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Plan Your Trip to Jamaica: Best of Jamaica Tourism

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Jamaica

Is there anything better than swaying from a hammock in a warm patch of Jamaican sun? If you're seeking laid-back vibes, you've come to the right place. But Jamaica offers plenty of outdoor adventure for those that want it, too. Consider diving into Blue Hole, rafting on Martha Brae River, even bobsledding down Mystic Mountain. Fuel up on delicious, stick-to-your-ribs food like jerk chicken before exploring. It's also worth visiting the authentic music clubs of Kingston, especially for fans of reggae.
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Essential Jamaica

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Best outdoor activities in Jamaica

My first trip to Jamaica was all about romance—I had my honeymoon here. Since then, I’ve been back several times and have discovered the island’s more adventurous side. Beyond swimming and snorkelling, there’s everything from rafting down Martha Brae River to hiking the famous Blue Mountains. These are my favourite outdoor adventures in Jamaica.
  • Rick's Cafe
    5,637
    You wouldn’t expect one of Jamaica’s most legendary hangouts to be tucked away in Negril, a sleepy beach town on the western end of the island. But for 50 years, people have flocked to Rick’s Cafe to catch the sunset and see the gravity-defying local cliff divers. You can get in on the action, too—there are several jumping spots for both experienced and novice divers.
  • Blue Mountains
    421
    Jamaica’s beloved Blue Mountain coffee isn’t the only thing this area is known for—it’s a haven for hikers as well. The most challenging trail ascends the 7,500-foot Blue Mountain Peak, the highest point in Jamaica. (On a clear day, you can even see Cuba!) The seven-mile trek is steep; expect it to take about seven hours. Tip: The hike is best done with a guide during the dry season from December to April.
  • Martha Brae River
    1,970
    Few things are as calming as floating on a bamboo raft down the Martha Brae River, between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. Each raft is equipped with cushioned seats and comes with a guide who will expertly paddle your raft down the river. Bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to add on a limestone mud massage (it’s worth it). I suggest setting aside two hours total for the experience.
  • Dunn's River Falls and Park
    20,243
    Tourists and locals alike come to Dunn’s River Falls to soak in the natural pools and climb the rocky cascades (make sure you wear water shoes). While children play at the splash park, adults can get an adrenaline rush on the zipline that soars above the falls. By late afternoon, Dunn’s River gets crowded with cruise ship passengers, so plan to arrive earlier to have the place to yourself.
  • Green Grotto Caves
    706
    Cool off by exploring the Green Grotto Caves, on the northern coast. The caves have a fascinating history—they were once a hideout for Jamaican Maroons (a community of escaped African slaves) and Arawak Indigenous people. Today, you can spend an hour or two exploring the stalagmites and stalactites with an experienced guide. You may even get an up-close encounter with the bats living in the caves.
  • Seven Mile Beach
    8,116
    Not to play favourites, but it’s pretty hard to beat Seven Mile Beach in Negril. You can spend a whole day lounging on this pristine stretch (don’t forget cash to rent chairs and an umbrella). The powdery white sand and tranquil water also make this beach ideal for snorkelling right off of the shore. Keep an eye out for angelfish, pufferfish, and stingrays.
  • Blue Hole
    7,160
    It’s obvious how this swimming hole in Ocho Rios got its name. The eye-popping limestone pool has some of the clearest turquoise water I’ve ever seen. Jump in from three staggered platforms, swing off a vine, or step right into the 20-foot deep natural pool. Or, hike 10 minutes to Secret Falls, which has a thundering cascade and shallower sections for wading. Just watch your step—the ground is quite slippery.

How to do Jamaica in 2 days

Beachfront snorkelling, wild river floating, and limestone mud spa treatments
Read on

Jamaica Is Great For

Beachside drinks and late-night dancing

Soaking up Jamaican culture

Surfing, sunbathing, and long naps on the beach

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Jamaica travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Popular Resorts

According to forum posts, some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica include RIU Palace Tropical Bay, Hilton Rose Hall, and Sunscape. These resorts are recommended for their family-friendly amenities and activities.

Additional Recommendations

Travelers have called out Jewel Runaway Bay, Jewel Grande Montego Bay, and Royalton Blue Waters as excellent choices. These resorts are noted for their good beaches, pools, and inclusive activities suitable for families.

Budget-Friendly Options

For those looking to maximize their budget, forum users suggest considering the time of travel, as prices can vary significantly between the high and low season. Resorts like Iberostar Rose Hall and Royal Decameron Cornwall Beach are also recommended, especially if extending the stay to over five days to get better deals.

Luxury and Adult Options

For a more luxurious or adult-only experience, the Iberostar Grand and Hyatt Zilara come highly recommended. These resorts offer exclusive adult-only areas while providing options to visit family-friendly sections if needed.

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Popular Beach Destinations

According to forum posts, Negril is frequently mentioned as a popular beach destination in Jamaica, particularly for its Seven Mile Beach, known for its long stretches of sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Travelers have highlighted that Negril provides a good mix of accommodations, from all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels, and offers various activities along the beach.

Beach Activities and Features

Some travelers said that Negril's beaches are not rocky, which makes them ideal for swimming and beach activities. The area is also noted for having minimal seaweed, ensuring a more pleasant beach experience. Additionally, the beaches in Negril are described as having a lively atmosphere with access to local pubs, bars, and live music venues.

Alternative Beach Locations

For users interested in surfing, forum posts suggest considering beaches near Kingston or the eastern part of the island. Boston Bay in Portland is specifically recommended for surfing, with available lessons and a less touristy vibe compared to more popular destinations like Negril.

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Family-Friendly Resorts

Some travelers have recommended the Azul Beach Resort in Negril and Jewel Grande in Montego Bay for families, noting that these locations offer multi-bedroom accommodations suitable for larger families. However, opinions on Azul are mixed regarding its suitability for teenagers.

All-Inclusive Options

According to forum posts, family-friendly all-inclusive resorts such as the Hilton Rose Hall and Royalton Negril are popular choices. These resorts offer amenities like pools, activities, and multiple dining options that cater to families with children of various ages.

Alternative Accommodations

For those considering non-all-inclusive options, properties like Rondells with villas and the Treehouse, which offers beach suites in Negril, have been highlighted. These accommodations provide a more local experience with access to nearby activities and dining options suitable for families.

Activity-Oriented Stays

Travelers have also pointed out that resorts like Jewel Runaway Bay and the Franklin D Resort are tailored towards families, offering specific amenities like game rooms and activities that keep younger guests entertained.

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Tipping Policies

According to forum posts, some resorts in Jamaica, such as Couples, Sandals, Beaches, and Hedonism II in Negril, strictly prohibit tipping as part of their policy. It is advised to inquire about the tipping policy upon arrival at your resort.

Currency for Tipping

Travelers have called out that both US dollars and Jamaican dollars are widely accepted for tipping in Jamaica. However, a preference for tipping in Jamaican dollars is expressed by some due to its convenience for local workers who might face difficulties exchanging US dollars.

General Tipping Practice

For many users, tipping is customary and appreciated, especially for service providers outside of resorts, such as tour guides, drivers, and waitstaff in local restaurants. Tips typically range from 15% to 25% in restaurants, and a few dollars for bag handlers or housekeeping staff per day.

Observing Local Customs

Some travelers said observing local customs and how others tip in Jamaica can be a good guide for appropriate tipping behavior. It is generally advised to tip in cash to ensure that the service staff receives it directly.

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Popular Recommendations

According to forum posts, Beaches Negril is highly recommended for families due to its comprehensive amenities that cater to children, including a waterpark and activities involving Sesame Street characters. However, it is noted for being pricey.

Alternative Options

Some travelers have suggested the Royalton Negril for its kid-friendly features like a splash activity pool. Additionally, the Azul Beach Resort is favored for its proximity to a potentially reopening water-based playground at Island Lux Beach Park. Both are considered good alternatives to Beaches Negril.

Additional Considerations

For those seeking more budget-friendly options, the Hilton Rose Hall in Montego Bay offers a lazy river and water slide, although its beach does not compare to those in Negril. Furthermore, travelers have mentioned that while the RIU resorts in Negril are close to attractions like the Kool Runnings Water Park, they may not offer the best customer service.

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Beach Quality and Location

According to forum posts, the S Hotel in Montego Bay is highly recommended for its prime location on a well-regarded section of the beach. It is praised for being modern and having a great beachfront, making it a popular choice among travelers looking for quality beach time.

Facility and Services

Some travelers have highlighted the Royal Decameron Cornwall Beach for its location on a natural sand beach, which is noted for being one of the better sections in Montego Bay. This resort is also appreciated for being smaller and more navigable, which could be beneficial for those who prefer less walking.

Overall Experience

The Riu Palace is mentioned as part of a complex of three resorts that share some facilities like spas, gyms, and water sports. Despite its reputation as a party resort with a man-made beach, it offers a variety of amenities that could appeal to travelers looking for a lively vacation atmosphere.

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Transfer Companies and Options

According to forum posts, travelers have several options for airport transfers in Jamaica. Popular transfer companies include JUTA (Jamaican Union of Travelers Association) and JTL (Jamaica Tours Ltd.), both offering desk services at Montego Bay airport for immediate bookings. These companies provide both private and shared transfers, with shared transfer costs ranging from $25 to $30 per person.

Price and Booking Recommendations

Some travelers recommend booking transfers in advance, especially for private rides or larger groups. Private transfers generally cost around $70 for up to four people, which can be more economical for groups compared to shared transfers. Booking through company websites or directly at airport desks upon arrival is a common practice.

Special Considerations

For those looking for luxury or specific needs, options like private limousines or taxis are available, with prices varying based on the company and service level. During the COVID-19 pandemic, some travelers suggested hiring COVID-certified drivers from lists available on official Jamaican tourism websites to ensure safety and compliance with health guidelines.

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Excursion Activities

Many travelers on the forum suggest a variety of excursions in Negril, including visits to YS Falls, the Black River Safari, and Calico Jack's Pirate Shack. The One Love Pub Crawl is frequently mentioned as an enjoyable outing, and some users recommend the sunset catamaran cruise to Rick's Cafe.

Adventure and Nature

For those interested in a mix of adventure and nature, Zimbali Culinary Retreats offers farm-to-table dining experiences in a scenic hilltop setting. Activities like snorkeling at Xtabi, exploring the Blue Hole, and visiting Little Bay for interactions with local culture and natural beauty are also popular.

Local and Cultural Insights

Travelers have called out specific local experiences such as the Rastasafari, which is an adventure tour that includes a ride through the countryside with stops to learn about local flora and culture. The Rastafarian experience, which includes a tour of a ganja farm and a vegan meal, is noted for its cultural depth.

Relaxation and Viewing

For more relaxed excursions, visiting the Negril Lighthouse, watching cliff divers at Rick's Cafe, and enjoying sunsets are recommended. These activities provide a laid-back yet engaging experience of Negril's scenic and vibrant atmosphere.

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