Montego Bay, Jamaica

Things to Do, Attractions, Restaurants, Bars, and More

Thank you for visiting our guide on Montego Bay, Jamaica. Below is a brief history of Montego Bay, followed by descriptions of tours, spas, shopping, restaurants, annual events, and nightlife. Once you are finished reading, be sure to visit our main page for information on other towns in Jamaica, pictures of Jamaica, facts about Jamaica, and other Jamaican links to help you plan your Jamaican vacation.

Montego Bay has a number of unique attractions to enjoy. Dhana Car Rental and Tours, Ltd. can help you experience these sites by renting a car. Click to reserve online now or call toll free for more information: 1-866-276-1884 in North America or (876) 953-9555 in Jamaica. We offer rates as low as US$175 per week, plus taxes and insurance. Click here to find out why Dhana's rates are so low.

The name Montego Bay is believed to be derived from the Spanish name Manteca Bahia or "Bay of Lard," so called because of the lard-making industry made possible by the hunting of wild boars in the surrounding hills.

Montego Bay is Jamaica's second city in size and importance, but it is the island's tourism capital and arguably one of the premier Caribbean resort destinations. The beautiful seaside city has long been the playground of the world's rich and famous. Easily accessible, Montego Bay boasts a first-class international airport as well as a modern port visited by many cruise lines.

The award-winning Sangster International Airport is a major hub for the Caribbean with direct and charter flights from over 60 major gateways and cities across North America, Europe, and South America. The IAM Private Jet Centre is also located in Jamaica's second city, complete with its own fast-track Immigration and Customs processing and even meeting rooms for on-the-go business travellers to Jamaica.

This Jamaican resort city boasts a wide selection of accommodation options including older well-established 5-star luxury resorts, newer all-inclusive hotels, intimate bed and breakfast inns, and private villas. This is complemented by a wealth of transportation facilities and options, plus an unmatched array of amenities and attractions—making Montego Bay a vibrant holiday centre.

City streets are crowded, colourful, and lively. Country folk flock in to visit markets, shops, and banks. Guests from hotels and cruise ships make their way to in-bond shops and Crafts Markets. Architecture is a mixture of last-century "gingerbread" wooden houses interspersed with modern buildings.

Sam Sharpe Square, a pleasant cobblestoned hub of activity, marks the centre of the town, where stands the Cage—formerly a jail for runaway slaves—and the ruins of the Courthouse, built in 1804 and destroyed by fire some 20 years ago. On the western side of the harbour, Montego Freeport has been developed on what were once the mangrove swamps of the Bogue Islands. Here are the deep-water piers which serve as cruise-ship ports of call, and the Montego Bay Free Zone, employing a great number of Montegonians in manufacturing. Jamaica Digiport International, a hi-tech telecommunications centre, is also at Montego Freeport.

Montego Bay's original claim to resort fame was the renowned white-sand Doctor's Cave Beach, which attracted celebrities and socialites from all over the world. The beach is said to be fed by healing mineral springs and it boasts the clearest of waters.

In recent years, other beach clubs have been developed in the area, each with its own special character. The Aquasol Beach Park is closest to town on Gloucester Avenue; Cornwall Beach is just a little beyond Doctor's Cave; Tropical Beach and Rose Hall Beach lie further out of town.

Things to Do in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Montego Bay has a variety of attractions to enjoy. Rent a car from Dhana Car Rental and Tours, Ltd. to explore these sites on your own schedule. Reserve online now or call 1-866-276-1884 (North America) or (876) 953-9555 (Jamaica).

Montego Bay offers plenty for photographers, adventurers, or those curious about exploring beyond the beach. Rent a car or arrange a tour, and with a copy of Focus on Jamaica in hand, set out to discover this exotic land. One visit to Jamaica is never enough!

Shopping in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Part of the pleasure of a vacation is buying souvenirs or simply splurging on something you have always wanted. Jamaica offers plenty of temptations. City Centre Plaza in Montego Bay is devoted almost entirely to in-bond stores, but you’ll find others in the Holiday Village, the Half Moon Shopping Village, and in larger hotels. Be sure to bargain in these shops—it is expected.

Other popular shopping experiences include the Shoppes at Rose Hall and the Witter Village, both located on Jamaica's Elegant Corridor. There, you will find duty-free shopping, specialty boutiques, entertainment, and dining. The main Crafts Market is on Harbour Street in town, with two smaller ones in the hotel area.

Art Galleries in Montego Bay, Jamaica

A visit to Lester Art Gallery in the hills above Reading can be a tour in itself. The gallery is devoted to works of the late Polish sea captain and painter Michael Leszczynski (aka “Lester”), famous for his Jamaica period. The gallery is located at his former home and studio, which he built in the 1950s on a cliffside at the village of Belmont. The house has stunning views. In the same area are Rocklands Bird Sanctuary and Mountain Valley River Rafting.

Parks and Nature Reserves in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Aquasol Theme Park

Situated on the dazzling white sand of Walter Fletcher Beach, this theme park offers enough entertainment to keep you busy all day: go-karts, kayaking, parasailing, banana boating, glass-bottom boat rides, trampolines, wave runners, beach volleyball, and professional tennis courts. The Voyage sports bar and restaurant serves excellent food, and there are big-screen TVs, pool tables, slot machines, and many other games. (876-979-9447)

Montego Bay Underseas Tours

The “Coral See” is a boat with an air-conditioned underwater viewing compartment six feet below the surface, allowing you to watch the wonders of the Montego Bay Marine Park: coral reefs, countless fish, turtles, stingrays, and more. (876-940-4465)

Bird Sanctuary

A visit to Rocklands Feeding Station in Anchovy—only minutes from Montego Bay—is a must for bird lovers. Feeding time is four o’clock.

Historical Sites and Cultural Experiences

Rose Hall Great House

This is without doubt the most celebrated Great House in Jamaica. It was once the home of the notoriously wicked Annie Palmer, the “White Witch of Rose Hall.” The restored mansion, complete with period furnishings, offers guided tours where Jamaican hostesses regale you with chilling tales of Annie. Afterward, you can stroll through the beautiful gardens or visit Annie's Pub in the dungeon for refreshment. (876-953-2323)

Belvedere Estate

Belvedere is a family-owned, 1,000-acre estate just minutes away from Montego Bay. It was one of the first sugar cane plantations in Jamaica and is still a working estate. Visitors can share the natural beauty of its rivers, waterfalls, ruins, exotic plants, and birds. (876-952-6001)

Bellefield Great House & Gardens

Bellefield was built on the Barnett Estate sugar plantation. Guided tours take you back in time, showing local history, food, and culture. Highlights include the Chattanooga (a 100-year-old sugar mill powered by a donkey) and an authentic jerk pit. The Great House has been restored, and you can enjoy a grand buffet of Jamaican dishes. (876-952-2382)

Greenwood Great House

Built around 1790 by the family of English poetess Elizabeth Barrett-Browning, Greenwood is acknowledged by many as one of the island’s finest restored great houses. It boasts a remarkable collection of antiques and rare books, all displayed in lush green hills overlooking the Caribbean Sea. (876-953-1077)

Golf Courses in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Half Moon Golf Course and Academy

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and renovated by Roger Rulewich, Half Moon is considered one of the best walking courses in the Caribbean. Lessons are available from top-ranked local golf pros. Contact Half Moon Resort (876-953-2211) to book.

White Witch of Rose Hall Golf Course

Dramatic views and drops between tees characterize this course set in the hills overlooking the sea. A Robert von Hagge design, it offers breathtaking scenery. (876-953-2204)

Cinnamon Hill Golf Course

Also designed by Robert von Hagge, golfers here enjoy a truly tropical experience. The front nine is at water's edge, and historic aqueduct ruins frame this lovely and challenging course. (876-953-2984)

Tryall Golf Club

The Tryall resort sits on a 2,200-acre estate with sweeping vistas of the Caribbean Sea. The 72-par, 18-hole golf course is world-famous. (876-956-5660)

Water Sports and Soft Adventure Tours

Several companies offer water-sports services—such as Cool Aqua Sun Sports (876-680-0969) or North Coast Marine Sports (876-953-9266). Always check weather and water conditions before heading out.

Dreamer Catamaran Cruises

Enjoy a 3-hour sailing adventure that includes snorkeling in the Caribbean’s crystal waters. Dance to reggae and calypso, and enjoy the open Jamaican bar. (876-979-0102–4)

Rafting on the Martha Brae

Board a 30-foot bamboo raft built for two and enjoy a leisurely, 3-mile float down the Martha Brae River through towering bamboo groves. The ride lasts about an hour and a half. (876-952-0889)

Chukka Caribbean Adventure

Chukka offers various tours, including horseback riding across an ancient sugar estate (ending with a splash in the sea), exhilarating bike rides through the countryside, ziplining canopy tours, and thrilling ATV adventures through the hills of Rose Hall. (876-979-6599)

Spas in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Fern Tree, A RockResort Spa

Located at the world-renowned Half Moon, Fern Tree is a 68,000 sq ft oasis, blending traditional Jamaican healing practices with modern therapeutic treatments. (876-953-2211)

The Ritz Carlton Spa, Rose Hall

Indulge in luxurious treatments such as the Caviar Hair Treatment or the Tropical Heated Stone massage at this premier spa. (876-953-2800)

Spa Heaven at Coyaba

Newly renovated, Spa Heaven offers indoor treatments as well as outdoor massages under the Jamaican sun or on a dock above the waves. (876-953-9150)

Dining and Nightlife in Montego Bay

Restaurants in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Whatever your culinary preference, Montego Bay has it. From authentic Jamaican fare to cuisine from around the globe (Italian, Indian, Mediterranean, French, and Asian), you’ll find menus for every budget. Many restaurants provide complimentary pickup from your hotel when you call to make a reservation, so indulge in the flavors and spices of the island!

Day O Plantation

Set on a garden terrace under the stars, Day O Plantation is known for hosting special events and weddings. Live music on select nights adds to the ambiance, and Jamaican favorites highlight the menu. (876-952-1825)

Marguerite's

One of the finest seafood restaurants on the island, Marguerite’s offers romantic dinners on a starlit water's-edge terrace. Specialties include Cognac Lobster and Tijuana Shrimp. They also offer flambeau dishes prepared tableside. (876-952-4277)

Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville

Centrally located on Montego Bay’s “Hip Strip,” Margaritaville is the place where the party never stops. By day, enjoy water trampolines and a rooftop hot tub; at night, the dance floor comes alive with the latest international and Jamaican hits. (876-952-4777)

Scotchies Jerk Centre

This rustic spot is renowned for some of the best jerk chicken, pork, and fish in the area, paired with festivals, roast yam, or sweet potato. Grab a cold Red Stripe and soak up the local vibe. (876-953-3301)

The Pelican

For over three decades, The Pelican has been a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy traditional Jamaican breakfasts, daily Jamaican specials, or an international menu, all at reasonable prices. (876-952-3171)

Pier One Restaurant and Bar

Open-air dining with views of the Caribbean Sea. Specializes in seafood pasta as well as local cuisine, with a children’s menu available. Pier One also transforms into a lively waterfront party spot on Friday nights. (876-952-2452)

The Houseboat Grill

Moored in the calm waters of the Montego Bay Marine Park Fish Sanctuary, The Houseboat Grill offers a unique, intimate dining experience. Enjoy dinner downstairs or upstairs under the stars.

Usain Bolt’s Tracks & Records

A vibrant sports bar and restaurant celebrating Jamaica’s world-famous sprinter. Enjoy Jamaican fusion dishes, signature cocktails, and an energetic atmosphere. Perfect for casual dining and nightlife.

Hard Rock Café Montego Bay

Located on the beach, Hard Rock Café offers classic American dishes, Jamaican-inspired items, and signature drinks. Live music events and a small rock-and-roll museum add to the fun.

Mystic Thai

An authentic Thai restaurant located in the Whitter Village shopping complex. Enjoy an elegant setting and flavorful curries, noodles, and soups. Vegetarian options are also available.

Cafe Blue

Jamaica is famous for its Blue Mountain coffee, and Cafe Blue offers some of the best brews, pastries, and light bites in a relaxed café setting—perfect for a midday break.

Night Spots in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Sunset in Jamaica often signals the start of a vibrant tropical night. From restaurants with live music to specialized clubs, you’ll find plenty of ways to dance, dine, and have fun until the early hours.

Coral Cliff Entertainment Lounge

Coral Cliff offers nightly live shows, cabaret, vintage reggae, and more. Free hotel pickup can be arranged. (876-952-4130)

Prince of Wales English Pub

Located at the Half Moon Shopping Village, this authentic pub serves classic English fare (steak & kidney pie, fish & chips) alongside Caribbean seafood and salads. Darts, satellite TV, and occasional live music add to the atmosphere. (876-953-9770)

Sunset Cruises in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Several operators arrange sunset cruises and sailing excursions. Sipping a rum drink on deck while reggae music plays is a quintessential Jamaican experience.

Annual Events in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Montego Bay hosts two of the Caribbean's major annual music festivals—the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival and Reggae Sumfest.

Jamaica Jazz and Blues

Usually held the last week of January, this festival has drawn big names like Alicia Keys, Monty Alexander, Earth, Wind & Fire, and more. The official venue is often the Trelawny Multipurpose Stadium, just 20 minutes outside Montego Bay.

Reggae Sumfest

Usually mid-July, Sumfest includes a Dancehall Reggae night plus two more nights of popular international acts and local favorites. Past headliners include Damian Marley, Beenie Man, Chris Brown, and Rihanna. Staged in Catherine Hall, Montego Bay.

Trelawny Yam Festival

Held in late March in the parish of Trelawny, this festival celebrates Jamaica’s staple crop—yam. It’s become more popular thanks to Usain Bolt, a Trelawny native. Sample various yam dishes and experience local music and culture. (876-610-1089)

Lucea, Jamaica

Lucea (pronounced "Lucy") is a coastal town west of Montego Bay and about halfway to Negril. Here, the ruins of a 17th-century fort make a pleasant sightseeing trip.

Dolphin Cove (Lucea/Negril area)

Swim with dolphins at this saltwater lagoon just outside Negril. Perfect for all ages, with various programs available. (876-974-5335)

Falmouth, Jamaica

East of Montego Bay lies the town of Falmouth, the capital of Trelawny. Once among Jamaica’s most important commercial centers, it still boasts fascinating Georgian architecture. It is also home to the multi-billion-dollar cruise shipping pier for Royal Caribbean.

Glistening Waters

At Rock, near Falmouth, lies the Luminous Lagoon, one of Jamaica’s natural wonders. After dark, you can take a boat ride from Glistening Waters Marina, where the water shimmers when disturbed, thanks to tiny organisms that glow. (876-954-3229)

Deep Sea Fishing Trips can also be arranged on fully equipped fishing boats from most local marinas.

Links to Info on Other Jamaican Towns

Below is a list of other major towns in Jamaica:

Mandeville & the South Coast