Montego Bay is the second largest city and the capital of St James Parish on Jamaica's North Coast.
It offers visitors white sand beaches, world class golf, historical buildings, Great Houses, lively entertainment, shopping and easy access to many attractions.
It is the gateway to Jamaica with both Sangster International Airport and a large cruise port welcoming visitors.
Doctors Cave Beach ,which you see from your airplane just before landing, is credited with turning Mo Bay/ as the locals call it, into the vacation destination it is today. Widely rumored to have healing and curative powers since the early 1900's, this beautiful crescent of white sand beach is now dotted with chic restaurant/ bars and has sun umbrellas to rent. A small entrance fee is charged.
What to Do
Montego Bay is the major golf area in Jamaica with world class golf at White Witch, Cinnamon Hill, Tryall, and Half Moon's Golf Course.
Explore historical buildings and areas, and get a glimpse of Jamaica's past history at the many Great Houses of former slave plantations, Sam Sharpe Square and St James Parish Church .
Visit Rockland Bird Sanctuary to feed and get up close to the Doctor Bird, Jamaica's national bird, among other native species.
Take an ATV ride through country side. Go horseback ridding. Shop till you drop..everything from fine jewelry, electronics, crafts, souvenirs, rum and rum products and more.
From Montego Bay you can easily set out for tours and attractions all over the island.
Entertainment
Montego Bay is a party place. There are many clubs near the "Hip Strip". There’s something for all tastes here—reggae, nightclubs, jazz bars, and casual hangouts.
Water Sports
Deep Sea Fishing - A number of fishing charter companies offer day or half day trips. Maybe you will catch a Marlin!
Snorkeling and Scuba - Mo Bay has a protected Marine Park so snorkeling is great. You can even do a Self Drive Mini Boat Snorkeling Tour. Scuba with PADI certified staff can be arranged from your hotel. Many of the large all inclusive resorts include scuba.
Para sail, Speed Tubing, Speed Boat adventures, Day or Sunset Catamaran Tours...there is no limit to water activities.
Where to Stay
Luxury, basic, all inclusive, non all inclusive, resort, hotel, villas, adults only, family friendly....Montego Bay has accommodations to suit everyone's idea of the perfect vacation!
Most of the larger all inclusive resorts are slightly out of town but a couple have returned to the "Hip Strip" so you now have the option of being in the centre of the action or on a property with a private beach. Larger all inclusive resorts make it easy to relax and have a carefree vacation where you never take your wallet out.
Where to Eat
Choose the type of food you want and you will surely find it here. Just too many options to list and eateries come in all price categories.
Safety
You will find most Jamaicans are honest and friendly, as are most visitors.
Use common sense like you would do at home. Don't go off with someone you don't know. Don't walk in dark areas by yourself.
Don't wear flashy jewellery, flash money around or be obnoxious. Keep your wits about you especially if you have been drinking.
Remember that cars drive on the left... so look both ways before crossing the road!
Common sense will ensure you have a memorable holiday.
