RESORT AREA SPOTLIGHT: MONTEGO BAY
Jamaica’s tourism capital Montego Bay – or MoBay as it is affectionately known – is a major cruise port on the island and a fantastic destination for first-time visitors and those travelling with groups or families. The popular resort area located on the northeast shore is just a short drive from Sangster’s International Airport, which means visitors can start their vacation shortly after touching down.
With beautiful beaches, scenic golf courses, impressive historic and cultural sites, and plenty of entertainment options, MoBay offers a little something for everyone. The renowned “Hip Strip” along Gloucester Avenue is buzzing with activity from day to night thanks to its many souvenir shops, restaurants and bars, while the surrounding countryside is home to tropical lagoons, tranquil rivers, inland rainforest and glistening white-sand beaches.
Here are some of the must-see attractions and experiences to enjoy when staying in Montego Bay:
Rose Hall Great House
Rose Hall Great House is one of Jamaica’s most iconic historic sites and offers plenty of intrigue thanks to its mysterious back-story. The former Georgian plantation property was once the home of Annie Palmer, a murderous mistress of the house who has come to be known as the White Witch. Visitors can tour the beautifully preserved historic interiors of the 18th-century Great House and explore the surrounding 6,600-acre Rose Hall plantation. Rolling hills, tropical gardens and majestic lawns boasting panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea have made the estate a popular wedding venue in recent years. For a truly immersive experience, visitors can get up close and personal with the notorious White Witch during an evening dinner theatre performance.
Doctor’s Cave Beach
Located just off Montego Bay’s bustling Hip Strip, the world-famous Doctor’s Cave Beach is known its legendary crystal-clear waters that are fed by a nearby mineral spring. For a small entrance fee, beachgoers can spend the day soaking up the sun on the meticulously maintained stretch of sand while swimming in the warm mineral-rich waters, which are said to have curative healing powers. You may even spot some brightly coloured tropical fish swimming close to the surface.
Authentic Cuisine
Jamaica’s rich culinary culture is part of its unique appeal and no visit to the island would be complete without sampling some juicy, tender jerk fare. Scotchies is the undisputed favourite for all things jerk and a must-try for foodies. Chefs at the rustic jerk shack use large fiery BBQ pits to prepare authentic jerk chicken and pork, roasted yams and delicious sides and soup. For a more upscale dining option, Houseboat Grill on the Hip Strip offers picturesque waterfront views and a seafood-forward fusion menu. The intimate, multistory restaurant is housed in a former houseboat moored on the calm waters of the Montego Bay Marine Park and features a cozy lower-level dining room and an open-air upper deck.
Martha Brae River Rafting
Located in Trelawny on Jamaica’s north coast, the Martha Brae River is a favourite spot among tourists and locals who are looking for a relaxing outing in the countryside. Head 20 minutes outside of MoBay to this scenic spot and link up with a local guide to escort you on a guided rafting tour along the gentle 232-kilomatre river that winds through Jamaica’s tropical in-land rainforest. Sitting atop comfortable banana bamboo rafts, nature enthusiasts will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with flowers, fauna and wildlife, and can even stop along the riverbank for a cold Red Stripe beer.
Scenic Golfing
With lush greenery and challenging terrain integrated into Jamaica’s stunning shoreline landscape, MoBay is the top resort area for golfing in Jamaica and is home to four championship courses. Visitors can tee-off at popular spots like Tryall Club, Cinnamon Hill and Half Moon Golf Course and play a round while taking in magnificent views of the Caribbean Sea, tropical waterfalls and historic monuments. Those looking for the ultimate golfing challenge test their skills at the 18-hole White Witch Golf Club set amongst the rolling hills of the Rose Hall Estate. A professional support team is at the heart of the Jamaican golf experience and as such caddies are mandatory on the island.
Luminous Lagoon
Located just 20 minutes outside of MoBay, the legendary Luminous Lagoon is a truly magical site and is one of the only places in the world to witness this unique environmental phenomenon. The lagoon’s bio-luminous waters sparkle under the cover of darkness with a glistening blue glow is created by naturally occurring algae below the surface. Visitors who want to see the glowing lagoon up close can set off from Glistening Waters Marina on a 45-minute nighttime tour in a small boat or kayak to and learn about this natural wonder before taking a dip in the shimmering waters.
Exciting Nightlife
There’s a vibrant energy and rhythm that pulsates through the heart of Jamaica, and Montego Bay’s Hip Strip is home to some of the island’s hottest nightlife and live music. Pier 1 is a popular hotspot for locals and tourists who like to get down. A casual seafood restaurant by day, the open-air venue transforms into a buzzing entertainment venue at night (especially Fridays) with live DJs spinning a mix of international hits and thumping dancehall tracks by Jamaican artists. Margaritaville is another favourite party destination with multi-level dance floors and VIP booths. For a more relaxed after-hours vibe, Blue Beat jazz and blues club offers a classy atmosphere paired with martinis and live music on most nights.
Whether you are looking for a relaxed beach vacation, outdoor adventures, or tasty cuisine and nightlife action, Jamaica’s Montego Bay delivers a variety of experiences and activities for every type of traveller.
