Energetic Montego Bay is a destination for both adventure-seeking holidaymakers and those who’d prefer to relax and soak up some sun. Jamaica’s busiest airport and cruise port ensure a steady stream of visitors to the resort – hence its thriving collection of duty-free shops for picking up souvenirs.
Lots of things to see and do above and under the water
The beautiful resort’s most famous beach is Doctor’s Cave, so named because it was part of a doctor’s sanatorium in the 19th century and was accessed through a cave. The crystal clear turquoise waters and near-white sand are stunning, and there are several coral reefs full of marine species. The beach is part of the protected Montego Bay Marine Park.
Top 5 ways to get active
- Sea Trek at Doctor’s Cave beach - Put on a special helmet, which allows you to breathe underwater, and dive in to see the creatures below the sea
- MoBay UnderSea Tour - This underwater boat lets you see Caribbean marine life up close – you’ll even get to watch the fish being fed
- Horse riding - Rocky Point Stables runs excursions into the mountains on horseback, finishing off with a beach ride during which you and your horse splash straight through the turquoise sea
- Aquasol Theme Park - Try activities including watersports, go-karting and tennis.
- Croydon in the Mountains - This oddly-named working plantation in the foothills of the Catadupa mountains is full of lush vegetation, wild flowers and waterfalls. Enjoy panoramic views of the countryside, sample exotic fruits and drinks and learn about how coffee is grown and made
Top 5 ways to relax
- Mountain Valley rafting - Enjoy a ride down the Great River aboard a 30-foot bamboo raft
- Dead End Beach - This small beach is popular with locals and good if you fancy getting away from the crowds
- Shopping on Gloucester Avenue - Known as the ‘hip strip’, this is where most of the hotels, restaurants, bars and souvenir shops are found. Some of the best food on the island can be found here
- Rose Hall Great House - Jamaica’s most famous mansion is a monument to 18th-century style, with a magnificent mahogany staircase and silk wall fabric that is a reproduction of the original designed for Marie Antoinette. Don’t miss the bedroom of Annie Palmer, a multiple murderer said to haunt the house
- Museum of St James - A small but very informative museum which traces the history of the area, including the slave trade. There’s also an art gallery and a theatre