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Montego Bay
Montego Bay
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Montego Bay
While this Jamaican spring break favorite is great for party animals, it can also be surprisingly low-key. Montego Bay has excellent duty-free shopping, high-energy nightlife, and stunning beaches with clear, calm waters and bright white sand. You can browse the “Hip Strip” shops for handmade souvenirs, feed hummingbirds at Rocklands Bird Sanctuary, or chow down jerk chicken under a thatched roof. Water sports are another Montego Bay mainstay—the underwater crevices of Widowmaker’s Cave offer one of the best diving experiences on the island. If that sounds intimidating, opt instead to float serenely down the Martha Brae River on a bamboo raft, and let your troubles melt away under the sun.
Essential Montego Bay
A cruise guide to one day in Montego Bay
If you’ve booked a Caribbean cruise, chances are Montego Bay is on the itinerary. The colorful city—locally known as MoBay—straddles the northwestern coast and is one of Jamaica’s most popular areas. These recommendations will help you make the most of your time because there is a lot to see. Spoiler alert: Don’t miss the best jerk on the island.
Nasha Smith, Gros Islet, St. Lucia
Hip Strip862The Strip is MoBay’s buzzy main artery, dotted with restaurants, shops, bars, and clubs. One of the high points is its walkability. Meander along the wide ribbon of road and pick up a memento along the way. It’s also never too early to savor an authentic Jamaican beef patty from one of the stalls and wash it down with a Red Stripe beer.
Doctor's Cave Beach2,379It’s almost impossible to visit a Caribbean island without spending some time at the beach, and Doctor’s Cave is certainly worth the trip. The beach—with its shell-hued, powdery sand, and gin-clear water in various shades of blue—is believed to have healing properties. The folklore draws the crowds, so brace yourself. But there’s room for everyone, not to mention great snorkeling. Tip: Bring cash as there’s a small entry fee.
Montego Bay Cultural Center15I always try to maximize my time on short trips, and this stop does just that. The cultural center sits on Sam Sharpe Square, a historical site named after one of Jamaica’s national heroes. It adds a contemporary layer to the island’s rich past, and the museum narrates the story of western Jamaica through artifacts, photographs, and displays. The pièce de résistance is an exhibition featuring works by Jamaican artists from Kingston’s National Gallery.
Martha Brae River1,956I’m not a swimmer, so, for me, this tranquil respite is the next best thing. During the hour-long tour, you’ll glide along a three-mile stretch of the jade-green Martha Brae River on a 30-foot-long bamboo raft. But don’t worry, you’ll be guided by a trained expert the whole time. As you pass under the canopy of trees, you’ll hear melodic birdsong. You can even have a go at poling the raft yourself, which makes for a stunning keepsake photo.
Pork Pit1,216For lunch, head to Pork Pit to experience the true essence of jerk. It’s an easy 15-minute stroll from Doctor’s Cave Beach. Look out for the bright yellow exterior or simply follow the aromatic scent wafting down the street. The menu features flavorful jerk chicken, pork, and seafood smoked over a wood-fired pit, as well as local staples like red beans and rice. I recommend the jerk chicken wings and pillowy dough festival, which lives in my head rent-free.
Scotchies3,784You can never have too much jerk, and there is no better place to grab a plate (or two) than this Jamaican institution. Scotchies is arguably the best jerk joint on the island. You’re guaranteed maximum flavor and generous portions. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there is a homemade fire sauce crafted from the Scotch Bonnet peppers that give the spot its name.
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Get ideas on what to do, see, and eat
Dip into the CaribbeanIncredible beaches, diving experiences, and more
Bliss out at an adults-only resortNext-level relaxation and romance
Explore Jamaican culture and historyGo beyond the beach and get the backstory
Hit the shopsThe best markets and shops to stroll (and snack) through
Head to the waterRiver rafting, waterfalls, and tubing adventures
Frequently Asked Questions about Montego Bay
- We recommend staying at one of the most popular hotels in Montego Bay, which include:
- Some of the most popular restaurants in Montego Bay include:
- Montego Bay is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:
- We recommend checking out these popular tours when looking for something to do in Montego Bay:
- Rasta Cultural ATV Safari from Montego Bay
- Club Mobay Sangster Airport VIP Lounge with Fast-Track Entry
- Blue Hole, Secret Falls, and Dunn's River Falls Combo Day-Trip from Montego Bay
- Catamaran Cruise, Negril Beach, Rick's Cafe, and Snorkeling Full-Day Tour
- Margaritaville Hip-strip and Great River Rafting Private Tour
- If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Montego Bay between September and November, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between March and May.