travel in montego bay

Montego Bay

Montego Bay has two distinct faces: there’s the smooth tourist countenance that grins contentedly from the pages of a thousand glossy Caribbean brochures; and there’s MoBay proper, a pretty gritty city, second only to Kingston in terms of status and chaos. Most of the big all-inclusive resorts are located well outside the urban core in the fancy suburb of Ironshore. Stay in the city, however, and you’re faced with an entirely different proposition – a riot of cacophonous car horns and bustling humanity that offers an unscripted and uncensored slice of Jamaican life, warts and all.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

National Museum West

This well-curated, revamped museum, peppered with period objects, takes you through the history of western Jamaica, from the Cohaba ceremonies of the…

Doctor’s Cave Beach

It may sound like a rocky hole inhabited by lab-coated troglodytes, but this is actually Montego Bay’s most famous beach and the one with the most…

Indigenous Rastafarian Village

If you want to learn about the Rastafarian movement, come out to this…hmmm...‘theme park’ is definitely not the right description. How about ‘living…

Montego Bay Marine Park & Bogue Lagoon

The waters of Montego Bay are gorgeous to behold both above and below the surface, but they have long been compromised by the effects of fishing, water…

St James Parish Church

Regarded as the finest church on the island, it was originally built between 1775 and 1782, but was so damaged by the earthquake of March 1, 1957, that it…

Bellefield Great House

Built in 1735, the restored Bellefield showcases 18th-century colonial living and Jamaican culinary history. You get to see the local gardens with…

Sam Sharpe Square

This bustling, cobbled square is named for Samuel Sharpe (1801–32), national hero and leader of the 1831 Christmas Rebellion; it is also where he was…

Montego Bay Cultural Centre

At the southwest corner of Sam Sharpe Sq you’ll find the copper-domed Civic Centre, an elegant colonial-style, cut-stone building on the site of a ruined…

Latest stories from Montego Bay

Feb 17, 2015 • 4 min read

From reggae to dancehall, few countries are so defined by their music as Jamaica. For its size, the country produces more music than any other place on…

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Montego Bay Travel Guide: Jetset to The Caribbean Island of Vibes and Adventure

From its world-renowned cuisine to iconic island culture, Montego Bay celebrates its Jamaican heritage with warm hospitality and luxury stays.

Kristina Lopez • Aug 7, 2023

Montego Bay, Jamaica is a vibrant Caribbean paradise. It beckons travelers with rich culture, delectable cuisine and a myriad of exhilarating activities. From the jerk chicken to reggae’s rhythmic beats, every moment is a celebration of Jamaican heritage and cultural unity. Embrace the warm hospitality of the locals, explore waterfalls and beaches, and stay in luxury accommodations. This destination is sure to be to an unforgettable island getaway.

Montego Bay, Jamaica, Quick Travel Facts  

• Best time to travel: Mid-December to Mid-April (peak season), June to October (off-season), May to June and October to November (shoulder season)
• Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
• Currency: Jamaican Dollar (JMD)
• Noteworthy: MoBay Funfest (June), Reggae Sumfest (July), MoBay Jerk & Food Festival (August), Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival (March)
• Best for: Island Getaway, Nature Lovers, Caribbean Foodies, Cultural Photography, Nightlife Enthusiasts, Relaxation Seekers

Play: Things To Do In Montego Bay, Jamaica

Rastasafari experience from montego bay.

The Rastasafari Experience from Montego Bay is an enriching half-day tour in the heart of local traditions. Visitors are invited to explore a Rastafari village in this culturally immersive excursion on an all-terrain buggy. It starts in the stunning countryside with winding hills and lush farms. The cultural tour finishes with a refreshing swim in natural mineral pools. There’s a delicious chef-prepared lunch that uses the freshest local market ingredients. This guided adventure promises an unforgettable look into Jamaican life. 

Private Day Tour from Montego Bay to Negril Beach and Rick’s Cafe

This private day tour is highly rated for a reason. This escape to paradise is an experience that promises equal parts fun and relaxation. Bask in the sun on the pristine Seven-Mile Beach before journeying to the iconic Rick’s Cafe. Guests can explore the history and soak in panoramic sea views at Fort Charlotte. With the convenience of private air-conditioned transportation, this tour will show travelers the coastal beauty of Montego Bay.

Bob Marley’s Nine Mile Day-Trip with Admission & Guided Tour from Montego Bay

The soul-stirring Bob Marley’s Nine Mile Day-Trip is a must-do on any traveler’s trip to the island. The legacy of the Reggae icon is cemented in the region. Visitors can explore his birthplace and final resting place in the charming village of Nine Mile, St. Ann. See the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountain peaks that Marley drew inspiration from for his timeless songs. Delve deeper into his world with a guided tour. It includes a visit to Mount Zion and the church where he rests. Hotel pickup and drop-off and air-conditioned transportation are included. 

Chukka Zipline, Horse Ride & Swim, River Tube, and Entry to Ocean Outpost Park

Blend adventure and relaxation with this excursion. Travelers can uncover the island’s western wonders through horseback riding, river tubing, hiking and ziplining. Guests will dive into the heart of Jamaican culture with a traditional lunch and have access to Chukka’s Ocean Outpost Park. There’s an ocean-side infinity pool, kayaks, paddle boards and more fun to enjoy. Embrace the stunning surroundings at Gilly’s Beach and rest for a moment at the Over Water Gazebo. With seamless hotel pickup and drop-off, this half-day journey promises an unforgettable fusion of excitement and serenity. Souvenir photos are available for purchase to capture those cherished moments.

Private Montego Bay Foodie Tour with City Highlights

The Private Montego Bay Foodie Tour is an authentic culinary voyage through Jamaica. The tour starts with convenient pickup in the morning or early afternoon. It whisks guests away in air-conditioned comfort to the heart of Montego Bay. Locals eat seasonally, known as “mek fashion,” with locally grown ingredients. Dishes include Jamaican classics, like brown stew chicken, ackee and saltfish, patties, and peanut porridge. Visitors are guided into the rich history and cultural significance of each dish between every stop. There also will be samples of traditional delights, such as jerk chicken, and rice and peas at local hotspots.

Gourmet: Best Black-owned Restaurants In Montego Bay, Jamaica

Rick’s cafe jamaica.

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Founded in 1974 by Richard Hershman, Rick’s Cafe Jamaica is an iconic spot that transformed Negril from a quiet fishing village into a vibrant Caribbean destination. It’s perched on the West End Cliffs. It delivers stunning views of the sunset over the sea. Rick’s Cafe Jamaica won global acclaim. The establishment has numerous awards, like Best in the Caribbean, one of the world’s Top Ten Bars, best for island sunsets and more. It’s the ultimate spot to savor island drinks and snacks with gorgeous sunsets.

Pier 1 Jamaica

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Pier 1 Jamaica is an oceanside experience with an extensive menu of seafood delights, including succulent Lobster and flavorful Land Crab infused with a Jamaican flair. For guests who aren’t seafood enthusiasts, they have highly rated Beef Tenderloin, authentic Jerk Chicken and spicy Jerk Sausage Pasta. Vegetarians can enjoy vibrant salads and delectable Tofu dishes that speak to the local Jamaican flavors. Jamaican classics, like Curry Goat and Oxtail, are both must-try dishes at Pier 1 Jamaica. Make sure to book a table in advance for this popular Caribbean gastronomic gem.

The Pelican Grill 

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Nestled on Gloucester Avenue, this family-owned haven has a half-century tradition that goes beyond being a popular hotspot. The Pelican Grill is at the heart of Montego Bay’s allure and delivers the true essence of Jamaican homestyle cuisine. The classic menu features Jerk Chicken, Oxtail and Curried Goat. It also features soups, like conch chowder, red pea, pumpkin and pepper pot. The fresh mouthwatering seafood tastes great and served at affordable prices.

The Chill Out Hut Beach Bar & Grill

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The Chill Out Hut Beach Bar & Grill in Montego Bay sits along the tranquil shores of Longbay, Greenwood. The serene beachfront haven has a diverse menu of local and international favorites, from classic ackee and codfish to tantalizing chicken parmesan. The owners have tailored everything to ensure every guest is living and eating in their best island life. 

Marguerites Jamaica

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Marguerites Jamaica is a Jamaican fine dining gem with distinguished accolades. Nestled along Gloucester Avenue, Marguerites offers captivating sea-to-table cuisine in an elegant ambiance. It was originally a private seaside residence until 1979. The owners named it in homage to the original Executive Chef. The eclectic yet refined menu boasts locally sourced seafood and prime cuts of meat prepared with global flair and a diversely curated wine menu.

Stay: Best Black-Owned Places to Stay In Montego Bay, Jamaica

The Half Moon is an expansive Black-owned resort with an array of experiences. Each caters to the whim of every guest. For thrill-seeking travelers, a day at the resort could include horseback riding, parasailing and scuba diving. For wellness lovers, there are aromatherapy steam rooms and a yoga pavilion to indulge in the ultimate relaxation getaway. Every guest can luxuriate in privacy with spa treatments in overwater bungalows or choose one of the twelve treatment rooms. Half Moon is an unforgettable beachside getaway of endless possibilities, ultimate relaxation and cultural connection.

Hope-Berry Deluxe Escape

The clean black-and-white interior design around the Hope-Berry Deluxe Escape gives a classic backdrop to the vibrant colors around the island. Nestled in the secure Catherine Hall community, this newly built retreat is a haven for weary travelers. It is under ten minutes from the airport. The beautiful beaches, local shops, artsy theaters and delicious restaurants are a short drive into town.

The spacious unit boasts two queen-size bedrooms with air conditioning, a modern living and dining space, a fully equipped kitchen and convenient on-site parking. The hosts offer personalized services, like airport transfers, island-wide excursions and daily breakfast based on the guest’s itinerary. 

Glory at Montego Bay

The Glory at Montego Bay is a beautiful Jamaican vacation home nestled within the serene grounds of the Victory residence. This charming cottage offers a breathtaking view of Sangster International Airport and the sparkling Caribbean Sea. A short 5-minute drive from the iconic Doctor’s Cave Beach, the location is unbeatable for any guest. The well-tended lush garden is a great space to unwind after a long day of fun excursions.

Get Away: Getting To and Around Montego Bay, Jamaica

By air .

Montego Bay, Jamaica has international flights available from major cities around the world. Travelers land at Sangster International Airport, conveniently located a stone’s throw away from the heart of Montego Bay. Plenty of airlines offer direct routes to easily access the island and immerse in its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes.

Navigate the beautiful landscape of Montego Bay by renting a car to have extra flexibility to explore the island. From the Hip Strip to the Doctor’s Cave Beach, visitors can go anywhere along the well-maintained roadways with clear signage. Taxis are available throughout the city, including the airport, hotels, popular tourist spots and main roadways. 

By Public Transit

Montego Bay has a vibrant public transit system. Travelers can soak up the local culture and connect with the community. The shared minivans called “Route Taxis” are an economical option that follows set routes. The Jamaica Urban Transit Company buses offer scheduled routes to various parts of the city. Both options let travelers experience the rhythm of the city.

Explore Montego Bay on Foot

Exploring Montego Bay on foot is a great way to see all the city offers. The town’s compact layout makes it an excellent walking destination. Travelers can enjoy the colorful streets, savor the aroma of local cuisine and engage with friendly locals. Stroll along the famous Hip Strip, where shops and restaurants line the pathway along the inviting turquoise water shoreline. With every step, there’s something to uncover at the heart and soul of this charming coastal gem.

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13 Best Things to Do in Montego Bay, Jamaica

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Montego Bay is one of the top tourist destinations in Jamaica if not the entire Caribbean, welcoming visitors arriving by air via Sangster International Airport and sea from the multitude of cruise ships docked at the enormous cruise port downtown. The capital of St. James Parish, Montego Bay was founded in the 16th century by Spanish colonizers and today is home to scores of swanky resorts aiming to cater to every available budget. When visitors aren't relaxing on MoBay's beaches, there are countless options for fun and entertainment.

Get Outdoors on a Guided Tour

Island Routes

If you're gunning for more activities during your trip to Montego Bay, Island Routes offers a variety of half-day and full-day outdoor adventures like catamaran and snorkeling cruises, zip lining and river tubing day trips, deep sea sport fishing excursions, and dolphin encounters. You can also sign up for Jamaican cooking classes, horseback riding, ATV rides, and Blue Mountain bicycle tours. Other popular day trips, like bamboo river rafting on the Martha Brae River, nighttime swims at Luminous Lagoon, and eco-adventure tours of Good Hope Estate are also available.

For a memorable only-in-Jamaica kind of experience, try one of the Drive Your Own Adventure tours in Montego Bay or nearby Negril (about a 90-minute drive down the West Coast), which let you cruise around town in your own Mini Cooper as you explore some of the area's top sights and attractions at your own pace.

Do a Day Trip to Dunn's River Falls

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Located about 90-minutes away near Ocho Rios, Dunn's River Falls makes a great day trip, whether you decide to rent a car and explore more of the island or embark on a guided tour from Montego Bay. Besides enjoying panoramic views of the falls, you can also make the 960-foot climb up them, have a picnic in the gardens, and shop for souvenirs at the local craft market.

The beautiful terraced waterfall complex is also close to Nine Mile, the birthplace of Bob Marley. Stop by to learn more about his fascinating life at the museum (tours are given by local Rastafarian guides), or pay your respects at his final resting place.

Swim in the Healing Waters of Doctor's Cave Beach

In the 1920s, a British osteopath claimed that the turquoise waters of Doctor's Cave Beach had curative properties. Practically overnight, the cove transformed into one of Jamaica's most popular beaches. It's still one of the island's most popular beaches , though it can get overcrowded when cruise ships are docked in Montego Bay. Its proximity to downtown, just steps away from the hip Gloucester Avenue, and cerulean waters keep it a favorite spot of sand all year long.

Be aware that since Doctor's Cave Beach is a private beach, travelers do have to pay to use it. That said, your admission goes toward maintaining the onsite bathrooms, restaurants, and snorkel equipment rental facilities. With crystal clear water and tropical fish swimming about, you'll definitely want to snorkel here.

Hand Feed Birds and Get Ecological

Just the name of this Montego Bay bird sanctuary sounds relaxing. The Ahhh...Ras Natango Gallery and Garden houses all kinds of local birds and tropical plants, all while offering cliffside views overlooking the bay. This little slice of Eden is a great escape from the hordes of beach tourists and cruise passengers who are less likely to make it up to the gardens. It's about a 15-minute drive from the city center, though you can opt to include round-trip transportation from Montego Bay with your ticket.

Apart from the sheer beauty of the park, one of the highlights here is being able to hand feed the local wildlife, such as hummingbirds and lizards. Everything at the park is used intentionally, reused when possible, and the owners make it a point to teach visitors about sustainability. In addition to the flora and fauna, there's a gift shop featuring crafts made by local artists.

Enjoy an Eco-Adventure at Good Hope Estate

Visit Jamaica

Tour company Chukka Caribbean Adventures has converted the grounds of the historic Good Hope Estate, founded in 1774, into a playground for thrill-seekers while at the same time, preserving the stately home for tours.

Several packages and passes are available, with most including a combination of house tours, rum tastings, a chance to swim in the estate's pool as well as other adventure activities like zip-lining, ATV tours, river tubing, or taking on the challenge course. Carriage rides are also available for those not so thrill-inclined, making Good Hope Estate a fun and relaxing day trip that's worth the 45-minute drive from Montego Bay to Falmouth.

Tour Cockpit Country

Not far from Good Hope Estate, Cockpit Country is Jamaica's wildest outback, a land of steep hills and deep valleys that once helped escaped slaves known as Maroons elude and outlast their former masters for centuries. Today, it's one of Jamaica's top ecotourism destinations, and where you can also visit several still-thriving Maroon communities .

Popular activities in this part of the island include hiking, biking, kayaking, and caving. Check with local tour companies like Island Routes and Chukka to see which half- and full-day Cockpit Country tours you can do from Montego Bay.

Take a Nighttime Cruise to Luminous Lagoon

To experience Jamaica's bioluminescent bay—the only natural nighttime attraction on the island—head to the Glistening Waters Hotel before sunset to catch a nightly tour of Luminous Lagoon.

Tour boats leave from the hotel and cruise into a quiet corner of the lagoon inhabited by microscopic sea creatures that light up in response to movement. It's cool enough to see the effect when the boat moves through the water, but the real thrills happen when you jump in and see the glowing swirls and eddies created when you move your hands and feet. Meanwhile, your always-entertaining boat captain and guide are there to explain the science behind the display and share interesting stories about Jamaican life and culture.

Sample Some Jerk Cuisine

Spicy Jamaican jerk cuisine is world-famous, and Montego Bay is home to two of the best purveyors on the planet: Scotchie's and The Pork Pit. Scotchie's is a quirky roadside stand along Highway A1 (Falmouth Road) that serves jerk chicken, pork, and fish with sides of yam, breadfruit, rice and peas, and festivals (Jamaican dumplings). The backyard flavor of the place is enhanced with an open bar, where you can order Red Stripes and rum drinks to sip from on chairs made of old beer kegs.

Back in Montego Bay, check out The Pork Pit on Gloucester Avenue. As with Scotchie's, the jerk food here is cooked over big open fires fed with pimento wood with a dry rub for flavor, not sauce. You'll find the perfect balance here, as it's popular among locals, not overrun with tourists, and not too far of a walk from the rest of the action downtown.

Shop, Sip, and Snack in Downtown MoBay

Ritcharnd Moskow / Wikimedia Commons

This Caribbean port of call offers duty-free shopping as well as the boozy temptations of the "Hip Strip," the downtown nightlife zone that's home to the Montego Bay Margaritaville outpost and its famous water slide, among other popular dance clubs.

For a classic Jamaican-style lunch, grab a cold Red Stripe and a crusty "pattie" filled with beef, chicken, vegetables, or cheese at one of Montego Bay's many restaurants. While Juici Patties and Tastee Patties are great chains that offer these dishes, many locals swear by Stanley's . Take a few Jamaican patties to go and head to Doctor's Cave Beach (mentioned above) for a seaside snack.

Go on a Haunted Tour of Rose Hall Great House

While tours of Rose Hall Great House are available during the day and at night , evening tours are best in order to set the mood for creepy tales about this haunted 1770 plantation house and its legendary dark past. Stop by the onsite pub, located in the estate's former dungeon, where slaves were once held as they awaited punishment by the cruel plantation owner's wife, Annee Palmer, known island-wide as the White Witch of Rose Hall.

Rose Hall is open for tours daily, while haunted nighttime tours of the estate happen Friday through Sunday evenings. For a go-big-or-go-home approach, consider the Annee's Escape package, which includes a guided tour of Rose Hall, championship golf at one or both of its courses, a shopping experience, Jamaican-style lunch, and special access to a private beach and pool. You can also tour the nearby Cinnamon Hill Great House , where Johnny Cash and his wife, June Carter Cash, once lived.

Climb Aboard the Big Bamboo With Martha Brae River Rafting

For a romantic excursion, grab your beloved and float down the Martha Brae River on a bamboo raft. Tours with Jamaica Rafting include round-trip transfers from your hotel, a 75-minute guided trip down the river, a complimentary fruit drink upon arrival, and a visit to Miss Martha's Herb Garden.

Tours begin about 20 miles from Montego Bay in the Rafter's Village, a six-acre recreational facility complete with a souvenir shop, bar, lounge, restrooms, a picnic area, and a swimming pool. The three-mile journey down the Martha Brae River passes through thick jungles, skirts quiet Jamaican towns, and includes a stop where you can purchase handicrafts from local artisans.

Admire Jamaican Art at the Montego Bay Cultural Centre

The Montego Bay Cultural Centre is the fine-arts capital of western Jamaica and houses a gallery and museum containing paintings, sculptures, and other works of art celebrating the island's rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions.

Opened in 2014 in historic Sam Sharpe Square in the heart of the Montego Bay Craft Market, you'll find exhibits featuring ancient Jamaican arts and crafts as well as rotating displays on such topics as Rastafarian culture. It's open daily and makes a great rainy day activity or a nice break from the beach if you've soaked up just a little too much sun.

Savor the Flavor of an Appleton Estate Rum Tour

While Jamaica and Barbados continue to compete for the title of rum capital of the Caribbean, in Jamaica, the clear rum champ is Appleton Estate, producer of fine mixing rums and sublime sippers. You'll have to take a two-hour journey down back roads from Montego Bay to reach it, but once you're there, you'll be able to tour the distillery and sample a variety of rums. The 21-year is pricey but smooth and you can always sleep off your buzz on the ride back to your hotel.

Renovated and reopened in 2018, the Joy Spence Appleton Estate Rum Experience includes complimentary welcome cocktails, a 75 to 90-minute guided tasting led by local rum experts, a movie about the rum industry in an on-site cinema, and an interactive tour through the Estate itself. Appleton Estate is open Thursday to Saturday. Reserve your tour in advance to avoid disappointment as these are quite popular.

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The Ultimate Guide to Montego Bay, Jamaica

When we first landed in Jamaica, we quickly learned that their country’s motto was

“ Out of Many, One People” .

This sentiment is a true testimony to the people of Jamaica and it means that they see everyone as one. They are so welcoming, hospitable and proud to have you in their country- no matter where you are from! We were received with open arms by anyone we honestly met and the more time we spent there, the more this sentiment was felt. Bob Marley’s “One Love, One Heart” makes even more sense to me now.

With Jamaica being a country I haven’t visited yet ( HOW!!), we were unsure where to base ourselves! After some research, we found out Swoop Airlines flies directly out of Hamilton Airport right into Montego Bay which made the decision easy. It was only a 4 hour flight and with the Hamilton Airport being such a breeze to travel to, it made our Jamaica trip feel all the more smooth!

Many people consider Montego Bay the place to stay in Jamaica due to it’s proximity to the airport, it’s crystal clear beaches and it’s endless line up of resort options. It’s the epicenter of Jamaican tourism and has everything you need to have the perfect trip. If it’s your first time to the country, I would recommend staying there.

HOW LONG SHOULD YOU STAY IN MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA?

This is such a loaded question because you can go to Jamaica and stay there for a whole month and really just get a taste of everything it offers!

If you are looking to book a week long vacation though ( because we all know we have to spread out vacation time in North American, grr.), you will have plenty of time to enjoy yourself in Montego Bay with 7 nights.

We actually went for 4 nights and I would do it again in a heart beat. We did 2 Day trips and then relaxed the other two days and it felt perfect

If you have 2 weeks in Jamaica, I would do 1 week in Montego Bay and then change up the base/scene and go to Ochos Rios or Negril so you can see more of the island!

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA?

Jamaica offers up a pretty perfect climate all year round with temperatures ranging from 19 degrees to 32 degrees. Their high season is from November to April and their rainy season is from May to June and September to November- though “rainy season” should be a term used very loosely.

After talking with some locals their rainy season consists of an odd storm or a pocket of rain that passes through pretty quickly. You can likely find hotels to be a bit more reasonable during this time and beaches/attractions a bit less packed.

We visited in February and OMG, the weather was perfect. Legitimately perfect. We were never faced with crazy humidity during the day and at night we could be outside without a jacket and feel comfortable. I think it was the best weather I have had on any Caribbean island that I have visited!

HOT TIP: Even though you are in the Carribean, I would recommend a light jacket if you are hitting up some restaurants that are indoors. Sometimes the AC is cranked up and after a day of full sun, you may want that option!

THE BEST PLACE TO STAY IN MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA

Montego Bay’s nickname is “The Complete Resort” because it offers something for everyone. With that being said, it is safe to say that there are a TON of beautiful places to stay in town. From all inclusive resorts to boutique hotels to smaller vacation rentals, you can find whatever it is you are looking for! Since this was an adult only trip, we opted for something cool. If you are travelling with a couple or on a girls trip, I couldn’t recommend the hotel where we stayed enough:

S Hotel Jamaica

The S Hotel Jamaica in Montego Bay is located right on one of the best beaches in the area: Doctor’s Cave Beach! People come to visit this particular beach even if they aren’t staying there because it is that gorgeous. So gorgeous that Travel and Leisure named it one of the best beaches on the Island!

The S Hotel has the best of everything: It’s Luxurious, Modern, Boutique AND All Inclusive. It’s not often you find a hotel that is this level of cool and offers up all inclusive but S Hotel manages to have both.

The hotel’s space has been curated impeccably and I felt like I was in a magazine at times. The décor and accents that are featured within the lobby and common spaces are also tied into the guest rooms.

Each room is spacious, features spa like bathroom suites and even came equipped with a vintage record player with one of Bob Marley’s albums. We be jammin!

With 4 restaurants on site and several bars to grab a “Rum Punch” at, you will never go hungry here. They even have a little café that is open 24 hours a day should you want a little late night snack ( it also serves up Blue Mountain Coffee which is a must try in Jamaica).

My favourite restaurant though was the hotel’s A La Carte restaurant called Roots Rock . Located on the top floor, it features elegant dishes like Lamb Chops, Tenderloin and Grilled Salmon ( and top notch views to boot!). The interior was funky and eclectic so although the plates and menu were fine dining, the atmosphere had me feeling less than stuffy! Best of both worlds. Tip: Make a reservation here the minute you arrive as reservations are recommended.

If you do want to switch it up and head out for dinner in town, this hotel is conveniently located just 5 minutes from the popular “Hip Strip” where you can find lots of restaurants and bars to visit.

THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN MONTEGO BAY

Montego Bay is known for it’s undeniably stunning beaches and turquoise waters but there is so much more to it than that! Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, a foodie or love learning about new culture- you can find some activities in Montego Bay that will suit what you are looking for.

While some people come to Montego Bay and stay at their resort the entire time, I REALLY encourage you to plan some excursions, dinner or tours off site. This is the best way to really get a feel of the Jamaican culture, see hidden gems and witness some of the most beautiful things the island of Jamaica offers.

DO A CATAMARAN BOAT TOUR

Is there anything better than setting sail on the Caribbean sea? I think not!

We did a Cruise with Island Dreamer and got to soak up the incredible views of the Montego Bay coastline. It departed at 10AM for a morning sail and we got to laze on the boat deck while listening to reggae favourites. Level 10 happiness.

Despite the early time of the cruise, our fellow passengers were ready to enjoy the day and dance parties were had by all. We got to snorkel at one of the best patches of the Montego Bay waters and even got to eat some Jamaican patties afterwards.

If that didn’t check all the boxes, there was also a pit stop at the famous Margaritaville for 30 ish minutes. Here you had the option to get some additional food and drinks or if you were feeling rambunctious you could head down their in-house waterslide that throws you out into the ocean.

Our tour was 3 hours and had us back to the dock by 1PM. The crew at Island Dreamers was INCREDIBLE and had the best energy. They also offer sunset cruises or longer ones to neighboring Negril which I would love to do next time!

VISIT A TRADITIONAL RASTAFARIAN VILLAGE

 If you are curious about Rastafarian culture, then you must book a tour here!

This one of a kind activity is a 2 hour interactive experience which welcomes you into this traditional Rasta village. You learn all about their medicinal garden, their food, the joy of music, crafts and most importantly their belief system and history.

My favourite part of this tour was listening to all the wonderful people we met talk about why they are choosing to live this way. Their hearts and stories really gave insight to a slice of the country’s history and made me feel so welcomed.

“Stress is a disease and I only do things that are for my heart”- said the one man to us. Learning about the Rasta’s deepened my understanding of the Jamaican culture.

In my opinion, this is one of the most unique things to do in Montego Bay

HERE is a great tour option!!

GO RAFTING DOWN THE MARTHA’S BRAE RIVER

The most popular thing to do in Montego Bay…and really in Jamaica overall is to go Rafting down the Martha Brae River.

Float along this 3 mile river on a traditional Bamboo raft and take in the natural and peaceful surroundings. The tour itself was about an hour in length and truly was such a magical experience. I felt like I was having a core memory as I drifted down the water.

As your captain does all the leg work for you, you learn about the legend of “Martha Brae”, have the opportunity to stop at one of the rum bars along the river and can even opt in for a leg massage with some natural clay.

Do NOT miss this.

DO SOME ZIP LINING WITH CHUKKA ADVENTURES

The one thing that surprised me about Jamaica the most was how lush and mountainous it was. The landscape was made for ziplining and I have just the place for you to do it at!

Chukka Adventures is one of the most popular places to Zipline in Montego Bay as it is only 30 minutes away! Located on a former plantation estate, Chukka has over 5 different ziplines that will have any thrill seeker excited!

If you want to tackle on some additional adventures, you can do some Tubing or even relax in their cascading pools. Included in some of the packages is a traditional Jamaican lunch for you to enjoy post adventure. I kid you not when I say the Jerk Chicken from Chukka Adventures was one of my favourite ones I had on my trip!

INDULDGE IN A RUM TASTING!

It doesn’t take long to learn that Rum is the beverage of choice in Jamaica! Within 2 hours of landing I was sipping on some Rum Punch and that theme continued during the majority of my trip. When In Rome, right?

Rum is so popular that Jamaica actually has the most Rum Bars per square footage than any other country in the world! While we were driving around I started to count a few and I was in the double digits very, very quickly.

With that being said, doing a Rum Tasting in Jamaica is an absolute must! Even though I am not someone who necessarily loves rum or drinks it often, it is a quintessential Caribbean liquor and I very much enjoyed learning about it’s roots in Jamaica. There is a lot of history with rum in the country and one of the biggest rum distilleries, Appleton Estates, started here!

We not only learned about how it’s processed and I was floored to know that some of the rums are are aged for up to fifty years! Those rums are best enjoyed on it’s own and will NOT be found within Jamaica’s famous “Rum Punch”.

We did our tour with Chukka Adventures which ran about 1 hour. If you want a longer and deeper rum experience, you can visit Appleton Estates for anywhere from four to six, twelve, twenty-five and even fifty years!

MONTEGO BAY TO OCHOS RIOS: A MUST DO DAY TRIP

If you love nature, then you need to visit Ochos Rios or “Ochi” as the locals call it.

The lush vegetation and ecosystem make for some beautiful excursions and attractions and though we only spent a day here, you can definitely base yourself here if you want when visiting Jamaica.

TRAVELLING FROM MONTEGO BAY TO OCHOS RIO

If you are staying in Montego Bay, you can visit Ochos Rios for a day trip very easily. It is about a 1.5 hour drive depending on where you are headed and what the traffic is like so keep that in mind when planning your trip! We recommend leaving early to avoid the crowds and checking on when the Cruise ships are at the port as those days will be busier than others.

THINGS TO DO IN OCHOS RIOS ON A DAY TRIP

VISIT THE BLUE HOLE AKA ISLAND GULLY FALLS

Hidden in the hills of Ochos Rios, is Island Gully Falls also known as “Blue Hole”.

The 20 ft cascading waterfall makes you feel like you have seriously landed at the gates of heaven. The water is so pure and fresh and the minute I jumped in, I felt my endorphins sky rocket.

There is an awesome platform that is built into one side of the mountain that allows visitors to jump from. It was AMAZING! I think I jumped about 5 times.

They also have a swing rope further down the river if jumping is not your thing (highly recommend jumping though). What a rush. It will cost you $20 USD to enter the grounds

TIP: Get here early to avoid the crowds.

TAKE A RIDE UP MYSTIC MOUNTAIN AND GO BOB SLEDDING

Did you ever have the urge to become a professional Bob Sledder after watching “Cool Runnings?”. No? Just me then I guess.

My childhood dreams became a reality after visiting Mystic Mountain and taking on twists and turns at full speed through the mountain.

Mystic Mountain features not only bob sledding but rock climbing, a waterslide and the “Raggamuffin” where you dangle into the air catching more views of the ocean and mountains.

One of the coolest parts of visiting though is getting to the mountain itself on a chairlift. The views that you get from this 20 minute ride are some of the best we have seen. Admittedly, I was a bit scared at first ( I’m semi afraid of heights) but mid way into it, the beauty of the surroundings completely took over the fear. It ended up being one of my favourite views of Jamaica.

GRAB LUNCH AT THE ICONIC MISS T’S

If you are doing a day trip to Ochos Rios from Montego Bay, book a lunch reso at Miss T’s Kitchen. Trust me. Just do it.

This place is all sorts of cool.

Tucked away on a little street, it is so unassuming when you first turn in but after you walk through the wooden doorway you are transported into your own little colourful world of fun. It serves up authentic Jamaican in an eclectic and rustic setting and I pretty much wanted to move in.

WHERE TO EAT IN MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA?

A lot of resorts in Montego Bay are all inclusive and ours in particular ( The S Hotel Jamaica) had such delicious offerings on site that it made it tempting to stay put! We are glad we ended up venturing out though because we had some pretty epic meals when we did!

Here are some places worth trying in Montego Bay:

• Pier 1: Waterfront restaurant with awesome music, a huge menu and open air seating. Come for the views but stay for the vibe. They have weekly party nights too where apparently the place gets VERY busy (in a good way)
• Juici’s: If the locals recommend it, then you KNOW it has to be good. That is always my motto when I travel and Juici’s Patties is this place. These were the best Jamaican patties I have ever had in my life. No photo evidence because I devoured them very quickly on one of our drives. Trust me on this one!
• The Pelican Grill: Though we never made it to this place, we heard from multiple people that this was the spot to visit if you wanted a romantic or special evening.
• Scotchies : Apparently this place has some of the best jerk chicken on the island. The atmosphere also looks adorable!

HELPFUL HINTS WHEN VISITING MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA

• LANGUAGE: English is widely spoken everywhere. Jamaica is actually the biggest English speaking country in the Caribbean over all which makes travelling there very easy if you are from North America. The local language is Patois and you may hear it in some convo’s amongst the locals. I loved learning a few little words and expressions that are commonly used on the island!
• TRANSPORTATION: I f you are basing yourself in Montego Bay, I don’t recommend renting a car. For a longer trip- it would definitely be worth it but hiring a driver or taxi would make the most sense for quick restaurant visits or tours. Depending on the tour operator you book with, some include hotel pick ups. We did a bunch of tours with Jamaica Way Tours and their driver was AMAZING!!!!
• CURRENCY: USD is the commonly accepted currency used. You will find hotel prices or restaurants listed in USD. Most of the ATMS accept international bank cards and hey, if you are Canadian- they have a Scotiabank there!
• SAFETY: Like anywhere in the world, don’t be an idiot. I never once felt unsafe in Jamaica. Not once. I didn’t go out late at night though or wander around town solo.

Though the landscapes and scenery of Jamaica are mind blowing, the people and culture is what really touched my heart. Jamaica cannot be summed up in a few paragraphs and though photographs will definitely influence you to visit- it is a place that must be felt. One Love.

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A great way to experience this vibrant city is with a tailor-made Montego Bay vacation package. Base yourself in the neighborhood of Hip Strip, which is great for coastal beaches, nightlife and bars and pubs or go someplace else — our package deals are all about you. Rocklands Bird Sanctuary , Doctors Cave Beach and Montego Bay Marine Park are just some of the many sights you'll want to check out during your trip to Montego Bay. Expedia will help you escape your routine. Tailor your vacation to Montego Bay to match your travel style, whatever that may look like.

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Where to stay in Montego Bay

Hip Strip is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Doctor's Cave Beach and Jamaica Beaches, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Montego Bay.

Coral Gardens

While there might not be top attractions in Coral Gardens, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Saint James Parish Church and Montego Bay Marine Park.

White House

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in White House and surrounding area, you can visit Blue Diamond Shopping Centre and Dead End Beach.

Northern Estates

While there might not be top attractions in Northern Estates, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Cinnamon Hill Golf Course and Rose Hall Great House.

Though Mango Walk might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Dead End Beach and Doctor's Cave Beach.

Montego Bay Beach Vacation

It's time to slow things right down and enjoy a cocktail by the sea on a Montego Bay vacation. Pretty coastal vistas are waiting for you on a trip to Montego Bay — Turtle Beach (53 miles (85 km) away) is the perfect example. It's a great idea to stay in a hotel close by. If you want other options, a lot of sightseers also take advantage of Montego Bay vacation packages close to James Bond Beach and Mahogany Beach.

Things You Should Know About Montego Bay

• Listening to the soothing sounds of lapping waves is one of life's small pleasures. See what's available among our Montego Bay beach hotels and get ready to relax.
• Villas are also popular with travelers to these parts. Silent Waters Villa and Endless Summer - Montego Bay 6BR are great examples of what you can expect from this type of accommodation.
• Not a fan of constantly pulling your wallet out during your vacation? We hear you. With almost everything taken care of, our All-Inclusive hotels in Montego Bay are the ideal solution.
• Montego Bay, population 82,900, is a great place to visit for so many reasons. Discover some useful tips on our Montego Bay things to do page .
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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in montego bay, rose hall great house.

Tour this grand English-style manor and former plantation, and discover its eerie history.

Montego Bay Cruise Ship Terminal

Explore the waterfront in Montego Bay with a trip to Montego Bay Cruise Ship Terminal. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the local tours.

Doctor's Cave Beach

White sand, bright blue water and a nearby bar make this beach the perfect spot for a relaxing in the beautiful Jamaican weather.

What to do in Montego Bay

Bamboo rafting & jerk picnic by the waterfalls, other vacations you might like.

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Montego Bay

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By boat
• 3.1 By foot
• 3.2 By bus, taxi
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 10 Stay safe
• 11.1 By air
• 11.2 By bus

Montego Bay , commonly referred to as MoBay, is the second largest city in the island nation Jamaica . It has a population of 428,000 people (2018). Montego Bay is the capital of St. James Parish, one of the 14 parishes of Jamaica.

Understand [ edit ]

Christopher Columbus sailed into the bay in 1494 and named it "El Golfo de Buen Tiempo" or Fair Weather Bay. The first record of a Spanish settlement here shows it as Monterias. The Spaniards hunted the herds of wild hogs that used to roam the hills and produced and exported 'hog butter' or lard. The name Montego derives from the Spanish "manteca" meaning lard, and Montego Bay is shown on some ancient maps as Lard Bay, or Bahia de Manteca in Spanish.

Due in part to its location on the island's north shore, Montego Bay has long since earned the title of 'tourist capital of Jamaica.' It receives the bulk of international flights, and is home to Sangster International Airport, the larger of Jamaica's two main international airports. It is a tourist destination known for its duty-free shopping, cruise line terminal, and the sheltered Doctor's Cave beach with clear turquoise waters, which is one of the most famous beaches on the island.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

By boat [ edit ].

Montego Freeport , built in the 1960s on what was called the Bogue Islands, is the port of Montego Bay. The Montego Freeport terminal consists of five primary berths two of which are dedicated exclusively for cruise shipping. There is a telecommunications centre for cruise passengers (and crew), snack and refreshment stand.

Transportation is available from the terminal building, supervised by the Jamaica Tourist Board, which also maintains a visitor information booth. Montego Freeport is about 3 km south of town. Taxis to downtown MoBay cost about US$10. Shuttle bus service from the cruise ship pier to downtown City Centre Shopping Mall for US$2 per person each way.

Get around [ edit ]

By foot [ edit ]

Gloucester Avenue-which is lined with tourist hotels, shops, and restaurants-has sidewalks on both sides and is best visited on foot. Aside from this road, walking may be considerably less safe.

By bus, taxi [ edit ]

Buses, minibuses and route taxis arrive and depart from the transportation station off Barnett St at the south end of St James St. There’s an inspector’s office (7AM-6PM) inside the gate where you can ask for the departure point of the bus you’re seeking.

Montego Bay Metro (952-5500; 19A Union St) is the municipal bus service (around J$100). Montego Bay Metro now operates three routes: Greenwood to City Centre; Sandy Bay to City Centre; and Cambridge to City Centre.

Taxis are readily available, but as with all cities be aware that some drivers will be less honest or reliable than others. follow your instincts; never get into an unmarked car with someone who offers you a ride, and stick with taxi services you recognize. Your hotel can suggest trustworthy drivers. Reliable driver (as used by the Bird's Nest and Five Gable include Frankly (local ☏ +1 876 581 5712 ) and Smith (local ☏ +1 786 787 7889 )

Another very common way of getting anywhere outside the vicinity of your hotel is by tour van. If you book a tour to the falls or the canopy, the driver will usually pick you up at your hotel. For more on tours, check the Do section below.

See [ edit ]

• The Centerstage Theatre , Dominica Dr. New Kingston , ☏ +1 876 968-7529 . Small but cozy. Family-oriented musicals in patois.  

Do [ edit ]

• Cornwall Beach , ☏ +1 876 952-3463 . 9AM-5PM . Snorkeling, swimming, and other fun beach activities. US$3.20/2 (adults/children) .  
• Doctor's Cave Beach , Gloucester Ave , ☏ +1 876 952-2566 . 8:30AM-Ssunset . The water is crystal clear and snorkelling is available. It can get a bit crowded during busy season, but its still a great place to go for the family. Adult US$5, child under 12 $2.50 - extra for chairs and umbrellas .  
• Dunn’s River Falls & Park , Ochos Rios, Jamaica, W.I. , ☏ +1 876 974-2857 . 8:30AM - 4PM . Dunn's River Falls & Park comes to mind which is in Ochos Rios that is about two hours from Montego Bay by taxi cab. There are four rivers combined into one unending flow of rapid descent that drains directly into the Caribbean Sea. Adventurous tourist can climb the falls by forming a human chain led by an experienced Dunn’s river falls guide. Adult US$20, child (2-11 years old) US$15 .  
• John Halls Montego Bay Adventure Tour . Thorough and thrilling tour of Jamaica's beauty and culture. Adult US$75, child $31.50 .  
• KiteBoarding Jamaica , Bounty Bay, Trelawny ( only 20min from Montego Bay ), ☏ +1 876 583-2255 . Jamaica's only kite surfing center, great kite surfing on the Caribbean sea, suitable for all levels.  
• Montego Bay Sea Trek Adventure , Doctor's Cave Beach . 1 hour . Underwater adventures on the ocean floor. US$60 .  
• Walter Fletcher Beach , ☏ +1 876 979-9447 . M-Th 9AM-7PM, F-Su 9AM-10PM . Swimming, boat rides, and other beachtime fun. Adult US$5, child $3 .  
• Chukka Caribbean Adventures .  
• 18.352362 -78.085228 1 Mayfield Falls ( Renting a car and driving on an adventurous unsealed road (in parts) might be the easiest way to get there. ). Mayfield Falls is the less-touristy option and much calmer than Dunn's Falls. They are a 1½-hr drive south-west from MoBay. For an entrance fee of $15 local guides offer 1½-hr tours where you climb up the falls and return on a short trek. The tour includes jumping in pools, diving through tunnels and climbing stones. Jumping from a high tree might also be possible. You might ask your guide for a unofficial "nature tour" which takes you 2 hr up the falls through fields (maybe ganja as well) and means climbing the falls down. With driving there you will also have the chance to see rural life on Jamaica as you pass through little farmer villages. US$15 + tip for the guide . ( updated Mar 2015 )
• Golf: several courses, best known is Half Moon at Rose Hall.
• Rockland Bird Sanctuary . 9AM-5PM . Enjoy the many varieties of birds that make the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary a wonderful nature place. @ Rocklands Road, Wiltshire, Anchovy Montego Bay ( updated Mar 2015 )

Tours [ edit ]

• Jamaican Taxi Tours , ☏ +1 876 429-8664 , [email protected] . Professional and licensed drivers. Tours cover various interests such as archaeology, history, culture, religion.  
• Travel Around Jamaica Tours , ☏ +1 876 287-2180 , [email protected] . Travel Around Jamaica Tours is a Montego Bay-based private airport transfer and tour company, which offers private airport transfers to all hotels, resorts and villas in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril. As well as private transfers to popular tourist destinations in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril.  
• Dreamer Catamaran Cruises , Rapsody Tours, Charters & Cruise Limited, Gloucester Avenue , ☏ +1 876 979-0102 , fax : +1 876 979-0101 , [email protected] . M-Sa 10AM-1PM/3PM-6PM . The Dreamer Catamaran cruises are a great way to explore the Caribbean Ocean. On the Catamaran cruise, there is an opportunity for sight seeing, snorkelling, drinking, sun bathing. The staff is very friendly, helpful and patient, making sure new comers to snorkelling feel comfortable with their equipment and what to look for while exploring the sea. After snorkeling, alcohol is served on the catamaran, along with massages by the crewmembers. The Dreamer Catamaran cruises are fun, safe, and a great experience. US$89 .  

Buy [ edit ]

• Montego Bay shopping center . You can find more reasonably priced souvenirs, and eat some real native Jamaican food. A traveller can find really great deals on gourmet coffee in which is produced on the island, and Jamaican spices, art and scented body oils. You can get there by taxi or local shuttle.
• There are three craft markets: Harbour Street Craft Market, Old Fort Craft Market and Success Craft Market.

Eat [ edit ]

Most restaurants also serve drinks. Try a tropical drink or grab a cold Red Stripe in the signature brown bottle, then relax and take in the scenery!

• Pier One Seafood , Howard Cooke Blvd , ☏ +1 876 952-2452 . Open-air restaurant serving well-liked seafood and umbrella drinks with a great view of the bay.  
• Evelyn's , Whitehouse (near Sandals Montego Bay) , ☏ +1 876 952 3280 . M-Sa 9AM-9PM, Su 10AM-6PM . Very reasonable prices, right on the beach, and the food is heavenly.  
• Pork Pit , 27 Gloucester Ave , ☏ +1 876-952-3663 . Right on the main strip in town, serving what some say is Jamaica's best jerk chicken and pork cooked over coals.  
• Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville , Gloucester Ave . 11AM-? . A tourist spot on the "hip strip" Gloucester Avenue. Their Jerk and Curry Chicken are excellent. They have entertainment, a hot tub, a 110-foot water slide that leads you into the ocean where there is also a water trampoline. The gift shop, with a wide variety of souvenirs including t-shirts, shorts, hats, shot glasses, and key chains. It is about 15 minutes from the resort areas.  
• Day-O Plantation Restaurant , ☏ +1 876-952-1825 . A favourite spot for romantic occasions, offering garden dining and Jamaican fusion cuisine.  
• Belfield 1794 . M-Sa 6:30-11PM . Located in an old sugar mill and offering Jamaican favourites in an unusual setting. US$15-$20 .  
• The Pelican Grill , Gloucester Avenue Hip Strip ( across the street from the old Hospital Park; near Doctor's Cave Beach ), ☏ +1 876-952-3171 , [email protected] . ( updated Feb 2015 )

Drink [ edit ]

Sleep [ edit ].

Budget [ edit ]

• Bethel Court Guesthouse , 25 Bethel Court , ☏ +1 876 476-7239 . Mount Salem. Here you will have your own private furnished apartment. $20/night dorms, $50/priv room .  
• Caribic House , 69 Gloucester Ave , ☏ +1 876-979-9387 . Hostel - very much budget accommodation. Great views of the beach from the third floor. Across the street from Doctor's Cave Beach. $35/night (double occupancy).  
• Hotel Gloriana and Spa , 1-2 Sunset Blvd , ☏ +1 876-632-5250 . A cheap place to sleep, with lovely staff, but the rooms are very basic. $70/night.  
• Ridgeway Guest House , 14 The Queens Dr , ☏ +1 876-330-7180 . An inexpensive, well-liked guest house run by very hospitable and helpful staff. $50/night.  
• Grandiosa Hotel , 3 Ramparts Close , ☏ +1 876-630-6780 . Another budget option, with nice views and a friendly staff. $60/night .  
• Grand Palladium Resorts & Spa , Point Lucea , ☏ +1 876-619-0000 , toll-free: +1 888 774-0040 . All-inclusive 3 meals daily plus snacks and all drinks and house wines with meals included. Free activities (snorkeling, sailing, paddle boating) all of these activities are on the beach adjacent to the Grand Palladium Resort. Lifeguard on duty. $229/night. Kids stay free .  
• Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort , ☏ +1 876 9532485 . ( updated Feb 2015 )
• Five Gables , Lot 285 Fairview, Ironshore ( Route taxis and buses commute between MoBay and Ironshore. From the junction you can either walk (2.5km uphill) or find a taxi (see Get Around, J$150) ), ☏ +1 876-312-3472 . Five Gables is a hostel in a villa in the suburb of Ironshore. The house consist of multiple rooms with bathrooms, a kitchen and a huge community area. Outside, the property features a pool, a sun deck with bar, hammocks and chairs as well as a garden. It is closely associated with the bird's nest. Even if it appears fully booked, call the owner Ian, he might let you camp in the garden or offers you another room next door. dorm $23 / double ensuite $70 . ( updated Mar 2015 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Doctors Cave Beach Hotel , 11 Jimmy Cliff Blvd , ☏ +1 876-952-4355 . A moderately priced hotel along Gloucester Avenue (called the Hip Strip). A well-established alternative for those seeking a good value. $115-170/night.  
• El Greco Resort , 11 Queen St , ☏ +1 876-940-6116 . Popular resort village. Furnished one and two bedroom air-conditioned suites, just a elevator ride down to famous Doctors Cave beach. $112-177/night for 2-4 people .  
• Royal Decameron Montego Beach , 2 Gloucester Ave , ☏ +1 876 952-4342 . Oceanview rooms and patio, includes all food and drinks (including international drinks and wine). 3 beaches, and 2 pools. 1 Al a carte restaurant and 1 buffet. $100/person/night, including all beach activities .  
• Rose Hall Resort & Spa, a Hilton Resort , ☏ +1 876-953-2650 . Rose Hall Road, Montego Bay. This island resort in Montego Bay was a legendary sugar plantation during the 18th century. $250/night .  
• Altamont West Hotel , 33 Gloucester Ave , ☏ +1 876-979-9378 . Rates start at $90 .  

Splurge [ edit ]

• Half Moon Rose Hall , Half Moon P.O., Rose Hall , ☏ +1 876 953-2211 . A large hotel with golf courses, spa facilities, a variety of vacation villas, and conference and meeting facilities. Rooms and suites start at $350/night .  
• Riu Montego Bay . Ironshore P.O, Rose Hall. Less than three miles from downtown Montego Bay, and 1.7 miles from the airport, it has a wide variety of activities and comfortable accommodations in a beautiful setting, including an on-site spa, entertainment by the pool and on the beach during the day and on stage at night. $400/night The Riu Montego Bay has a total of 5 bars and 5 restaurants. The restaurants include a steakhouse, Italian restaurant, Asian Rrestaurant, main restaurant and a pool-side buffet. There are 2 pool-side bars, and 2 inside the resort and 1 sports bar. The sports bar is open 24 hours with a mini-casino next door. There is always entertainment during the day at the pool area and at night, either in the entertainment area, or on the beach.  
• Silent Waters Villa , River Road, Great River Private , ☏ +1 847 304-4700 . Luxury villa with nice views and good service. The 5 guest suites and the owner's villa can accommodate one group of up to 20. Tennis court, 2 pools, heliport, 14 staff. $2,000-4,857/night. .  
• 18.451818 -78.056757 1 The Tryall Club , Alice Eldemire Dr., Hanover Parish ( 15-20 minute drive west of the city ), ☏ +1 876 956-5660 . A splurge, but worth it. A world-renowned golf course designed by Ralph Plummer lies on this property, making the Tryall one of the premier golf destinations of the Caribbean. Each villa has a private pool along with personal staff that cater to your needs. Other amenities at the Tryall include a kids club, 9 tennis courts (four which are red clay), and a private beach. $400/night . ( updated Nov 2018 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

While Montego Bay is a relatively safe city, normal precautions should be observed. Stay in groups, and stick to tourist areas. The rural areas are especially dangerous.

Go next [ edit ]

By air [ edit ].

You can get domestic flights to Kingston's second airport Tinson Pen.

A weekly international service to Santiago de Cuba is also available, costing approximately US$400 (June 2012) with Air Jamaica Shuttle [dead link]

By bus [ edit ]

The Montego Bay Bus station, in downtown Montego Bay has buses serving most of the larger cities throughout the country including Black River , Ocho Rios , Spanish Town & Kingston .

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Your ultimate montego bay travel guide 2024.

Are you planning a trip to Montego Bay, Jamaica? Look no further! We’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you plan your perfect vacation. From the best places to stay to the best local restaurants, we’ll show you everything Montego Bay has to offer. Get ready for an unforgettable experience as you explore the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of this Caribbean paradise. With our guide, you can make sure you get the most out of your Montego Bay vacation. If you plan on staying in Jamaica for an extended period, check out our Kingston travel guide !

Table of Contents

Top 5 Things To See And Do In Montego Bay

• Relax On The Beaches : Montego Bay has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Doctor’s Cave Beach, Cornwall Beach, and Dead End Beach. Here, you can sunbathe, swim, or participate in various water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving. These beaches are comparable to what you see in Mexico in Cozumel and Isla Holbox .
• Visit The Historic Rose Hall Great House : This grand plantation mansion was built in the 18th century and has a history of being haunted by the ghost of Annie Palmer, known as the “White Witch of Rose Hall.” Take a tour of the house, walk through the lush gardens, and learn about the fascinating history of this legendary home.
• Explore The Luminous Lagoon : This unique attraction is a bioluminescent bay that illuminates the water at night due to tiny organisms called dinoflagellates. Take a boat tour or swim in the lagoon and witness the magical glowing water.
• Go On A Safari Tour : Montego Bay offers a variety of safari tours that take you through the lush jungles, over rolling hills, and down rivers. Enjoy an off-road adventure, visit local villages, and even swim in the beautiful rivers and waterfalls.
• Visit The Hip Strip : The Hip Strip is a famous stretch of Gloucester Avenue filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. Visit Margaritaville for a party atmosphere, try some Jamaican jerk chicken, or go shopping for souvenirs and handmade crafts.

Where To Stay In Montego Bay

• Rose Hall : Located just a 15-minute drive east of Montego Bay’s city center, Rose Hall is a popular area for upscale travelers. The neighborhood is home to luxury resorts, such as the Ritz-Carlton and the Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall. Visitors can also explore the historic Rose Hall Great House, a 1770s plantation house rumored to be haunted by its former owner.
• Ironshore : If you’re looking for a quieter area away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Montego Bay, Ironshore might be a good choice. This residential neighborhood has a few resorts and vacation rentals but is mainly known for its beaches. Visitors can relax on the secluded Dead End Beach or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters at Doctor’s Cave Beach.
• Hip Strip : Montego Bay’s “Hip Strip” is a lively area packed with restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s also home to several mid-range hotels and guesthouses. This area is great for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action. The popular Margaritaville restaurant and bar is located here, as well as the Doctor’s Cave Beach Club.
• Montego Freeport : Montego Freeport is a popular area for travelers who want to be close to Montego Bay’s cruise port. The neighborhood has a few hotels and resorts, as well as shopping and dining options. Visitors can explore the Montego Bay Marine Park, a protected area of coral reefs and marine life.
• Bogue : Bogue is a quiet, residential area located just a few miles south of downtown Montego Bay. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to experience local life in Jamaica. The neighborhood has a few budget-friendly guesthouses and villas, as well as local markets and shops. Visitors can also hike the nearby Mount Salem Trail for stunning views of the coast.

Top Montego Bay Hotels

• Half Moon Resort : This luxurious beachfront resort offers elegant suites and villas with private pools, gardens, and stunning ocean views. Guests can enjoy a range of activities including golfing, spa treatments, and water sports.
• Sandals Montego Bay : This all-inclusive resort offers a romantic and relaxing atmosphere with luxurious rooms and suites featuring private balconies and whirlpool tubs. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining, unlimited premium drinks, and a variety of activities.
• Round Hill Hotel and Villas : Set on a lush 110-acre private peninsula, this elegant resort offers stylish rooms, suites, and villas with stunning ocean views. Guests can relax at the spa, lounge by the pool, or indulge in gourmet cuisine.
• Secrets St. James Montego Bay : This adults-only, all-inclusive resort offers elegant suites with ocean views, private balconies, and whirlpool tubs. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining, unlimited premium drinks, and a range of activities including water sports and tennis.
• Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall : This all-inclusive, adults-only resort offers luxurious rooms and suites with private balconies and ocean views. Guests can relax by the pool, indulge in gourmet cuisine, or enjoy a variety of activities including yoga and water sports.

Where To Eat In Montego Bay

If you’re a foodie, then Montego Bay is a culinary paradise! The food scene here is diverse and rich, with plenty of options to suit all palates. Here are the top 5 places to eat in Montego Bay that you must check out:

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• Scotchies : If you’re looking for an authentic Jamaican dining experience , Scotchies is a must-visit. This famous jerk restaurant has been serving up mouth-watering grilled meats and vegetables for over 20 years. Their jerk chicken, pork, and fish are legendary, and their sides, such as festival and bammy, are equally delicious.
• Sugar Mill : If you’re in the mood for a fine dining experience, head to the Sugar Mill restaurant. This award-winning eatery is set in a restored 18th-century waterwheel, surrounded by lush gardens. The menu here is a fusion of Jamaican and international flavors, with dishes like the signature pumpkin soup, jerk-spiced tuna, and grilled lamb chops.
• Houseboat Grill : Another unique dining experience awaits you at the Houseboat Grill. This floating restaurant is docked on the Montego Bay waterfront and offers panoramic views of the bay. The menu features fresh seafood and steak, with dishes like the conch fritters, lobster bisque, and surf and turf.
• Marguerites : For a romantic dinner or a special occasion, Marguerite’s is the perfect spot. This elegant restaurant is set in a charming old colonial house, surrounded by tropical gardens. The menu features French and Jamaican cuisine, with dishes like escargot, seafood risotto, and curried goat.
• Pork Pit : Last but not least, if you’re craving some juicy, succulent pork, head to the Pork Pit. This casual restaurant is a local institution and serves up some of the best pork in Jamaica. Their signature dish is the pork sandwich, made with soft bread, tender pork, and tangy sauce.

Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or casual eats, Montego Bay has something to offer everyone. These top 5 places to eat will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

How To Get Around Montego Bay

There are a few options for getting around Montego Bay, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common ways to navigate the city:

• Taxi : Taxis are a popular and relatively inexpensive way to get around Montego Bay. However, it’s important to negotiate the price beforehand and make sure the driver has a license and is using a registered taxi.
• Public Transportation : Buses and minibuses are available in Montego Bay, but they can be crowded and confusing for tourists. They are, however, a more budget-friendly option.
• Rental Car : If you prefer the freedom of driving yourself, there are plenty of rental car agencies in Montego Bay. However, keep in mind that driving in Jamaica can be challenging due to the lack of signage and road maintenance.
• Scooter/Motorbike : Renting a scooter or motorbike can be a fun and efficient way to get around Montego Bay, but make sure you’re comfortable driving on the left side of the road and wearing proper safety gear.
• Walking : Montego Bay is relatively small, so walking can be a viable option for shorter distances. Just be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close.

Regardless of how you choose to get around, it’s important to stay safe and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid traveling alone at night and stick to well-lit areas. Additionally, keep in mind that Jamaican drivers tend to be more aggressive, so exercise caution when crossing the street or navigating traffic.

Montego Bay Weather

Montego Bay enjoys warm and sunny weather year-round, with little variation in temperature. The city experiences a tropical climate characterized by two seasons – the dry season and the wet season.

• Spring (March to May) : Spring brings warm temperatures and sunny days to Montego Bay, with average temperatures ranging from 75 to 84°F (24 to 29°C). This is the perfect time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities as the crowds are thinner and the hotel rates are lower than during the peak season.
• Summer (June to August) : Summer is the peak tourist season in Montego Bay, with hot and humid temperatures. The average high temperatures in Montego Bay during this season are around 88°F (31°C) while the average low temperatures are around 77°F (25°C). This season is great for water sports activities like swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving.
• Fall (September to November) : Fall in Montego Bay is marked by rainfall, which sometimes brings brief thunderstorms and cooler temperatures. The average high temperatures in Montego Bay during this season are around 87°F (31°C) while the average low temperatures are around 76°F (24°C).
• Winter (December to February) : Winter in Montego Bay is characterized by cooler temperatures with warm sunny days, making it a great escape for those seeking to avoid winter chills in other parts of the world. The average high temperatures in Montego Bay during this season are around 82°F (28°C) while the average low temperatures are around 73°F (23°C).

Overall, Montego Bay is a year-round destination with warm weather that provides tourists with a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy no matter the season. However, if you are sensitive to humidity, it is best to avoid visiting during the summer months.

Best Time To Visit Montego Bay

Montego Bay is an amazing destination that can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and priorities. The island experiences a tropical climate with two seasons: a dry season and a wet season.

The dry season, which runs from December to April, is the most popular time to visit Montego Bay. The weather is warm and sunny with less humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. During this time, the city also experiences fewer rain showers, which means you’re more likely to enjoy uninterrupted sunshine.

The wet season, which runs from May to November, is also a great time to visit Montego Bay if you don’t mind occasional rain showers. The island is lush and green during this time, and you’ll find fewer crowds and lower prices for accommodations and activities. However, if you’re planning to visit in the months of September and October, be aware that this is the peak of the hurricane season and the island is at a higher risk of tropical storms or hurricanes.

No matter what time of year you visit Montego Bay, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see. Just remember to pack accordingly and plan ahead to ensure the best possible experience.

How To Stay Safe In Montego Bay

As with any travel destination, it is important to prioritize safety during your trip to Montego Bay. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

• Stay Aware Of Your Surroundings : whether you’re walking through the city or lounging on the beach, be mindful of the people around you and stay alert.
• Don’t Carry Around Too Much Cash Or Valuables : try to keep your valuables, such as your passport and cash, locked up in your hotel room. Only bring with you what you need for the day in a money belt .
• Stick To Well-Lit Areas At Night : if you plan on exploring Montego Bay after dark, make sure to stay in areas that are well-lit and well-populated.
• Avoid Walking Alone At Night : it’s always safer to travel in groups, especially after dark.
• Be Cautious Of Scams : unfortunately, there are scammers who may try to take advantage of tourists in Montego Bay. Be wary of anyone offering you deals that seem too good to be true, and avoid giving out personal information to strangers.
• Use Official Taxis : if you need to take a taxi, make sure to use one that is licensed and marked as an official taxi. Avoid getting into unmarked vehicles or accepting rides from strangers.
• Research The Areas You Plan To Visit : before heading out to explore Montego Bay, do some research on the areas you plan to visit. Some areas may be safer than others, and it’s always better to be prepared.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Montego Bay.

Montego Bay Customs and Etiquette

As a visitor to Montego Bay, it’s important to understand the customs and etiquette of the Jamaican people to avoid unintentionally offending anyone. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

• Greetings : Jamaicans place a lot of importance on greeting people properly. Always greet someone with a friendly “good morning” or “good afternoon” and wait for them to reciprocate before engaging in conversation.
• Dress Code : Jamaicans tend to dress modestly, so it’s best to avoid overly revealing clothing. When visiting religious sites or attending formal events, it’s best to dress conservatively.
• Personal Space : Jamaicans value personal space, so avoid standing too close or touching someone without permission. They also tend to be more tactile when speaking, so don’t be surprised if someone touches your arm or shoulder while talking to you.
• Food and Drink : When invited to someone’s home for a meal, it’s considered polite to bring a small gift such as a bottle of wine or a dessert. Always use utensils when eating, even if the food is traditionally eaten with your hands. When drinking, avoid excessive alcohol consumption and always make sure to say “cheers” before taking a sip.
• Tipping : Tipping is expected in Montego Bay, particularly in the hospitality industry. Tip around 10-15% of the bill in restaurants, and $1-2 per bag for bellhops and hotel staff.

By respecting the customs and etiquette of Montego Bay, you’ll have a more enjoyable and culturally sensitive experience.

Other Things To Know About Montego Bay

Montego Bay is a coastal city located in Jamaica, a Caribbean island nation that is famous for its beautiful beaches, reggae music, and spicy cuisine. The currency used in Montego Bay is the Jamaican dollar (JMD), and the official language spoken is English. However, Jamaican Patois, a creole language, is also widely spoken.

Montego Bay operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5). This means that if it is noon in Montego Bay, it would be 5 pm in London, 12 pm in New York, and 9 am in Los Angeles. It is also worth noting that Montego Bay has a tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 80°F (27°C) to 90°F (32°C). The wettest months are usually between May and October, and hurricane season typically runs from June to November.

As a tourist, it is important to respect local customs and etiquette. For instance, Jamaicans tend to be very polite and friendly, so it is polite to greet people when entering a room or joining a conversation. Also, dressing modestly when visiting churches or other religious sites is always a good idea. Overall, Montego Bay is a lively and colorful destination that offers a wide variety of cultural and outdoor experiences. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and friendly people, it is a place that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Montego Bay Travel Costs

Before you book your trip to Montego Bay, it’s important to have a good understanding of the typical costs associated with traveling to this beautiful Caribbean destination.

• Airfare : First and foremost, your biggest expense will likely be airfare. Depending on where you’re flying from and what time of year you’re traveling, flights to Montego Bay can range from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand dollars.
• Accommodation : Once you arrive in Montego Bay, your next big expense will likely be accommodations. There are plenty of high-end resorts and hotels in the area that can cost upwards of $300 per night, but there are also more affordable options like guesthouses and budget hotels that can be found for as little as $50 per night.
• Food And Drink : Food and drink prices in Montego Bay can also vary greatly depending on where you choose to eat and what you order. Generally speaking, street food and local eateries will be much cheaper than fine dining restaurants. Expect to spend around $10-15 per meal at a local eatery, while fine dining can cost upwards of $50 per person.
• Transportation : When it comes to transportation, taking a taxi can be expensive in Montego Bay, especially if you’re traveling to or from the airport. Renting a car can be a more affordable option, but keep in mind that gas prices in Jamaica are high.
• Activities : If you plan on doing any activities or tours during your stay in Montego Bay, expect to pay anywhere from $30-150 per person, depending on the activity.

All in all, you can expect to spend around $150-250 per day in Montego Bay, not including airfare. However, if you’re traveling on a tight budget, it is possible to get by on as little as $50 per day by staying in budget accommodations, eating at local eateries, and using public transportation instead of taxis.

Finding Affordable Flights To Montego Bay

When it comes to planning your trip to Montego Bay, the cost of flights can be a significant factor. Luckily, there are several strategies you can use to find affordable flights to this beautiful Caribbean destination.

• Use Flight Search Engines : There are several websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Expedia that can help you compare prices from multiple airlines and find the best deals on flights to Montego Bay. Be sure to check several different sites to ensure you’re getting the best possible price.
• Be Flexible With Your Travel Dates : Flights to Montego Bay can be significantly cheaper if you’re willing to travel during the offseason or midweek. Try to avoid peak travel periods, such as holidays and school breaks when prices tend to be higher.
• Book In Advance : Booking your flights several months in advance can help you snag the best deals and save money on your trip to Montego Bay. Last-minute bookings can be costly, so plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to search for the best prices.
• Consider Connecting Flights : If you’re not in a rush, consider booking a flight with a layover or connecting flight. Often, these flights can be much cheaper than direct flights, and you’ll have the added bonus of exploring another destination on your way to Montego Bay.
• Sign Up For Email Alerts : Many airlines, such as JetBlue , offer email alerts and newsletters that notify subscribers of special deals and promotions. Signing up for these alerts can help you stay informed of any sales or discounted flights to Montego Bay.

Backpacking Montego Bay Suggested Budgets

If you’re traveling to Montego Bay on a tight budget, don’t worry – there are still plenty of ways to experience all that this Jamaican paradise has to offer without breaking the bank. Here are some suggested budgets for backpacking in Montego Bay:

Low Budget: $30-$50 per day

For this budget level, you can stay in a budget hostel or guesthouse and cook your own meals. Stick to free or low-cost activities such as visiting beaches, hiking, and exploring local markets.

Mid-Range Budget: $50-$75 per day

For this budget level, you can upgrade to a mid-range hostel or budget hotel and eat out at inexpensive restaurants. You’ll still want to focus on free or low-cost activities, but you may be able to take a guided tour or visit a popular attraction.

Luxury Budget: $75-$100 per day

For this budget level, you can stay in a nicer hotel or guesthouse and enjoy some more expensive activities such as scuba diving or a sunset cruise. You can also afford to eat at more upscale restaurants, but still try to balance it out with some local street food.

Remember, these budgets are just a rough guide and will depend on your individual travel style and preferences. Be sure to research ahead of time and budget accordingly to make the most of your backpacking experience in Montego Bay.

Montego Bay Money Saving Tips

If you’re traveling on a budget, don’t worry! Montego Bay has plenty of money-saving opportunities for travelers. Here are some tips on how to save money in Montego Bay:

• Book Accommodations In Advance : Montego Bay is a popular tourist destination, and hotels and resorts can get booked up quickly, especially during peak season. Book your accommodations well in advance to save money and ensure you get the best deals.
• Eat Like A Local : While there are plenty of fancy restaurants in Montego Bay, eating like a local can save you a lot of money. Head to street vendors and local restaurants to try authentic Jamaican cuisine without breaking the bank.
• Take Public Transportation : Taxis and private drivers can be expensive in Montego Bay. Save money by taking public transportation like buses and minibusses, which are affordable and often offer a more authentic experience.
• Negotiate Prices : Jamaicans are often willing to negotiate prices for goods and services, so don’t be afraid to haggle a bit. Just be polite and respectful when doing so.
• Avoid Peak Season : Montego Bay is busiest from December to April, which means higher prices for accommodations, tours, and activities. If you can, consider visiting during the off-season, when prices are lower and crowds are thinner.
• Use Cash Instead Of Credit Cards : Some businesses in Montego Bay may charge extra fees for using credit cards, so it’s best to use cash when possible to avoid these charges.
• Take Advantage Of Free Activities : Montego Bay offers plenty of free activities, like visiting public beaches and parks, hiking trails, and exploring local markets. Take advantage of these activities to save money while still enjoying all the city has to offer.

What To Pack For Montego Bay

When packing for your trip to Montego Bay, it’s important to remember that the climate is tropical. Here’s what you’ll need to bring to stay comfortable during your stay:

• Light, Breathable Clothing : Bring comfortable clothes that are made of breathable materials like cotton or linen. Lightweight shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses are great options.
• Swimwear : Montego Bay has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so you’ll definitely want to bring a swimsuit.
• Sun Protection : Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
• Insect Repellent : Mosquitoes are common in Montego Bay, so be sure to pack insect repellent to protect yourself.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes : You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes that are suitable for walking and exploring the city.
• Travel Adapter : Jamaica uses the same electrical outlets as the US, so if you’re traveling from another country, be sure to bring a travel adapter.
• Camera : Montego Bay is a beautiful destination with plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs. Be sure to pack your camera so you can capture your memories.
• Cash : While most places in Montego Bay accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to bring cash with you for tipping and small purchases.
• Waterproof Phone Case : If you plan on spending a lot of time on the beach or near water, a waterproof phone case can protect your phone from damage.
• Portable Charger : If you plan on spending a lot of time out and about, a portable charger can keep your devices charged and ready to use.

By packing these essential items, you’ll be prepared for an unforgettable trip to Montego Bay.

Can You Drink Tap Water In Montego Bay?

Unfortunately, tap water in Montego Bay is not safe for consumption. Visitors are strongly advised to only drink bottled water, which is readily available in stores and hotels. It is also important to avoid ice cubes made from tap water and to brush your teeth with bottled water. While many hotels and restaurants may have water filtration systems in place, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to drinking water in Montego Bay. Staying hydrated in this warm and sunny destination is crucial, so be sure to pack plenty of bottled water with you or stock up once you arrive.

Other Things To See And Do In Montego Bay

While Montego Bay is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, there are also plenty of other things to see and do in this Jamaican paradise. Here are some suggestions to add to your itinerary:

• Visit The Rose Hall Great House : This historic plantation home is said to be haunted by the ghost of its former owner, Annie Palmer, known as the “White Witch of Rose Hall.” Take a tour to learn about the fascinating history of the house and its spooky legends.
• Go On A River Rafting Adventure : Take a relaxing ride down the Martha Brae River on a bamboo raft. Enjoy the peaceful scenery and learn about the local flora and fauna from your experienced guide.
• Explore The Montego Bay Marine Park : This protected area is home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish. Go snorkeling or scuba diving to get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures.
• Visit The Greenwood Great House : Another historic plantation home, the Greenwood Great House offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Learn about the home’s history and see artifacts from the time period, including antique furniture and artwork.
• Take A Catamaran Cruise : Spend the day aboard a luxury catamaran, sipping on rum punch and soaking up the sun. Snorkel in crystal clear waters and enjoy a delicious lunch on board.

With so much to see and do in Montego Bay, you’ll never be bored. Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, or just soaking up the laid-back island vibes, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful destination.

The Bottom Line

Montego Bay is a popular travel destination for good reason. From its stunning beaches and lively culture to its rich history and warm hospitality, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this Jamaican city. When planning your trip to Montego Bay, be sure to consider your budget, the weather, and safety precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore local attractions, or indulge in the local cuisine, Montego Bay is sure to offer something for everyone. With the right preparation and a willingness to immerse yourself in the local culture, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Montego Bay. So start planning your trip today and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!

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12 Best Beaches in Jamaica From Montego Bay to Port Antonio

The best beaches in Jamaica with the softest sand and clearest waters.

In Jamaica, you can soak up way more than just the sun. The destination is renowned for its rich musical history, from reggae heavyweights like Bob Marley to pop star OMI to industry producer-turned-hotelier Chris Blackwell, who runs the stylish Island Outpost collection of properties.

Food is a star attraction, too, as Jamaica's fertile land and the melting pot of cultures — African, Indian, Chinese, Spanish, and British, to name a few — has informed its culinary traditions. You can't go to the island and not sample local specialties like goat curry, ackee and saltfish, fried plantains, and yes, jerk chicken, washed down with a sip or two of local rum.

But it's the island's beaches that are arguably the biggest crowd pleasers, and the reason visitors keep returning again and again. Touch down in Montego Bay, and you're just minutes from one of Jamaica's most sophisticated beach resorts — Round Hill, a favorite with celebrities like Ralph Lauren.

Move west to Negril, and you'll find world-famous Seven Mile Beach, a golden stretch of perfect, powdery soft sand that's popular with both locals and tourists.

On the north coast of the island sits Ocho Rios, another area with fantastic beaches and elegant resorts, like the historic Jamaica Inn.

Drive further east, and you'll hit the chic, laid-back community of Port Antonio. During its heyday in the 1950s, celebrities such as Errol Flynn, Richard Burton, and Elizabeth Taylor would visit. Today, the sleepy resort town is still home to a clutch of cool hotels, like the Kanopi House and Geejam .

So whatever type of beach vacation you're looking for, be it adventurous or totally laid-back, Jamaica has the answer. Here, a few of our favorite sandy spots in this iconic Caribbean destination.

Doctor's Cave Beach, Montego Bay

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

This Montego Bay beach may be on the small side, but it's got a lively atmosphere, drawing locals and tourists to its white sandy shores. The turquoise waters are also calm and warm, making it a perfect place for families. Snorkel gear, beach chairs, and umbrellas are available to rent; you will have to pay a small fee to use the beach.

Seven Mile Beach, Negril

Lined with a handful of bars, restaurants, and resorts , this is arguably Negril's star attraction. (The length is closer to five miles than seven, but it still Jamaica's longest beach.) Visitors are free to visit, and can rent kayaks and sailboats to head out on the water. Vendors sell local delicacies and there are picnic tables so that you can enjoy a casual lunch. Alternatively, stop by a beach bar like Mama Flo's for a rum punch.

Frenchman's Cove, Port Antonio

This beautiful white sand beach, where a postcard-perfect stream runs into the sea, was once a haven for the celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Errol Flynn, who would stay at the Frenchman's Cove Resort . Believe it or not, the beach itself has also made a cameo in several films and shows, including the campy 1986 Robin Williams movie "Club Paradise." Today, the beach and resort still draw travelers in search of a quieter side of Jamaica.

Jamaica Inn Beach, Ocho Rios

Check into the Jamaica Inn , and you'll be able to lounge on one of the most exclusive beaches in all of the Caribbean. Framed by swaying palms and backed by a historic main house, this long golden stretch of sand has just a smattering of chaise loungers — for guests only. Honeymooners will love the relaxed but elegant vibe, and can splurge on massages at their open-air Ocean Spa, set on a cliff overlooking the sea.

Low Cay Beach, Oracabessa Bay

GoldenEye was once the vacation home of James Bond creator Ian Fleming, who would come here to write and unwind. Today, the property is owned by Jamaican music industry executive Chris Blackwell, who has turned it in to a posh resort that includes everything from expansive villas to casual-chic beach huts. Many of the lodgings offer sea views and face beautiful Low Cay Beach, a sheltered, 500-foot cove that anchors this secluded property. Guests can also swim and stand-up paddleboard in the four-acre lagoon.

Boston Bay Beach, Port Antonio

One could argue that you come to Boston Bay not to swim, but to eat, since the destination is considered the birthplace of jerk cooking. Work up your appetite jumping in the waves or surfing at the beach (it's easy to rent a board if you don't have your own). Then, head to one of the many jerk stalls to taste test perfectly seasoned pork, chicken, lobster, or sausages, accompanied by rice and peas.

Winnifred Beach, Port Antonio

Popular with both locals and tourists, this lovely, white-sand public beach is one of Port Antonio's finest. If you're into snorkeling, pack your fins and a mask — there is an excellent reef just offshore.

Treasure Beach, South Coast

If you're looking to get away from some of the more popular resort destinations, such as Negril, Montego Bay, or Ocho Rios, Treasure Beach — a series of picturesque sandy stretches and coves — is an excellent choice. Along the South Coast, the pace is even more relaxed, and you'll find rustic-chic accommodations like Jakes . One place you can't miss is Floyd's Pelican Bar , a quirky, ramshackle watering hole built on a sandbar in the middle of the sea, where you can order a Red Stripe and fish that's caught and cooked on-site.

Burwood Beach, Trelawny

Home to calm aqua waters and a relaxed vibe, this family-friendly beach near Falmouth was revitalized with a new bandstand, gazebos, and a children's recreation area. Cruise ship passengers who dock in Montego Bay can also take advantage of this beach since it's just a 30-minute drive away.

Puerto Seco Beach, Discovery Bay

Family travelers will enjoy this bustling but atmospheric public beach, about 30 minutes west of Ocho Rios, since it comes complete with a waterpark tailor-made for kids. You'll also find shower and changing facilities, and several vendors selling affordable lunch food. Weekends tend to get busier and draw more locals, so head here on a weekday if you want a little more space to roam free.

James Bond Beach, Oracabessa Bay

Located just east of Ocho Rios, this north coast stunner was the setting for scenes from the James Bond film, "Dr. No ." Here, the waters are an incredible green-blue , and you can go on a glass-bottom boat tour, Jet Ski, or windsurf — or simply revel on dry land in the warm Caribbean sun.

Round Hill Beach, Montego Bay

Round Hill is one of Jamaica's most exclusive resorts, a manicured paradise spread out over 110 acres. The whitewashed guest rooms with four-poster beds were designed by none other than fashion maven Ralph Lauren, who has a villa on the property. There is a natural tropical reef just a few yards off shore, so guests can go snorkeling or kayaking. Further out, you can scuba, water ski, or go tubing.

4-Day Montego Bay Itinerary

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• Montego Bay in 4 days
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Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: keep it simple, day 3: off the beaten path, day 4: south side of town, whitter village.

Royal Decameron Cornwall Beach

S hotel jamaica, doctor's cave beach, sam sharpe square, where to eat, usain bolt's tracks and records restaurant, juici patties, jimmy buffett's margaritaville, house boat grill restaurant.

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Rose Hall Great House

Main street rose hall, cinnamon hill golf course, doctors cave beach hotel, bellefield great house, rocklands bird sanctuary (montego bay), peppa's cool spot, day-o plantation restaurant & bar, sugar mill restaurant, mvp smokehouse.

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White Witch Golf Course

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Montego Freeport Shopping Centre

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Home » Central America » Jamaica » Where to Stay in Montego Bay (2024 • COOLEST Areas!)

Where to Stay in Montego Bay (2024 • COOLEST Areas!)

Smile ‘mon! You’re in Jamaica; the happiest island in the Caribbean.

The idyllic city of Montego Bay is any beach lover’s dream. A small city with a huge personality, Montego Bay is home to an abundance of spectacular natural beauty, including long stretches of white sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls.

The city of Montego Bay prides itself on being the ULTIMATE honeymoon destination, with an incredible selection of exclusive waterfront resorts perched along the pristine blue water coastline.

As well as this, the Jamaican city attracts an array of travelers from budget backpackers, cruise ship customers to five-star luxury globetrotters. So you can be sure to find a little something for everyone when it comes to choosing the best place to stay in Montego Bay.

Because Montego Bay is so diverse and accessible to all travelers, finding the right place to stay can be a little daunting. This is why I’ve have prepared this guide on where to stay in Montego Bay , so you can find the right accommodation to suit your budget and travel needs.

And if you need a little inspiration for things to do in this gorgeous beachfront city, then carry on scrolling as we give you lots more insider top tips !

So, without further ado! Let’s dive in.

Where to Stay in Montego Bay

Montego bay neighborhood guide – places to stay in montego bay, montego bay’s top 3 neighborhoods to stay in, what to pack for montego bay, don’t forget travel insurance for montego bay, final thoughts on where to stay in montego bay.

Looking for a specific stay fast? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Mobay Kotch | Best Hostel in Montego Bay

The Mobay Kotch Hostel is one of Montego Bay’s only hostels and it definitely makes up for the city’s limited supply. The building was established in the 1760s, and still retains much of its incredible Georgian-style architecture. Along with a homely and social atmosphere, guests are just a stone’s throw away from the best nightlife in the city and the stunning white-sand beaches. You can be sure to get an authentic Jamaican experience at this hostel.

SeaGarden Beach Resort – All Inclusive | Best Hotel in Montego Bay

This beautiful resort is located just a few minutes away from the main hip strip and has an authentic Jamaican atmosphere with a modern and luxurious twist. Home to breathtaking natural scenery, including endless views of the Caribbean Sea and a striking garden full of lush tropical greenery, it is an idyllic place to stay. There is an outdoor swimming pool, on-site restaurant, 2 tennis courts, and a private beach with beach bar. The property also has its own scuba diving activities, if that’s your vibe. Most rooms come with a sea view.

Welcome to Blu-22 | Best Bed & Breakfast in Montego Bay

This exclusive waterfront condo is located in the sought-after Freeport neighborhood and can be best described as a once-in-a-lifetime gateway experience. The B&B is home to top-class facilities including 24-hour security, a well-equipped gym, and an infinity pool that leads to a sandy beach. Capable of entertaining up to three guests, there is one bedroom with a deluxe king-size bed and a comfortable sofa bed.

Guests also have the best of both worlds as the B&B is strategically located close enough to all the nightlife fun, but also tucked away to allow you to have a good nights’ sleep.

Welcome to Blu-22 is one of our favourites in Montego Bay but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Located on the tip of Montego Bay lies the sought-after destination of Freeport. Here you can find the largest number of exclusive hotels and resorts along with an abundance of chic bars which lay underneath the palm trees.

Hip Strip is widely renowned as being the neighborhood that never sleeps with a lively atmosphere that lasts till the early hours of the morning. The area is jam-packed with activities and hours of fun whether it be taking a dip in its pristine waters, dancing the night away at a wild beach bar, or indulging in traditional Jamaican Cuisine at a local eatery.

Bogue Heights

Set back from the main promenade and waterfront, Bogue Heights offers a laid-back atmosphere, while also just being a few minutes away from some of the city’s best attractions – making it our top pick for families heading to the city.

Despite being one of the best-known tourist locations in Jamaica , Montego Bay is a fairly small city that doesn’t have a lot of neighborhoods, so sometimes it can be hard for visitors to know where to stay.

Of course, the most sought-after areas to stay in Montego Bay are on the waterfront, but there are also a few other hidden gems to be explored, too. With that in mind, here are the best neighborhoods to stay in this coastal city.

If you’re trying to decide where to stay near Port Aransas, you can’t go wrong with Freeport . This is the main hub on the island for waterfront B&B’s, hotels, and resorts, along with it being conveniently located within walking distance to many of the main attractions, bars, and restaurants.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for an area with bustling nightlife, you should consider a stay in Hip Strip . Undoubtedly the most well-known neighborhood in Montego Bay, Hip Strip is internationally known for its incredible beach bars and atmospheric Jamaican Clubs, along with being home to the beautiful Doctor’s Cave Beach.

Finally, we have Bogue Heights , which is a great choice for families looking to stay in Montego Bay. It’s slightly further away from the main beaches, bars, and clubs meaning travelers are provided with a more relaxed atmosphere. However, it is only a short drive from the action, so if you’re feeling up for it you can get to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Travelers should be advised that some areas in Jamaica, including Montego Bay, have notorious neighborhoods and should be avoided. We highly advise you to read our guide on safety in Jamaica to know what and where to avoid.

Now that we have briefly introduced you to the top three neighborhoods in Montego Bay, we’ll now show you are top recommendations for places to stay in Montego Bay.

1. Freeport – Where to Stay in Montego Bay for First Time Visitors

Located on the tip of Montego Bay lies the sought-after destination of Freeport. Here you can find the largest number of exclusive hotels and resorts along with an abundance of chic bars, which lay underneath the idyllic swaying palm trees.

Freeport is the ultimate destination to stay in Montego Bay for your first time, due to its central location and connections to the city’s incredible beaches and top attractions, along with having a great selection of accommodation options.

Below we have listed our three top picks for places to stay in Freeport, all of which cater to different traveler’s needs and budgets!

Great Studio in Freeport | Best Budget Accommodation in Freeport

This cozy and deluxe studio apartment is situated in a prime location right next to the waterfront. It’s just steps away from top sights including the Yacht Club and Hard Rock Beach Cafe. Ideal for a couple, guests have a room with a queen-sized bed and small living space and bathroom. It. is nestled in a gated community which adds a little more security. There is no kitchen at this property, but it is just a short walk to many delicious restaurants.

Breathless Montego Bay | Best Hotel in Freeport

This beautifully decorated 150-suite tropical oasis is the ultimate romantic getaway! The hotel is home to a stunning rooftop pool and bar, which provides unobstructed views of the nearby mountains and bay. Breathless Montego Bay provides the perfect opportunity to relax, here you can fill your days with pool parties, watersports, live music, and beach lounging. Each of the rooms comes with air-conditioning, a desk, a safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom.

Welcome to Blu-22 | Best Bed & Breakfast in Freeport

This exclusive waterfront condo can be best described as a once in a

Things to See and Do in Freeport:

• Go on a boat trip from Montego Cruise Port
• Go snorkelling off the coastline
• Have a cocktail at 5050 Lounge Montego Bay
• Enjoy sea activities with Jamaica Watersports
• Explore history at Gallery of West Indian Art & AMuse

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

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2. Hip Strip – Where to Stay in Montego Bay for Nightlife

Hip Strip is widely renowned as being the neighborhood that never sleeps with a lively atmosphere that lasts till the early hours of the morning. The area is jam-packed with activities and hours of fun, whether it be taking a dip in its pristine waters, dancing the night away at a wild beach bar, or indulging in traditional Jamaican Cuisine at a local eatery.

The neighborhood has the greatest selections of clubs and bars making it our top pick for travelers who want to explore the area’s best nightlife and let their hair down, partying ’til the sun rises.

Orchids Oceanview Penthouse | Best Bed & Breakfast in Hip Strip

This beautiful waterfront condo overlooks the famous Doctor’s Cave Beach, which you can see spectacularly well from the condo’s incredible balcony. Located in a gated community, the studio can house three guests in its two-bed space, as well as have easy access to a rooftop pool and nearby convenience store. The studio is also conveniently located near some of the best selection of nightlife, including beach bars and bustling clubs along with traditional cocktail bars.

Mobay Kotch | Best Hostel in Hip Strip

Mobay Kotch offers guests an authentic and unique experience as they mingle with the friendly owners who live on the property and want travelers to experience and see Jamaica that they know and love. The hostel is a converted 1760’s townhouse and showcases the very rich culture and history of Montego Bay through its Georgian-style architecture. As one of the few hostels in the area, this is the perfect place for solo travelers to meet new friends and enjoy a comfortable stay at a low price.

SeaGarden Beach Resort – All Inclusive | Best Hotel in Hip Strip

Things to see and do in hip strip:.

• Whizz down the slides at Aqua Sol Theme Park
• Experience the natural beauty at One Man Beach/Old Hospital Park Beach
• Relax at the famous Doctor’s Cave Beach
• Visit Harbour Street Craft and Cultural Village
• Take a trip to learn history at Saint James Parish Church
• Get tickets for one of the best festivals in Jamaica , Reggae Sumfest!

3. Bogue Heights – Where to Stay in Montego Bay for Families

Planning a holiday for yourself is stressful enough, let alone when you’ve got to plan for the whole family! Picking where to stay can always be a struggle with so many factors to take into account from safety, activities to do, and finding accommodation options within your budget.

We have taken a look at the best neighborhood for families in Montego Bay and found three awesome accommodations in the beautiful neighborhood of Bogue Heights.

Set back from the main promenade and waterfront, Bogue Heights offers a laid-back atmosphere, while also just being a few minutes away from some of the city’s best attractions – making it our top pick for families heading to the city.

The Bogue Delight | Best Bed & Breakfast in Bogue Heights

This luxurious two-bedroom and one-bathroom home has enough sleeping arrangements for four guests, making it perfect for families or small groups of friends looking for the ultimate Jamaican experience. The home is also only located a five-minute drive from the world-famous Hip-Strip along with the incredible Doctors Cave Beach. The spacious home provides guests with all your entertainment needs, including a Smart TV hooked up to Netflix for the little ones, and an outdoor BBQ area overlooking the beach and night sky for mum and dad.

Easy Vibes Bogue | Best Budget Accommodation in Bogue Heights

This brightly decorated Airbnb in Jamaica gives guests a true feeling of being in Jamaica with traditional island decor, which resembles local “Irie culture”. This two-bedroom home can sleep up to four guests and has all the amenities you would need for a comfortable stay. It’s also in a great location at a steal of a price, being just a few kilometers away from the city center and its nearby beaches.

Hils Court Villa | Best Luxury Accommodation in Bogue Heights

This gorgeous villa is located in the heart of Bogue Heights and features an outdoor pool and spectacular sea views. The property offers enough space for up to eight guests, with its four bedrooms and a large living space, which includes a spacious outdoor patio. There is also overnight security and a tennis court at the property. The villa is located in a popular golfing area and there are 3 golf courses nearby – if that’s your jam.

Hils Court Villa is one of our favourites in Montego Bay but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Things to See and Do in Bogue Heights:

• Indulge on tasty food at Mosino
• Visit Rocklands Bird Sanctuary
• Explore Ahhh…Ras Natango Gallery and Garden
• Learn history at John’s Hall Close
• Hear some tunes at African Symbol Studio & Record Shop

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

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Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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So that’s Montego Bay! A city set amongst Jamaica’s spectacular natural beauty with an electric yet chilled-out atmosphere. As one of the best destinations in the whole of the Caribbean , no matter where you stay in Montego Bay, you’ll be sure to have an epic vacation!

If you’re still not sure where to stay in Montego Bay, here is a quick recap. For beautiful resorts and a prime waterfront location, you should head to Freeport. If nightlife is what you’re after then look no further than Hip Strip. Finally, if you’re looking for a place to take the kids, then the relaxed neighborhood of Bogue Heights is your ideal option.

Did you find what you are looking for? Let us know in the comments below!

• Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Jamaica instead.
• Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Jamaica to plan your trip.
• Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
• Our in-depth Central America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Lily Allen-Duenas

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9 Things To Do In Montego Bay: Complete Guide To This Jamaican Paradise

Luxury resorts, white sandy beaches, and clear turquoise waters just about describe this Caribbean nirvana. Uncover the top things to do in Mo Bay.

Montego Bay is a gorgeous tourist hotspot on Jamaica’s north coast, set against the backdrop of the majestic Blue Mountain. This vibrant city boasts the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable tropical vacation.

From sun-soaked, sandy white beaches with crystal-clear waters and a dense jungle awash with lush green vegetation to a laid-back Rastafarian lifestyle offering the best jerk cuisine, first-timers will never get enough of this Caribbean destination.

Montego Bay is also the second-largest English-speaking city in Jamaica. It welcomes visitors throughout the year to enjoy its cozy sunny weather and luxurious all-inclusive waterfront resorts .

The port city is also a popular cruise terminal and home to the busiest airport in the region, making it the ultimate playground for holidaymakers in the Caribbean. Whether looking to swim in one of its world-famous beaches or go on a duty-free shopping spree, Mo Bay has enough experiences and adventures to make for the perfect itinerary.

Here is all there is to know about planning the ideal vacation in this exquisite Jamaican paradise .

Top 9 Things To Do In And Around Montego Bay

Mo Bay ticks all the boxes when it comes to fun activities and attractions. While some tourists may prefer a relaxed time lounging at the beach, others will gravitate towards a thrilling ziplining expedition amid the Jamaican jungle.

However, that is only the tip of the iceberg; here are the best things to do whenever in Montego Bay.

15 Swim In The Tranquil Waters Of Doctor’s Cave Beach

Jamaica is famous for its pristine tropical beaches. Doctor's Cave is easily among the best beaches in the island nation , where vacationers can spend a lazy day with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

Highlighted by silky-smooth white sands, sparkling turquoise waters, high-end resorts, and rows of imposing palm trees, the beach is a vacationer's hub, often bustling with cruise ship passengers.

It is the ideal location for a couple’s getaway or family vacation and offers a host of exciting adventures to keep visitors entertained. Guests can enjoy a snorkeling excursion or inspect the coral reefs offshore while interacting with awesome marine species.

The beach provides useful amenities like changing rooms and gift shops, while local outfitters on site rent out different water sports equipment.

• Admissions : Adults $8, children $4
• Hours : Open daily, 8 am – 5:30 pm

Those who’d like to escape the crowds can try Cornwall Beach, a short distance from Doctor’s Cave, which is much quieter and offers brilliant snorkeling opportunities. Just be sure to stick to the recommended safety guidelines when snorkeling.

14 Go Bamboo Rafting On Martha Brae River

Rafting is the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful scenes of Jamaica’s countryside while drifting down the calm Martha Brae River. It is one of those laid-back, romantic adventures couples should try in the country. The tour involves a slow cruise down the 3-mile river, surrounded by a lush jungle and old plantations.

Local guides steer their bamboo rafts through the journey, offering guests a rare opportunity to get familiar with the local flora and fauna. In some cases, the sweet sound of reggae music playing provides the ideal atmosphere for a cozy rafting excursion in Montego Bay.

• Cruise cost: Start at $35 per person

By signing up for a private Martha Brae rafting tour , guests will be picked up from their hotels and driven to the launching point in Martha Brae Rafting Village, approximately 18 miles from Montego Bay.

13 Enjoy A Thrilling Ziplining Tour

If tourists are up for an adrenaline rush, they should register for a thrilling ziplining adventure through the dense jungle canopies of Jamaica. Besides being one of the most breathtaking activities for vacationers, it offers a unique perspective of the tropical island and its beautiful biodiversity. The tour will take visitors over river canyons, across mountains, and through trees with a bird’s-eye view of the local landscape.

Several zipline tour companies provide these wild adventures, perfect for visiting families with grown kids. Most Montego Bay tours take guests to nearby Montpelier for the excursion, which is about 13 miles by road.

• Tour cost : Around $90 per person

To add more activities to the ziplining experience, consider taking the Chukka Tour for the perfect zipline, ATV, and river tubing outdoor adventure combo packed in a half-day tour.

12 Watch Beautiful Species At Rocklands Bird Sanctuary

Nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and photography lovers will find the perfect getaway at the delightful Rocklands Bird Sanctuary. This family-operated facility is home to various exotic bird species that guests not only get to admire but also interact with.

Upon arrival at the sanctuary, visitors will be offered bird seeds and a bottle of nectar to attract the beautiful creatures.

Hummingbirds are almost automatically drawn to the nectar in the bottle and will flock to drink the sweet substance.

Some other species worth viewing in the sanctuary include bananaquits, Jamaican orioles, and the long-tailed doctor bird (the national bird).

• Admission : Adults $25, Kids $10
• Hours : Open daily, 10 am – 5 pm

Related: Runaway Bay, Jamaica: Why It Should Be On Your Summer Radar

11 Visit The Spooky Rose Hall Great House

Rose Hall is an elegant plantation home overlooking the ocean and about 20 minutes drive from Montego Bay. The mansion was built in 1780 and belonged to Annie Palmer, famously known as the White Witch of Rose Hall.

Legend has it that the lady of the house practiced black magic and voodoo and is rumored to have murdered several lovers and husbands.

Annie Palmer was later killed by Takoo, a slave on the plantation and her evil spirit is believed to haunt the house to this day. The restored Rose Hall features furniture from back in the day, and visitors (not faint of heart) can go on a creepy candlelit tour of the house.

Some people claim to have spotted the ghost hovering in the corridors, but tourists will have to go there to confirm that.

• Day tour: Adults $25, children $10
• Night tour: Adults $30, children $12

10 Take A Day Trip To Dunn’s River Falls

Dunn’s River Falls is a scenic natural spot 90 minutes from Montego Bay, offering the perfect day trip for vacationing families. The falls comprise a series of smooth limestone terraces that drop about 180 meters into the sea.

A nice little pool forms where the water collects at the foot of the falls, providing visitors with a shallow, pristine natural swimming spot ideal for kids.

But further adventures await tourists upstream. Climbing to the top of the step-like rocks allows them to explore the lovely landscape and bask in the tranquil green atmosphere.

Make the most of the day trip to Dunn’s River Falls by visiting Nine Mile, the birthplace of reggae legend Bob Marley, to discover the village and sample traditional Jamaican cuisine.

9 Spend The Day Shopping Along Gloucester Avenue

Gloucester Avenue, or the “Hip Strip”, is a famous street bordering Doctor’s Cave Beach. It is rife with shops, boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment spots. The area is thronged by cruise ship passengers and travelers curious to sample its diverse offerings.

Those looking for a souvenir can hunt for one from the persistent vendors prowling the lively Hip Strip.

From colorful t-shirts to miniature flags and all manner of merchandise, there’s something to impress all visitors. There are also multiple art galleries worth checking out, and for those who want to experience Jamaica’s Nightlife in Montego Bay , it doesn’t get better than Gloucester Avenue.

8 Check Out The Croydon Plantation

Nestled on the foot of the Catadupa Mountains, this sprawling plantation is the perfect escape for tourists keen to experience the Jamaican countryside. Croydon Plantation spans 132 acres and specializes in producing crops like plantains, coffee, pineapples, citrus, as well as honey.

Vacationers will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding jungle and sample nature’s bounty in the countryside. They can also scope out the nut trees on the plantation, including cashews and macadamias, or savor tasty tropical fruits like pineapples and jackfruit.

The plantation schedules informative tours that educate visitors on its history and the production of coffee and honey.

• Tour prices : Adults $93, kids $62
• Hours : Tuesdays and Fridays, 10 am – 2 pm

Related: Skip The Tourists: Off-The-Beaten-Path Things To Do In Jamaica

7 Explore The Sleepy Town Of Negril

Tourists who want to experience an authentic Caribbean lifestyle can board a bus to Negril, a small town less than 50 miles from Montego Bay.

Dubbed the “Capital of Casual,” the town features quaint indigenous villages with friendly natives speaking the local Patois dialect. This trip is perfect for learning about Jamaican culture, tasting sumptuous cuisines, and simply reveling in the laid-back country lifestyle.

The town also boasts a 7-mile strip of untainted beaches where visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the water while soaking in dramatic sunset views.

6 Best Time To Visit Montego Bay

Montego Bay and Jamaica, at large, experience a hot tropical climate, defined by warm to hot weather all year round. This makes it a delightful place to visit in any season of the year.

Nevertheless, the best time for tourists is between November and mid-December when the weather is pleasantly warm with low humidity and little rainfall. The waters in the Caribbean Sea are pleasantly warm, ideal for swimming, and accommodation deals are easy to come by.

The peak tourism season is from January to March when the city receives many spring visitors from the U.S. This is a dry period marked by great weather and a string of events, with many tourists making their way to the beaches.

Meanwhile, summer and early fall, May to October, are the cheapest times to visit. The weather is too hot and humid with extreme levels of precipitation. Few tourists come to town, so flight and accommodation rates are at their lowest.

Montego Bay has a hurricane season from June to October, with the highest chance of tropical storms or hurricanes (although rare) coming in August and September. Tourists are advised to check the weather forecast before traveling just to be sure.

5 Best Ways To Get Around Montego Bay

The Donald Sangster International Airport is closest to Montego Bay, just an 11-minute drive from the city. It is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean region and the tourist getaway to Jamaica.

Upon arriving at the airport, travelers have multiple options to get around.

Taxis are the best way to get around Montego Bay, considering the city has no reliable bus transit system. The few minivan shuttles available are operated by hotels and are strictly reserved for registered guests.

Many taxis exist in tourist-heavy areas like Doctor’s Cave Beach and Sharpe Square, including Tours Jamaica and Turner Taxis. Alternatively, these can be summoned to the airport, shopping centers, or hotels.

The only thing is that taxis can be expensive, especially when traveling to sights further from the city center.

Guests should ensure the taxi they are getting has an official license from the Jamaican government for their security or opt for the official carrier in Montego Bay: Jamaica Union of Travelers Association.

Many taxi operators will also double up as island guides; if tourists reach a consensus on such an arrangement, they should determine the fee before the journey, as most taxis are not metered.

• Taxi rates: Start at $50 for a partial day’s tour

Car rentals

Although they are generally pricey, car hires are handy when planning to travel to the city's outskirts or neighboring towns. Rental agencies, such as Budget and Montego Bay Car Rental Agencies, abound in the city, but tourists must produce a valid driver’s license to be legible.

A security deposit must also be paid prior, either in cash or via credit card, and insurance costs around $12 per day.

• Rental rates: Start at $32 per day

In line with British tradition, drivers keep to the left, which can be confusing for first-time American tourists. Also, most vehicles are right-hand drive.

Drivers should maintain a speed limit of 30 mph when cruising around the city streets but can get to 50 mph on the highways.

Guided tour vans and shuttles

There are numerous tour operators around the Mo Bay area, most working with resort tour desks. These are a convenient and safer option for getting to distant attractions, and the duration of the trip may vary from half to full day or even multiple days. These tour companies include Safari Tours, Sunholiday, Tourwise, and Barrett Adventures.

• Tour prices: Vary depending on the distance and length of the tour. For example, a multiple-day tour of Dunn’s River Falls (Safari Tours) ranges from $49 to $290

While Montego Bay has a bus service, it is unreliable; buses are slow, crowded, and not air-conditioned.

Related: Wondering Where To Stay In Jamaica? Why Not Negril?

4 Where To Stay In Montego Bay

Montego Bay is a generally small city with limited options of neighborhoods to consider for accommodation. Nevertheless, there is no shortage of high-end resorts to cater to its moneyed visitors and affordable hotels ideal for budget travelers in Mo Bay.

Here are the top areas to stay and the hotels they offer.

Just as its name suggests, Hip Strip is the liveliest neighborhood in Mo Bay, perfect for visitors eager to taste the entertainment scene.

The area is congested with entertainment venues offering round-the-clock fun, with major tourist spots like Doctor’s Cave Beach in the vicinity. There are also multiple beachfront restaurants serving delectable Jamaican cuisine and beach bars for those who want to dance into the wee hours of the morning.

Hip Strip is also 5 minutes from the Donald Sangster Airport, making it suitable for those looking for quick accommodation upon arriving. And the primary attraction, other than the beach, is the Rose Hall Great House. Top hotel options in the area are:

Luxury option:

S Hotel Jamaica

• Address : 7 Jimmy Cliff Boulevard, Montego Bay
• Rate per night: Starts at $614 for 1 guest
• Amenities : Fitness center, Outdoor pool, Tea/coffee maker, Spa and wellness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Beachfront, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine

Budget option:

Mynt Retreat Bed & Breakfast

• Address : 9 Ramparts Close, Montego Bay 876
• Rate per night : $$
• Amenities : Free Wi-Fi, Flat-screen TV, Private bathroom, Terrace/Patio, Balcony, Air-conditioned, Coffee machine, Internet, Restaurant

Freeport is one of the best areas for first-timers in Mo Bay, just 3 miles from the lively downtown. It was named after the nearby harbor and features restaurants, bars, and shopping venues, including the Freeport Shopping Center.

Freeport is also home to the port of Montego Bay, making it the launching pad for cruise ship passengers and a hub for boat tours and water sports.

It also boasts the largest concentration of exclusive resorts and hotels, but the area has several more budget-friendly options. Top hotel options include:

Round Hill Hotel And Villas

• Address : John Pringle Drive, PO Box 64, Montego Bay
• Rate per night: Starts at $1190 for 1 guest
• Amenities : Private beach, Bar/Lounge, Snorkeling, Tea/coffee maker, Outdoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant, Room service, Spa and wellness center, Free Wi-Fi

Related: What To Look For In Choosing The Right All-Inclusive Resort In Jamaica

Mid-range option:

Secrets St. James Montego Bay - Adults Only Unlimited Luxury

• Address : Lot 59A Freeport, Montego Bay
• Rate per night : Starts at $362 for 1 guest
• Amenities : Private beach, Snorkeling, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Outdoor pool, Spa and wellness center, Adults only, Room service, Fitness center, Free Wi-Fi

Bogue Heights

Bogue Heights is a quaint neighborhood 10 minutes from Freeport with a laid-back personality ideal for those seeking to escape the city noise. Fittingly, the area attractions reflect the calm vibe of Bogue Heights and include Rocklands Bird Sanctuary and Ras Natango Gallery and Garden.

The village also sits on a raised elevation, offering dramatic views of Mo Bay and the coast . Overall, it is the perfect choice for families and those who want to be close to nature. Top hotel options here include:

Hilltop singing bird villa

• Address : Bogue Village
• Rate per night: $$
• Amenities : Private pool, Coffee machine, Laundry machine, Outdoor pool, Terrace/Patio, Porch, Balcony, Kitchen, Air-conditioned, Linens

Jobs Inn Jamaica

• Address : Lot 19 Bogue Boulevard Bogue Village, Montego Bay
• Rate per night: Starts at $60 for 1 guest
• Amenities : Flat-screen TV, Streaming service, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Terrace/Patio, Balcony, Private bathroom, Air-conditioned, Internet

3 Where To Eat In Montego Bay

The beautiful country of Jamaica blessed the culinary world with jerk cuisine, and there is no better place to sample this explosion of flavors than in the country's tourist capital. Mo Bay has a long list of eateries along the Hip Strip specializing in jerk-style cooking.

Foodies should prepare to tickle their taste buds with jerk chicken, jerk pork, sausage, etc. Still, several restaurants serve international dishes to address the diverse crowds visiting the city.

Beachfront bars and clubs ensure the rum keeps flowing any time of the day. Here are the best joints in Montego Bay.

For breakfast:

The Pelican Grill

• Address : Gloucester Ave Miranda Hill, Across the Street From the Old Hospital Park, Montego Bay Jamaica
• Hours : Open daily, 7 am – 10 pm
• Food to order : Breakfast Sampler, Callaloo & Saltfish

For lunch and dinner:

• Address : Falmouth Road, Montego Bay Jamaica
• Hours : Mon to Sat 11 am – 11 pm, Sun 11 am – 9 pm
• Food to order: Jerk Chicken, Roast Yam and Bammy
• Address : Half Moon Resort, Montego Bay JMAAA99 Jamaica
• Hours : Open daily, 6 pm – 10 pm
• Food to order: Jamaica Festive (crispy pork belly), Roasted Pumpkin served with Carrot Puree

For drinks:

Club Mobay Departure Lounge

• Address : Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay, Jamaica
• Hours : Open daily, 8 am – 10 pm

2 Tips To Know When Visiting Montego Bay

The native tongue in Montego Bay is Patois, a mix of English, Creole, and African substrates. However, the official language is English, and tourists should have no issues communicating with service providers.

Visitors can use dollars in Montego Bay, with most prices in restaurant menus, tours, and excursions quoted in dollars. But it is recommended to withdraw enough money before traveling or get it from the banks upon arriving and not in the streets.

Jamaican beaches are beautiful and are among the top attractions in Montego. Just remember to carry sunblock and sunscreen because it gets pretty hot.

Most touristy areas in Montego Bay are relatively safe to walk around, but taking caution always helps. Avoid isolated streets, especially downtown; crime is not rare in the city.

Avoid common scams by locals offering transportation to various tourist hotspots by agreeing on the price before the journey. Scammers will come up with add-ons later and claim the quoted fee was only for a one-way trip to fleece unsuspecting vacationers.

Related: 4 Places In Jamaica That Are Super Safe (15 That Are Just Plain Dangerous)

1 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Montego Bay

Spend the morning exploring downtown Montego Bay and hunting for souvenirs from local vendors. Check out the historic Sharpe Square and discover the many interest points along Hip Strip.

Later, dip in the Caribbean Sea's warm waters at Doctor’s Cave Beach and experience the thrill of swimming with horses . But to escape the crowds, opt for Cornwall Beach next door.

After enough fun in the water, visit the Rose Hall Great House for a spooky tour of the iconic plantation home, followed by a relaxed bamboo rafting cruise down the Martha Brae River. Enjoy a luscious Jamaican lunch at Scotchies, then venture into the countryside with a thrilling ziplining adventure to experience the rich flora and fauna.

Try river tubing and ATV riding while at it to make the most of the experience. Afterward, take a trip to the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary to watch the beautiful birds and later to the Ras Natango Gallery and Garden for some quality time amid nature.

Before the sun sets, schedule a trip to the nearby town of Negril for a taste of its raw Jamaican lifestyle.

Head back to the city for supper at Sugar Mill, listen to the captivating reggae and dancehall tunes, sip rum, and dance the night away at Club Mobay Departure Lounge.

Q: Is Montego Bay worth visiting?

Montego Bay is Jamaica’s tourist capital and home to unique adventures only available in the Rastafarian nation , including swimming with horses, bobsleighing, and bamboo rafting.

Q: What is famous about Montego Bay?

Mo Bay is renowned for being a top tourist hotspot in the Caribbean and a cruise ship terminal. The city has beautiful beaches like Doctor’s Cave Beach, engrossing adventure tours, and some of the best luxury hotels in Jamaica .

Q: Is Montego Bay safe to visit?

While Montego Bay is a popular vacation destination welcoming numerous visitors every year. It has its own share of crime. It helps to take recommended precautions when visiting the city, as with any other location in Jamaica , to be on the safe side.

Vacations in Montego Bay

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• There are loads of types of vacations in Montego Bay and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $717; Family vacation $666; Romantic vacation $1,005; Luxury vacation $711; Budget vacation $398.

Why should you book a vacation package to Montego Bay?

When should you book a vacation package to montego bay.

The least expensive time to vacation in Montego Bay is from Mid-April to Mid-December. It is also cheaper to get a mid-week flight, and round-trip tickets will save even more.

Where should you stay in Montego Bay during your vacation?

For any vacation type in montego bay:.

The Half Moon hotel is situated on the historic Rose Hall Plantation on a stretch of private beach. Set in a lush garden, beach and tree-lined location, the hotel is very peaceful and promotes relaxation. It is close to Cinnamon Hill and the Half Moon Golf Club. The hotel arranges airport transfers.

The beachfront Hilton Rose Hall Resort and Spa is a all-inclusive option located close to the Rose Hall Great House, which is set on a sugar plantation. Six restaurants provide meals and there is an 18-hole, par-71 golf course, Cinnamon Hill, located at the resort.

For family vacations in Montego Bay:

The Holiday Inn Sunspree Hotel is an all-inclusive resort on a sandy beach in Montego Bay. It is around 10 miles from the downtown area and boasts 24-hour fitness facilities and outdoor pools. The Sol Mer Spa and Salon provides a full service to guests, including massages, manicures and pedicures. The supervised children's activities include a clubhouse, and there's a crèche. Airport transfers can be arranged.

For romantic vacations in Montego Bay:

The Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort and Private Island is a couples-only hotel in the city center of Montego Bay. A great location from which to explore and enjoy the water activities in the area, the hotel has all the features you need including personal touches. The pools, lounges and restaurant cater to all your needs while on vacation

Secrets St James Hotel is an adults-only hotel set on a white sandy beach. It's around 3 miles from the Montego Bay port terminal, and Montego Bay Marine Park. The hotel has an on-site restaurant and arranges transfers on request.

For luxury vacations in Montego Bay:

Round Hill Hotel and Villas offer four different villa options and 36 Ralph Lauren ocean front rooms in 27 private villas. Pineapple House guestrooms overlook Round Hill Bay. The rooms are situated next to an infinity pool and command supreme sunset views. The walk-in showers and soaking tubs make this an excellent place to relax and unwind.

The Secrets Wild Orchid Hotel is a 5-star city hotel located in the heart of Montego Bay with full private beach access. The hotel is all-inclusive and within a 15-minute drive of Doctor's Cave Beach. There are 2 outdoor pools and an onsite spa provides deep-tissue massages, body wraps, and aromatherapy.

For budget vacations in Montego Bay:

El Greco resort is a 3-star hotel set on a mountain plateau amidst lush tropical vegetation. The establishment has a commanding position above Montego Bay and the ocean. From the hotel you can enjoy a panoramic view of the mountains rising from the azure seas around Montego Bay

Deja Hotel offers 3-star comfort located on Montego Bay's Hip Strip and so is well within reach of the resort's vibrant nightlife and entertainment. This is an all-inclusive hotel just across from Doctor's Cave Beach. Just over a mile away you can find Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville.

Where to stay in Montego Bay

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• Travel Tips

11 Important Things Every Traveler Should Know Before Visiting Jamaica

See recent posts by Lara Grant

Offering stunning beaches, jaw-dropping waterfalls, and warm locals, Jamaica is unsurprisingly a favorite Caribbean destination for many travelers. Tourists can feast on jerk chicken and fresh mango, cliff jump into snorkel-worthy water, take a coffee or rum tour, or head to the Bob Marley Museum and Good Hope Plantation to learn a bit of Jamaican history. Whatever visitors choose, here are the 11 important things every traveler should know before going to Jamaica.

Hotels in this story

1. The tap water in Jamaica is safe to drink.

Shanti Restaurant at the Jamaica Inn/Oyster

Unlike Mexico, tap water in Jamaica is safe to drink. Travelers need not spring for bottled water when eating out, worry about brushing teeth with water from the faucet, or avoid raw veggies for fear of getting sick . Unless visiting a very remote area with questionable water filtration, go ahead and drink the tap water.

2. Getting around Jamaica is expensive.

Unless staying at a resort where airport transportation is included, getting around Jamaica is expensive. Taxis cost a hefty amount, particularly for travelers needing to take the 90-minute or two-hour drive from the international airport in Montego Bay to Ocho Rios or Negril, respectively. If you’re planning on spending most of your time at the resort, stick to a taxi, or hire a driver for the odd excursion, as driving on rural, interior roads can be difficult due to windy, narrow, and pothole-filled roads. Tourists looking to explore much of the island will likely be better off renting a car . For those who choose to drive, be aware of potholes and aggressive drivers, plus note that cars drive on the left side of the road. Buses present a cheap alternative, though stick to reputable companies (we saw some close calls of bus drivers passing cars on two-lane highways that had us rethinking this as an option).

3. You can use U.S. dollars in Jamaica.

Fruit stand, South Coast, Jamaica/Oyster

Typically when traveling to other countries, we recommend using a local ATM to withdraw local currency, or exchanging money at a bank beforehand. However, in Jamaica, Americans will likely not need to do either of these things, as U.S. dollars are accepted nearly everywhere. On a recent trip to Negril , Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios, we were always quoted prices in USD. Particularly at hotels and tourist-friendly restaurants, you’ll find menus and excursions with prices listed in USD. If you’re traveling to less touristy areas, or planning on spending cash at supermarkets or street vendors, it’s best to have some local currency. Additionally, it’s wise to have both currencies on hand in case of a poor exchange rate.

4. Homophobia in Jamaica is rampant.

LGBTQ travelers to Jamaica should be extremely cautious, as sexual acts between men is illegal and highly frowned upon by most Jamaicans. Oddly, it is not illegal for women to engage in homosexual acts. Violence towards openly gay individuals is common, with numerous documented assaults, harassments, and even murders. Additionally, LGBTQ Jamaicans are often kicked out of their family homes. LGBTQ travelers can and do vacation in Jamaica, but it is advisable to refrain from public displays of affection and expressing sexual orientation to strangers.

5. Marijuana in Jamaica is illegal.

Beach at the Hermosa Cove – Jamaica’s Villa Hotel/Oyster

Despite its well-earned reputation for being a weed haven, marijuana is considered illegal in Jamaica. However, possession of small amounts (up to two ounces or 56.6 grams) was reduced to a petty offense in 2015. Known locally as ganja, marijuana has been tied to the Jamaican culture, primarily due to Rastafarianism and reggae music. Also thanks to the 2015 law, medical marijuana, the cultivation of up to five plants, and the use of cannabis in religious ceremonies by Rastafarians are all legal. Tourists will have no trouble procuring marijuana, from roadside “brownie” stands to a constant stream of (occasionally pushy) hawkers on the beach. If you’re not interested, a simple “no, thank you” should do the trick.

6. Local food in Jamaica is delicious.

While most hotels — especially the large resorts — will cater to tourists with cheeseburgers and pizza, visitors should absolutely try the local fare. Jamaican food is delicious, if not the healthiest. Jerk chicken, curried goat, and oxtail stew are common dishes, and ramshackle jerk shacks on the side of the road often produce the most mouthwatering grub. Rice and peas (kidney beans), fried plantains, sauteed callaloo (spinach-like greens), and bammy (cassava flatbread) are typical sides found at most buffet stations and low-key eateries. Be sure to try the national dish of saltfish and ackee (a fruit) for breakfast. Wash it all down with a strong cup of Jamaican coffee. A cheap meal of Jamaican patties (pastries filled with meats or veggies) and the locally brewed Red Stripe beer is also a must.

7. The beaches in Jamaica are beautiful.

No matter where travelers choose to stay along the coast, there will be a beautiful beach nearby. Arguably the most famous stretch of sand is Seven Mile Beach in the west coast town of Negril, which spans two bays lined with small family-run properties, big all-inclusive resorts, and dozens of bars and restaurants. Montego Bay also has some attractive beaches, though they’re prettier in Ocho Rios . For something different and more rustic, head to the South Coast for Treasure Beach, a unique stretch of black sand. Locals tend to rave about Port Antonio ‘s lush landscape and stunning beaches — Frenchmen’s Cove is a small, intimate favorite.

You’ll Also Like: The Best Beach Hotels in Jamaica

8. Tourist areas in Jamaica feel safe.

The U.S. Department of State currently has Jamaica at a Level 2 travel advisory, which means to exercise increased caution. Other countries with this designation include France, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and Belgium. The primary areas to be cautious in are downtown Kingston and Montego Bay, and Spanish Town, which is a 30-minute drive west of Kingston. Jamaica has one of the highest murder rates per capita, coming in at number five. The majority of violent crime is Jamaican-on-Jamaican, though 2017 saw six U.S. citizens murdered, 20 robbed, 12 raped/sexually assaulted, and six victims of aggravated assaults. Visitors should stick to heavily populated locations and avoid some areas at night, but those within major tourist destinations will likely feel perfectly safe.

9. Hotels in Jamaica run the gamut.

Travelers wanting an all-inclusive vacation often think of Jamaica (or Mexico) for its abundance of both adult-only and family-friendly resorts. However, hotels here run the gamut, from luxurious boutiques to budget beach spots and everything in between. The seven-room Geejam is a luxe boutique in Port Antonio, Secrets St. James is an adults-only, all-inclusive in Montego Bay, and Catcha Falling Star is an affordable, rustic property in Negril. So no matter your needs and travel style, there’s a hotel to suit your tastes and budget in Jamaica .

10. Hurricanes in Jamaica do occur.

Royalton Negril/Oyster

As with other Caribbean destinations, Jamaica is susceptible to hurricanes between the months of June and November. The peak hurricane period for the Caribbean is from early August through the end of October, and Jamaica typically receives its heaviest amount of rainfall in October. However, recent hurricanes such as Irma, Maria, and Dorian, have largely avoided Jamaica, and the island has primarily been subject to storms with heavy rain and wind. Nevertheless, travelers should keep an eye on weather reports and avoid peak hurricane months if they’re worried. On the other hand, these months often see fewer tourists and thus are more affordable for flights and hotels.

11. The vibe in Jamaica is laid-back.

The Pool at the Rockhouse Hotel/Oyster

Regardless of where you choose to lay your head, you can expect a laid-back atmosphere. Whether it’s a luxury resort or budget property, Jamaicans have a naturally relaxed personality. And given that the country operates on island time, travelers will quickly have to loosen their expectations on wait times and punctuality. That’s not to say that service doesn’t often rival the best of the best, but the “ya mon” spirit, ubiquitous drum circles and dancing, and sweet rum punches create an overall easygoing vibe.

Some of Our Favorite Jamaica Hotels:

Our pick for a hotel in montego bay: round hill hotel and villas.

Set in a secluded area not far from the airport in Montego Bay, Round Hill Hotel and Villas is a stunning luxury property with its own small beach. It manages to be both romantic and kid-friendly, and all-inclusive rates help keep things affordable. There are 36 elegant hotel-style rooms here, though we particularly love the 27 individually decorated villas, most of which have private pools. A public infinity pool, stellar restaurant, full-service spa, and excellent service are provided here.

Pricing for Round Hill Hotel and Villas

Our Pick for a Hotel in Negril: Couples Negril

All-inclusive, adults-only, and couples-only, Couples Negril has a gorgeous location along the beach and plenty to keep relax-minded and activity-focused guests. The 234 rooms are modern and well-outfitted, all with outdoor spaces. An extensive all-inclusive package covers 24-hour dining, top-shelf liquor, water sports (even scuba diving!), daily activities, evening entertainment, and offshore excursions such as catamaran cruises.

Pricing for Couples Negril

Our Pick for a Hotel in Ocho Rios: Moon Palace Jamaica

Set on a private beach, the 705-room Moon Palace Jamaica is a sprawling all-inclusive resort offering all types of travelers a luxury getaway. In addition to the beach, there are four outdoor pools and a water park, as well as a spa, fitness center, water sports, surf machine, and area for guests to swim with dolphins (fee). Several restaurants and bars, a 24-hour cafe, and 24-hour room service are all included, as are in-room liquor dispensers.

Pricing for Moon Palace Jamaica

You’ll Also Like:

• The Best Bang-for-Your-Buck All-Inclusives in Jamaica
• Jamaica vs. Mexico: Destination Face-Off
• The Best Time to Visit Jamaica

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Is Montego Bay Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Jamaica : Safety by City

Montego bay.

• Spanish Town

Montego Bay commonly referred to as MoBay, is the second-largest city in the island nation Jamaica, a member of the British Commonwealth.

Montego Bay is the capital of St. James Parish, one of the 14 parishes in Jamaica and one of the famous tourist arrival destination.

Montego Bay has long received the title of “tourist capital of Jamaica.”

It takes most of Jamaica’s international flights.

This is a tourist destination known for its duty-free shops, cruise line terminal, and Doctor’s Cave sheltered beach with clear turquoise waters, which is one of the most famous beaches on the island.

• Warnings & Dangers in Montego Bay

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

In general, Montego Bay can be safe if you follow common sense and be careful at night. Central areas may be less secure than the outskirts. Any contact with drug dealers and prostitutes should be avoided.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Public transport is well distributed and reliable. However, it is worth watching your pockets, and things as pickpockets can wield. Taxis are preferred if you return to the hotel late at night. Use only licensed taxi services.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpockets are more common on beaches and in crowded places. At the bazaars, they may also try to distract you and empty your pockets at this time. Always be mindful of your surroundings. Local can be very intrusive if they see you as a tourist. However, if you firmly tell them no, they will lag behind you.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH

Jamaica is subject to many natural hazards. The island is located in the hurricane belt and has survived many hurricanes. Jamaica also has a history of seismic activity. Strong earthquakes affected Montego Bay and Kingston in 1958. Investigate reliable sources for these risks before you travel here.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Armed robberies also sometimes occur in the region. Most often, this is a showdown between drug dealers. However, tourists can also become an accidental victim of an attack. Avoid walking at Montego Bay late at night and alone. Do not be in the dangerous areas of the city alone.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Jamaica, the possibility of attacks cannot be ruled out. Explore the political situation on the island before your trip. It is best to avoid mass crowds, political, and other rallies.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Most Montego Bay scams involve lottery tickets when you are offered to buy them to win. Be sure you will lose. Also, tourists can be deceived with the price of trinkets and taxi rides. Haggle and discuss the cost of the trip in advance.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

In Montego Bay, women are better off traveling in the company. If you walk alone, especially at night and in disadvantaged areas, then there is a high probability of becoming a victim of the increased and persistent attention of local men. Use a taxi to return to the hotel late at night, always get behind the driver and close the windows of the car.

• So... How Safe Is Montego Bay Really?

Montego Bay has an average level of travel safety.

The crime rate is medium to high.

The main problems are related to the theft of things, car theft, and hacking, attacks, vandalism, and corruption problems.

Some concern is the growing level of drug-related crimes.

While Montego Bay is a relatively safe city, reasonable precautions should be observed.

Stay in groups, and stick to tourist areas.

The rural areas are especially dangerous.

Most locations close to the resorts are safe.

Travelers should be aware that Jamaicans are amiable people.

However, they always try to do a service for Western tourists for money.

Themselves will offer you somewhere to take, help – and they will wait for this monetary incentive, sometimes very persistently.

Do not be afraid to say no and avoid these people from the very beginning.

Also, note that the stores will have staff in front of the stores to get you in.

Simple is not, thank you will be enough.

The areas inside the city are especially dangerous, as it is here where poor people live.

More distant from downtown Montego Bay are safer areas.

Prostitution is common at night in Montego Bay, in the dead streets, on the Fashion Strip, and in “sketchy” bars.

• How Does Montego Bay Compare?
• Useful Information

Visitors to Jamaica must obtain a visa from one of the Jamaican diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the 116 countries designated as visa-exempt countries or countries whose citizens may obtain a visa on arrival. Most Commonwealth Citizens can visit Jamaica for up to 180 days visa-free. A valid passport is a must.

The Jamaican Dollar is the currency of Jamaica. The currency code for Dollars is JMD, and the currency symbol is J$. It is divided into 100 cents.

The best time to visit Montego Bay, Jamaica, is from November to mid-December when the weather is pleasant, and the room rates are reasonable. Average temperatures in Montego Bay vary very little, and the weather feels hot all year with a low chance of precipitation most of the year.

Sangster International Airport is an international airport located 5 km east of Montego Bay, Jamaica. The airport is capable of handling nine million passengers per year. It serves as the most popular airport for tourists visiting the north coast of Jamaica.

Travel Insurance

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Montego Bay Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Jamaica - Safety by City

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3 Reviews on Montego Bay

Chill vibes.

If you come from a fast paced life style, like me, I’m a New York investment banker who is so used to the city lifestyle, Montego Bay would influence you to tone it down a bit. Its a pretty chill environment, locals are also very friendly, however as always be careful with you who interact with.

Stay at the Hilton in Mobay. Pay for the Mobay Greeters to hand you a drink and escort you through customs =) Set up taxi service to and from Sanger; I highly recommend Turner (Carlton Turner) Taxi. He will also pick you up and take you shopping during your stay ensuring you go no where unescorted. Then, chill ‘Mon! 😎🇯🇲 We go every year!

Be smart and enjoy!

This will be my second visit to MoBay. Like any other country to include travels within the US, I exercise caution everywhere in other words be smart. I usually try to stay on the resort unless it’s an excursion promoted by the resort.

The MoBay Experience is highly recommended to assist with the ease of getting through customs and helping to get your luggage and to your transportation services to your resort. The food isn’t great but the service does eliminate the headache of standing in the long waiting line to clear customs.

I have always chosen to hire VIP transport services rather than ride the bus or van service offered. The VIP service is just me and my travel partner. This service is usually in a luxury car or SUV (BMW,Mercedes Benz, etc.) and it’s worth the money. This driver will have a light snake and an adult beverage for you to enjoy on the ride to your resort.

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Article Contents

• Montego Bay : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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The Best Time to Visit Montego Bay, Jamaica for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Montego Bay for ideal weather are

December 24th to March 18th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Montego Bay Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Montego Bay Travel Info

Weather in montego bay.

Average temperatures in Montego Bay vary very little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot all year with a low chance of precipitation most of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 21st percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Montego Bay, the hottest months are August, July, and then September. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally mid to late August where highs are regularly around 92.3°F (33.5°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 77.7°F (25.4°C) at night.

Montego Bay Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Montego bay temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Montego Bay Perceived Temperature (F)

Montego bay perceived temperature (c), average montego bay temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Montego Bay are February, January, and then December. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around late December. For example, on the week of December 24th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in late May with an average of 2 days of significant precipitation the week of May 21st.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Montego Bay.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Montego Bay (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Montego Bay has some very humid months, and above average humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is March (69.4% relative humidity), and the most humid month is October (76.4%).

Wind in Montego Bay is usually calm . The windiest month is January, followed by March and December. January’s average wind speed of around 7.4 knots (8.5 MPH or 13.8 KPH) is considered “a gentle breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early July where average top sustained speeds reach 16.2 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Montego Bay.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to montego bay.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings for Jamaica; exercise a high degree of caution. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 27, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Montego Bay, Jamaica is January, followed by May and December. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Montego Bay in October. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall montego bay travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 89.6°F (32°C) and 85.5°F (29.7°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 3 to 6 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see moderate precipitation with 3 to 4 days of precipitation per month. June – August is fairly slow season for tourism in Montego Bay, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly less.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 91.4°F (33°C) and 87°F (30.6°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 4 to 7 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Montego Bay to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 86.4°F (30.2°C) and 85.1°F (29.5°C). On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: 2 to 3 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Jamaica › Montego Bay, Jamaica

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Travel Advisory January 23, 2024

Jamaica - level 3: reconsider travel.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to crime and health information

Reconsider travel to Jamaica due to  crime and medical services . U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission (COM) security responsibility are prohibited from traveling to many areas due to increased risk. Please read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Country Summary:  Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.

Local police often do not respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a conclusive sentence. Families of U.S. citizens killed in accidents or homicides frequently wait a year or more for final death certificates to be issued by Jamaican authorities. The homicide rate reported by the Government of Jamaica has for several years been among the highest in the Western Hemisphere. U.S. government personnel under COM security responsibility are prohibited from traveling to the areas listed below, from using public buses, and from driving outside of prescribed areas of Kingston at night.

Emergency services and hospital care vary throughout the island, and response times and quality of care may vary from U.S. standards. Public hospitals are under-resourced and cannot always provide high level or specialized care. Private hospitals require payment up front before admitting patients and may not have the ability to provide specialized care. Ambulance services are not always readily available, especially in rural areas, and are not always staffed by trained personnel.

We strongly encourage you to obtain traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling to Jamaica. The Department of State does not pay medical bills.

Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. U.S. citizens with medical emergencies can face bills in the tens of thousands of dollars, with air ambulance service to the United States in the range of $30,000-50,000.  Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Jamaica.

If you decide to travel to Jamaica:

• Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition.  This includes stray rounds, shells or empty casings . The penalties for carrying firearms and/or ammunition, even inadvertently, are severe, and can include lengthy prison sentences.
• Avoid walking or driving at night.
• Avoid public buses.
• Avoid secluded places or situations.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Jamaica.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Violence and shootings occur regularly in many neighborhoods, communities, and parishes in Jamaica. 

U.S. government personnel under COM security responsibility are prohibited from traveling to the following areas of Jamaica due to crime:

St. Ann’s Parish—Do Not Travel - Steer Town and the Buckfield neighborhood near Ocho Rios

St. Catherine’s Parish—Do Not Travel

• Spanish Town
• Central Village
• Areas within Portmore, including: Naggo Head, New Land, Old Braeton, Portmore Lane, Gregory Park, and Waterford

All of Clarendon Parish—Do Not Travel

All of Clarendon Parish, except passing through Clarendon Parish using the T1 and A2 highways.

St. Elizabeth’s Parish—Do Not Travel

Vineyard District Community, between the communities of Salt Spring and Burnt Savanna, St. Elizabeth

Hanover Parish—Do Not Travel

Logwood and Orange Bay

St. James Parish/Montego Bay—Do Not Travel

All of Montego Bay on the inland side of the A1 highway and The Queen’s Drive from San San to Harmony Beach Park

Kingston and St. Andrew Parish—Do Not Travel

• Cassava Piece
• Downtown Kingston, defined as between Mountain View Avenue and Hagley Park Road, and south of Half Way Tree and Old Hope Roads. Downtown Kingston includes Arnett Gardens, Cockburn Gardens, Denham Town, Olympic Gardens, Seaview Gardens, Trench Town, and Tivoli Gardens.
• Duhaney Park
• Swallowfield
• Elleston Flats
• August Town

Manchester Parish—Do Not Travel

Green Vale, Gray Ground, Red Ground, and Vineyard neighborhoods of Mandeville

St. Thomas Parish—Do Not Travel

• Black Lane neighborhood in Seaforth
• Grands Penn
• Church Corner neighborhood near Yallahs
• Town of Yallahs, except when driving through on the main highway

Trelawny Parish—Do Not Travel

• Clarks Town

Westmoreland Parish—Do Not Travel

• Russia community in Savanna-la-Mar (The Southeastern quadrant of Savannah la Mar east of Darling Street and south of the A2 highway/Barracks Road)
• Kings Valley
• The Whitehall, Bethel Town, and Red Ground neighborhoods of Negril

If you do decide to travel to the above-listed Do Not Travel areas, please visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy kingston.

142 Old Hope Road Kingston 6 Jamaica, West Indies Telephone: +(876) 702-6000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(876) 702-6000 Fax: +(876) 702-6018 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agent - Montego Bay Whitter Village, Ironshore Unit EU-1 (across from Burger King) Montego Bay, Jamaica Telephone: +(876) 953-0620 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Kingston, Jamaica: +(876) 702-6000 Fax: +(876) 953-3898 Appointments are made by phone or email Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Jamaica for information on U.S.-Jamaica relations. 

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens are generally required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to Jamaica, as well as proof of anticipated departure from Jamaica. If you are traveling to Jamaica on a cruise, you may use another  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  (WHTI) compliant document. However, we strongly recommend you obtain a passport before travel in case an emergency requires you to disembark and return by air. You do not need a visa for tourist travel up to 90 days. All other travelers will need a visa and/or work permit.

Visit the  Passport, Immigration, & Citizenship Agency of Jamaica  or the  Embassy of Jamaica in Washington D.C.  websites for the most current visa information.

Exit Information: Your departure tax is regularly included in the airfare. You won’t be charged an exit tax on your way out.

HIV/AIDS restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Jamaica.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime:  Violent crime, including sexual assault, is a serious problem throughout Jamaica, particularly in Kingston and Montego Bay. Jamaica’s police force often does not respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a conclusive sentence. Families of U.S. citizens killed in accidents or homicides frequently wait a year or more for final death certificates to be issued by Jamaican authorities. Gated resorts are not immune to violent crime.

Recommendations:

• Review the  Crime and Safety Report  for Jamaica.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information. Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Jamaica. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.  Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers

The most notorious Jamaican scam is the Lotto Scam, a kind of advance-fee fraud. The victim is led to believe that a Jamaican lottery prize will be released after the payment of “fees.”

• You did NOT win a lottery. The person on the telephone is lying. Just hang up.
• Never send money to someone who calls to say you have won the lottery in Jamaica.
• Do not travel to Jamaica to collect a “prize.” Victims have been killed, kidnapped, extorted, or robbed.
• Be very cautious about sending money to help a traveler claiming to be in trouble. When in doubt, contact your local police department for advice and assistance.
• Be wary of promises to protect a loved one from harm or to help the loved one out of trouble, in exchange for money. That is extortion – contact your local police department.
• Scam artists often fake romantic interest to get money from a would-be lover, especially on the internet. When in doubt, contact your local police department.
• If you are being targeted for financial scams, you will need to file a report with your local police department.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at 119 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +1 (876) 702-6000.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

Sexual Assault:   Rape and sexual assault are serious problems throughout Jamaica, including at resorts and hotels. Date rape drugs may be used at private parties and resorts.

If you are victim of a sexual assault, contact the police and the U.S. Embassy in Kingston as soon as possible. In a hotel, management should assist you with these communications.

Victims of sexual assault in Jamaica should not expect the same assistance routinely offered in the United States. Rape kits are not always available, and victims must often ask for medication to avoid STD transmission and reduce the chances of pregnancy. Counseling is unlikely to be offered. Law enforcement shortcomings exist in collection of evidence. Prosecution of rape cases moves very slowly, and victims may need to return to Jamaica during the legal process.

• Avoid secluded places or situations, including at resorts. Try to always be accompanied by someone you know, including when going to the restroom.
• Security outside of resort areas is unpredictable, especially at night. Do not leave resort property with someone you have just met.
• Many guests drink heavily in all-inclusive resorts, which can lead to unpredictable behavior and increased vulnerability. 
• Shout for help immediately if you feel threatened or encounter individuals who make you feel uncomfortable. 
• Report any suspicious or inappropriate activity, including inappropriate comments or behavior by hotel employees or other guests, to hotel management, the U.S. Embassy, and local police as appropriate.R esort employees are generally prohibited from engaging in romantic or sexual relations with guests.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation   and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

Futhermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Firearms:  Jamaica strictly forbids importing or possessing firearms in Jamaica without prior authorization of the Firearms Licensing Authority of Jamaica. A U.S. concealed carry permit does  not  allow you to bring a firearm or ammunition into Jamaica. On November 1, 2022, the Firearms (Prohibition, Restriction and Regulation) Act 2022 went into effect.  This new law includes mandatory minimum sentences of 15 years for possession of even a single cartridge.

If you bring an unauthorized firearm, firearm components, firearm parts, or ammunition to Jamaica, you will be arrested and prosecuted. This will result in a large fine and/or incarceration for an unspecified amount of time. Bringing mace, pepper spray, or knives into Jamaica without authorization will also lead to arrest.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report   – see country reports
• Human Rights Report   – see country reports
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Jamaican law contains specific prohibitions on “acts of gross indecency” – generally interpreted as any kind of physical intimacy – between persons of the same sex, in public or in private, and provides punishment of up to 10 years in prison. There is also a law that specifically prohibits even consensual same-sex sexual conduct between men.

Negative attitudes towards LGBTQI+ issues are widespread in Jamaica. There are continued reports of serious discrimination and abuse against LGBTQI+ individuals, including:

• “Corrective rape” of women accused of being lesbians
• Arbitrary detention
• Mob attacks
• Harassment of LGBTQI+ patients by hospital and prison staff
• Blackmail 

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report  for further details.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) individuals have been targeted through the use of dating apps, especially apps popular within the LGBTQI+ communities.  Criminals have used dating apps to lure foreign visitors into meeting in public spaces such as hotel restaurants and bars, and then later assaulting, threatening , and or robbing the victims. Police have not been responsive in making arrests or prosecuting assailants in these cases.

• Protect your identity and be careful about sharing personal information on your public profile.
• Remember that criminals both in the United States and abroad use dating apps to extort victims through threats to expose compromising pictures or other information.  Only share personal information with users who you trust, and be aware of phishing and romance scams.
• Don’t rush into things; try to verify through social media or mutual friends that the person you are communicating with is who they say they are.  Make sure you have a photo and name of the person you plan to meet through an app.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Jamaica prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, although the law is not reliably enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.  The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities and information. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. There is a significant difference in accessibility between major cities such as Kingston and Montego Bay compared to accessibility in Jamaica’s smaller communities. Qualified and certified service providers such as sign language interpreters and personal assistants and rental, repair services, and replacement parts for aids, equipment, and devices can be difficult to locate outside of the major cities.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Jamaica, dial 119 .

Ambulance services are:

• not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas, especially in rural areas.
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
• not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment.
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.
• Traffic congestion and road conditions may slow response times.

We do not pay medical bills.   Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Check with the Government of Jamaica to ensure the medication is legal in Jamaica.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals here .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Health facilities may be below U.S. standards, especially when it comes to mental health care and specialty care.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Private hospitals and doctors require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Be aware that some hotels and resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers, which may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
• Generally, in hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Chikungunya
• Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.  Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Jamaica. 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:   Jamaicans drive on the left side of the road. Here are some notes for your safety:

• Nighttime driving is extremely hazardous due to poor lighting and unpredictable pavement.
• Heavy rains can make roads impassable and dangerous.
• Many roads suffer from ill repair, inadequate signage, large potholes and poor traffic markings. There is a lack of pedestrian crosswalks.
• Pedestrians and animals share the roadways with vehicles.
• There have been reports of carjackings, including of rental cars.
• Only two highways are roughly comparable to U.S. standards. Both are toll roads and part of Highway 2000. The East-West leg (“T1”) runs from Portmore to May Pen. The North-South leg (“T3” or the Edward Seaga Highway) connects Caymanas (west of Kingston) to Ocho Rios (Mammee Bay).
• Driving habits range from aggressive speeding and sudden stops by taxis in the middle of the road to over-polite drivers who suddenly stop to allow a car to pull in front of them. All can lead to accidents.
• Official emergency response can be slow. In practice, assistance given in emergency situations is generally by fellow motorists.

Traffic Laws:

• Traffic circles (“roundabouts”) are often poorly marked and require traffic to move in a clockwise direction. Motorists entering a roundabout must yield to those already in it. 
• Drivers and front-seat passengers are required to wear seat belts.
• Motorcycle riders are required to wear helmets.

Public Transportation:

• Official public transportation vehicles have red license plates. 
• Private vehicles, NOT licensed for public transportation, have white license plates with blue letters/numbers.
• Avoid public buses, which are often overcrowded and frequently a venue for crime. There are reports of private buses, acting as public transport, driving erratically leading to injury and death for both riders and pedestrians. You should only use licensed taxicabs having red-and-white PP license plates or transportation services recommended by your hotel.
• Do not accept rides from strangers.

See our  Road Safety  page and the website of Jamaica’s  national tourist office  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Jamaica’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of air carrier operations in Jamaica. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Jamaica should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Jamaica . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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How to Plan a Vacation to Montego Bay and Negril Jamaica

P lanning a trip to the Caribbean island of Jamaica and wondering about the best things to do in Montego Bay and Negril? If you are heading to the West Coast of Jamaica, there are many great activities and things to do! Keep reading for the best waterfalls to visit, pirate cruises, diving and snorkeling, and of course exploring reggae music and visiting a Rastafari Indigenous Village.

If it is your first time to the popular destination of Jamaica, and you’ve not yet had the chance to research some of the amazing things to do on the island, with this useful guide you’ll learn some things to do in Montego Bay and Negril.

Jamaica is becoming more and more popular with backpackers and travelers who want to have more authentic experiences and escape their all-inclusive resorts.

Save Big on Your Dream Jamaica Vacation

Check out over 90 Tours & Attractions in Montego Bay

Read Reviews of the Best Hotels in Montego Bay, Jamaica on TripAdvisor  

As an avid traveler, backpacking mostly in Latin America and the Caribbean . I have spent many seasons traveling in and around Jamaica and still visit the island regularly. I truly love this country and want to share some of my favorite things to do in Jamaica to help make your vacation to this Caribbean island the best it can be! 

Best Things to do in Montego Bay and Negril

Before we get into this list of things to do on Jamaica’s west coast, note that the following activities listed are to give you a mixture of things to do in both Negril and Montego Bay. 

Maybe you’re traveling to Jamaica with family and would prefer to take part in more group activities? Perfect, there is something in this guide for you too.

With there been many things to on Jamaica’s West Coast, I have picked out some of the most popular to get you acquainted with this part of the island.

Now, let’s begin by looking a bit further into what to do in Montego Bay :

#1  Swim at the One Man Beach

When you are in Montego Bay, you’ll no doubt want to visit the beach. Leaving your resort or accommodation shouldn’t be difficult.

Many people will recommend you go to Dr. Cove beach which is a paid stretch of beach where you can sit and relax. However, if you’d like a more local beach experience you can head down to One Man Beach. Expect hot sands and blue skies. Both beaches are located close to the Hip Strip and you are more likely to encounter one or two local people.

Like many of the beaches in Jamaica that are off the tourist map. The One Man Beach has no bar or official shop, per se, but you will likely be approached in a more local fashion. If you want drinks there will usually be a someone ‘manning’ the beach. In true Jamaican style, this is one of the best beaches where you can feel one step closer to life as a local in Jamaica, especially. if you have been used to a hotel atmosphere.

#2  Take a Walk down the Hip Strip

If in Montego Bay and looking for something pleasant to do, a great start would be to take a walk down the Hip Strip. Although it is the most tourist place to be seen in Montego Bay, it is always worth a stroll down and one of the most fun things to do on the west coast if it’s a first-time visit. If you’re a newcomer you may find merchants to be quite pushy and intimidating… so Welcome to Jamaica.

However, I urge you not to fear it or let it change your mind of the place. Actually, no vending is allowed on this street, so you’ll notice how relatively quiet it is compared to other parts of Montego Bay. But still, many people make a living from approaching tourists. 

If you want to find some more local shop and eateries, though, you’d have to wander up one of the side streets to find something. Also, remember that many of the shops on this street are not Jamaican-owned. That’s why I recommend that you buy your souvenirs elsewhere.

#3 Sample some Jamaican Jerk Chicken

As any proud Jamaican will tell you, Jerk Chicken is a recipe that originates right back from the time when the Maroons brought their African cooking techniques to Jamaica.

If you’re an avid meat eater you can’t leave Jamaica without sampling some of the finest Jerk Chicken. Usually, done best when cooked by the man at the side of the road.  They start their process of Jerking the meat right from early morning.

Look out for the colorful carts that usually advertise what that particular vendor is selling. You’ll find also find it in most good restaurants but usually at a premium price. If you don’t like or eat Chicken you can find other Jerked food items including Pork and some type of vegetables, if you are lucky.

#4 Explore the Fantasy Craft Market

Whilst on the Hip Strip, also known as Gloucester Ave, you’ll notice most of the shops and offers are targeted at tourists. Normally the type that who are on the Island for less than a day. For example, people who step foot off the cruise ship have very little time. 

Many tourists hardly even make it to the Craft market because is hidden behind a convenience store and you’d never know that it existed.

For anyone traveling to Jamaica , the Fantasy Craft Market is probably the best place in Montego Bay to get real handcrafted goods for a reasonable price. You can also haggle with the sellers. However, I invite you to consider the artist’s skill, time and labor that into the work. Many of these are one-off pieces. Generally, the sellers will look after you, and are very competitive, so allow yourself a bit of time to look around before you commit buying anything,

#5  Watch the Sunset at Ricks Cafe

Whilst in Negril, one place you may not want to miss is the infamous Ricks Cafe. This is the place where you watch people jump off 20 foot high cliffs without a care in the world. Meanwhile, you just sit back with a rum punch and the most satisfying sunset you will have probably ever seen.

If feeling daring, you can take part in the cliff jumping. There are lifeguards on site, so you can jump with confidence. Admittedly, though, it is a bit of a tourist trap, as the venue has built a good reputation up over many years. However, the vibe is so fun and you’ll love the live music and entertainment that is on offer.

Many people come here just to view the sunset, which makes it a great place to be in the early evening. In fact, it is best to arrive at the popular spot before the sunset to be able to position yourself in order to get some amazing shots.

At Rick’s cafe, you’ll also find a pool, cabanas and a selection of Jamaican food available to order. If you missed out on getting Jerk Chicken on the street, now is your chance. Know what to expect from this type of tourist venue and you will not be disappointed.

#6  Connect with Locals

In Jamaica, if you are open, you’ll find it’s very easy to talk to people. Depending on where you find yourself, at first, it may seem people are harassing you to buy something. However, once you accept this is a part and parcel of everyday life on the island, you can actually learn a lot from Jamaican people.

For example, you can encounter people with a hospitable spirit who make it their best interest to ensure you have a good experience on the island.  

Many people say that Jamaicans are rude and inconsiderate when it comes to customer service and relations. The key is to remind yourself that these people do not speak for all Jamaicans. A part of learning about a new culture is to realize not all people are the same. 

The best way to connect with Jamaican people is to ask them a question about life on the island or about the local life and they’ll usually be more than happy to share a pleasant exchange with you.

#7 Observe Art at Sam Sharpe Square

Whilst on Jamaica’s West Coast you may want to see some cultural attractions. If you are in Montego Bay, you can easily check out Sam Sharpe Square. Here you’ll find a memorial that commemorates the struggles faced by him being born into slavery.

Jamaica has a vast history and these statues can be found in downtown Montego Bay, so it is right in the middle of the hustle of bustle of the city. If you are staying close by, you can use public transport in Jamaica to get here. 

Although I recommend that you contact a local taxi driver to take you to this spot, there is no need to be startled by the immediate area. If you do feel intimated by being approached by locals, there are usually police vans parked close by so tourists can feel at ease when visiting this important Jamaican landmark.

How are things on the west coast? You’ll get a great vibe of the local climate with a visit to this part of Jamaica.  

Most Popular Tours in Jamaica including the West Coast

So, now you have some ideas for the best things to do on the west coast of Jamaica , what will you do? If you love sand, sea, and sunset you’re definitely in the right place. 

With the island’s happy vibe and its contagious rhythm of reggae music, you can be sure to find time to relax and even get off the beaten tourist track.

More Things to do in Jamaica

If you expand your visit of Jamaica a few additional attractions are well worth a visit! 

Southeast Coast of Jamaica

#8. The Bob Marley Museum in Kingston, Jamaica. The museum is located at 56 Hope Road, Kingston, and is Bob Marley’s former home. This is one of the most popular attractions for music fans. 

North Coast of Jamaica

#9 Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios. You can actually climb a portion of the waterfalls in the shallow waters, which is 180 feet high and 600 feet long. This is one of the most popular activities in Jamaica.

#10 Glistening Waters is a glowing lagoon on the north coast of Jamaica. Luminous lagoons are only found in four places in the world, however, this luminous lagoon is the brightest of them all due to the climate in Jamaica. The freshwater from the Martha Brae River meets the salt-water ocean and this Luminous Lagoon is formed making Jamaica one of the best places in the world to see this marvel.

#11 The Green Grotto Caves. This labyrinth of limestone caves is located in Falmouth, between the resort towns of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay and a great excursion for nature lovers. The tour is an interesting walk through geology and history. It is thought that runaway slaves used these caves to hide from the English in the 18th century. It is also said that Pirates used these caves to hide their treasures.

Northeast Coast of Jamaica

#12 Port Antonio is the gateway to nearby tropical jungles, mountains, and many waterfalls. In the John Crow Mountains, Reach Falls flows into a river pool. Near Hope Bay, Somerset Falls flows on the grounds of a former plantation.

#13 The Blue Lagoon is known for its blue waters, fed by the Caribbean Sea and underground springs. This is one of the more popular tourist attractions. 

Eastern Jamaica

#14 The Blue Mountains extend for about 30 miles (50 km) from Stony Hill, 8 miles north of Kingston, eastward to the Caribbean Sea. They are the longest mountain range in Jamaica and include the island’s highest point, Blue Mountain Peak, at 2256 m (7402 ft).

#15 Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Tour. Explore the misty paths of the Blue Mountains and see where the world’s best coffee is grown. Considered one of the most expensive coffees in the world, Jamaican coffee is grown on coffee plantations in the Blue Mountain.

What You Need For Travel to Jamaica

Now that we’ve explored the best things to do in Jamaica and especially things to do on the west coast, let’s get into some practical tips!

Do I need a Visa to Travel to Jamaica?

Citizens and permanent residents of the U. S. and Canada do not require a tourist visa for visits in Jamaica of less than six months. Citizens of other countries should check with the Jamaican Embassy well in advance of travel to verify if you need a visa or not.

Do I need a Passport to Travel to Jamaica?

While this might sound obvious, I can’t tell you how many stories I’ve heard from travelers who didn’t have a valid Passport

at the time of travel.

• The biggest oversight is knowing your Passport
• must have at least 6 months to expire to travel to India (and most international locations).
• The next is a traveler not realizing their passport might be expired at the time of travel.
• The third is knowing you must have two blank pages available in your passport. When you begin planning your trip to India, take a look at your passport expiration date and make sure you have two blank pages available.

Best months to visit Jamaica: 

The best time to visit Jamaica is November to mid-December. That’s when the island’s already beautiful weather (ranging from the mid-70s to the high 80s all year-round) is the most pleasant and the hotel and flight deals are the easiest to find. Peak season begins Mid-December and ends Mid-April, so the weather will be gorgeous, but it will be more expensive during these months.

What to Pack for a Trip to Jamaica

Make sure you have all of your travel documents in order and secure in a safe but accessible place. This includes a valid passport

, driver’s license, airline tickets and/or boarding passes. A pocketbook or outside pocket of your carry-on bag is ideal since you’ll need easy access at the airport and upon arrival at the hotel.

Also, be sure to pack copies of prescriptions for medications, which should be carried in their original containers. Make sure you know if the island you are traveling to requires a passport (most do). If you don’t already have a passport

and need it quick, RushMyPassport.com

 is a great resource.

You can find just about anything you may need while you are in Jamaica, but you’ll pay a premium, especially for beach items like sunscreen. Here’s a checklist of things to bring for your Jamaica vacation:

Sunscreen  – The Caribbean is a tropical climate where the sun’s UV rays have a more direct angle to the Earth’s surface. That is why you need to be vigilant in your sun protection. UV protective clothing, hats and sunglasses, and seeking shade whenever possible, are all important things to focus on. But the most important thing for your skin exposed to the Caribbean sun is a quality sunscreen!  I recommend a minimum of SPF 30 and water resistance is essential as you’ll most likely be in and out of the gorgeous Caribbean Sea. I love Neutrogena SPF 70

because it isn’t greasy, water-resistant and  is only $8 on Amazon . If you are traveling with kids, I prefer the Neutrogena Wet Skin Kids Sunscreen Spray Spf 70+ ,

and it’s only $10 on Amazon.

Aloe Vera  –   I like to bring a travel-size organic Aloe Vera Gel

to soothe the inevitable sunburn I get despite all of the sunscreen slatherings! I somehow seem to miss one spot, like my ears.

Water Shoes  are handy for rocky beaches. If you are more adventurous and enjoy hiking, you may want to look into something like a Reef sandal. This  Teva Sandal

can be worn around town and in the water.

Mask & Snorkel  – If you plan to snorkel, bring your own: this is an item you don’t want to rent. Renting a snorkel set day after day can be expensive. If you love to snorkel it makes sense to bring a mask & snorkel set. You won’t find water this clear and beautiful in many other parts of the world and you’ll want to take advantage of snorkeling in the crystal clear Caribbean Sea. This ProDive Dry Top Snorkel Set

 is a great set you can pick up on Amazon for only $29 and you’ll get your money’s worth after a day or two. 

Do’s and Don’ts When Visiting Jamaica

There are do’s and don ts when visiting Jamaica. Jamaica is one of the most relaxed vacation spots in the world and one of the most popular beach destinations in the Caribbean. Like many locations around the world, taking a few precautions will go a long way towards enjoying your trip to the fullest. Follow these tips to make your Jamaica vacation fun and keep you safe! 

• Set up airport transfers ahead of time. Avoid being overcharged, left stranded, or even hassled by drivers who may or may not be authorized
• Exchange some of your money into local currency. You will need smaller bills or coins if you’re souvenir shopping, as well as for tipping, taxi’s or other things that may come up. Jamaica’s currency is called the Jamaican dollar. The banknotes are in 50s, 100s, 500s, 1000s. 4. US dollars are widely accepted on the island but you will pretty much always pay more than if you paid in Jamaican dollars.
• Learn a few words in the Jamaican language. Knowing a few popular phrases and words like please, thank you at minimum is always polite when you travel to a foreign country.   
• Look Left! Cars drive on the left, as opposed to the right in the US. When crossing streets in Jamaica check the left (as well as the right) to avoid oncoming traffic.
• Don’t take rides with strangers in the city. Not safe. Not smart!
• Don’t explore the island by cab. Instead choose a car service, rent a car or hire a guide from your hotel concierge. There is a bargaining culture in Jamaica and if you are not accustomed to haggling, some cab drivers may take advantage of the situation and you may find yourself paying an unfairly expensive fare.  
• Beware of pickpockets. Especially, in tourist hotspots like Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, always keep your wallet in your front pocket and your money tucked safely somewhere (in a hidden pocket or under your clothes).
• Don’t walk around Kingston at night. Kingston is notorious for its high crime rates. It is best to explore Kingston during the day.

Get the Lonely Planet Jamaica Travel Guide

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Thinking about visiting Jamaica? Have questions about things to do west coast? Ask your questions in the comments below!

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5 days in Jamaica, from Negril to Montego Bay, beaches, bamboo rafting and waterfalls

• Updated: Apr. 10, 2024, 9:59 a.m. |
• Published: Apr. 10, 2024, 9:58 a.m.

Playing in the pools at YS Falls, one of dozens of scenic waterfalls in Jamaica. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

• Susan Glaser, cleveland.com

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica – It’s the Jamaican equivalent of a gondola ride in Venice. But instead of winding through a labyrinth of canals in an ancient Italian city, we floated down the scenic Martha Brae River on a bamboo raft just east of Montego Bay.

Leroy, our guide, expertly maneuvered the boat down the waterway, pole in hand, occasionally pushing us away from the banks and around rocks. He even sang for us.

All the while, I sat back on my cushioned seat, occasionally dipping my toes in the water, allowing someone else to do the hard work for me.

The raft ride might be a metaphor for Jamaica, a vacation destination that doesn’t make you work too hard -- either to get there or once you’ve arrived.

The island nation is home to stunning beaches, scenic waterfalls and terrific cuisine, all set to a soul-soothing Bob Marley soundtrack.

One of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, Jamaica is now just a four-hour flight from Northeast Ohio via Frontier Airlines , which is expanding rapidly at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

But you might want to act fast – my flights to and from Montego Bay last month were less than half full. I doubt Frontier will keep the route around if it can’t attract more customers.

Read more: Will this new Frontier flight from Cleveland to the Caribbean last? Enjoy it while you can

It’s unclear why the flights weren’t full. I was traveling in March, which should be peak season for Jamaica.

The new route may be the victim of bad timing.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of State updated its travel advisory for the country , recommending that Americans reconsider travel to the island nation due to crime and medical services. Although Jamaica has been under a Level 3 advisory (“reconsider travel”) since 2022, the updated warning included detailed information about certain areas to avoid, including some neighborhoods in the parishes that include Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril, three of the most popular destinations for American tourists.

I’m a pretty intrepid traveler, and the language in the advisory made me nervous.

Still, when my boss tells me to buy a ticket to Jamaica, who am I to argue?

As I was planning my trip, I connected with a fellow Shaker Heights High School alum, who has been in the hospitality industry in Jamaica for decades. He assured me it was safe to come, and agreed to show me around his adopted country, which he has come to love.

And indeed, I am so glad I went.

Publishing Thursday:

Is Jamaica safe? State Department advisory raises concerns; here’s what to know

How a guy from Shaker Heights built a 30-year tourism career in Jamaica

Strolling Seven Mile Beach near Negril, Jamaica. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

Cliff jumping at Rick's Cafe in Negril. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

Bamboo rafting down the Martha Brae River near Montego Bay, Jamaica. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

Where to go?

I split my time between two of the country’s best-known tourist spots, Negril and Montego Bay.

Negril, on the west coast, is about a 90-minute drive from Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. But it’s worth the extra travel time for the stunning beach here.

My resort, the lovely Azul Beach Resort Negril by Karisma, is located on what’s called Seven Mile Beach, a gorgeous stretch of sand that is lined with resorts, restaurants, boat charters and other activities. (Interestingly, Seven Mile beach is actually four miles – but either way, it was plenty enough sand for my purposes.)

My husband and I took several long beach walks here, heading south on the sand our first day. We hesitated when we came to a stretch of shoreline where the beach briefly disappeared and the waterfront path veered through a wooded area near the busy roadway. The security guard at our resort assured us the pathway was safe – and indeed, we walked the route a couple more times with absolutely no concerns, past a public beach, a large Beaches property and the popular Margaritaville Negril.

Immediately north of our property was Sandals Negril, one of seven properties in Jamaica operated by Sandals, which was founded in Montego Bay in 1981 and helped launch the all-inclusive movement here decades ago. And next to Sandals: Hedonism II, a clothing optional resort. We walked the beach here too, though I kept my camera in my pocket and was grateful for the sunglasses that hid my eyes.

Along the beach, we were approached numerous times by entrepreneurial Jamaicans, hawking everything from wood carvings to weed, cold coconuts to friendship bracelets. Jamaican vendors have a reputation as being overly aggressive, but that wasn’t my experience. A polite “no thank you” was accepted graciously in every instance.

Because our time in Negril was so limited, we stayed close to the resort. But if I had more time, I might have booked a snorkeling cruise or a sunset sail or any one of numerous other on-the-water options, from fishing charters to water skiing.

My husband and I did sign out a small sailboat one afternoon at our resort, which turned into a bit of an adventure when the wind died down and we had some trouble getting back to shore.

We also hired a local driver to take us the 7 or so miles to Rick’s Café, a famous bar and entertainment venue known for its spectacular sunsets and towering cliffs above the sea.

Visitors, who come here via boat, car and bus by the thousands, are welcome – encouraged even -- to leap from the cliffs into the crystalline water below.

Some of the platforms are quite high – up to 35 feet above the water – while others are a more modest 10-12 feet. It was fun to watch the amateurs jump, and occasionally belly flop, into the water.

The real fun for spectators, though, is to watch some of the locals performing for tips, including a bunch of kids doing back flips off the rocks and a man who looked like he was trying out for the Olympics perfecting a double gainer off a 70-foot high platform.

I (conveniently) didn’t wear my bathing suit and so therefore wasn’t really tempted to join the jumpers. One of the lifeguards didn’t buy my excuse, and offered to loan me an extra suit, which I declined.

A woman sells pepper shrimp along a roadway in western Jamaica. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

Sunset on Seven Mile Beach, near the Azul Beach Resort Negril. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

A man sells coconuts along Seven Mile Beach near Negril. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

Montego Bay

After two nights in Negril, we headed north back to Montego Bay, the second largest city in Jamaica after Kingston. Most of this area’s resorts are located just east of the city in an upscale neighborhood known as Ironshore.

My home-away-from home for three nights was the Riu Reggae, one of three large side-by-side Spanish-owned Riu resorts just east of the airport. (The jets flying overhead sometimes looked so close you could reach up and grab them.)

In recent decades, all-inclusive resorts have become omnipresent throughout Jamaica, as well as numerous other Caribbean destinations, including the Dominican Republic and Cancun. Depending on the resort, an all-inclusive stay can be a relative bargain, including all food, drinks and numerous activities at one price.

Our beach at the Riu wasn’t nearly as nice as our stretch of sand in Negril, measuring only about a half-mile from end to end. The resorts in this area, too, have erected walls between the properties, making it impossible to walk along the sand for any significant distance – a major bummer for this beach walker.

While in Montego Bay, we were more interested in exploring beyond the resort.

Fellow Shaker alum Lee Weinstock , a longtime resident of Montego Bay, graciously agreed to accompany me to several spots, but I also hired drivers through the resort to drive me around.

Resorts, too, sell group tours to some of the best-known regional attractions, including the Luminous Lagoon and Martha Brae rafting.

Weinstock said visitors shouldn’t feel afraid to explore Jamaica.

“I’m not knocking anybody who wants to lie on the beach, eat and drink,” he said. “But you’re not seeing the real Jamaica.”

Among our stops, in addition to the rafting:

* Luminous Lagoon , on Jamaica’s north shore, where the Martha Brae River meets the Caribbean Sea, creating perfect conditions for tiny glow-in-the-dark microorganisms called dinoflagellates, which light up in the shallow, warm water. Jamaica is one of only a handful of places in the world where this phenomenon occurs and the only one where you can swim in the water, fanning your arms under the surface to make the sea glow.

* YS Falls , one of dozens of stunning waterfalls in the country, where swimmers can paddle in the pools, scale slippery rocks (watershoes recommended) and launch from a rope swing into the blue water below. Dunn’s River Falls near Ocho Rios is a popular stop for cruise passengers – and the No. 1 attraction in the country. Weinstock instead took us to his favorite waterfall, a gorgeous spot on the south side of the island, which gets considerably less crowded than Dunn’s River.

* Greenwood Great House , a late 18th-century era plantation home built by Richard Barrett, a cousin of British poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning, who made his wealth from sugar. The estate was one of a handful to survive the Christmas Rebellion in 1831, a major slave revolt in the Montego Bay area that was one of the catalysts for the abolition of slavery throughout the British colonies. Most of the furnishings are authentic and include some fascinating pieces – a piano made for King Edward VII by Thomas Broadwood, who also made pianos for Beethoven; two working polyphons; and a spectacular verandah offering 180-degree views of the north coast.

Along the way, Weinstock stopped at a monument to reggae superstar Peter Tosh in the small coastal town of Bluefields and for cold coconuts at a place called Bamboo Avenue, where the towering trees tunnel the roadway.

He also took us to some of his favorite local food stops, including a waterfront hut for fried fish en route from Montego Bay to Negril and Bigga Beach Road Restaurant for some terrific jerk chicken.

The best meal of my entire trip (and it wasn’t even close) was at an area called the Border – at the border between St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland parishes, a food market on the south coast where we sat at a picnic table near the water watching fishermen clean their catch. We feasted on fried lobster, snapper, conch stew and bammy, a tasty Jamaican flatbread. No way would I have at stopped at this place on my own.

I never once felt unsafe or afraid – except, perhaps, in the passenger seats of some of the cars and vans we were transported in. Jamaican drivers are notoriously aggressive and traffic can be crazy congested in the cities.

To save the costs of hiring so many drivers, I briefly considered renting a car for our trip but quickly disavowed myself of that notion. In addition to the aggressive drivers and not-great road conditions in some areas, Jamaica is still part of the British commonwealth, with drivers using the left side of the road. All of that seemed more than I wanted to handle.

Indeed, the driving was the only part of the trip that stressed me out at all.

But it was nothing that a one-hour rafting trip down the Martha Brae River couldn’t resolve.

Some of these rafting trips also include massages, either foot rubs or full-body treatments.

But my husband and I opted for the rafting experience by itself, a relaxing, 3-mile meander through the Jamaican jungle, a serene ending to a most enjoyable trip.

Pool-front rooms at the Azul Beach Resort Negril. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

Pool at the Riu Reggae in Montego Bay. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

If you go: Jamaica

We split our time between two of the most popular tourist areas in Jamaica, Negril and Montego Bay, about 50 miles apart on the west (Negril) and north (Montego Bay) coasts.

Where we stayed: In Negril, we spent two nights at the Azul Beach Resort Negril by Karisma, with 285 rooms, including many with patios adjoining one of four pools. The resort features six restaurants, eight bars and an extra-long beach. Rates include food and drink, plus some water activities, and start at about $210 per person per day, double occupancy. Information: karismahotels.com/azul-beach-resorts/negril

In Montego Bay, we spent three nights at the adults-only Riu Reggae, part of a three-resort Riu complex just east of Sangster International Airport. The resort features 450 rooms, five restaurants, three pools and nightly entertainment, plus access to amenities at the neighboring Riu Montego Bay. The complex has a bit of a party vibe, but I didn’t find it overly loud or rowdy. Rates start at about $200 per person per day, double occupancy. Information: riu.com

Jamaica: By the numbers

Population: 2.8 million

Annual visitors: 4.1 million (about 75% of whom are American)

Size: 4,244 square miles, a bit smaller than Connecticut

Gorgeous Seven Miles Beach on the west coast of Jamaica. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

Milton Williams, proprietor of Bigga Beach Road Restaurant, cooks up jerk chicken along the A1 from Montego Bay to Negril. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

Beach in front of the Riu Montego Bay, just east of Montego Bay, Jamaica. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

Volleyball on Seven Mile Beach near the Azul Beach Resort Negril. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

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Montego Bay, Jamaica Is Hosting the Caribbean’s Biggest Travel Conference Next Month

Hotel companies. Tour operators. Airlines. Tourist boards. Meeting planners. Travel advisors. Media professionals. Caribbean Travel Marketplace is the world’s biggest Caribbean travel conference, and it’s back again this year in the heart of Montego Bay, Jamaica. 

This year’s Caribbean Travel Marketplace is being hosted at the Montego Bay Convention Center, the 42nd annual staging of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s signature event, running from May 20-23, 2024. 

The event, which brings together buyers and suppliers for the Caribbean’s biggest industry, 

This year’s event will have some new additions, including the incorporation of meetings and incentive industry with the first-ever Caribbean MICE Exchange, hosting 20 of the top meeting planners in the industry. 

That’s along with signatures like the Caribbean Travel Forum, which focuses on “Visioning a New Tourism Landscape for the Caribbean,” and an awards luncheon for the Caribbean Hotelier of the Year and the Destination Resilience award, among others. 

More than 150 buyer companies are already signed on to attend, joined by 86 buyer companies. That includes 14 new companies from the European market. 

“We’re thrilled to be heading back to Jamaica for the Caribbean Travel Marketplace! The response from buyers has been really promising. And now, with the addition of other markets like MICE Buyers, Travel Advisors, and Wedding Planners, there’s even more opportunity for sellers,” CHTA Acting CEO and Director General Vanessa Ledesma told Caribbean Journal . “It’s a fantastic chance to meet a diverse range of qualified buyers and industry players all in one spot, saving you on time and travel expenses.”

Other innovations include the new Marketplace Responsible Tourism Day, which gives members and attendees a chance to “directly give back to the community,” Ledesma said. 

“While Marketplace contributes to the destination as a whole, Responsible Tourism Day ensures a direct impact on the Montego Bay Community. Going forward, Responsible Tourism Day will be a permanent part of the Marketplace program,” she said. 

Overall, some 1,000 delegates are expected to attend this year’s conference, including representatives from destinations ranging from Antigua and Barbuda to the Turks and Caicos Islands. 

If you’re involved in the business of Caribbean tourism and hospitality, it’s something you simply cannot miss. 

To learn more about how to register , visit Caribbean Travel Marketplace . 

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Breathless or secrets wild orchid. - Montego Bay Forum

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Breathless or secrets wild orchid.

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I can’t decide which one. Can anyone give me pros and cons. TIA

2 replies to this topic

1 - These names (actually 3 names as Secrets has 2 names) are sections of one resort complex. They are located next to each other and share many facilities.

3 - The Breathless section of the complex has a very large main pool and a smaller roof top pool (I love the view from it). The Secrets sections have multiple pools.

4 - The entire complex is near downtown Montego Bay . Take a taxi to get there as the complex is separated from town by the sea port and an industrial area. The complex is at the end of a spit of land which extends out into the middle of the body of water named Montego Bay.

5 - All of the sections of the complex cater to singles and couples. But Secrets appears to normally have slightly more couples while Breathless has slightly more singles.

Thank you so much :)

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