Top reasons to visit Jamaica
- Stunning Beaches: Jamaica boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches, including the famous Seven Mile Beach, perfect for relaxation and water sports.
- Vibrant Culture: Experience Jamaica's rich heritage through its music, art, and cuisine, with opportunities to explore local markets and traditional ceremonies.
- Majestic Waterfalls: Don't miss the iconic Dunn's River Falls, where you can climb cascading waters or enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
- Outdoor Adventures: Engage in thrilling activities like kayaking, hiking, and golfing amidst Jamaica's lush landscapes.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxurious resorts to charming guesthouses, catering to every traveler's needs for a memorable stay.
Find great hotels in Jamaica
Discover a diverse selection of accommodations in Jamaica, from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, ideal for beach lovers, families, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat or a vibrant stay near local attractions, the island offers an array of options to cater to every traveller's desires. Explore top hotels and hidden gems that promise a memorable Jamaican experience, ensuring a perfect base for your holiday.
- Hotel Riu Montego Bay - Adults Only - All Inclusive: This 3.5-star hotel is an ideal choice for those seeking a serene adults-only retreat. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, the hotel features a variety of all-inclusive amenities, including unlimited food and drinks. Guests can enjoy non-motorised water sports, themed parties, and nightly entertainment. The property is eco-certified, making it suitable for eco-conscious travellers. Direct beach access allows for adventure sports such as windsurfing, snorkeling, and kayaking, ensuring an exhilarating holiday experience amidst a stunning natural backdrop.
- Hotel Riu Ocho Rios - All Inclusive: Rated 4 stars with an 8.2 out of 10 guest rating, this vibrant resort caters to families and adventure seekers alike. It offers a plethora of all-inclusive services, including a range of sports activities like surfing, kayaking, and snorkelling. The presence of a children’s club and water park makes it particularly suitable for families, ensuring younger guests are entertained. With direct access to the beach and a lively atmosphere complete with a nightclub and various performances, this hotel is perfect for those looking for both relaxation and fun.
- Bahia Principe Explore Jamaica - All Inclusive: This 4-star resort offers a delightful blend of beach and golf-themed experiences. The all-inclusive package includes a selection of dining options, non-motorised water sports, and entertainment activities. Guests can enjoy direct access to the beach, along with facilities for tennis and kayaking. The focus on golf-themed experiences appeals to enthusiasts, while the property’s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by themed parties and nightly performances. With a commitment to providing a comprehensive holiday experience, this resort is well-suited for beach lovers and golf aficionados alike.
Where to stay in Jamaica
Jamaica offers an enchanting blend of adventure and relaxation, making it the ideal Caribbean paradise for travellers. Explore the vibrant cities like Kingston and Montego Bay, or unwind on pristine beaches such as Seven Mile Beach. Discover the lush Jamaican countryside, rich in culture and history, where you can savour the island's authentic flavours. Whether seeking romantic escapes or family-friendly excursions, Jamaica promises an unforgettable experience in its sun-kissed landscapes and warm-hearted communities.
- Montego Bay: Known as the tourist capital of Jamaica, Montego Bay is a vibrant city that boasts stunning beaches and a lively atmosphere. Located on the northwest coast, it serves as a gateway to various attractions. Visitors flock here for outdoor activities, family-friendly experiences, and world-class golf courses. The city is rich in history, with landmarks such as Rose Hall Great House and a bustling local market. The peak travel periods are during March and from July to August, making it an ideal time to enjoy the warm Caribbean sun and local events.
- Negril: Renowned for its breathtaking Seven Mile Beach, Negril is a laid-back city that offers an adventurous spirit amidst its serene surroundings. Nestled on the western tip of Jamaica, it is a popular destination for those seeking beach relaxation and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the stunning cliffs and partake in activities ranging from snorkelling to cliff diving. The peak travel seasons mirror that of Montego Bay, with March and July to August drawing the largest crowds. Negril’s charming resorts and vibrant nightlife make it a perfect getaway for relaxation and excitement alike.
- Ocho Rios: Ocho Rios is a picturesque city located on Jamaica's north coast, famed for its lush landscapes and stunning waterfalls, including the iconic Dunn's River Falls. This destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, with opportunities for hiking, diving, and exploring local parks. The city experiences peak tourist activity during July to August and December, making it a vibrant hub during these months. With its beautiful beaches and adventure activities, Ocho Rios offers a delightful blend of relaxation and exploration for every visitor.
Things to do in Jamaica
Shopping
In Jamaica, visit the bustling Coronation Market in Kingston for vibrant local produce and handcrafted souvenirs. For a more modern experience, explore the Sovereign Centre, where you'll find a mix of shops and eateries, perfect for a leisurely shopping day.
Recreation
In Negril, the Rockhouse Spa offers holistic treatments with stunning ocean views, allowing you to rejuvenate amid lush tropical gardens. In Montego Bay, the Round Hill Hotel and Villas features a serene spa with personalised wellness programmes and yoga sessions overlooking the tranquil Caribbean Sea.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of river rafting on the White River, where you navigate through lush landscapes and exhilarating rapids. Explore the stunning Blue Hole, a hidden gem with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and cliff jumping. Discover the vibrant underwater world while snorkelling at Doctor's Cave Beach.
Nightlife
In Kingston, the vibrant music scene at Dub Club offers a unique reggae experience with stunning views. Montego Bay’s Margaritaville provides a lively setting with dancing and cocktails, while Negril's Roots Bamboo features laid-back beach vibes and live performances, perfect for enjoying the island's rhythm under the stars.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Jamaica
To save money on your trip to Jamaica, consider visiting between September and November when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for better rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals, especially on Tuesdays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Look for eco-friendly accommodations and use the site’s filters to find the best prices. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities can lead to significant savings, so keep an eye out for package deals and discounts to ensure an affordable escape.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Jamaica are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Jamaica is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Jamaica is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Jamaica is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and various other criteria. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel booking in Jamaica with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Jamaica
Jamaica offers a vibrant mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, majestic waterfalls, and historic churches, catering to those seeking both relaxation and adventure. The diverse points of interest provide an enriching experience for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty and rich heritage.
- Dunn's River Falls: Experience the thrill of climbing the terraced limestone waterfall, where fresh water cascades into the Caribbean Sea. Surrounded by lush tropical foliage, Dunn's River Falls offers a unique blend of adventure and romance, making it an ideal spot for both couples and families.
- Rose Hall Great House: Explore the rich history and culture of Jamaica at the Rose Hall Great House, a stunning Georgian mansion. Known for its intriguing tales of the legendary White Witch, this historic site provides a captivating glimpse into Jamaica's colonial past.
- Doctor's Cave Beach: Unwind on the pristine sands of Doctor's Cave Beach, renowned for its clear turquoise waters and vibrant atmosphere. Ideal for sunbathing and swimming, this beach offers a quintessential Jamaican coastal experience.
Best time to go to Jamaica
The best time to visit Jamaica is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January, February and March are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Jamaica
Jamaica offers three major airports for tourists. Montego Bay's Sir Donald Sangster International Airport (MBJ) is 129km from the island's attractions, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Sandals Montego Bay, just 2km away, providing convenient access. Kingston's Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) is located 10km away, featuring hotels such as the 4.5-star S Hotel Kingston, which is 8km from the airport. Ocho Rios' Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) is 47km away, with options like the 5-star Moon Palace Jamaica, 14km from the airport, offering various shuttle services. Each airport provides convenient access to a range of luxurious accommodations.