I was a little weary of Montego as it seems such a popular all-inclusive spot. However, the city quickly grew on me. Montego was the perfect starting point for my trip to Jamaica. Its touristic infrastructure allows you to settle in quite quickly while downtown affords you glimpses into real Jamaican city life!
Montego Bay | more than an all-inclusive hotspot
Duration: at least 5 days
Budget: $ 75 per day
Stay: Belleh23 or Raggamuffin
I was a little weary of Montego as it seems such a popular all-inclusive spot. However, the city quickly grew on me, and I was happy to return before my flight back to Germany. The airport is located just outside of downtown and right by the beach. The plane was touching the ground as the sun was setting.
I found Montego to be the perfect starting point for my trip to Jamaica. Its touristic infrastructure allows you to settle in quite quickly while downtown affords you glimpses into real Jamaican city life. Furthermore, as the island is relatively small, one can set out to do anything from MoBay.
For starters, let’s divide Montego Bay into roughly two areas: Gloucester Avenue, aka the “Hip Strip,” lined by beaches and bars and restaurants on the other. The “Hip Strip” is Montego’s main tourist area, and you can feel an American vibe.
- Sight Seeing 40%
- Beaches 70%
- Day-Trips 95%
- Party 100%
The rest of Montego Bay and downtown feel a lot more real and offer an authentic feeling to those of venture out. To experience the best of both worlds, I can only urge you to venture beyond the Hip Strip and get to know Mobay from an Airbnb in a more local neighborhood.
I loved my stay with Cerri and Jah B in Mount Salem. The vibe was so lovely and welcoming. Not only did I have a fantastic view over Mobay, but some of my favorite food sports, such as Tradishonal, were within walking distance.
Beaches in Montego Bay
Kingston is the world’s dancehall hub, and the famous parties attract dancers from around the world. So naturally, it’s easy to find a dancehall teacher to get your groove going!
Harmony beach
Coming from downtown, Harmony beach is the first beach you’ll pass. It’s a free public beach that was just recently opened. To my surprise, it’s pretty large and was always empty when I walked by in the mornings. Unfortunately, the beach is closed Mondays for maintenance.
Beaches in Montego Bay
Doctor’s Cove
This stunning beach’s supposedly healing waters have attracted visitors since its opening in 1906. Today, it’s Mobay’s most famous beach offering visitors all kinds of amenities. You’ll find the entrance next to Starbucks (which already says a lot). The Entrance fee is $6. While the beach feels almost like you have entered a hotel complex, the color of the water and the views of incoming and departing flights are unique.
Doctor’s Cove beach is also the perfect spot to spend your last day before heading to the airport as it’s close by and even offers showers.
One Man Beach
If you want to hang out with locals and have a good time, the place to be. There’s also a beachfront soccer place.
Dead End Beach
Dead End Beach is the famous beach where airplanes land right over your head, as the airport is right beside the beach! This relatively small stretch of beach located north of Gloucester Avenue is also known as Buccaneer beach. It’s a free public beach with no facilities. Located just a short walk from the more famous Doctor’s Cave Beach, Dead End Beach is a more relaxed place to watch the sunset.
Montego's Gloucester ave, aka. "Hip Strip"
Mobay’s Hips Strip is the main party street in Montego Bay, with many bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. It’s also where you’ll find Jamaica’s largest duty-free shopping area. In addition, it is the center of tourism. It’s not my favorite spot as food and vibes are much better downtown, but you’ll find Island Strains Herb House there – my favorite place to spend sunsets in MoBay!
Downtown Montego Bay
Downtown Mobay isn’t exactly pretty and is a pretty gritty city. As I stayed in Mount Salem, my daily walk to the beaches took me along Chruch St., Mobay’s “most picturesque” street. You’ll find Mobay’s Townhouse, Gregorian-style structures, and some pretty churches there. While I found the beach areas of Mobay more touristic, I enjoyed my time downtown. The food is better, and it feels more like an actual Jamaican city with fewer tourists.
Sam Sharpe Square
The square was named after Jamaican National hero Samuel Sharp. Samuel Sharp led the Christmas rebellion in 1831. In the afternoon hours, you’ll find tasty street food around, and it’s a good spot for hanging out and observing the crazy hustle of the city. Close by, you’ll also find the National heros’ Monument.
Montego Bay Cultural Center
Southwest of Sam’ Sharpe Square, you’ll find Montego’s Cultural Center. Home to a history museum, a small art gallery, and (before covid) MoBay’s cultural events. The museum is especially interesting as it tells the story of Montego Bay from the Time of the Arawaks to the present day.
Greenwood Great House
A visit to Greenwood Great House is a must-do for any history buff. This 18th-century plantation home was once owned by the famous pirate Henry Morgan.
Today, it’s a museum where you can learn about the area’s colonial past. Be sure to tour the grounds and see the beautiful bay views from the property. Greenwood Great House offers visitors a chance to explore Jamaica’s diverse history and culture, just a short distance from the bustling city center and overlooking the scenic Caribbean Sea. Whether you are interested in learning about old plantation life or exploring local artworks, Greenwood Great House has something for everyone. And if you want to relax and enjoy breathtaking views of the water and stunning mountain scenery, there are plenty of outdoor spaces where you can do just that.
Rose Hall Great House
If you’re looking for a truly unique and memorable experience in Montego Bay, be sure to check out Rose Hall Great House. Rose Hall Great House is another must-see for history lovers. This 18th-century plantation home is brimming with history. Rose Hall showcases beautiful historical architecture and offers tours of the property that take you through interesting landmarks like the slave cemetery and Annie Palmer’s private chambers. Whether you’re a local or just visiting for a day, Rose Hall is a must-see destination for anyone interested in iconic Jamaican history. This 18th-century plantation home was once owned by Annie Palmer, the so-called “White Witch of Rose Hall.” Today, it’s a museum where you can learn about the area’s dark past. Be sure to tour the grounds and see the beautiful bay views from the property.
Green Grotto Caves
This 1.5 km-long cave system is famous for being the filming location for the James Bond movie Live and Let Die, but it also has a rich history. The caves were a hiding place for enslaved people and the Spanish in the 17th century and later served as a nightclub in the 1990s. Today, the caves are open for tourists and offer a moving glimpse into Jamaican history. Visitors can explore the cave system on their own or take a guided tour, and there is also a small museum on site.
Jamaican Food Tours
Check out one of the city’s food tours! You’ll get to try dishes from some of the area’s most famous restaurants and learn about Jamaican culture and history. You’ll also get to explore some of the city’s coolest neighborhoods.
You’ll begin your culinary adventure when you meet with your guide and explore Montego. You might try jerk chicken, one of Jamaica’s most common dishes- it tastes delicious! Whether dining at an authentic restaurant or roadside stand – everything smells & looks fantastic, so enjoy every minute while learning more than just “What’re some good places nearby?
Walk with the hooligans
Are you looking for something unusual to do and love dogs? You will love the special tour Montego Bay Animal Haven haven has put together!
Beautiful Jamaica is also home to a large population of stray dogs, many of them in poor shape. I have been super excited to read about walking with the hooligans: spending a day with dogs, and getting to know Jamaica a bit better while supporting an amazing cause. Tammy Browne, the founder of the Montego Bay Animal Haven, in collaboration with Irina Bruce from IrieLab–a company specializing in interactive experiences for Jamaican visitors, has created something unique.
This tour allows you to explore the hills with large packs of rescued dogs! The best part? These playful “hooligans” will romp and remind you of how wonderful Jamaica is as they show you their world. Whether going solo or with a few friends, this tour offers an unforgettable way to experience inland Jamaica while making some four-legged pals along the way.
Hike Hours: 9 am – 10 am
Visiting Hours: 10 am – 12 noon
Costs: $65 including transport
Take in Jamaica's lush side: Animal Fram & Nature Reserve
Things to do in Montego Bay go beyond the busy nightlife typically associated with this paradise island – Animal Farm and Nature Reserve is just a 30-minute drive away, making it the perfect destination for anyone who needs to escape and relax. Powered by solar energy, these eco-cottages come with everything you need – from views of the forest canopy to the farm animals that provide a melodic soundtrack – so you can truly immerse yourself in nature. From birdwatching across the fields to floating down the roaring Great River on a raft, there’s plenty of ways to explore Jamaica’s lush green side here. So forget finding peace and quiet in the more typical resort hotels, as Animal Farm and Nature Reserve offers an unforgettable experience that allows you to get away from it all.
Get ready to travel Jamaica
Public Transport in Montego Bay
Route Taxis are the way to move around Jamaica. Official route taxis have a red license plate. In MoBay, you’ll see the route they are catering written on the doors. Route taxis are the cheapest and most flexible way to move around. Just be careful to enter/exit on the route. Otherwise, you’ll be charged as a charter taxi.
Public Bus: The bus stop is downtown. I couldn’t find a schedule. They seem to go more frequently than the Knutsford.
Knutsford: Leaving Moby Airport, Jamaica’s luxury bus connects more significant destinations. Be aware that the time stated refers to calculated driving time and not the actual time to reach a destination. Adding to the driving time are stops and bus switches which are not apparent when buying the ticket. Due to Covid, there are fewer buses than usual, and it is better to buy the ticket online.
Airport
Arriving at MoBay Sangster International is quite picturesque as the airport is located right by the beach. The airport is also only 10 minutes from the HipStrip, 15 to downtown, and 20 minutes up Mount Salem. Sangster International Airport is also small making it extra comfortable to move around.
Safety
As a female traveler, I felt safe. Obviously, there are some hustlers you’ll be fine with as long as you are friendly and walk with a purpose.
Montego’s SoZo’s
Zones of Special Operations were established about 10 years ago around Jamaica’s cities after crime escalated. You’ll notice the military around as soon as you enter a ZoSo. Salem is such a SoZo in MoBay. Be aware, but don’t let it scare you. Flankers, Canterbury, and the area around the dump up beach are best avoided at night, though.
Best time to travel Montego Bay:
Route Taxis are the way to move around Jamaica. Official route taxis have a red license plate. In MoBay, you’ll see the route they are catering written on the doors. Route taxis are the cheapest and most flexible way to move around. Just be careful to enter/exit on the route. Otherwise, you’ll be charged as a charter taxi.
Public Bus: The stop for buses to basically anywhere leave is downtown. I couldn’t find a schedule. They seem to go more frequently than the Knutsford.
Knutsford: Leaving from from the downtown station, Jamaica’s luxury bus connects more significant destinations. Be aware that the time stated refers to calculated driving time and not the actual time to reach a destination. Adding to the driving time are stops and bus switches which are not apparent when buying the ticket. Due to Covid, there are fewer buses than usual, and it is better to buy the ticket online.
Tap water in Jamaica
Even though Jamaica is considered a third-world country, it provides the best water quality in the region. You are, therefore, safe to drink tap water. This is especially true in the cities. However, if it makes you feel uneasy, bring your Lifestraw pro. It will keep your drinks cold for 24 hrs, too!
Where to get money
Even though Jamaica is considered a third-world country, it provides the best water quality in the region. You are, therefore, safe to drink tap water. This is especially true in the cities. However, if it makes you feel uneasy, bring your Lifestraw pro. It will keep your drinks cold for 24 hrs, too!
Biggest challenge for the responsible traveler
Trash
Make sure to bring a foldable food container and cutlery with you! The amount of waste caused by food sold on the street is incredible.
Sunscreen
Protect Jamaica’s marine life and bring reef-friendly sunscreen!
The best place to stay
I can’t recommend staying in Mount Salem with Jah B and Cherri enough. They are wonderful people, have an inspiring spirit, and have many stories to tell. Not only did I feel very at home with my hosts, but also very much enjoyed the authentic neighborhood away from the hustle of the Hip Strip. Being away from the main tourist area also meant finding some authentic food just around the corner.
Marijuana or "the herb"
Marijuana is not entirely legal in Jamaica. Yet, it is decriminalized. Meaning it’s almost impossible to get in trouble for. Quality and price vary greatly. Get a prescription card (cost $10) from a legal pharmacy to make it legal. In MoBay Island Strains Herb House would be the place to go.
Packing List Jamaica
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Traveling Jamaica?
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Montego Bay | more than an all-inclusive hotspot
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Packing list caribbean
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