The Six Major Resort Areas in Jamaica

There are 6 major tourist areas in Jamaica, each with a different style, feel and focus, and may cater to different types of tourists. We will be going over each one in detail so you can see which one is best for you.

Negril – The Capital of Casual

Let your hair down and enjoy the atmosphere. Negril is known for its marvelous sunsets, pristine 7-mile stretch of white sandy beaches, and beautiful turquoise waters. The perfect getaway to escape from the daily grind. If you are looking for somewhere to simply relax then Negril’s laid-back atmosphere is the place for you.

Popular sights include:

• The Kool Runnings Water Park
• The World Famous 7 mile beach
• Watching Sunsets at Rick’s Cafe
• Cliff Diving

Montego Bay – The Complete Resort

The second city; has a plethora of activities that fit just about every budget and preference. Montego Bay (or Mobay for short) is often seen as the tourist capital of Jamaica and is home to Sangster’s International airport and a cruise ship that can accommodate mega liners. Mobay hosts lots of activities for every type of visitor including restaurants shopping world-class golf courses, hotels, and more.

• Popular sights include:
• Rose Hall and Greenwood Great Houses
• Croydon and Hamilton Plantations
• The Luminous Lagoon
• Doctors’ Cave Beach

Ocho Rios – The Centre Piece of Jamaica

Ocho Rios is located in the Parish of St.Ann- the garden parish. This resort area is in a great location since it takes around the same time to travel to Kingston and Montego Bay. This means easy access from both airports (Sangster’s international and Norman Manley International). Ocho Rios is a good chance to get in touch with nature. In fact, its name is derived from the Spanish phrase “Las Chorreras” which translates to “waterfalls; most likely a reflection of the many waterfalls in the area. Being in the garden parish, Ocho Rios is home to gardens, caves, and rivers, but it doesn’t end there. At the cost, you can find beautiful beaches and various watersports and activities.

Sights Include:

• Dunn’s River Falls
• Fern Gully
• Konoko Falls
• Dover Raceway
• Craft Market

Mandeville and the South Coast – Off the beaten track

As the slogan says “Off the beaten track”; The south coast offers a change in beat from the typical tourist type experience to a “real” Jamaica experience. The South Coast consists of the parishes of Clarendon, Manchester, and St. Elizabeth. This is a good chance to tour Jamaica’s farmlands, plantation safari or visit Appleton Estate (home to Jamaica’s very own Appleton rum).

Popular Sights Include:

• Treasure Beach
• Little Ochi
• Alligator Pond
• Appleton Estates

Port Antonio – Naturally

Home to the Blue Mountains. This resort area offers a great selection of quiet, quaint, and intimate homely villas. This area is known for its serene rivers. Home to the Maroons of Moore Town, Portland boasts a major part of Jamaica’s history.

• Blue Lagoon
• Boston Jerk Center
• Frenchman’s Cove

Kingston – The Heartbeat of Jamaica

Kingston offers a wide variety of activities for visitors whether it is natural, historical, or cultural. Kingston is the capital city of Jamaica and is home to many thriving educational and entrepreneurial institutions. The bustling city has well-developed roadways providing easy access to Norman Manley international airport and other resort areas (Port Antonio, Ocho Rios, and the South coast)

• Bob /Marley museum
• Emancipation Park
• Port Royal
• Hope Zoo
• Lookout Point Devon House
• Devon House
• Rockfort Mineral Bath / Spa