Montego Bay

There are some Montego Bay attractions that you simply must not miss. Practice your “to di world” pose in front of the Usain Bolt statue at the sports bar of the fastest man in the world, also near the Hip Strip. Then venture into downtown to visit Sam Sharpe Square, bustling with local city culture and featuring a cobblestone plaza with historical monuments. Here, you’ll be able to visit the Montego Bay Cultural Centre and immerse yourself in the history of the characteristic town and learn the meaning behind Sam Sharpe Square.

There’s no shortage of restaurants. It’s a tremendous location for the foodie hoping to sample Jamaica’s best. Insider tip: ask your local tour guide to share with you their favourite eatery to sample some of the best homemade cooking featuring authentic Jamaican flavour. 

As Jamaica’s third most populous city, Montego Bay is booming with attractions and activities for every type of traveller. 

You can go on an epic eco-adventure with Cockpit Country Adventure Tours where you’ll journey through awe-inspiring caverns gleaming with wondrous geographical treasures that were once a hideout for Maroon warriors. Or, take the family or friend group over to Paintball Jamaica for a fun-filled day of play in a wooded area with plenty of shade. Another option is a relaxing and blissful ride down the Martha Brae River on a carefully hand-crafted bamboo raft surrounded by nothing but greenery and water with the sound of wind breezing through the trees, flowing streams, and birds singing.

We enjoy a hot and humid tropical climate all year round, which is exactly what you want for a relaxing vacation. Temperatures range from 19 degrees Celsius (66 Fahrenheit) to 32 degrees Celsius (99 Fahrenheit). Even though we’re known for our sunshine, we have two rainy seasons a year, from May to June, and September.

Jamaica is an island of 10, 992 square kilometers but has so much to offer. if you are keen to explore, you will find the journey just as much a part of your travel experience as the destination. From rental cars to luxury services, discover the many blessings the island has to offer.

On the island, Jamaican’s drive on the left side of the road. The speed limit is 50 kmph (30 mph) in built-up areas, and 80 kmph (50 mph) on highways, and all drivers are required to carry a valid license. Jamaica recognizes valid International Driver’s Licenses, but visitors from North America may use their country's license for up to three months per visit. Car rental is available in most major towns, cities and airports, but you can be no younger than 25 years old to hire a car yourself.

Officially, Jamaican’s speak English but we like to mix it up with our own island version of patois. It takes a little getting used to, but you’re sure to have lots of fun trying out a few of our expressions. Look at our Patois page to learn some words and phrases before getting here.

Licensed cambio centers and commercial banks are accessible in all resort areas. The official currency exchange rates vary daily, so it’s advisable to shop around for the best rate before converting your cash. Most of our ATMs accept international bank cards, with Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus and Plus logos. Banks also give credit card advances, change traveller’s checks and other financial services.

The Gloucester Avenue ‘Hip Strip’ is Montego Bay’s buzzing street that offers a variety of options to indulge in. Get a taste of what Montego Bay has to offer with samples from around the globe within steps of each other. 

Filling options from China House Restaurant, iconic selections from Margaritaville, and traditional Jewish servings from Chabad of Jamaica, the first kosher hot spot in Jamaica, will leave you with more than just a bellyful. Enjoy tasty eats at top restaurants in Montego Bay while bar hopping day to night from Pier 1 to Hard Rock Café for a well-rounded experience.

This  tourist capital has retail options catering to all buyer types. Get extra value by visiting a shopping village that doubles as a historic venue. For example, the grounds of 17th-century Fort Montego has the artisan shops of Old Fort Craft Market; and the Montego Bay Cultural Centre offers exhibitions on a 20th-century site and houses a National Museum.

While you’re out enjoying the city,  Harbour Street and Holiday Craft Market are both conveniently located near main attractions and popular resorts to stock up on souvenirs. Speaking of attractions, the eerie Rose Hall Great House is across from the Shoppes of Rose Hall. This shopping village includes a variety of handmade goods, resort apparel, luxurious pieces from the likes of Casa de Oro Jewelers, and more.

Jamaica falls within the Eastern Time Zone (UTC/GMT -5 Hours) and does not observe Daylight Savings Time. At approximately 18 degrees north of the equator, the island falls within the tropics, and as such does not experience drastic seasonal changes in sunrise and sunset times. Year-round, the island averages between 11.5 and 12.5 hours of sunlight per day.