7 best places to visit in JAMAICA
Curious about the best places to visit in Jamaica? Jamaica is a tropical island country situated in the Caribbean Sea.
It is the third-largest island in the Caribbean. Despite the fact that it is still a smallish island, there is no shortage of places to see and things to do in Jamaica. Lush mountains, gorgeous beaches, breathtaking waterfalls, remote villages, impressive caves and so much more. Sounds like a place you would want a visit?
But what exactly to see in Jamaica?
To help you with the task of planning we’ve created this list of some of the best places to visit in Jamaica.
7 best places to visit in Jamaica
Kingston
Kingston is the capital and largest city of Jamaica, as well as the cultural and economic centre of the country.
Kingston is home to beautiful, well-preserved colonial architecture. Explore its colonial gems such as The Court House, Devon House and others.
Do not miss the Bob Marley Museum if you are a fan of reggae. It is a museum dedicated to the popular reggae musician Bob Marley as well as his former house.
Explore Hope Botanical Gardens. With an area of 200-acres, the gardens are the largest public green space in Kingston, and home to Jamaica’s collection of endemic and exotic plants.
If you have time, visit Lime Cay — a tiny island with beautiful beaches off the coast near Kingston.
Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains are the longest mountain range in Jamaica. While the coast of Jamaica has a hot tropical climate, the mountains experience a more temperate climate.
The Blue Mountain range includes the island’s highest point, Blue Mountain Peak.
With a height of 2256 m, the peak offers expansive views over Kingston city and the surrounding countryside. Both the north and south coasts of the island can be seen.
If the day is clear and visibility is good, you may even see Cuba in the distance. Who knows, maybe you’ll be one of the lucky ones who sees it?
The Blue Mountain Peak is accessible via a hiking trail.
After you have explored the Blue Mountains, visit a coffee farm to learn how the famous Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is cultivated, harvested and brewed.
Montego Bay
Home to exuberant pubs and a wide array of restaurants and cafes, Montego Bay is a popular beach holiday destination in Jamaica.
The city also features a cruise line terminal and several beaches and resorts.
Relaxing on the perfect white sandy beaches and swimming in clear blue waters are the best things to do in Montego Bay.
Have a refreshing drink on the beach while taking in the beauty of the stunning sunset.
Dunn’s River Falls
Dunn’s River Falls is a famous waterfall near Ocho Rios, and one of the best places to visit in Jamaica.
Due to the proximity to Ocho Rios and the natural beauty, the waterfalls receive thousands of visitors every year.
Dunn’s River Falls is a terraced waterfall and is great for climbing. There’s a scenic, sandy beach with a cafeteria just a few minutes walk away from the falls.
However, Dunn’s River Falls are not the only waterfall in Jamaica. There are several beautiful waterfalls all around the country. Make sure to check them out.
Rio Grande
Boasting lush, picturesque landscapes, Rio Grande is every nature lover’s paradise.
Explore the river valley with an experienced guide. Experience pure tranquillity while rafting on the river and visit villages, hidden caves and waterfalls on your way.
Swim in the refreshing waters of the river.
Rafting on the Rio Grande is one of the best things to do in Jamaica.
The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Hole is a coastal lagoon located near Port Antonio.
With a depth of 55 m, the Blue Hole is connected to the sea by a narrow tunnel and is fed by freshwater springs.
Due to the presence of a mix of cool fresh water and warmer seawater, the water in the Blue Hole changes colour throughout the day.
Rent a kayak and paddle around the lagoon.
The water is great for a refreshing swim, and the green lush forest surrounding the lagoon makes it a perfect relaxing getaway from the bustling cities.
Negril
Negril is a beach resort town on the west coast of Jamaica. The town is known for its laid back vibe and friendly locals and is considered one of the best places to visit in Jamaica.
Negril is home to the most famous beach in Jamaica — Seven Mile Beach.
North of the Seven Mile Beach is another beautiful, but the little quieter beach — Bloody Bay.
Do not miss Barney’s Flower & Hummingbird Garden — a lovely garden showcasing a wide range of exotic hummingbirds and colourful tropical flora.
Visit the famous Rick’s Café. Sitting atop picturesque cliffs, the cafe is a popular cliff-diving spot. While jumping from the 12-metre high cliff looks fun, it’s actually very dangerous. Jump only if you feel confident about your skills.
In 2016 the café was ranked as one of the top 50 bars in the world. It is also a very popular sunset watching spot.
Jamaica travel tips
- Find out if you need a visa to travel to Jamaica. Citizens of many countries can visit Jamaica without a visa. However, in order to be allowed in the country, visitors from some of the visa exempt countries have to provide a vaccination certificate for Measles, Polio and Rubella.
- The Jamaican Dollar is the official currency, but you can use US dollars in Jamaica too. However, we suggest you pay for everything in Jamaican dollars. Thus you’ll get a better exchange rate.
- Jamaica is famous for its gorgeous beaches. So, everywhere you go along the coast, there will be a beautiful beach nearby.
- Major tourist areas in Jamaica are pretty safe. But still, you should exercise caution, especially in popular party destinations. Don’t flash your belongings and keep your wits about you. Don’t travel alone at night. Also, we advise against walking alone at night. Be wary of pickpockets. Don’t forget that Kingston is not considered a very safe location for travellers, especially its downtown. Be careful there.
- Just like other destinations in the Caribbean Sea, Jamaica has a hurricane season that runs between the months of June and November.
- The best weather in Jamaica is between December and April.
- Avoid travelling to Jamaica during the American spring break. Everything is more expensive then. Not to mention loud and drunk crowds.
- There is so much more to Jamaica than all-inclusive resorts. We recommend you to stay at local guesthouses and hotels, thus supporting the locals.
- Homophobia is rampant, and the gay sex is illegal. LGBT travellers should exercise caution in Jamaica.
