minutes from MBJ airport
- Lineup: Gov’t Mule (3 two‑set shows), Warren Haynes solo set, John Scofield with Mule (“Sco‑Mule”), moe. (2 shows), Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country (2 shows)
- Packages include: All‑inclusive resort stay, airport transfers, event access, nightly/daytime music
- Presales/Public on‑sale: Previous‑attendee presales mid‑July; public on‑sale the next day
- Amenities: 12 restaurants, 11 bars, Diamond Club options, pools, spa, beach
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