Jamaica is a Caribbean island bursting with culture. It's also home to amazing beaches and mouthwatering food like jerk chicken.
The country's lush topography is sprinkled with all-inclusive resorts clustered in Montego Bay, with its British-colonial architecture, and Negril, known for its reef-lined beaches. Then there are the mountains, where Taino and Maroon villagers settled; they offer enchanting hiking trails and coffee plantation tours.
Montego Bay
Known as “MoBay” to the locals, this crowded resort city has a lot going for it: horseshoe-shaped Doctor’s Cave Beach, duty-free shopping and year-round entertainment. It’s also home to Cornwall Regional Hospital, port facilities and second homes for upper-class Jamaicans and North Americans from Kingston and beyond.
Among MoBay’s highlights are plantation houses like Bellefield Great House, where tours of the 18th-century manor contrast the silk wallpaper and extravagant chandeliers with its slave history. You can also take a day trip to Mayfield Falls, where 21 natural pools and underwater caves invite tourists to scramble up, over and around the tumbling cascades—and even enjoy "showering" under them.
For luxury, consider Jewel Grande Montego Bay, an all-inclusive property that offers sweeping ocean views, premium amenities and butler service in select rooms. Or book a stay at Round Hill, a boutique hotel in Hopewell with tropical surrounds and access to a private beach. If you’re seeking an active holiday, opt for a resort on what the locals call the Hip Strip, where you’ll be close to restaurants and bars with a fun Jamaican feel.
Negril
When it comes to choosing a Jamaica vacation destination, there are many factors that come into play. Depending on your priorities, you might decide to opt for Montego Bay or Negril. Both offer amazing beaches, world-class resorts and a variety of exciting activities and attractions.
Known for its breathtaking sunsets and all-inclusive hotels, Negril is a beach lover’s paradise. The beach is one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean and features powder-soft sand and azure water. There are also craggy cliffs and coral caves to explore.
A trip to Negril wouldn’t be complete without visiting Rick’s Cafe. This popular restaurant is not only a great place to enjoy some delicious seafood, but it’s also an excellent place to watch the daredevils jump off the huge cliffs.
Ocho Rios
The town of Ocho Rios is a hub for Jamaican culture, where visitors can enjoy duty-free shopping and a renowned cruise ship terminal along with pristine beaches and luxury all-inclusive resorts. The town brims with activities and attractions that range from exploring a magic rainforest to soaking up the iconic Dunn’s River Falls.
For those looking to connect with nature and immerse themselves in Jamaica’s natural beauty, a visit to the Blue Hole is a must. This natural attraction is home to beautiful free-flowing waterfalls, where visitors can swim, hike trails, and bask in the water.
Ocho Rios is also the home of Margaritaville, a popular theme park created by Jimmy Buffett. Guests can explore, eat, dance, and party at this unique island retreat where reggae and other tropical music is played constantly. It is a fun place for families and couples. The best way to experience this fun destination is to book a day trip on a catamaran tour.
Kingston
There’s more than just beaches to explore on a Jamaican vacation, and one of the most interesting is Nanny Falls. Named after a Jamaican heroine of the Maroons, this spectacular waterfall is a wonderful place for a nature walk and to learn about Jamaica’s history.
You can’t travel to Kingston without visiting the Bob Marley Museum, which is located in his former home. If you want to stay close to this point of interest, consider booking a room at the Easy Living Hotel or Lilford Mews Suites.
The best time to visit Kingston is in the winter, between November and April. This is when temperatures are warmer and hotel rates are cheaper than during the summer. It’s also outside of the hurricane season.
