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Montego Bay, Jamaica
Things to do, Attractions, Restaurants, Tours, Galleries, Spas, Parks and Golf Courses - Visitors Guide

UPDATED: Fall 2011 - Print a copy of this page and take with you to Jamaica.

Thank you for visiting our site on Montego Bay, Jamaica. Below is a brief history of Montego Bay followed by a description of tours, spas, shopping, restaurants, annual events and night life. Once you are finished reading, be sure to visit our main page for information on other towns of 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 call 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 which abounded 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 modern port visited by many cruise lines.

The award winning Sangster International Airport is 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, an unmatched array of amenities and attractions making Montego Bay a vibrant holiday centre.

Compared to Palm Beach, it is not exactly an elegant town. Ergo, don't compare it to anywhere. Enjoy its noisy, untidy, lively Caribbean charm and uniquely Jamaican experience. 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. Housewives, office girls and market higglers promenade round bar-front discussion groups and sidewalk domino games.

Architecture is a mixture of last-century "gingerbread" wooden houses interspersed with modern buildings, many of which harmonize because Georgian facades never really went out of fashion.

Sam Sharpe Square, a pleasant cobble stoned hub of activity, is roughly 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. Follow the Heritage Trails to discover more about the rich and vibrant history of the Jamaican people.
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 port of call and where freight is unloaded. Here too is the site of the Montego Bay Free Zone, which employs a great number of Montegonians in the manufacture of such things as T-shirts and sportswear, all for export. Jamaica Digiport International, a hi-tech telecommunications centre, is also at Montego Freeport.

Montego Bay was a sugar and banana town but the sugar factories have closed down and bananas are now shipped out from Kingston and Port Antonio so the picturesque sight of women carrying bananas on their heads and singing the Tallyman song while carrying out their back-breaking work, is a thing of the past.

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 certainly boasts the most uncommonly clear and sparkling water.

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 offers a great deal to photographers, adventurers or those afflicted by curiosity or inability to sit on a beach for long periods. These people should contact their hotel tour desk or rent a car, or bike and with a copy of Focus on Jamaica firmly in hand, sally forth to discover this exotic land. There are so many things to do to that one visit to Jamaica is not enough.

Shopping in Montego Bay, Jamaica

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

Other shopping experiences include the charming Shoppes at Rose Hall and the Witter Village both located on Jamaica's Elegant Corridor offering duty free shopping, specialty boutiques, entertainment and dining.

The main Crafts Market is on Harbour Street in town but there are two smaller ones in the hotel area, one next to Fantasy Hotel and another on Fort Street on the site of a 17th century fort.

Art Galleries in Montego Bay, Jamaica

A visit to Lester Art Gallery in the hills above Reading can be a tour in itself or combined with visits to other places of interest. The Gallery is devoted to works of Polish sea captain and painter the late Michael Leszczynski, who anglicised his name to Lester and is famous for the work of his Jamaica period. The gallery is at his former home and studio which he built in the 1950s on a cliff side at the village of Belmont. The house has stunning views. Call 605-1299 and arrange a visit. 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 Walter Fletcher beach, this theme park offers enough entertainment to keep you busy all day. It has a go-kart track with 10 Honda bumper carts and water sports such as kayaking, parasailing, banana boating and glass bottom boating in addition to trampolines, wave runners, beach volleyball and two professional tennis courts. The Voyage sport's bar and restaurant not only serves excellent food, there are 42 big-screen TV's for sporting events, pool tables, slot machines and many other games. 876-979-9447.

Montego Bay Underseas Tours

The "Coral See" looks a bit like a submarine but it is really a boat with an air conditioned underwater viewing compartment six feet under the surface where you can sit in comfort and watch the wonders of the Montego Bay Marine Park. Coral, hundreds of different fish, turtles, and sting rays are all displayed for your enjoyment. 876-940-4465.

Bird Sanctuary

A visit to Rocklands Feeding Station in Anchovy, only minutes away from Montego Bay, is a must for all bird lovers and bird watchers. Feeding time is four o'clock.

Historical Sites and Cultural Experiences in Montego Bay, Jamaica

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, who murdered three husbands and terrorized her slaves. U.S. entrepreneurs, John and Michele Rollins, restored it to its original glory, complete with furnishings from the same time period. Charming Jamaican hostesses will chill your blood with tales of the evil Annie. A refreshing walk in the beautiful gardens will restore your equilibrium or should you need stronger sustenance you can find it in Annie's Pub in the dungeon of the Great House. 876-953-2323

Belvedere Estate

Belvedere is a family-owned estate set on one thousand acres of land just minutes away from Montego Bay. It was one of the first sugar cane plantations in Jamaica and is still a working estate. The owner, Mr. Pat McGann, has opened it to the public so that all can share the natural beauty of its rivers and waterfalls, its ruins and exotic plants and birds. 876-952-6001

Bellefield Great House & Gardens

Like the other notable great houses Bellefield is located on what was once a vast sugar plantation, the Barnett Estate. It remains one of the finest examples of Old World colonialism in Jamaica. Guided tours will transport you back in time as well as share in-depth perspective of Jamaican culture with discussions on local food, history and culture. Interesting stops in this tour include stops by the Chattanooga (a working, 100-year-old sugar mill that is powered by a donkey), and an authentic jerk pit. After seeing the grounds which boast herb and vegetable gardens, tour the historic great house, Bellefield, which has been restored. End the day by staying to sample an amazing buffet luncheon of sumptuous local dishes. 876-952-2382

Greenwood Great House

Set in lush green hills overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the Greenwood Great lies between Montego Bay and the historic town of Falmouth. The house built by the family of English poetess, Elizabeth Barrett-Browning, around 1790 is acknowledged by some as the finest of the restored great houses as it features an admirable collection of antiques as well as an extensive library of rare books. 876-953-1077

Outameni Experience

This unique attraction brings to life Jamaica's rich and colourful history and culture in a wonderful kaleidoscope of music, art, drama and film. This highly interactive though relatively short journey- all of 90 minutes- takes you through an experience which completely immerses you in the Jamaican story and even includes sampling traditional foods, learning the latest dance moves! Located in Trelawny, you will be glad you took the 20 minute drive to discover this jewel. 876-954-4035

Golf Courses in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Half Moon Golf Course and Golf Academy

This picturesque Robert Trent Jones Snr. designed course has been renovated by Roger Rulewich and is considered one of the best walking courses in the Caribbean. Play a round accompanied by the most accomplished caddies or sign-up for a lesson with Jamaica's top ranked golfer Ewan Peebles, the Director of Golf at the Half Moon Golf Academy. End your experience with a cold Red Stripe and beautiful views of the beautifully groomed fairways at the 19th Hole Bar. Contact the renowned Half Moon, A RockResort at 876-953-2211 to book.

White Witch of Rose Hall Golf Course

Dramatic views and drops between tees characterize the golf experience at the White Witch Golf Course. Set in the hills overlooking the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea, this Robert von Hagge designed course provides golfers amazing views. Call the Ritz Carlton, Rose Hall at 876-953-2204 to reserve tee times.

Cinnamon Hill Golf Course

Also designed by Robert von Hagge, golfers are treated to a truly tropical golf experience. The front nine of this 18-hole championship course is at water's edge and beautiful historic aqueduct ruins frame this beautiful and challenging golf course. Call the Rose Hall Resort, A Hilton at 876-053-2984

Tryall Golf Club

The Tryall resort sits in a beautiful 2,200 acre estate with sweeping vistas down to the incredibly blue Caribbean Sea. The 72 par 18 hole golf course here is world-famous. Call 876-956-5660.

Water Sports and Soft Adventure Tours in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Companies like Cool Aqua Sun Sports (876-680-0969), North Coast Marine Sports (876-953-9266), and Captain's Watersports & Dive Centre (876-952-5860), offer expert services. Call for weather and visibility conditions.

Dreamer Catamaran Cruises

Enjoy a 3 hour sailing adventure which includes snorkeling in the magical underwater world of the Caribbean Sea. A floating party, dance to the sounds of the latest Reggae and Calypso music while you sip on a cold Red Stripe from the open Jamaican bar. 876-979-0102-4

Rafting on the Martha Brae

Board a 30-foot bamboo raft that is built for two and take a leisurely trip down the picturesque Martha Brae River which gently meanders through towering groves of bamboo and relax to the songs of tropical birds. The 3-mile ride downstream lasts for approximately 1 1/2-hours. Disembark at Martha's Rest and browse the souvenir shop or lounge by the bar. 876-952-0889.

Captain Hook Adventures

This night time adventure is billed as "the most exciting and, the only authentic pirate dinner show in the Caribbean". Set on the Galleon of Captain Hook built in Spain in 1986, the ship is an exact replica of an 18th Century Spanish Galleon.

Enjoy a thrilling pirate show and attack complete with live cannons, sword fights, contests, entertainment and dancing with a true Jamaican flavour. 876-953-8016

Chukka Caribbean Adventure's Canopy Tour

Zip through Jamaica's treetops on the newly opened Canopy Tour with the help of experienced guides. Located in the mountainous town of Montpellier, a half an hour outside of Montego Bay, the Canopy Tour lets you swing between a series of platforms tucked away in the trees. As you zoom through the air, catch glimpses of Jamaica's beautiful valleys and mountainsides. 876-979-6599

Chukka Caribbean Adventure's ATV Safari

Discover a bit of Jamaica in a new and exciting way. Ride through the hills of the Rose Hall area past historic ruins and amazing vistas including a panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea at 2,200ft above sea level. Friendly and knowledgeable guides will provide a safety and demonstration orientation before heading out on this breathtaking and exhilarating ride. . 979-6599

Rose Hall Beach Club

They call themselves the water sports capital of Jamaica and with great reason. Name any water sport and they have it: waterskiing, wave runners, parasailing, kayaking, diving, fishing, snorkelling, hydrospeeding. The list goes on. If you are a water sports fan or would like to learn any of the above. This place is a must. The club now offers family and corporate memberships at very reasonable prices. 876-680-0969

Chukka Blue Adventure Tours

Situated at Blue Hole, Sandy Bay; this company offers a horseback-riding tour through an ancient sugar estate. The tour meanders for two and a half hours through the picturesque Jamaican landscape and finishes with a dip in the sea (horse and all). First class horses, and equipment as well as experienced guides ensure a memorable experience for all.

They also offer an exciting bike tour through the cool hills of Hanover down to the beach.
Yet another tour is aptly named the Heritage Tour. Safari jeeps meander deep into the Jamaican countryside, taking in the occasional great house on the way. 876-817-3624

Rocky Point Stables at Half Moon, A RockResort

Enjoy a variety of exhilarating equestrian activities including riding lessons jumping, polo and a beach ride which includes swimming the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea on horseback. The equestrian centre now features a pony park for young ones. 876-953-2286

Cambioman

At 8 Market Street, Montego Bay changes money at very competitive rates. 876-940-0691

Tours to Cuba from Montego Bay

Tropical Tours can add a Latin flavour to your holiday with a side trip to Cuba which is a mere 90 miles from Jamaica's north coast. Day or weekend trips are on offer. Tour historic Havana, dance to the rhythms of salsa. Call Tropical Tours at 876-952-0400 for more information.

Spas in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Body Bliss Spa

Located at the Altamont West Hotel on the Hip Strip, the Body Bliss Spa specializes in authentic Mayan treatments. 876-940-6863

Fern Tree, A RockResort Spa

Located at the world renowned Half Moon, A RockResort, this 68,000 sq ft indoor/outdoor oasis promises an experience of a lifetime. Drawing on the traditional Jamaican healing practices and melding with modern therapeutic treatments, Fern Tree promises an authentic Jamaican sojourn to a state of complete relaxation and rejuvenation. 876-953-2211

The Ritz Carlton Spa, Rose Hall

Immerse yourself in the ultimate in relaxation at this luxury spa. Treatments include The Caviar Hair Treatment and the Tropical Heated Stone massage which are sure to leave feeling replenished. 876-953 2800

Spa Heaven at Coyaba

This newly renovated spa promises to take you to heaven and back! Offering the best of both worlds, indulge in treatments in luxurious privacy in air-conditioned rooms or enjoy massages outdoors including on the dock above the waves. 876-953-9150

Dining and Nightlife in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Restaurants in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Whatever your culinary fancy, Jamaica has it all. Whether you want to grab a quick bite or luxuriate through a 5-star seven course meal, Montego Bay will exceed any "foodie's" expectations. Discover the spicy Jamaican food as well as savour cuisine from around the world including authentic Italian, Indian, Mediterranean, French or Asian fare. Chefs, many of whom are award-winning, will cater to your every whim with menus to suit every pocket. Beyond advising that you should not leave Jamaica without trying such delicacies as ackee and saltfish, rice and peas, pumpkin soup, roast breadfruit, jerk chicken, Jamaican patties or ginger beer, we simply present you with a list of restaurants and leave the choice to you. Great to note is that most restaurants offer a pick-up service when you call to make a reservation. So go out and indulge in the flavours and spices of the island!

Aarya

Aarya is an authentic Indian and Thai restaurant, as the attractive decor designed by Jamaican artist, Dawn Scott. The menu offers dishes with such exotic names as Chicken Tikka Masala and Vegetable Jaipupi and will please beginners as well as long-time devotees of the cuisine. Call 876-979-0133.

Angela's Italian Restaurant

Angela's Italian Restaurant, located in the Witter Shopping Village in Ironshore, Montego Bay offers both option of take out as well as dining in warmly decorated restaurant. Enjoy gourmet pizzas and other authentic Italian favourites.

Bellefield 1794 on the Barnett Estate

Bellefield 1794 on the Barnett Estate is unique in that it stands in what was once a sugar mill. The sturdy circular, stone building round which oxen once plodded, turning the great press which squeezed the juice from the sugar cane, has been creatively remodelled into an attractive dining room and bar. Soft lighting warms the stone walls and creates a cosy atmosphere where diners can enjoy the best of fare. A tour of the Barnett Estate Great House could be an added bonus to an enjoyable meal. 876-952-2382.

Bobsled Cafe

Bobsled Cafe is themed in honor of the Jamaican Bobsled team who grabbed the world's attention by qualifying for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics and was made even more popular by the John Candy film, Cool Runnings. The café is decorated with memorabilia of the Team and the original Olympic bobsled in on display. Missed that movie? Cool Runnings is shown on loop on one of the cafe's flat screen TVs. The Bobsled Cafe serves up giant New York style pizzas, burgers and other dishes with signature drinks and cocktails. Visit on a Friday night for "Jamaica's longest Happy Hour" from 7pm until midnight. 876-940-7009

Chill Out Hut

Chill Out Hut, located just off the highway between Montego Bay and Falmouth, stop at this rustic seaside restaurant offering an extensive menu including Jamaican favourite curried goat, fresh salads, pizzas, fresh seafood and even grilled lamb! 876-953-1666

Coral Cliff Gaming/ Entertainment Lounge

A flashing neon sign is the GO signal for the "Hip Strip's" best seven nights of live entertainment. From live jazz to fabulous fashion shows, cabaret or vintage reggae, it is exciting, entertaining and exhilarating. Coral Cliff, Montego Bay's gaming lounge, is a haven for conservative and adventurous players alike. Slots range in denomination from US$0.50 to US$5.00 for jackpots as big as your dreams. 876-952-4130

Day O Plantation

Day O Plantation is set on a pretty garden terrace for dining under the stars. Seafood features strongly. The Day O Snapper is one of our favourites. Host is musician Paul Hurlock, so live music goes with the scenery and at weekends a steel band and dancers add to the entertainment. Day O is also a wonderful setting for weddings. They will make all the arrangements for you. 876-952-1825.

The Docks Caribbean

The Docks Caribbean is on the beach, by the pool at the Coyaba Hotel, five minutes to the east of Montego Bay airport. Food is excellent, prices are reasonable and the home-made cakes are "out of this world". Open 10-30 a.m to sunset. Enjoy themed nights including Jam-Asian Night, Seafood Night and Native Night. 876-953-9150.

Dolly's

Dolly's is situated on Sunset Boulevard at Hotel Gloria Plaza, a mere 5 minute drive from the airport. Dolly's clientele comes from all the resort area hotels especially to enjoy her Jamaica-style cuisine. You can't leave Jamaica without sampling her sweet potato pudding served warm with a special sauce, so good it was featured on NBC television. Prices are reasonable and smoking is permitted on the outside patio. 876-979-0045.

Dragon Court Restaurant

Dragon Court Restaurant - Elegant Chinese Restaurant offering authentic Chinese dishes. It has a luxurious lounge and sushi bar. Reservation is required for sushi bar. Take out serve is offered. Alice Eldemire Dr, Montego Bay, Jamaica. 876-979-8822

Glistening Waters in Falmouth

Glistening Waters in Falmouth is a dining experience you should not miss. Dinner beside the magic waters of the luminous lagoon with its darting fish etched in eerie light. Seafood is the specialty. Open 8 am to 11 pm every day. 876-954-3427.

Greenhouse

Greenhouse on Gloucester Avenue opposite Doctor's Cave, has a pleasant, coffee shop ambience with good food at reasonable prices. 876-952-7838.

The Groovy Grouper

The Groovy Grouper is a laid-back hangout on Doctors Cave Beach with a large bar to enjoy the idyllic sunsets and sample island favorites such as conch fritters, jerk chicken and fresh seafood. Every month there are "Full Moon" theme parties on the beach, often featuring live music with well known artists in concert.

Marguerite's

Marguerite's is one of the finest seafood restaurants in the island. Enjoy a romantic and intimate dinner served on the starlit water's edge terrace by an attentive staff. Creatively prepared Caribbean seafood specialties include Cognac Lobster, Pimento Smoked Blue Marlin and Tijuana Shrimp. Flambeau specialties are prepared at your table and an imaginative selection of imported steaks, vegetarian specials and pastas complete the culinary experience. Open for dinner only. Reservations are preferred and complimentary shuttles are provided in the Montego Bay area. Call 876-952-4277.

Jimmy Buffet's Margueritaville

Jimmy Buffet's Margueritaville, centrally located on the Hip Strip and where the party never stops. By day bounce about on the water trampolines, relax in the rooftop hot tub or ride the monster slide that plunges 110 feet into the Caribbean. At night the danceteria swings to the latest international and local sounds. But whenever you visit sample the grilled specials, fajitas, burgers and authentic local fare. Wash it all down with one of the 52 tropical flavors of margueritas or bongs of beer. Something's always happening at Margeritaville. Call 876-952-4777.

The Native

The Native is in an attractive location on Gloucester Avenue. Dine on excellent Jamaican food at reasonable prices. Their Boonoonoonos (Jamaican for "excellent") Platter lets you sample a number of local delicacies while their salad bar overflows with tropical goodies. Seafood specials on Fridays nights. Superb lunch buffet Fridays and Sundays. Call 876-979-2769 for free pickup.

The Pelican

The Pelican. For thirty five years a favourite eating place for locals and visitors. A comprehensive international menu is enlivened with daily Jamaican specials while their Jamaican breakfasts are a Montego Bay institution. Round off your meal with one of their famous sundaes or a banana split and you'll still be within your budget. Situated on Gloucester Avenue. 876-952-3171.

Pier One Restaurant and Bar

Pier One Restaurant and Bar, offers open-air dining with views of the sea. Open for lunch and dinner, the restaurant specialises in seafood (definitely try the seafood pasta) as well as local cuisine. A children's menu is also available.

Richmond Hill Inn

Richmond Hill Inn at the top of Union Street, on the top of a hill with the best view in town, offers European cuisine with a Jamaican touch. Lobster is a specialty of the house. Open 5-30 pm to 11 pm every day. 876-952-3859.

Pork Pit Restaurant

Pork Pit Restaurant - Located on Montego Bay Hip Strip, savour jerked pork, chicken, ribs, sausage, shrimps, fish and buffalo wings, with Jamaican staples such a sweet potato, festivals, rice and peas and roast yam. Call 876-940-3008.

Prince of Wales

Prince of Wales, an authentic English Pub and Steakhouse at Half Moon Shopping Village with gleaming wood and polished brass decor. Darts, satellite T. V., "good oldies" music and blackboard menu add to the "pub" atmosphere. Good old English favorites like steak & kidney pie and fish and chips. Great steaks, fresh garden salads, Caribbean seafood and daily chef specials offer hearty fare. A children's menu to welcome youngsters is available. 876-953-9770.

Rio Brac Rest Stop

Rio Brac Rest Stop half way between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios is an ideal place to break your journey.

Robin's Prime Steakhouse

Robin's Prime Steakhouse, located at the Altamont West Hotel on the Hip Strip promises the best steaks in Jamaica. Stop by for lunch or dinner. Wifi service is also available. 876-940-6863

Rumjungle

Rumjungle. Located at Coral Cliff, Montego Bay, this cafe and bar adds an exciting twist to Montego Bay's nightlife. More than 100 varieties of rum, an incredible list of specialty drinks. An exotic Caribbean menu and live entertainment into the wee hours of the morning awaits you. Unwind and be intoxicated by the mysteries of the Jungle. 876-952-4130.

Scotchies Jerk Centre

Scotchies Jerk Centre. This rustic watering hole for locals and visitors alike offers arguably some of the best jerk cuisine in the Montego Bay area. It has become so popular that operations have expanded with restaurants with the same laid back feel now located in Ocho Rios and Kingston. Sip on a cold Red Stripe and strike up a conversation with some very interesting folks – from executive chefs from the nearby resorts taking a break to golf pros unwinding after a long day on the greens. You never know who you just may sit beside. 876-953-3301

Sugar Mill on the Golf Course at Half Moon

Sugar Mill on the Golf Course at Half Moon, A RockResort. Enjoy a superb gastronomic journey at this Caribbean fusion cuisine restaurant set in a charming old world setting with high wooden beam ceiling and cobble stone walk ways surrounded by fragrant gardens. Ask about private dining beside a centuries old waterwheel, perfect for a romantic dinner for 2 or family gathering of a few! Also enjoy an extensive selection of wines from the best vineyards around the world housed in a state-of-the-art walk-in wine cellar. 876-953-2314.

The Vineyard is at Coyaba Hotel

The Vineyard is at Coyaba Hotel, five minutes beyond the airport to the east of Montego Bay. The hotel is the only "Small Luxury Hotels of the World" in Jamaica and the dining room certainly reflects that distinction. Executive Chef Ainsley Lambie is a local Jamaican talent who has worked his way up through prestigious resorts including Half Moon and the Ritz Carlton chain, notably Ritz Carlton, Rose Hall, Naples and Coconut Grove. The food is excellent and well worth a visit. 876-953-9150.

Town House on Church Street

Town House on Church Street. A favourite dining place of the rich and famous, their guest book includes such famous names as Sean Connery, Steve McQueen, Dustin Hoffman, Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell.

The red brick walls with their fine art collection, and candlelight gleaming on glass and silverware gives this place a strong character. A well established restaurant, the Town House's reputation for great dining and fine wines has not dimmed in over thirty years. Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. every day. 876-952-2660.

The Twisted Kilt

The Twisted Kilt is a seaside location next to Doctors Cave Beach. The pub and restaurant serves up typical Irish fare but with a twist. Enjoy the beautiful views from spectacular sunsets to city lights while you sip on you favorite pint. 876-952-9488

The Houseboat Grill

The Houseboat Grill, Moored in the calm waters of the Montego Bay Marine Park Fish Sanctuary, The Houseboat Grill offers a unique setting for an intimate, one of a kind dining experience. Enjoy dinner downstairs in our cozy dining room, upstairs on our upper deck under the stars

Night Spots in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Sunset in Jamaica is symbolic, not so much of the end of the day, but the beginning of the throbbing tropical night. Sunset watching is a required pursuit; there remains only to choose the spot.

Restaurants with bars or vice versa, or just night spots, provide plenty of after-dark activity. Some have live entertainment or satellite T. V.

Annie's Pub

Annie's Pub, situated in the dungeon at the Rose Hall Great House naturally has great atmosphere. They sometimes host live music events.

Blue Beat

Blue Beat, located on Gloucester Avenue next door to Margaritaville, is a jazz inspired club. Visit this cosy spot and sip on your favourite tropical cocktail or martini while you enjoy live jam sessions with local artistes. In the mood to dance all night, swing by on Friday nights when the laid-back atmosphere is transformed with latest in pop, dance music, reggae and hip hop for a definite club vibe.

Coral Cliff Entertainment Lounge

Coral Cliff Entertainment Lounge at the Coral Cliff Hotel offers varied entertainment seven nights a week with live jazz, fashion shows, cabaret and vintage reggae. There is no cover charge and free transport from your hotel cab be arranged. Call 876-952-4130

Coyaba Hotel

Coyaba Hotel offers Seafood by the Sea on Thursday with a live Calypso band. On Friday there is live jazz in the Polo Grounds Bar and on Saturday a lively Native Show on the beach. Non-guests are welcome. Call 876-953-9150.

Margueritaville

Margueritaville swings every night until the last guest goes home and there is always something different to do. Check it out at 876-952-4777.

Prince of Wales English Pub

Prince of Wales English Pub at the Half Moon Shopping Village has all the atmosphere of a genuine English pub. Good food, good booze and good company, darts, satellite T. V., out door pool tables and occasional live music. 876-953-9770.

Pier One

Pier One transforms from a relaxed seaside restaurant to a one of the hottest party spots every Friday night. This waterfront location becomes an open-air club where the party goes on until sunrise the next day. Dance up a storm to a mix of International and Reggae music. Pier One also plays host to live concerts and private events. 876-952-2452

Sunset Cruises in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Cool Aqua Sun Sports

Cool Aqua Sun Sports claim they have the best sunset cruise ever onboard their "Lady Sharon". Enjoy their lavish hospitality from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with complimentary rum drinks and Jamaica Reggae moves as the sun slowly sinks in the west. 876-680-0969.

Sharky's

Sharky's, the distinctive tour boat with the gaping jaws, offers occasional evening dance parties from Pier 1. Call 876-971-1049.

Annual Events in Montego Bay, Jamaica

The Montego Bay area plays host to two of Caribbean's major annual music festivals. These are the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival and the Reggae Sumfest.

Jamaica Jazz and Blues

Formerly billed as the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, the festival celebrated its 15th anniversary in 2011. The show has brought to music lovers renowned acts like Alicia Keys, Patti Labelle, Natalie Cole, Earth, Wind & Fire, Kool & The Gang, Monty Alexander and many others since its inception. The official grounds for this open air 3 day festival is the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium just 20 minutes outside Montego Bay and isi usually held the last week in January.

Reggae Sumfest

Usually held mid-July each year, features a night dedicated to Dancehall Reggae Music with another 2 nights offering a mix of popular international acts alongside Reggae favourites. Artistes such as Damian Marley, Beenie Man, Elephant Man, Rihanna, Destiny's Child, Chris Brown, Usher and Neyo have all graced the stage at this popular festival. The show's home is in Catherine Hall, Montego Bay.

Trelawny Yam Festival

A staple of Jamaican diet, yams grown locally have new-found fame internationally all thanks to fastest man on earth over 100 metres and 200 metres, Usain Bolt. The best and tastiest in the island is said to come from the parish of Trelawny, his home parish. The festival is an annual event which showcases different varieties of yam and the many ways Jamaicans prepare it as an essential part of any meal. Held in Albert Town, look out for this event during the last week in March. 876-610-1089

Lucea, Jamaica

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

Dolphin Cove

Dolphin Cove. Go swimming with these delight creatures at this in saltwater lagoon just outside the popular tourist destination Negril. This thrilling experience is perfect for all ages with various programmes offered. Call 876 974-5335 for more information.

Falmouth, Jamaica

To the east of Montego Bay lies the sleepy town of Falmouth, the capital of the parish of Trelawny. It is hard to visualize it as the social capital of the island and one of its major commercial centres, which indeed it was in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries.

However, if you look for it, you will find evidence of past splendour in the architecture, not only of the unusual old churches and court or town house but of its many old Georgian dwelling houses. In fact, the town is noted as one of largest areas or preserved and restored Georgian architecture in the Caribbean.

Falmouth has its share of tourist attractions which should be on your list of places to visit.

The town is the home of the multi-billion dollar Royal Caribbean Cruise line's shipping pier. The plans include a restoration of many historic sites in the area as well as an extensive shopping area and will welcome the cruise line's and world's largest passenger ships, the Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas.

Glistening Waters

At Rock, just beyond Falmouth is the amazing Luminous Lagoon. It is one of the most spectacular wonders to be found in Jamaica. Schedule your trip for after dark and take a boat ride from Glistening Waters Marina (876-954-3229). The water is luminous when agitated and you can see the outlines of fish and streaks of light as they swim around. Words fail to do it justice, so go see for yourself.

Deep Sea Fishing Trips in Montego Bay Jamaica

Deep Sea Fishing Trips can also be arranged on one of the marina's fully equipped fishing boats.

LINKS TO INFO ON OTHER JAMAICAN TOWNS

Below is a list of other major towns in Jamaica:

Mandeville & the South Coast

Montego Bay, Jamaica Things to do, Attractions, Restaurants, Tours, Galleries, Spas, Parks and Golf Courses - Visitors Guide