Jamaica Travelers Recommend

With three days in Montego Bay, not only can you experience many of the area’s natural highlights and historical sites, but you’ll also have time to immerse yourself in local culture and take an excursion or two. Here’s how to get the most out of three days in this Jamaican city.

Day 1: MoBay Highlights

Spend your first day in Montego Bay soaking up the local ambience. Start with a walk down the Hip Strip, where you can pick up classic Jamaican souvenirs such as rum and coffee. From here, head straight to Doctor’s Cave Beach, a beautiful strip of white sand that leads out to calm, crystalline waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Grab lunch here before making your way out to the Rose Hall Great House, an 18th-century plantation home that’s allegedly haunted by a murderous former resident; those interested in the paranormal should consider sticking around for a ghost-themed night tour. Otherwise, head back to the city center in time to board a sunset cruise, many of which include free drinks and snacks; some also include a stop at a beach for an evening swim.

Day 2: Active Adventure and Rastafari Culture

Start your second day in Montego Bay with a trip out to the jungle. Don't miss the chance to go ziplining through the jungle canopy, a great way to get your adrenaline pumping while taking in a bird's-eye view of local fauna and flora. Alternatively, take an ATV ride through the jungle or go river tubing along the Great River, with its mix of calm stretches and rapids. Numerous tours depart from Montego Bay, and many are customizable depending on your interests. In the afternoon, head back to the Montego Bay area to visit to the Rastafari Indigenous Village. Here you can learn about the Rastafarian philosophy and way of life, explore the organic vegetable garden, learn about the Rastafarian ital diet, and even learn how to make and play drums. Finish your day back in the center of town with a laid-back dinner, or if you still have energy to burn, dance the night away at Margaritaville After Dark.

Day 3: Marley and Waterfalls

On your final day, head out to Dunn’s River Falls, a terraced waterfall a short drive from Montego Bay. If you like to hike, you can take a walk up to the top of the falls; otherwise, there’s an observation deck from which visitors can take in the site. Either way, be sure to pack a swimsuit so you can cool off in one of the falls’ many pools. In the afternoon, grab lunch in the area and then head to Bob Marley’s birthplace, Nine Mile. Here you can see where the king of reggae used to meditate, or pay your respects at his mausoleum; you’ll likely get the most out of your experience if you visit with a guide or as part of a tour. On the way back to MoBay, top off your trip with an evening boat ride (and optional swim) in the beautiful bioluminescent waters of the famous Luminous Lagoon. 

If you have three days in the town of Negril, in western Jamaica, you can enjoy a relaxing combination of beach time and outdoor activities in the nearby countryside, including climbing through waterfalls, zipping through jungle canopies, and riding horses on the beach. Here are some ways to spend 72 hours in this resort destination.

Day 1: Relaxing in Negril

Start your trip with a private sightseeing tour to get oriented, and check out attractions such as Seven Mile Beach. Afterwards head to the beach to swim, sunbathe, join a game of beach volleyball, go snorkeling or parasailing, or hop on a glass-bottom boat tour. Alternatively, you can head to Kool Runnings Adventure Park, a water park that offers a family-friendly way to stay cool, or take a catamaran cruise to nearby hotspots such as Floyd’s Pelican Bar. In the evening, find a great place to view the sunset, whether from a beachside bar or on a cruise to Rick’s Cafe, a popular watering hole on top of coastal cliffs. Later, check out Negril’s bars and clubs on a nightlife tour.

Day 2: Surrounding Adventures

On your second day, get active: Head out on a tour to the Black River and the well-known YS Falls, where you can take a boat ride, enjoy fresh-water swimming, and climb the tiers of a waterfall. You can also take zipline tours through the lush jungle canopy, horseback rides, and ATV tours that take you past villages and along off-road tracks. 

After you get your adrenaline going, make a stop at the Appleton Estate (which is included on some outdoor adventure tours) for some local rum, then head inland a bit to the Zimbali Mountain Cooking Studio for a cooking demonstration and dinner. End the day on Jamaica’s north coast with a boat ride on the Luminous Lagoon, where microorganisms create a natural shimmer in the dark water.

Day 3: Go Exploring

Jamaica has no shortage of attractions that show off the island’s lush natural beauty, and many are within easy reach of Negril. Take a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls and Park, near Ocho Rios, one of the island’s most popular locations. You can climb up the terraced waterfall, admire the scenic countryside, and go snorkeling; some tours even include a catamaran cruise. Then, for one last adventure, head to nearby Blue Hole, a natural swimming hole with a waterfall where you can climb, jump, and swim.

One of the most popular spots in Jamaica, Montego Bay is a laid-back, tourist-friendly city with excellent beaches, fascinating history, and a wealth of activities. Even with just one day here, visitors can experience many of MoBay's most interesting attractions. Here's how.

Morning: Shopping or Swimming

Spend your morning getting acquainted with Montego Bay. To discover the city’s best shops and boutiques and get the lay of the land with a guide, consider joining a shopping tour. Montego Bay is a good place to pick up everything from Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee to quirky souvenirs in Rastafarian colors of red, gold, and green, with numerous souvenir shops right on the main Hip Strip drag. Alternatively, make your way straight to Doctor's Cave Beach, a famous stretch of white sand flanked by turquoise water that's ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Grab lunch here.

Afternoon: Rose Hall Great House

After lunch, head out to see one of the most significant historic attractions in the area, the 18th-century Rose Hall Great House. This beautifully restored Georgian mansion sits in the middle of a former plantation and is an excellent spot to learn about life in Jamaica during colonial times. Be warned: The house is allegedly haunted by former resident Annie Palmer, the "White Witch of Rose Hall”; legend has it that she poisoned three of her husbands in the house.

Night: Luminous Lagoon

A highlight for many visitors to MoBay is an evening boat tour on the Luminous Lagoon in nearby Falmouth. The brackish lagoon gets its name from the phytoplankton here that emit a phosphorescent glow when agitated. Boatloads of visitors head out onto the lagoon every evening to see the lights in action; pack a swimsuit for the chance to jump in the waters to swim amongst the organisms. Visiting requires driving out to Falmouth's Glistening Waters Restaurant and joining a boat tour, but travelers without transportation can choose a package tour option that includes round-trip transportation from Montego Bay.

For Bob Marley fans, Jamaica’s top attractions include the legendary musician’s birthplace, his childhood home in the village of Nine Mile, his meditation spot on Mount Zion, and his final resting place. Here are some of the best Marley- and reggae-themed tours in Jamaica.

Bob Marley Museum Tours

Lovers of reggae music won’t want to miss the Bob Marley Museum, his former home that is kept in the same condition as it was when he was alive. Key points of interest are the exhibition hall, the Legend Café, his personal Jeep, and the theater. The museum houses Marley’s Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, some of his favorite clothes, his many gold and platinum records, and more memorabilia. 

Nine Mile Tours

Both the musical icon’s birthplace and final resting place, Nine Mile is a little town in the Saint Ann Parish hills. Visitors will enjoy the scenic countryside as they travel through through several small towns to reach the village, located deep in the mountains. Many tours include a stop at Mount Zion, where Marley frequently meditated and composed some of his famous songs. 

Bob Marley Experience Tours

Celebrate the many achievements of the greatest recording artist Jamaica has ever produced during a daylong Bob Marley Experience Tour. Private and small-group tours visit the musician’s former homes, and learn about his accomplishments and way of life. 

Rastafari Indigenous Village Tours

For those looking to really explore Rastafarian religion and culture, a tour of the Rastafari Indigenous Village, in the hills of the Montego River Gardens, is a must. Meet the farmers, musicians, and artisans who live in the small village as you participate in activities like crafts, drumming, and cooking with community members. Learn about the guiding principles of the Rastafari religion—based on “one love, one heart,”—and come away with a deeper understanding of the culture. 

Renowned for its scenic shores and electric nightlife, Montego Bay (also known as Mo’ Bay) is Jamaica’s party capital. Whether you want to dance to reggae around a beach bonfire, try water sports, or snorkel amid schools of tropical fish in Montego Bay Marine Park—these are the beaches to visit. 

Doctor's Cave Beach

If you’re looking for an island paradise, this is just what the doctor ordered. With 900 feet (274 meters) of pristine sand, warm water, and Caribbean sunshine, Doctor’s Cave is by far the most popular beach in Montego Bay. An entrance fee is required, but the beach is well-equipped with pristine restrooms, ample deck chairs and umbrellas, and a stocked beach bar.  

Walter Fletcher Beach

At Walter Fletcher Beach (also known as Aquasol Beach Park) you’ll find plenty of shade, calm surf, and brightly colored umbrellas. Its close proximity to the port makes it a top choice for cruise ship passengers. Walter Fletcher Beach is also the starting point for most yacht cruises and catamaran tours around Montego Bay. 

Dead End Beach

At the far end of Montego Bay’s “Hip Strip” (Gloucester Avenue), Dead End Beach is much more pleasant than its name suggests. The public beach is free and often much quieter than its rivals, so you can swim in the shimmering turquoise waters without battling crowds.

Luminous Lagoon

While not technically a beach, the Luminous Lagoon is a beloved natural wonder located off the coast of Falmouth. A short drive east of Montego Bay, the lagoon’s  iridescent blue waters are even more magical at sunset. Head there on a night cruise from Montego Bay and dive in to swim in the glowing lagoon.

With two days in Montego Bay, you’ll have enough time to check out local beaches and historic attractions and get out into the surrounding areas to see the region’s rich natural and cultural offerings. Here’s how to plan your time.

Day 1: Local Attractions

**Morning:**Jamaica’s northern coastline is known for its beautiful, white-sand beaches, and Montego Bay is no exception. Spend your first morning here at Doctor’s Cave Beach, a well-maintained, private beach with calm waters that make it ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Grab lunch at the seaside restaurant.

**Afternoon:**In the afternoon, head over to the Rose Hall Great House, one of the most interesting historic sites in town. Dating to the late 18th century, this old plantation house has been beautifully restored with period furniture across its numerous rooms. According to local legend, the house is haunted by a former resident, and ghost stories take center stage in the tours here. 

**Night:**In the evening, make your way out to the Luminous Lagoon. This brackish body of water earns its name because of the presence of phosphorescent phytoplankton that create an enchanting glow. Boat tours depart from the Glistening Waters Restaurant in Falmouth, and tours from Montego Bay that include round-trip transportation are available.

Day 2: Dunn’s River Falls and Bob Marley’s Hometown

**Morning:**Many of Montego Bay's most popular attractions are a bit out of town, but worth the trip. Among these is Dunn's River Falls, a terraced waterfall that descends into a series of refreshing rock pools ideal for swimming. Those who don’t mind a short trek can hike to the top of the falls for great views of the surrounding jungle.

**Afternoon:**While most people associate Bob Marley with Kingston's Trench Town neighborhood, the reggae superstar was actually born in Nine Mile in the parish of Saint Ann. It's a popular attraction for reggae fans to this day, and visitors can take guided tours of the area from Montego Bay, learning about Marley's life and visiting his mausoleum.

**Night:**In the late afternoon, make your way back to Montego Bay in time to board a sunset catamaran cruise, where you can listen to reggae music as you sail the Caribbean waters. Many cruises include free snacks and drinks and stop at local beaches along the way for evening swim sessions. 

With a long stretch of sugary white sand against the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Negril has all you need for a relaxing day on the beach. There’s plenty to do for those who prefer more active vacations, too. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy 24 hours in this resort destination on Jamaica’s west end.

Morning: Fun in the sun

Hit Negril’s Seven Mile Beach, a postcard-perfect piece of the island, to stake out a spot for sunbathing or get the day started with a swim. Go parasailing or snorkeling; try Bliss Bodyboarding; or explore the beach on horseback. For something more festive, take a catamaran party cruise to nearby destinations such as Floyd’s Pelican Bar.

Afternoon: Jamaican adventures

If you’re not one to sit on a beach chair and read a book all day, head out on an adventure in Jamaica’s natural splendors. All-terrain vehicle tours through lush mangroves, over dirt trails, and along remote beaches provide an adrenaline rush on the ground, while zipline tours offer sky-high thrills in the jungle. Or, just cool off at Kool Runnings Water Park.

Night: Eating, drinking, and cruising

Seven Mile Beach faces straight west, making it the ideal place for sunset viewing, preferably with a drink in hand. If you’d rather be out on the water, opt for a sunset cruise to Rick’s Café, a much-loved watering hole perched atop coastal cliffs that spring breakers love to jump off. Or, head to the Luminous Lagoon on Jamaica’s north shore for a nighttime boat ride across the dark water, where shimmering microorganisms create a natural glow. For something totally different, learn about Caribbean cuisine during a dinner experience at Zimbali Mountain Cooking Studio, inland from Negril.

With two days in Negril, you’ll have plenty of time to relax on the beach, plus enjoy some of the outdoor opportunities that await in and around this resort town on Jamaica’s western edge. Here are a few ways to create a 48-hour itinerary that suits your interests.

Day 1: The best of Negril

**Morning:**Get your bearings in Negril on a private sightseeing tour that introduces you to the area’s top attractions. If you prefer to be on the water, hop on a catamaran to nearby destinations such as Floyd’s Pelican Bar.

**Afternoon:**Hit the beach for sunbathing and swimming; try parasailing, snorkeling, or bodyboarding; or go on a glass-bottom boat tour. Alternatively, cool off at Kool Runnings Water Park, across the street from the beach.

**Night:**With its west-facing location, Seven Mile Beach is the ideal place to watch the sunset. Or, embark on a sunset cruise to Rick’s Café, a popular bar atop coastal cliffs that spring breakers love to jump off. Then, if you’re in the mood to party, head out on a nightlife tour of Negril’s best bars and clubs.

Day 2: More of the island

**Morning:**For a break from the salty ocean, take a dip in Jamaica’s fresh water. Spend a few hours at Black River and YS Falls, where you can climb the waterfall’s seven tiers and take a pontoon ride. Some tours include a stop at the Appleton rum estate.

**Afternoon:**Time for a little adventure. Drive along the mangroves in an all-terrain vehicle; explore the beach on horseback; or zoom around the jungle on ziplines. 

**Night:**Learn about Jamaican cuisine—and how to make a few dishes—with a dinner experience at Zimbali Mountain Cooking Studio, just inland from Negril. Alternatively, head to the island’s north coast for a boat ride across the Luminous Lagoon, where shimmering microorganisms make the dark water glow.

Once a tiny fishing village, Ocho Rios is now a lively tourist hub and a must visit long-weekend getaway. Here are some ideas on how to make the most of your stay in this charming place.

Day 1: History and Heritage Immerse yourself in Ocho Rios’ rich history with the Heritage Beach Horse Ride Tour. Begin by traveling to the north coast of Jamaica where you will visit Seville Great House and Heritage Park. Learn about the Taino Indians as you browse a collection of artifacts. Soak in the scenery as you ride by castles, sugar factories and archaeological excavations dating back 500 years. Upon arrival at the beach you will be treated to some fine local produce before wading into the waves on horseback. The return journey will take you past deserted beaches and mangroves, the remains of an 18th-century warehouse and an ancient waterwheel that once powered a sugar mill plantation.

Day 2: Musical Memories Feel the Jamaican’s passion for music on the Zion Bus Tour as your driver-guide captivates you with stories about the legendary Bob Marley. Enjoy a traditional meal at the local Jerk Center before heading on to Nine Mile, the birth and final resting place of the reggae legend. The package also includes a scenic tour of rural St. Ann.

Day 3: Adrenaline, Anyone?

Start your day off with an adventure Tour. Relax as you make your way down the serene Martha Brae River on a bamboo raft. Your tour ends at the world famous Dunn's River Falls. Alternatively you may spend your last day in Ocho Rios interacting with some special sea creatures in the swim, hold and feed the sharks program or one of a kind dolphin encounter.

While many travelers to Jamaica pass through Kingston en route to beach destinations or skip it entirely, the capital is full of culture and history and merits a few days. With three days in the city, you have time to see historic and reggae-related sites, as well as take a day trip out of town. Here’s one way to plan your time.

Day 1: Jamaican Heritage

Spend your first day in Kingston experiencing the city's history and culture. Learn more about colonial and maritime history at Port Royal, home to the 17th-century Fort Charles, now a maritime museum. For art, head to the National Gallery of Jamaica, home to a large collection of artwork from across the Caribbean, including pieces from the celebrated Jamaican artist, Edna Manley. Not far from the National Gallery is Emancipation Park, full of outdoor sculptures and art installations. Art-themed walking tours tend to include both attractions. For a taste of Jamaica, try a cuisine-focused walking tour, which introduces you to Jamaican classics such as patties and jerk chicken. And if your visit happens to be on a Tuesday, make sure to stop by the weekly Kingston Night Market, popular for its large variety of food and crafts vendors.

Day 2: Strictly Roots and Culture

Kingston is the birthplace of reggae music, and its reggae-related attractions are among its biggest draws. Spend your second day visiting reggae sites—you can save time and money and take the stress out of planning by booking a reggae-themed city tour. Popular attractions include the Bob Marley Museum, featuring a large variety of Marley-related ephemera exhibited in the former home of the late singer. Nearby, the Peter Tosh museum focuses on the works of Tosh. Further south, Trench Town is the neighborhood where Bob Marley came of age and is home to the Trench Town Culture Yard Museum; tours to the area usually stop at the museum and devote some time to exploring the neighborhood. If you have time, National Heroes Park is also worth a visit. A number of famous Jamaicans are buried at the botanic garden, including Marcus Garvey, and it's where Marley's famous 1976 Smile Jamaica concert took place.

Day 3: Out into Nature

There are plenty of great spots near Kingston for a day trips, particularly if you like to get out into nature. A short drive inland, the Blue Mountains are known for producing the country's finest coffee, but the area is worth visiting even if you aren't into coffee for its scenery and ample hiking and bird-watching. Know that the drive up can be treacherous, particularly on rainy days, so it's easiest to go with a tour or hire a private guide who’s familiar with the route. Alternatively, consider joining a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls, a terraced waterfall not far from Montego Bay. It’s one of the most popular of Jamaica’s numerous waterfalls, and most tours include the chance to climb up to the top of the falls (with the support of your guide) for expansive views out over the jungle.

With two days in the capital of Jamaica, you have time to visit museums and historic sites and spend a day immersing yourself in the local reggae scene. Here’s one way to go about it.

Day 1: History and Culture

**Morning:**They say one of the best ways to experience a culture is through its food, and Kingston has a lot to offer when it comes to cuisine. Consider starting your day with a food tour, where you get to try local favorite such as jerk chicken and patties (filled puff pastries).

**Afternoon:**In the afternoon, head to Port Royal, at the end of Kingston Harbor, to visit Fort Charles, a 17th-century fort that now houses a maritime museum. Then make your way inland to the National Gallery of Jamaica, home to one of the largest collections of art in the Caribbean region.

**Night:**When the sun begins to set, make your way to Harbour Street, just up from the National Gallery, where there are plenty of restaurants for all budgets. If you’re in town on a Tuesday, don't miss the weekly Kingston Night Market to gorge on street food shop the handicrafts vendors.

Day 2: Reggae Roots

**Morning:**Devote your second day to learning the history of reggae. Start at the Bob Marley Museum in Marley’s old house, followed by a tour of the nearby Peter Tosh Museum. While each can be visited individually, full-day tours that visit both museums along with other reggae-related attractions such as Trenchtown are a better value.

**Afternoon:**In the afternoon, head to Trench Town, where Marley and other reggae stars got their start (you can learn all about it at the Trench Town Culture Yard Museum). If you’re not on a full-day reggae tour, it's recommended to visit this area with a guide or as part of a tour for safety reasons.

**Night:**If you want to continue your reggae experience into the evening, head to a club to listen to dub, roots, or dancehall music; the Kingston Dub Club is a popular option. Alternatively, stop for food and drinks at Usain Bolt Tracks & Records, a music and sports pub owned by the running superstar.

Even with just one day in Kingston, it's possible to get a feel for the city’s arts, culture, and history, with time to hit up museums, see public art, and even do a little shopping. Here’s how.

Morning: Godfathers of Reggae

Make a beeline to the Bob Marley museum on Hope Road, housed in the former home of the famous reggae artist. The museum is only accessible by joining a guided tour (included in the ticket price), and you can prebook your admission to guarantee a spot. From the museum, it's a quick walk to the newer Peter Tosh museum, dedicated to the famous Wailer. Tours that include visits to both, with stops at other reggae-related sites such as Trench Town, are also available for those who want to spend a whole day devoted to Jamaica's best-known cultural export.

Afternoon: Kingston Arts

In the afternoon, head south to the National Gallery of Jamaica to see its extensive collection of Jamaican and pan-Caribbean art, including works from Edna Manley, such as her celebrated sculpture,Negro Aroused. From here, it's a short walk to Emancipation Park, which boasts an extensive mix of temporary and permanent public art installations; the most famous, Redemption Song, takes its name from a Marley classic. Art-focused walking tours often include both stops and are great for those who want to save time and learn about the local art scene from a guide.

Night: The Kingston Night Market

If at all possible, try to arrange your Kingston visit to include a Tuesday night, when Kingston Night Market—just south of the Bob Marley Museum—operates. Here you find all sorts of locally produced arts and crafts for sale along with live music and plenty of opportunities to try local cuisine. Guided tours that include hotel transfers are also available, and having a guide can be useful in helping you to navigate the market, learn about island cuisine, and understand local bargaining practices.