Reggae, jerk smoke and waterfalls tumbling down to the sea.
Jamaica has far more to it than all-inclusive resorts. Negril's Seven Mile Beach and cliffs face the sunset, Ocho Rios has the climbable cascades of Dunn's River Falls, and Port Antonio hides the Blue Lagoon among rainforest. Above Kingston, the Blue Mountains are cool, misty and planted with coffee, while the city itself holds the Bob Marley Museum and a serious music scene.
Food is a highlight: jerk chicken and pork from roadside drums, ackee and saltfish for breakfast, patties and fresh fish at Treasure Beach. The pace is unhurried and the roads are winding, so allow time between regions. December to April is dry and breezy; September and October bring the heaviest rain and peak hurricane risk.
Best time to visit Jamaica
January, February, March, April, December.
Places to visit in Jamaica
Montego Bay: Jamaica's main tourist city, with resorts, Doctor's Cave Beach and the Hip Strip, and a base for rafting and great houses.
Negril: Jamaica's laid-back west end, with a long sweep of white sand and dramatic limestone cliffs for sunset and cliff-jumping.
Ocho Rios: A north-coast port surrounded by waterfalls and gardens, best known for climbing the cascades of Dunn's River Falls.
Kingston: Jamaica's capital and the heart of its music, with the Bob Marley Museum, historic Port Royal and Blue Mountain coffee.
Essentials
Currency: Jamaican Dollar (JMD)
Language: English; Jamaican Patois widely spoken
Plugs: Type A / B, 110 V
Driving: Left side
Time zone: UTC−5
Tipping: 10–15% where no service charge has been added
Getting around: Hire a car or driver; route taxis and coaches link the main towns
Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking