This place calls out to partiers, fine gourmets, sun seekers and golfers with its happening strip offering great beaches, great food, magnificent golf courses and a 24 hour party atmosphere.
Montego Bay is located on the northwest coast of Jamaica and is known for its white-sand beaches edged by flowering trees and palm tree covered hills. The town is also a bustling port and commercial center. Away from the coast you will find long stretches of rolling meadowland. The popular vacation destination of Negril is located about 1.5 hours west, while Ocho Rios and Dunn's River are about 2 hours east. All flights with vacation packages fly into Montego Bay. If looking for more nightlife and activities travelers may want to stay near Montego Bay rather than the other destinations nearby.
Avg. °C | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
High | 27 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 29 | 28 |
Low | 22 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 22 |
Rain (mm) | 60 | 40 | 50 | 60 | 140 | 130 | 70 | 130 | 150 | 180 | 130 | 90 |
Taxis have pre-established rates and buses services are available on a city and national level. Air Jamaica Express offers domestic flights.
Car and motorcycle rental desk can be found at the airport, in some hotels and in the city. When crossing the street or when renting a vehicle please remember that Jamaicans drive on the LEFT.
The General Consumption Tax (GCT) of 15% is applied to goods and services. Hotels usually include a service charge of 10% to 15%. Restaurants accept the same 10% to 15% tipping rule. Tipping is also customary for bellmen, doormen, porters, tour guides and taxis.
Gang violence occurs regularly in inner-city areas of Kingston but tourist resorts are safe. However as a tourist you are more likely to be a target of petty crime. Use good judgement, take advantage of the safety deposit boxes provided by the hotels and ensure that your lock hotel door or your rented car. Carry your wallet and camera discreetly.
Resort and beaches in Montego Bay offer all water sport activities like catamarans, power boats, kayak and many more. Scuba diving and snorkeling among the protected waters of Montego Bay Marine Park, who offer large coral reefs teeming with exotic fish, is incredible. Deep-sea fishing expeditions are popular with catches including the prized blue marlin. Sailing tours are available at the Montego Bay Yacht Club.
Jamaica has wonderful golf courses which include: the Half Moon Golf Club, home of the Red Stripe Pro Am, the 18-hole Tryall Club, the Rose Hall Plantation's White Witch Golf course, the Ironshore's 18-hole and the Cinnamon Hill Golf Club.
Many horseback riding facilities are to be found in the area. So tours include a visit to various plantations. Bicycles and mopeds can be rented as well to explore the island. So many more activities can be enjoyed. Some favourites are: hiking, white-water rafting expedition, safari tours, tubing and tennis.
Dining & Nightlife
Montego Bay's nightlife is varied with bars, cafes, cabarets, cinemas and discos. Try Sun Daze for great calypso and reggae music. The Cricket Club has more of a sports bar atmosphere. To dance the night away you should head to the Witches Nightclub.
Coral Cliff Gaming Room is perfect for those who want to spend a night with Lady Luck at this popular casino.
Chillin Coral Cliff is a winter wonderland ski lodge bar in the tropics with a hand-crafted ice bar and the shot glasses are made of ice. Coat and gloves are provided.
Shopping
The main Crafts Market is close to Sam Sharpe Square and two smaller ones can be found in the hotel area were you will find straw baskets, handmade leather goods, wall hangings, batiks, carvings of wood and bone, rum, cigars and Blue Mountain coffee.
St. James and Fantasy Plazas, Montego Bay Plaza, Bay West Plaza and the Montego Freeport Shopping Centre are great places for visitors wanting to shop for souvenirs.
Wonderful art galleries sell works by local artists.
Flying time from:
Toronto: Approximately 4 hours
Montreal: Approximately 6 hours
Calgary: Approximately 6 hours
Vancouver: Approximately 6 hours 30 minutes
Languages: English.
Currency: Jamaican Dollar. U.S. currency widely accepted.
Climate: Montego Bay's tropical climate is very pleasant however it can get colder in the mountains. The annual average temperature is 27° C.
Electricity:110 V, 50Hz. Hotels often have 220 V. Same as Canada and the U.S.
Documents
A valid passport recommended for Canadian citizens but a certified birth certificate and government issues photo id accepted. Roundtrip or onward ticket required. All other nationalities please consult a vacation specialist or the Jamaican consulate. Passports are highly recommended.
The departure tax of around JA$1,000, per person, is usually included on your plane ticket but if not added it will be payable at the airport, please verify. Some restrictions apply to tourists 18 years & under, when travelling without parents.
Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa
- Luxe and ultra-modern, Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa is new to Montego Bay. Focused on a social, club-like atmosphere with an elevated focus on energy, nightlife and themed events, Breathless Resorts & Spas are the perfect social setting to… more
Deja Resort
- Situated in one of the liveliest areas of one of Jamaica’s most beautiful cities, the Deja Resort in Montego Bay combines convenience, comfort, and colour. Locally owned, this stylish and comfortable resort treats guests to an authentic Jamaican vibe, with… more
Excellence Oyster Bay
- Experience a new standard of adults only luxury on an idyllic, secluded peninsula in Montego Bay. Situated on a long stretch of pristine white sands and surrounded by turquoise waters and mangrove lagoons, Excellence Oyster Bay resort is a beautiful… more
Grand Palladium Jamaica
- A perfect blend of stunning natural surroundings and luxury all inclusive facilities, the Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa is a small slice of vacation bliss. With an international selection of dining options that include Indian, Creole and Mexican to… more
Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton
- The Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa is set on the Northern Jamaica coastline, with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. Featuring modern design and luxurious facilities, this first class resort blends in harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Only… more
Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa
- Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa sits on a magnificent beach and boasts the wonderful Cinnamon Hill 18-hole Ocean Championship Golf Course designed by Robert von Hagge. The resort also has Sugar Mill Falls, a fantastic water park and a terrific place… more
Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay
- The Holiday Inn Resort in Montego Bay, provides one of the best value for all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean. Great for families, it successfully captures the laid back vibe and beauty of this tropical island. Location: On 1/2 mile of white… more
Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
- Sophisticated and stylish, Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall is an indulgent escape for adults. Here, within the resort's sprawling grounds, couples, friends and individuals are welcome to partake in whatever their hearts desire. Attentive service at every turn assures each guest… more
Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall
- Formerly the Ritz Carlton Rose Hall, this storied property is being reinvented as Hyatt Ziva through a multi-million dollar renovation. Located on 5,000 picture-perfect acres in Jamaica's exclusive Rose Hall, this all-inclusive masterpiece will cater to guests of all ages… more
Iberostar Grand Hotel Rose Hall
- The finest of Iberostar's Jamaican hotels, the Grand Rose Hall has been outfitted with a plethora of 5-star facilities and amenities. Beyond gourmet dining, premium brand liquors and a spa specializing in couples treatments, this superlative resort offers over-sized lavish… more
Iberostar Rose Hall Beach
- This wonderful Iberostar hotel is nestled on a stunning tropical beach in beautiful and lively Montego Bay. Built with elegant Colonial architecture, Iberostar Rose Hall Beach offers an ocean view orientation, so many spectacular views of the sea are visible… more
Iberostar Selection Rose Hall Suites
- This all-suites resort in the Iberostar Rose Hall complex, compliments its sister hotel with extraordinary specialty restaurants and unique amenities. From 24-hour all inclusive & concierge service, to elegantly appointed suites and a stunning stretch of beach, guests will be… more
Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort and Spa
- From luxurious suites to expansive villas, the Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa offers breathtaking views and an elevated experience with world-class services and premium amenities. Indulge in butler services and choose from an array of amenities making this… more
Mangos Jamaica Boutique Beach Resort
- Get the best of the Jamaica’s beaches and lush tropical gardens at Mangos Boutique Beach Resort. Located in Coopers Pen this charming escape is conveniently located just outside of Montego Bay with many of Ocho Rios’ attractions less than an… more
Riu Montego Bay
- In harmony with island architecture, the Riu Montego Bay Hotel will be found along a shimmering beach surrounded by nearly 450,000 square feet of lush gardens. With an on-site spa and golf nearby, it's the ideal vacation destination for families,… more
Riu Palace Jamaica
- Located just 20 minutes from Montego Bay, this new adults only property offers guests top-quality service, comfort and a wide range of lavish amenities all under one roof. Nestled in the tranquil Mahoe Bay, this all inclusive resort is a… more
Riu Reggae
- Riu Reggae is a glamorous adults only resort perfect for couples or friends seeking adventure in a Caribbean paradise. Close to many of the island's key attractions, the resort is also ideally situated for exploring Montego Bay. Foodies will appreciate… more
Round Hill Hotel and Villas
- Voted one of the top resorts in the Caribbean by Travel & Leisure Magazine, Round Hill Hotel is an elegant boutique resort in an ideal location to enjoy Jamaica's natural beauty.Location: Beachfront, 25 minutes from Sangster International Airport more
Royal Decameron Cornwall Beach
- Enjoy warm turquoise beaches, fusion flavors and reggae sounds at Royal Decameron Cornwall, a contemporary resort with Caribbean and tropical style. Located on a private beach and only 5 minutes from the airport, and the commercial district of Montego Bay and… more
Royal Decameron Montego Beach
- Royal Decameron Montego Beach provides a cool and comfortable setting for a relaxing Caribbean vacation in a great location on Montego Bay. Casual and friendly, the resort offers a superb standard of accommodation at amazing value. Head to the beach… more
Royalton Blue Waters
- Located on beautiful golden sands, the Royalton Blue Waters combines a stunning beachfront setting with a host of high tech amenities. Ideal for couples and families, the resort features 228 luxurious rooms and suites equipped with high-speed complimentary Wi-Fi. Float down… more
Royalton White Sands
- The white sands and azure shorelines of Jamaica are calling. Along the tropical coast of one of the most coveted Caribbean destinations sits the Royalton White Sands Montego Bay, the perfect all inclusive resort for families, couples, honeymooners, and groups.… more
Sandals Montego Bay
- Situated on 26 acres of lush tropical gardens, this exciting resort fronts the largest private white sand beach in all of Jamaica. A paradise resort boasting some of Sandals' most lavish suites and delightfully appointed rooms, five gourmet restaurants, and… more
Sandals Royal Caribbean
- Sandals Royal Caribbean in Montego Bay has all the grace and elegance of a Georgian Great House setting combined with fun, sun and excitement, not to mention luxurious swim-up river suites. Enjoy Sandals Cay, a private offshore island which is… more
Seagarden Beach Resort
- Combining all of the relaxing full service amenities of a health resort with the leisurely pursuits of an all-inclusive hotel, a Caribbean spa vacation at the Sea Garden Jamaica Resort promises to relax your mind, revive your body, and restore… more
Secrets St James Montego Bay
- With a stunning location on a private, sugar-white sand beach, Secrets St. James presents guests with a quiet, relaxing, oceanfront destination. The resort's classic furniture and modern fabrics echo this modern take on the sophistication of the Victorian era. Should… more
Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay
- This exotic hideaway, only 15 minutes from the Montego Bay airport, is inspired by the lush tapestry of flowers which dot the landscape?Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay. For your pleasure, this adults-only, round-the-clock playground offers 350 opulent suites and features… more
Tobys Resort
- Toby's Resort is located in the heart of the 'Hip Strip'. This small family owned hotel is ideal for the adventurous traveler who wants to get out and explore the many shops, restaurants and bars this lively area has to… more
Zoetry Montego Bay
- Zoetry Montego Bay Jamaica is an ultra-luxurious boutique resort in the upscale Ironshore neighborhood, offering the Endless Privileges® experience, where everything is included. This beachfront sanctuary is located on a private stretch of white sand beach, a world away from… more